If you’re considering buying a sauna there are a few things you’ll want to consider. You’ll need to think about where the sauna will be installed, if it’s indoors or outside and how many people will be using it. Then you can decide what type of heat source and materials you’d like. Luckily there are different sizes and types of saunas so you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for your needs. 

What Are the Different Types of Home Saunas

There are three main types of saunas: traditional, infrared and hybrid. A traditional also know as a Finnish sauna is a wood lined room heated by either a wood burning stove or an electric heater and users can also create steam by pouring water over hot rocks. Wood burning and steam require proper ventilation which can be more complicated for a home installation. Traditional saunas heat up to 185°F and one of the major benefits of this type of sauna is the addition of steam and ability to use different types of heat. 

Infrared saunas are also wood lined rooms but use infrared technology rather than a heater covered with rocks. Instead of heating the air in the room, infrared light waves warm your body from the inside out. This type of sauna reaches temperatures of 150°F and is often better tolerated by people who are sensitive to heat. Because the heating elements are light panels powered by electricity, there is no need for additional ventilation making installation a bit easier than traditional saunas. 

If you’re unsure whether a traditional rock style heated or an infrared light heated sauna is best for you, or simply want to experience both types of heat, there are hybrid saunas which include both types of heat. While you can’t use both types of heat simultaneously in a hybrid sauna, you do have the ability to choose before each sauna bathing session. This is truly one of the most versatile sauna options on the market. 

How to Choose the Right Sauna

In addition to the type of sauna (mainly the type of heat source) you’ll also want to consider how many people will be using the sauna regularly. Saunas come in a variety of sizes and can accommodate one person, 2-3 people, 4-6 people and even up to 8 people. Regardless of the size of the sauna, you also need to consider where you will install it. If size is a limiting factor, remember that saunas can be installed both indoors and outside and custom built saunas are also available. 

All saunas no matter the size will require a solid base to be installed on. This could be an existing concrete floor such as in a garage or basement or a concrete pad poured before installation. Some models can also be installed on top of carpet. Remember that based on the type of heating element you choose, there may be additional installation requirements such as a chimney for smoke, ventilation for smoke and steam, log burning storage, ash disposal, etc. 

In addition to being able to choose the type of heat source, you can also choose the materials, mainly the type of wood that your sauna is built from. Hemlock and cedar are the most common choices. Hemlock is light white in color, has little to no scent and is one of the more affordable wood types. Cedar can be deep red or a light creamy color and has an intense scent. It’s one of the most durable wood types. Spruce, aspen, fir and pine are other types of wood used in saunas. 

If you have questions about finding the right sauna for you or your family give us a call at 970-879-4390 or drop us a note.