Wiktor Wise
Saunas are small interior spaces heated to high temperatures and fed with water to create a steamy environment for relaxation and easing muscle pain. When building a sauna, the first decision to make is whether it will be located inside or outside. This will determine the type of heating source you can use. If you're building a sauna without electricity, you'll need to opt for a wood-burning stove, which is a traditional and historic option. This guide will take you through the steps of building a wood-burning sauna, from selecting the right location to choosing the appropriate materials and constructing the sauna.
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What You'll Learn
Choose a wood-burning stove
If you're building a sauna without electricity, a wood-burning stove is a great option. Here's what you need to know:
Firstly, decide on the location of your sauna. Wood-burning stoves are ideal for outdoor saunas, as they don't require a power source. You can build an outdoor sauna on a deck, porch, or as a separate structure. Choose a level and flat area that's protected from the weather to avoid water damage. If you're building an indoor sauna, you might have to forfeit this idea due to insurance concerns.
Next, consider the size of your sauna. A small, one-person sauna will cost less, but ensure you have enough space for comfortable seating. The recommended minimum space for a small sauna is 4x4 feet, plus room for the door and ventilation. The ceiling should be at least 7 feet tall, with a higher ceiling accommodating a top bench.
When choosing a wood-burning stove, opt for one that is specifically designed for sauna use. Ensure the stove has the capacity to heat the volume of your sauna adequately. You might also want to consider features such as heated stones or rocks, which you can pour water over to create steam.
Acquire a sufficient amount of wood to burn. You will need to tend the fire regularly, so consider the time and effort required for this. You might also want to invest in a long-handled dipper to pour water on the rocks.
Finally, follow the necessary safety precautions. Install a guard rail around the stove to protect yourself and others from burns. Ensure there is a safe distance between the stove and anything flammable, including the walls and benches. Proper ventilation is crucial, so plan for at least three ventilation points: one in the ceiling, one on the floor, and one above the stove. Consider adding mechanical ventilation to expel hot, humid air outside.
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Pick a location
Picking a location for your sauna is a crucial step in the building process. There are several factors to consider when selecting a location, and the type of sauna you want will influence your decision.
Firstly, decide whether you want your sauna to be located indoors or outdoors. If you opt for an indoor sauna, you can convert a storage closet or a small bathroom, or build one from scratch in a basement, garage, or attic. Ensure that you have access to a 240-volt service for your heater. Electric heater saunas are best suited for indoor spaces. On the other hand, outdoor saunas can be built on a deck, porch, or as a separate structure in your yard. Wood-burning and steam options are ideal for outdoor locations.
When selecting a location, it is essential to consider building codes and local regulations. Check for any restrictions on sauna construction in your area. Additionally, choose a spot that offers enough space for comfortable seating and easy access to utilities like electricity and water, which are crucial for powering the sauna and creating steam.
If you plan to build an outdoor sauna, opt for a location that is protected from the weather to prevent water damage to the structure and heater. Choose a level and flat surface, and consider the weight of the heater when planning the foundation and floor.
For a basement sauna, careful planning and adherence to safety guidelines are necessary. Consult professionals like contractors, electricians, and sauna experts to ensure a safe installation. Make sure to select a spot where power can be run to the heater, and always follow local electric codes.
Remember, the size of your sauna will depend on the available space and your personal preferences. A small sauna can be as compact as four-by-four feet, while larger saunas can range up to 12x16 feet. Ensure that the ceiling height is adequate, ideally at least seven feet tall, to accommodate a top bench and facilitate even heat distribution.
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Build the frame
Building a sauna without electricity requires careful planning and the use of alternative heat sources such as wood-burning stoves or natural gas or propane heaters. Here are the steps to build the frame for your non-electric sauna:
Build the Foundation:
Start by selecting a suitable location for your sauna, ensuring it is level and flat. If you're building on an existing concrete slab or basement, you can skip this step. If not, lay a simple foundation by pouring concrete to create a solid base for your sauna.
Frame the Walls:
Using standard wall framing techniques, construct the walls of your sauna. You can use 2x4 wooden boards to create the basic structure, ensuring you leave room for ventilation and spaces for desired windows and doors.
Frame the Roof:
Measure the width of the inside of your sauna and cut a 2x4 to that dimension. Cut the 2x4 in half at a 15-degree angle, similar to the top boards of the front and back walls. Clamp these angled boards along the top ridge of the front and back walls. Measure the distance between them and cut 2x2 studs to that length. Attach these studs to the angled boards with screws to form a sturdy frame for your roof.
Insulate and Vapor Barrier:
Insulate each stud space within the frame and add a vapor barrier to protect the structure from moisture damage. This is especially important in high-humidity environments. You can use fiberglass batt insulation and foil tape to seal the seams, creating a moisture-tight envelope.
Outer Wall and Roof:
Build a simple outer wall about a foot (30 cm) outside the inner frame. You can use wood or tile for the exterior, ensuring you maintain ventilation openings for steam to escape. Center the roof frame on the plywood deck and attach it with exterior screws from the underside.
Remember to always follow local building codes and regulations, and if in doubt, consult a professional for guidance to ensure a safe and successful sauna installation.
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Install heating
When it comes to installing heating for your sauna, there are a few options to consider. The most common type of heater is electric, but wood-burning stoves and natural gas or propane heaters are also popular choices.
If you opt for an electric heater, you will need access to a power source. This may involve hiring an electrician to set up the necessary wiring and ensure it meets local electric codes. Electric heaters are typically placed on the wall opposite the door, with a safe distance maintained between the heater and any flammable materials, such as wooden walls or benches.
For a wood-burning stove, you will need to acquire wood and tend the fire as needed. This option does not require a power source, making it suitable for remote locations. However, it may not be suitable for indoor saunas due to insurance considerations.
Natural gas or propane heaters are efficient and work well for larger sauna rooms. They require plumbing and ventilation, similar to a gas furnace.
Infrared panels or light bulbs can also be used for heating if electricity is available nearby. These heaters produce penetrating heat and require a licensed electrician for installation.
Regardless of the heating method chosen, it is important to build a guard rail around the heater to protect users from burns. Additionally, proper ventilation is crucial to maintain airflow and ensure the safe operation of the sauna.
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Add ventilation
Proper airflow is essential for both the performance and safety of your sauna. If you're building your sauna in a basement, you should install mechanical ventilation to deal with the hot, humid air. Basements are prone to mould and humidity issues, so it's important to ensure that moist air is expelled from the room. One way to do this is to exhaust air from the ceiling on the opposite corner from the heater to the exterior.
You should also leave room for three ventilation points: one in the ceiling, one on the floor, and one above the heater. Remember to keep the ventilation points clear.
If your sauna is in a remote area with no electricity, you can use a wood-burning heater. Vent it in the same way you would a wood stove.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a wood-burning stove, natural gas or propane to build a sauna without electricity.
Wood-burning stoves are traditional and can be placed anywhere without requiring a power source. However, you will need to tend the fire and acquire wood to burn.
Natural gas or propane heaters are efficient and work well for larger sauna rooms. However, they require plumbing and ventilation.
