A homeowner’s guide to building a custom sauna.
There are numerous articles that have been published about the health benefits of saunas. More and more homeowners are now embracing the idea of having a custom sauna installed in their homes. For new builds, a custom sauna can be incorporated into the design of the new home. However, many homeowners want to install a sauna into their existing homes. Below are a few pointers to consider when building a custom sauna.
06/12/2020
1. Opt for custom cut saunas over kits.
While there are many modular options that can be used in homes, opting for a custom cut sauna will give homeowners a truly custom sauna. Custom cut saunas are designed for the exact shape of your room, making the most of the existing space and not impacting the living space overall. Custom cut saunas also give you the option of choosing from several types of woods including Western Red Cedar or Aspen T&G.
2. Consider an Infrared sauna.
Infrared saunas, with heaters built into the walls, are popular with many homeowners due to lower prices and they don’t get as hot, which is a plus for some people. The exclusive Even-Heat system includes oversized heating panels that ensure infrared waves warm every part of your body evenly— as well as a gentle heat- redistribution system that spreads heat more evenly throughout the sauna. With Even Heat there are no “cold spots” from heat stratification—you are bathed evenly in the safest infrared available from every angle, floor to ceiling. Heritage Vine is one of the only companies that currently offer custom Infrared saunas.
3. Consider where you’re installing the sauna in your home.
Custom saunas do require some consideration before being installed in a home. The optimum ceiling height suggested is 6-1/2 to 7ft. Find a room in your home that can accommodate this. The sauna needs to be built on a non-permeable floor. You also need a room in the house where you can adequately accommodate for wire your room for wiring for a light, light switch, sauna heater wire conduit, and controls outside the room. You’ll also need adequate venting for steam to exit.
4. Consider how you will use the sauna.
Some homeowners want a custom sauna for health benefits while others may actually use it as an area to socialize with others. Take into consideration your needs before having a custom sauna installed by professionals. If you plan to use it in a more social setting, do you have adequate seating? Is it large enough for several people to sit comfortably without feeling crowded? If you envision a more private use, you may want to consider glass or no glass for walls, and what level of privacy you envision while enjoying your sauna.
5. Don’t forget the convenient add-ons.
A custom sauna is more than a box! Considering seating comfort, lighting, the style of wood you’d like to use, where you’d like the heat controls, and even what kind of door you want as you design your custom spa. For many homeowners, the spa is a visual showcase in their home, so these types of add-ons are important. Don’t overlook these attributes when having your sauna designed.
6. Take the time to look at custom sauna portfolios to choose the right design for you.
Saunas come in all shapes and sizes, with different woods, heating elements, lighting, and seating. To get a good idea of what your options are, take the time to review custom sauna portfolios to see all the different designs available. You’ll also be able to view how saunas are installed in different settings (adjacent to a bathroom, near a pool, etc.) that can help you decide where to install your sauna.
Owning a custom home sauna is an exciting prospect. Do your research before having a sauna installed to enjoy it for years to come.
