Sauna Construction Handbook

Understanding Sauna Design: This chapter covers the fundamentals of sauna design, including essential components such as the hot room, changing room, and additional features like shower, lounge, cold plunge and more.

Optimizing Sauna Space: Get practical tips on how to design your sauna interior based on the number of users. Learn about bench space requirements and different sauna sizes to create a comfortable layout.

Constructing Sauna Walls: Discover the materials and techniques for building sauna walls that are both durable and well-insulated. We explain various wall layers, framing methods, and the pros and cons of different materials.

Sauna Ventilation Systems: Learn about proper ventilation for a pleasant sauna experience. We cover mechanical and natural ventilation options and how to maintain the ideal balance of hot air and water vapor.

Choosing a Heat Source: Compare electric and wood-burning heaters to determine the best fit for your sauna. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each type, and how to size your heater.

Budgeting and Planning: Learn how to plan a budget for your sauna, what to include so that you know upfront how much it will cost you.

Selecting the Perfect Sauna Location: Learn how to choose the best site for your sauna by considering factors like views, accessibility, soil type, and local regulations.

Foundation types: Explore various foundation options including pier, pad, pier and pad, ground screw, and concrete block foundations. Learn how to construct the foundation made by concrete blocks.

How to Read Architectural Plans: Learn how to read architectural plans by interpreting elements like the plan view, elevations, and sections, essential for building a sauna.

Tools Required for Building a Sauna: Learn how not to injure yourself during your sauna build.

Site Preparation: Step-by-step instructions for marking out and preparing your site.

Installing Utilities: Learn how to properly set up essential services for your sauna like electricity, water, and gray water disposal, from trench digging and cable placement to installing a dry well for shower drainage.

Sauna Foundation: Explore various foundation options. Choose the best foundation type for your build.

Constructing the Sauna Subfloor: Learn how to build a robust, insulated subfloor for your sauna, ensuring a stable base to build on.

Constructing the Sauna Frame: Learn how to frame your sauna effectively. Discover the essential steps to create a sturdy sauna frame, from constructing flat walls to raising them into position.

Sauna Roof: Essential steps to build a durable roof structure, including selecting the right rafters, and applying effective waterproofing materials.

Air & Water Barrier: Learn how to use breathable membranes to keep the external moisture out of your sauna.

Ventilated facade and roofing: Secure the roofing membrane with vertical and horizontal shims, protect against rodents with stainless steel mesh, and choose durable siding materials for a long-lasting finish.

Wood preservation: Learn how to use natural methods to preserve your timber and give it a distinctive appearance.

Interior Construction: Comprehensive instructions for completing the interior of your sauna. Learn about selecting and installing doors, windows, electrical components, and lighting.

Sauna ceiling: Learn how to finish the ceiling.

Sauna Insulation: Discover how to effectively install insulation to retain heat.

Vapor Barrier and Air Gap: Learn how to use aluminum vapor membranes to prevent moisture from compromising insulation, and how to add an air gap behind paneling.

Internal wall paneling: Discover how to choose and prepare the right wood and properly install tongue-and-groove paneling to ensure a beautiful and durable sauna interior.

Fireproofing heater surroundings: Learn how to fireproof the area around the sauna heater.

Sauna Finished Floor: Learn about floor layers and ways of finishing your sauna floor.

Installation of an Electrical heater: Learn how to install your electric heater and what to look out for.

Building Sauna Benches: Choose from different design options for building your sauna benches.

Sauna Ventilation: Learn about natural and mechanical ventilation and its placement.

Final Details: Add the finishing touches with trim around doors and windows, backrests, and wall hooks. Discover how to integrate LED lighting and enhance the overall appearance of your sauna.

Keeping Your Sauna in Top Shape: Maintenance tips to ensure your sauna remains in excellent condition. Learn how to check for leaks, care for the timber facade, and keep the interior clean.

Future Enhancements: Ideas for upgrading your sauna experience with features like sound systems, aromatherapy options, or a cooling-off area. Enjoy your sauna to the fullest with these additional touches.

Turning Passion into Profit: Learn how to transform your sauna into a profitable business. Explore the process of renting out your sauna and turning it into a thriving venture.

Business Considerations: From location and regulations to customer experience and marketing strategies, we provide a roadmap for launching your sauna business.