Saunas

Outdoor Saunas — A Considered Guide

Outdoor saunas have been built in the Nordic countries for centuries — at the edge of a lake, in a corner of the garden, on a jetty over still water. What has changed is the quality of the craft, the precision of the engineering, and the breadth of what is now achievable in a residential setting. Our range comes from a small number of European workshops, selected against consistent criteria: construction quality, honesty of the materials specification, and how the structure performs outdoors after several Northern European winters.

Choosing a sauna begins with understanding the three fundamental forms: the traditional barrel, which concentrates heat efficiently and suits most outdoor settings; the modular cabin, which offers more interior volume and architectural presence; and the infrared cabin, which heats the body directly rather than the air and operates at lower ambient temperatures. Within those categories the key variables are wood species, heater type, capacity, and the relationship between the sauna and the space around it.

Every model we list carries full specifications, delivery detail and installation requirements on its own page. A sauna is a twenty-year purchase, and the information needed to choose should be published rather than requested. If something is not covered, write to us.

How to Choose Your Outdoor Sauna

Wood species — Thermory thermo-spruce and thermo-aspen are thermally modified without chemicals, making them dimensionally stable and maintenance-free outdoors. Western red cedar is aromatic and naturally antimicrobial; hemlock is softer and lighter-scented. Each ages differently and suits a different aesthetic.

Heating — Electric heaters offer precision control and can be pre-set remotely, and are specified to match the cabin by the manufacturer. Wood-fired stoves require more preparation but reward the ritual. Infrared panels operate at lower temperatures and draw less power. Matched accessories — buckets, ladles, aroma sets and control panels — are available from the same workshop as the sauna itself, so finish and timber are consistent throughout.

Capacity — A two-person sauna suits daily personal use; a four-to-six person sauna suits social or family sessions. Remember that the stated capacity assumes close contact on benches — most people prefer one size larger than they think they need.

Delivery and Installation

Outdoor saunas ship by pallet freight on a scheduled delivery date that we confirm with you by telephone in advance. Most models arrive in flat-pack panels and can be assembled by two adults in a single day using the supplied fixings — no specialist contractor is required. We confirm the access route, delivery window and any crane requirements before dispatch. Installation into an existing structure or onto a raised deck may require a local builder for the groundwork only.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an outdoor sauna need planning permission? In most European jurisdictions a freestanding garden structure under a certain footprint and height does not require a permit, but rules vary by municipality. We recommend confirming with your local authority before ordering.

What base is required? A level, load-bearing surface — concrete pad, compacted gravel, or treated timber decking — is required. The specific requirement for each model is stated on its product page.

How long does it take to heat? Most electric barrel and cabin saunas reach operating temperature in 45–60 minutes. Wood-fired models take 2–3 hours. Infrared cabins are ready in 15–20 minutes.

What maintenance is required? Thermory and cedar exteriors require no staining or sealing. Interior benches should be cleaned periodically with a dry brush and aired after each session. The heater should be serviced annually by a qualified electrician.

Can I use my sauna in winter? Yes. All models we carry are rated for year-round outdoor use in Northern European climates. Cold weather increases heat-up time marginally but does not affect performance or longevity.