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The Ultimate Guide To Buying Your Barrel Sauna - Secret Saunas

The Ultimate Guide To Buying Your Barrel Sauna

The Ultimate Guide To Buying Your Barrel Sauna

Looking to invest in a barrel sauna? Look no further! In this complete guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to purchase the perfect sauna for your home.

With the numerous benefits of owning a sauna, like stress relief and physical relaxation, it's a decision you won't regret. Shopping for a sauna has never been easier, thanks to high-quality options and the convenience of online shopping.

When choosing the right sauna for you, factors such as size, heater type, and wood type should be considered. Need customization? We've got you covered with add-ons like a outdoor showers, LED mood lighting, and more.

Plus, we'll help you find the best brand for your barrel sauna. With simple assembly and free shipping in the Continental U.S., your satisfaction is guaranteed.

So, get ready to experience ultimate relaxation with your very own barrel sauna!

Choosing a Barrel Sauna Size to Meet for Your Needs

One of the most important things to consider before you buy a barrel sauna is the size. Ultimately the ideal barrel sauna will fit perfectly in your available space and accommodate the right number of people.

When determining the right size it's important to consider if you will be using it alone, with a partner or inviting friends round to share the experience.

2-4 Person Saunas - These are ideal for individual and couples. The compact space allows the sauna to heat up quickly making it more energy efficient. Due to the smaller design these are often more discrete and can be hidden away in a corner without taking up too much space in your garden.

4 Person+ Saunas - These are perfect for the social sauna users. One thing to bare in mind is that the number of people a sauna can fit assumes you are sitting right next to the other person. For many people this may be a little too intimate. Ensure that there's enough space for everyone to comfortably sit or lie down, and when in doubt, opt for the larger sauna!

Sauna Wood: The Different Materials for your Barrel Sauna Design

When it comes to selecting a barrel sauna for your home, you'll want to consider the different materials available. Some options include Nordic spruce, Canadian hemlock, and cedar. Nordic spruce is a popular choice for its durability and natural beauty. Canadian hemlock, on the other hand, offers a smooth and knot-free appearance. Cedar is known for its aromatic scent and resistance to decay.

Nordic Spruce

Choosing Nordic spruce as the wood type for your barrel sauna will bring a touch of timeless elegance and natural beauty to your relaxation oasis. Nordic spruce is a popular choice among barrel sauna enthusiasts due to its durability, resistance to decay, and stunning appearance. This type of wood has a light color with a straight grain pattern, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your sauna. It also has excellent insulating properties, helping to retain heat and energy efficiency. With Nordic spruce, you can enjoy the benefits of a barrel sauna while immersing yourself in the calming ambiance of this exquisite wood. So why wait? Start creating your dream barrel sauna with the natural charm of Nordic spruce today.

Pros Cons
Durable and long-lasting Requires regular maintenance
Resistant to decay May have knots and imperfections
Excellent insulating properties Slightly higher cost compared to other wood types

 

Remember, when choosing the wood type for your barrel sauna, Nordic spruce is a fantastic option that combines beauty, durability, and insulation to enhance your sauna experience.

Canadian Hemlock

If you're looking for a wood type that combines elegance, durability, and a touch of natural beauty, Canadian Hemlock is a fantastic option for your barrel sauna.

Canadian Hemlock is known for its stunning light brown color and fine, even texture, making it a popular choice for sauna barrels. Not only does it add a touch of sophistication to your sauna, but it also offers exceptional durability and resistance to warping or cracking.

Canadian Hemlock is also highly resistant to decay and insects, ensuring that your barrel sauna will stand the test of time. Additionally, this wood type has a mild, pleasant aroma that enhances the overall sauna experience.

With Canadian Hemlock, you can enjoy the perfect balance of beauty and functionality in your barrel sauna.

Cedar

Experience the natural beauty and aromatic essence of cedar wood in your very own barrel sauna, creating a serene oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation. Why choose cedar for your barrel sauna? Here are four reasons:

1. Durability: Cedar wood is naturally resistant to decay, making it a perfect choice for outdoor barrel saunas that are exposed to the elements.

2. Aromatic Benefits: The distinct aroma of cedar adds to the overall sauna experience, creating a calming and soothing atmosphere.

3. Heat Retention: Cedar has excellent heat retention properties, ensuring that your barrel sauna stays warm and cozy for extended periods.

4. Low Maintenance: Cedar requires minimal maintenance, making it a hassle-free option for those who want to spend more time enjoying their sauna and less time maintaining it.

With its durability, aromatic benefits, heat retention, and low maintenance, cedar is an ideal choice for your barrel sauna. Dundalk Leisurecraft offer a great range of cedar saunas.

Understanding Sauna Heater Options and Their Efficiency

When it comes to heating options for your sauna, you have two main choices: a wood-fired sauna stove or an electrical sauna heater. 

A wood-fired sauna stove offers a traditional and authentic sauna experience, with the added benefit of a natural and aromatic heat source. 

On the other hand, an electrical sauna heater provides convenience and ease of use, allowing you to control the temperature with precision and ensuring a consistent heat throughout your sauna session. 

Ultimately, the choice between these two options will depend on your personal preference and the type of sauna session you're looking for.

Wood Fired Sauna Stove

Follow in the footsteps of our ancestors with wood fired sauna stove. These not only provides efficient heating but also adds a rustic and authentic touch to your barrel sauna. These will require you to have a regular stock of fire wood ready to go and the stoves must be installed using a chimney kit. Here are four reasons why a wood-fired sauna stove is a great choice:

1. Authenticity: The crackling sound of the fire and the smell of burning wood create an immersive and traditional sauna experience.

2. Cost-effective: Wood is a renewable resource and can be more affordable compared to electricity or gas. Plus, you can use scrap wood or fallen branches for fuel.

3. Adjustable heat: With a wood-fired sauna stove, you have more control over the temperature. You can easily adjust the heat by adding or reducing the amount of wood.

4. Sauna rituals: Wood-fired saunas are deeply rooted in Finnish culture and sauna rituals. It's a chance to connect with nature and relax in a natural and sustainable way. Add water to the sauna stones to create the traditional Löyly.

Electrical Sauna Heater

Consider upgrading your sauna experience with an electric sauna heater. It provides efficient and convenient heating for your relaxation sessions. Unlike wood-burning heaters, electrical heaters are suitable for both indoor and outdoor saunas. They're easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice among sauna owners.

With an electric heaters, you can easily control the temperature of your home sauna and adjust it to your desired level of warmth. Some models even offer automation options, allowing you to set timers and preheat your sauna before use.

When selecting an electric sauna stove, consider the size of your sauna and the power output of the heater to ensure efficient heating. With an electrical sauna heater, you can enjoy a hassle-free sauna session with consistent and reliable heat. 

Note: Electric sauna heaters are different from Infrared Saunas.

Custom Barrel Sauna: Additional Features and Accessories

Mood lighting

Enhance your sauna experience with mesmerizing mood lighting that creates a soothing ambiance and transports you to a state of complete relaxation. Not only does mood lighting add to the overall aesthetic appeal of your sauna, but it also serves a functional purpose by providing soft, indirect lighting that is easy on the eyes. With the right lighting, you can create a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day. 

Consider incorporating different lighting options to customize your sauna experience. LED strip lights along the backrests or under the benches can create a subtle glow, highlighting the beautiful woodwork of the sauna. Dimmable lights allow you to adjust the intensity of the lighting to suit your mood and preferences. Additionally, colored lights can add a touch of whimsy or create a chromotherapy effect, where different colors are believed to have various therapeutic benefits. 

Embrace the power of mood lighting and transform your sauna into a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Lighting Option Benefits
LED strip lights Highlights woodwork
Dimmable lights Adjusts lighting intensity
Colored lights Provides therapeutic benefits


Outdoor Shower

Transform your outdoor space into a luxurious oasis with the addition of an invigorating outdoor shower. Imagine stepping out of your sauna and cooling off under a refreshing cascade of water, surrounded by nature.

An outdoor shower is not only a practical addition to your barrel sauna setup, but it also enhances the overall experience. You can rinse off before and after your sauna session, washing away sweat and toxins. The outdoor shower provides a convenient and private space to cleanse your body, feeling the natural elements on your skin. It adds a touch of luxury and relaxation to your backyard, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sauna experience.

With a wide range of design options available, you can customize your outdoor shower to match your personal style and create a truly serene outdoor sanctuary.

Roofing / Weather Protector

Create a tranquil and protected space for your outdoor sauna with a durable and stylish sauna roof. The roof cover not only adds aesthetic appeal to your sauna but also provides essential protection against the elements. Choose from a variety of roofing options that are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain the integrity of your sauna. Whether you prefer a traditional shingle roof or a sleek metal roof, there are options available to suit your personal style and preferences. Consider investing in a weather protector that offers additional insulation and UV protection, ensuring that your sauna remains comfortable and protected year-round. With a high-quality roof cover, you can enjoy your outdoor sauna in any weather, knowing that it is well-protected and ready for use. 

Roofing Options Benefits
Shingle Roof Classic and timeless
Metal Roof Sleek and modern
Weather Protector Enhanced insulation and UV protection


Best Sauna Brands: How to Chose the Right Type of Sauna

When it comes to finding the best brand for your barrel sauna, there are a few key factors to consider. 

First, look for a brand that offers high-quality materials and craftsmanship. This will ensure that your sauna is durable and built to last. 

Second, consider the reputation of the brand. Look for reviews and testimonials from other customers to see if they're satisfied with their purchase. 

Third, consider the warranty and customer support offered by the brand. A good brand will stand behind their product and offer support if any issues arise. 

Finally, consider the price. While you don't want to sacrifice quality for a lower price, it's important to find a brand that offers a fair and competitive price for their saunas. 

By considering these factors, you can find the best brand for your barrel sauna that meets your needs and budget.

Barrel Sauna Kits: How to Build a Barrel Sauna

It typically takes a few hours to assemble a barrel sauna from scratch.  With a few hours of assembly time, the process is relatively straightforward and hassle-free. Armed with the appropriate tools and clear instructions provided with the kit, you can swiftly put together your barrel sauna. The convenience of a barrel sauna kit allows you to enjoy the rewarding experience of sauna bathing in a shorter time frame, ensuring that you'll be relaxing and reaping the benefits of your own sauna retreat in no time.

Basic tools required:

  • Wrench: either adjustable or open (10mm, 3/4", 1/2” and 7/16”)
  • Cordless drill for driving screws
  • Rubber Mallet
  • Claw hammer
  • Sandpaper – 120 Grit
  • Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead)
  • Framing Square
  • 5/16” and 3/16” drill bit
  • Utility knife
  • Level

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a barrel sauna?

The average cost of a barrel sauna can vary depending on factors such as size, materials, and additional features. However, you can generally expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000 for a high-quality barrel sauna.

  • Can a barrel sauna be used in all climates?

Yes, a barrel sauna can be used in all climates. Its unique design allows for efficient heating and insulation, making it suitable for both hot and cold environments.

  • Are there any safety precautions to consider when using a barrel sauna?

When using a barrel sauna, it's important to take safety precautions. Ensure proper ventilation, monitor temperature levels, and avoid prolonged sessions. It's also recommended to drink water and have someone nearby in case of emergencies.

  • Can a barrel sauna be placed directly on the ground or does it require a foundation?

A barrel sauna can be placed directly on the ground without requiring a foundation. Its sturdy design and construction make it suitable for installation on any level surface, including grass, gravel, or concrete.

Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a barrel sauna is a smart investment for your relaxation and stress relief needs. 

By considering factors such as size, heater type, automation options, and wood type, you can find the perfect sauna for your space and preferences. 

Don't forget to explore additional features and accessories, such as an outdoor shower or LED mood lighting, to enhance your sauna experience. 

With easy assembly, free shipping, and a satisfaction guarantee, you can confidently make your purchase. 

So go ahead and enjoy the many benefits of owning a barrel sauna!

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Jasper Knight the Founder of Secret Saunas photographed in an Auroom Sauna in Estonia

About the Author

I'm Jasper Knight, the founder of SecretSaunas.com. During my travels through Finland and Scandinavia in 2018 I was introduced to the thrilling local ritual of taking daily hot saunas and then cooling off by plunging into the dark icy waters of a frozen lake. This experience was so fulfilling that it felt like an addiction. My desire to return to the forests and lakes of Northern Europe led me to set up Secret Saunas with the mission of bringing that authentic Finnish sauna experiences home.

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