Building your own SAUNA: PART 1

Growing up, I was always intrigued by saunas. I usually avoid extreme temperatures, but there’s something about a sauna that speaks to the soul. They’re relaxing, cleansing, and a great way to soothe your body after a long day’s work in winter.

I probably never would have pursued this had it not been for my wife. In 2011, we met in Cape Town while attending the same university. She’s half Lithuanian and half Russian, and grew up going to saunas with her family.

In Russia, it’s a rite of passage. Men and women visit gender-specific saunas, and it’s not uncommon to find a grandfather enjoying a “bath” with his son and grandson while passing down the family’s secrets.

In Lithuania, families can rent private sauna villas for the day. You grab your key from reception, go to your private room that looks like any other hotel door, but enter into a luxurious suite with a small wading pool, hot tub, sauna, and dining room. My wife has told me stories about her childhood when her mom, dad, and brother would go for the day, rotating between the water and steam sauna, playing with dad in the water while mum relaxed with a smile. You’d think this would be pricey considering how lavish it feels and how well the craftsmanship is throughout, but they’re actually quite reasonable

Let me just say that after my wife took me for my first sauna experience, I was hooked. When she asked me to build her a sauna after we purchased our new home, it didn’t take much persuasion for me to agree.

I started the project in October, had it weather-tight within a couple of weeks, and then worked on it during weekends until I had a week off work, making significant progress. By early February, it was insulated and had power, and by late March it was usable.

Saunas aren’t a lot of fun in the summer, but we had a comfortable and mild start to the season so my weekends were spent finishing up the details, siding, stain, etc.

I still haven’t applied the poly finish to the pine in the changing room, but I think it’s ready for me to start putting together this guide. As autumn sets in, we’re using it more and more, and are loving it.

Step-by-step guide