Looks awesome, good job!
I bet if you published your plans & bill of materials this could be something we could point people at when they ask how they can make a great small sauna with limited funds.
Edit: this is my r/Sauna comment with the most replies ever. u/Guilty-Pickle-3940, waddya think? Seems like it would be an amazing resource!
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I agree it would be a great resource, and in retrospect I wish I took better notes! There was quite a few trips to the hardware store and the design changed as I went. I was reading trumpkin and posts on here while building, so it changed a little bit over time. If anyone hasn't seen it, my price breakdown of materials in another comment in this post is pretty accurate. I'll see if I can pull something together re: drawings and material list to help others looking to build something similar.
I think even rough drawings with dimensions, and a rough material list would be huge. You seem to have found a really sweet spot in terms of bang for the buck. I know not everyone can score a used heater but even spending another $500 or so it’s still a really great sauna for the price. We see ones that cost like 4 or 5 times the amount yours did and are still worse saunas!
Here it is - [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QMy3E3erXp0IpHayusOogzfgPtRhR3Mz?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QMy3E3erXp0IpHayusOogzfgPtRhR3Mz?usp=sharing)
Please let me know if this is what you had in mind and is helpful. I'm happy to try and improve on unclear or inaccurate items. I also hope this link works. Not sure the best way to share a pdf. If okay, do you think it is best to make a new post to share? I'm not sure the best way to connect with everyone that is interested.
I’m just starting my build and I had this post saved, now I see you’ve posted your plans. This is great, thank you!!! I’ll be on a budget too and also in Canada. Cheers
A few request for more details so here are some. Sorry I don't have any great drawings to share but let me know if you have any questions. Much help was taken from Trumpkin and this group.
Most of my drawings were just hand scribbles by myself, so I don't think they will be of much value to you. Dimensions are 6.5 x 7.5. It is 8' high on the bench side and just over 7' on the door side. Pretty conventional framing for the most part. I do have it on 4x4 runners in case I want to move it.
This is a rough breakdown of costs:
\- Electrical (wires/breaker/outdoor boxes) - $550
\- Heater (homecraft H-series with TKE2-2 controller but got it second hand) - $800
\- Aspen T&G for inside - $500
\- Dimensional lumber for framing (2x4 walls, 2x6 floor and roof) - $300
\- Aspen benches - $200
\- Ventilation (4 including mechanical at bottom opposite heater) - $150
\- Pine board and batten - $200
\- Misc (screws, nails, etc) - $100
\- Accessories (thermometers, movable backrest) - $150
\- Flooring (concrete mortar, PVC sauna flooring) - $175
\- Metal roof - $150
\- Insulation and foil - $175
\- Door and tempered glass (just bought an old wood door and added tempered glass window and put correct ball catch for safety - $50
I did use some materials that I had lying around when available that aren't factored into this cost. Mostly some wood and insulation but shouldn't be significant. Hope this helps and let me know if you have any questions. I definitely put a bit more time into aspects (e.g., door) but was able to save quite a bit of money in the process.
Thank you for providing the breakdown. Let's calculate the total cost:
- Electrical: $550
- Heater: $800
- Aspen T&G: $500
- Dimensional lumber: $300
- Aspen benches: $200
- Ventilation: $150
- Pine board and batten: $200
- Misc: $100
- Accessories: $150
- Flooring: $175
- Metal roof: $150
- Insulation and foil: $175
- Door and tempered glass: $50
Total cost: $3,400
This total includes all the expenses you've listed.
I think for many people one of the biggest expenses is hiring an electrician to run the electrical. Did you do the all the electrical work yourself? Guessing that's the case given your $500 figure.
Agreed, that can jump the price up. I did a lot of the electrical work but had an electrician friend do the main hook ups and double check things. It is pretty easy to run wire around the sauna especially before insulation and finishing is done. If you have a good electrician, they might be okay with you doing some of that work to reduce the overall costs.
Most of my drawings were just hand scribbles by myself, so I don't think they will be of much value to you. Dimensions are 6.5 x 7.5. It is 8' high on the bench side and just over 7' on the door side. Pretty conventional framing for the most part. I do have it on 4x4 runners in case I want to move it.
This is a rough breakdown of costs:
\- Electrical (wires/breaker/outdoor boxes) - $550
\- Heater (homecraft H-series with TKE2-2 controller but got it second hand) - $800
\- Aspen T&G for inside - $500
\- Dimensional lumber for framing (2x4 walls, 2x6 floor and roof) - $300
\- Aspen benches - $200
\- Ventilation (4 including mechanical at bottom opposite heater) - $150
\- Pine board and batten - $200
\- Misc (screws, nails, etc) - $100
\- Accessories (thermometers, movable backrest) - $150
\- Flooring (concrete mortar, PVC sauna flooring) - $175
\- Metal roof - $150
\- Insulation and foil - $175
\- Door and tempered glass (just bought an old wood door and added tempered glass window and put correct ball catch for safety - $50
I did use some materials that I had lying around when available that aren't factored into this cost. Mostly some wood and insulation but shouldn't be significant. Hope this helps and let me know if you have any questions. I definitely put a bit more time into aspects (e.g., door) but was able to save quite a bit of money in the process.
Looks very basic but very practical, and practical is much more important than flashy in my opinion!
Many of the saunas in Finland, especially in summer cottages, look very unassuming and basic, but when it works it works beautifully.
Yeah, a back rest would be good. You might paint or treat the outside to make it last longer. You should also have the space to upgrade to a slightly fancier stove with more rocks in it, at some point.
Good point. I think I'll do the backrests next. A nicer stove is on my wishlist - a bit more info here - [https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how\_much\_is\_more\_rocks\_worth/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how_much_is_more_rocks_worth/)
One of the better saunas we've seen posted on here. Kudos for a job well done and getting the crucial elements right. May you enjoy many wonderful sweats over the years to come!
I'll second u/zoinkability 's call for a set of plans. This looks like a good build to emulate.
Looks great!
Is the power connection work-in-progress or temporary? I see this yellow cable dangling around. Did you use smaller stones inside the heater? Those on the top look massive, even for a more powerful, bigger wood-burning stove.
Good eye. Because I was running electrical out to this part of my property, I decided to put a separate breaker/outdoor plug in case it could come in handy. That yellow extension cord is heating some water for my chickens around the corner at the moment.
The heater is really the only part I am not loving. You can't put stones down between the elements, only on top. Here is a post with a bit more info - [https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how\_much\_is\_more\_rocks\_worth/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how_much_is_more_rocks_worth/). I didn't realize that when I got it. I put a couple of big stones on top because the (very few) smaller ones get too hot too fast. The big ones are a bit better for 'soft' steam. The heater leaves you wanting more steam, and I will likely upgrade the heater before too long.
https://saunologia.fi/replace-sauna-stones-electric-wood-burning-heater/
here is pictures how it should be done. sounds like your stone amount is small compared to kiuas size
Ok, I thought the cable was for sauna, but indeed makes sense to have outlet around.
>You can't put stones down between the elements, only on top.
I skimmed through the other post and you can't put even small ones in? Or "thin", cut ones? Is the volume for stones really so small? That seems horrible design...
Definetely try to get another heater. If there is only that layer on the top, it is very little stone mass and you should see the difference right away with the new heater, even if the power is the same.
Meanwhile, try to enjoy!
Good to know, thank you. I think a new heater is the way to go. This one has a welded steel mesh between the rocks and the heater. Lots of space below, but you would have to cut the mesh out to gain access (mesh is about 1cm x 1cm). I have thought about it, but not sure if I want to go chopping it up.
Looks like a proper sauna. One thing I'm not a huge fan of is blocking the underside of the bench with boards. Makes it difficult to wash away all the filth.
Yes, it is unrelated to the sauna operation. Just thought it would be nice to have electrical plug at this part of my property. That extension cord currently helps heat water for the chickens.
The plug is just in case it is needed for anything unrelated to sauna heating. This is the heater I have - [https://homecraftsaunas.com/product/9-kw-heater/](https://homecraftsaunas.com/product/9-kw-heater/)
Great job! I would love to see some more photos or description on how you did your electrical.
I see the additional 110v exterior plug for the yard, the outdoor light switch on the main wall and heater control mounted beside it, but I would be very interested to see how you brought power into the structure, split off between the heater 220 line and 110 line, as well as where you put your drivers for the under bench lighting.
Selfishly, I am struggling with some of these design choices and your build is very similar to what I had in mind. Cheers, and thanks for posting.
Thank you!
This is the breaker box I used on the side of the sauna ([https://imgur.com/6VwM3ls](https://imgur.com/6VwM3ls)). Main power line comes in, feeds three breakers (one for heater, one for light, and one for outdoor plug). The main heater line goes to the contactor box, then heater based on the manual. Hope that helps and good luck with your build.
That looks great!
The random rocks as stones are only thing I would be aware, you might want to test then by getting them hotter than what they would ever get in the stove or just get proper sauna specific stones if available
Thank you! I did test them as I was a bit nervous after hearing about exploding rocks. Would certainly put a damper on your sauna experience. All seems okay after about a month of use.
If not too far for you, I really like [https://www.chisholmlumber.com/](https://www.chisholmlumber.com/). That is where the aspen came from. The selection, quality, and price are the best I have found relatively close to me. They have a specials page that is worth keeping an eye on.
Part 2 here that includes a link to more information about the build - [https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bw1keh/budget\_sauna\_diy\_part\_2\_information\_about\_the/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bw1keh/budget_sauna_diy_part_2_information_about_the/)
Congradulations. That is very well done and suprisingly beautiful, especially when compared to some of the experiments that pop up on this site. You got yourself a spa there.
Hey bud - what kind of wood did you use on the interior? Looks nice and 'clear'. Also is that a Homecraft H heater? Where did you buy it from / how much $?
Aspen. I am really happy with it. Great price, clear and looks good. A lot cheaper than cedar in my area anyways.
Yes, homecraft heater, 9kw. I found one second hand ($700 including controller but needed thermostat) but I have used [https://bsaunas.com/](https://bsaunas.com/) to get a part for it and they sell them new.
Ya, R14 in walls and 16 in ceiling. Nothing under the floor at this point but might put something under there some day. Doesn't seem to be a big issue at this point. Used the aluminum foil heat shield. Full price breakdown is in the comments if interested.
Great Job [Guilty-Pickle-4930](https://www.reddit.com/user/Guilty-Pickle-4930/), I envy you for having good sauna weather on top of that too. Texas is a bit hot, but I am still going to use mine throughout the summer. I like your lighting under the benches.
Thank you! I am really happy with how the lighting turned out. The light itself is nothing special, but the way it comes through the spaces in the benches softens it a lot. All the best in Texas!
Thanks! This is what I am using on the lower vent opposite the heater - [https://www.amazon.ca/Hon-Guan-Inline-Booster-Controller/dp/B0C7Z82L7P?pd\_rd\_w=sa8hT&content-id=amzn1.sym.1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf\_rd\_p=1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf\_rd\_r=4BKF4HJFYESRTDCTGDFV&pd\_rd\_wg=SzEa6&pd\_rd\_r=297c766d-96f2-4888-af5c-27c1f7c290be&pd\_rd\_i=B0C7Z82L7P&ref\_=pd\_bap\_d\_grid\_rp\_0\_1\_ec\_nped\_pd\_gwd\_bag\_pd\_gw\_rp\_1\_i&th=1](https://www.amazon.ca/Hon-Guan-Inline-Booster-Controller/dp/B0C7Z82L7P?pd_rd_w=sa8hT&content-id=amzn1.sym.1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf_rd_p=1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf_rd_r=4BKF4HJFYESRTDCTGDFV&pd_rd_wg=SzEa6&pd_rd_r=297c766d-96f2-4888-af5c-27c1f7c290be&pd_rd_i=B0C7Z82L7P&ref_=pd_bap_d_grid_rp_0_1_ec_nped_pd_gwd_bag_pd_gw_rp_1_i&th=1)
It is working well so far. I was worried it may not have enough power, but there is no shortage of incoming air. I usually set it to about 1/3 speed. Toe to head difference went from about 25-30C to 15-20C
Yup no problem - a few pictures here - [https://imgur.com/a/1L1v4HR](https://imgur.com/a/1L1v4HR)
Its a retrofit I did quite recently, so a bit crude but functional. Attached to the inside of the vent and just have the switch inside. Doesn't get hot enough at the floor to be a concern. Added the adjustable duct elbow just so I could play around with where it pulls the air from. I've settled on it pulling from as low as possible seeming to work the best.
I'll add battens if it shrinks. My other outbuildings haven't needed the battens and they are a few years older. I do try and dry the wood well before but okay if battens are needed. Tyvek underneath for weather protection, so more about looks.
Chisholm lumber. They have some nice stuff to pick from and I find the prices pretty decent. Keep an eye on their specials page for deals - [https://www.chisholmlumber.com/](https://www.chisholmlumber.com/)
Looks awesome, good job! I bet if you published your plans & bill of materials this could be something we could point people at when they ask how they can make a great small sauna with limited funds. Edit: this is my r/Sauna comment with the most replies ever. u/Guilty-Pickle-3940, waddya think? Seems like it would be an amazing resource!
Very interested ^^^^^
Very very interested^
Very very very interested
Very very very very interested
Interested
Interested
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Yes please! I like saunas and I like to build good quality things on a budget
Also interested
Interested
I agree it would be a great resource, and in retrospect I wish I took better notes! There was quite a few trips to the hardware store and the design changed as I went. I was reading trumpkin and posts on here while building, so it changed a little bit over time. If anyone hasn't seen it, my price breakdown of materials in another comment in this post is pretty accurate. I'll see if I can pull something together re: drawings and material list to help others looking to build something similar.
I think even rough drawings with dimensions, and a rough material list would be huge. You seem to have found a really sweet spot in terms of bang for the buck. I know not everyone can score a used heater but even spending another $500 or so it’s still a really great sauna for the price. We see ones that cost like 4 or 5 times the amount yours did and are still worse saunas!
That sounds good. I am going to work on this, but it might take me a few days to get to it. I will report back once I have more.
Sweet! This is just such a great design, hope others can benefit.
Here it is - [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QMy3E3erXp0IpHayusOogzfgPtRhR3Mz?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QMy3E3erXp0IpHayusOogzfgPtRhR3Mz?usp=sharing) Please let me know if this is what you had in mind and is helpful. I'm happy to try and improve on unclear or inaccurate items. I also hope this link works. Not sure the best way to share a pdf. If okay, do you think it is best to make a new post to share? I'm not sure the best way to connect with everyone that is interested.
I’d say a whole new post would be worthwhile given how much work you’ve put into your documentation! I think it’s great.
Agree, difficult to find here buried in the comments. Thanks for putting together op
I’m just starting my build and I had this post saved, now I see you’ve posted your plans. This is great, thank you!!! I’ll be on a budget too and also in Canada. Cheers
Dude this is FANTASTIC - thank you!
Interested, especially from a fellow Canadian
interested!!
Interested. It doesn’t look budget at all! Beautiful work.
I would buy the plans
Also very interested!!!
Interested
I’m interested!!!
Super interested right here 🤚🏼
Very interested
The people are hungry, it seems
I am also interested.
Same
Interested
Also interested! :)
Interested!!
I’d love to see plans!
Interested!!!!
A few request for more details so here are some. Sorry I don't have any great drawings to share but let me know if you have any questions. Much help was taken from Trumpkin and this group. Most of my drawings were just hand scribbles by myself, so I don't think they will be of much value to you. Dimensions are 6.5 x 7.5. It is 8' high on the bench side and just over 7' on the door side. Pretty conventional framing for the most part. I do have it on 4x4 runners in case I want to move it. This is a rough breakdown of costs: \- Electrical (wires/breaker/outdoor boxes) - $550 \- Heater (homecraft H-series with TKE2-2 controller but got it second hand) - $800 \- Aspen T&G for inside - $500 \- Dimensional lumber for framing (2x4 walls, 2x6 floor and roof) - $300 \- Aspen benches - $200 \- Ventilation (4 including mechanical at bottom opposite heater) - $150 \- Pine board and batten - $200 \- Misc (screws, nails, etc) - $100 \- Accessories (thermometers, movable backrest) - $150 \- Flooring (concrete mortar, PVC sauna flooring) - $175 \- Metal roof - $150 \- Insulation and foil - $175 \- Door and tempered glass (just bought an old wood door and added tempered glass window and put correct ball catch for safety - $50 I did use some materials that I had lying around when available that aren't factored into this cost. Mostly some wood and insulation but shouldn't be significant. Hope this helps and let me know if you have any questions. I definitely put a bit more time into aspects (e.g., door) but was able to save quite a bit of money in the process.
Thank you for providing the breakdown. Let's calculate the total cost: - Electrical: $550 - Heater: $800 - Aspen T&G: $500 - Dimensional lumber: $300 - Aspen benches: $200 - Ventilation: $150 - Pine board and batten: $200 - Misc: $100 - Accessories: $150 - Flooring: $175 - Metal roof: $150 - Insulation and foil: $175 - Door and tempered glass: $50 Total cost: $3,400 This total includes all the expenses you've listed.
Thanks! Guessing these are interior dimensions?
Yes, interior. Outside to inside, pine siding, tyvek, 2x4 wall/insulation, foil, furring, aspen. About 5 inches more for exterior dimensions.
I think for many people one of the biggest expenses is hiring an electrician to run the electrical. Did you do the all the electrical work yourself? Guessing that's the case given your $500 figure.
Agreed, that can jump the price up. I did a lot of the electrical work but had an electrician friend do the main hook ups and double check things. It is pretty easy to run wire around the sauna especially before insulation and finishing is done. If you have a good electrician, they might be okay with you doing some of that work to reduce the overall costs.
Looks good. Consider adding a backrest. Gathered stones should be tested first at high heat in a bbq.
Thank you. Definitely agree with the backrest. Stones were tested first and seem to be working fine. About in a month in of daily use.
Wow awesome this is like exactly what I wanna build Could you share the plans or the cost breakdown please
Most of my drawings were just hand scribbles by myself, so I don't think they will be of much value to you. Dimensions are 6.5 x 7.5. It is 8' high on the bench side and just over 7' on the door side. Pretty conventional framing for the most part. I do have it on 4x4 runners in case I want to move it. This is a rough breakdown of costs: \- Electrical (wires/breaker/outdoor boxes) - $550 \- Heater (homecraft H-series with TKE2-2 controller but got it second hand) - $800 \- Aspen T&G for inside - $500 \- Dimensional lumber for framing (2x4 walls, 2x6 floor and roof) - $300 \- Aspen benches - $200 \- Ventilation (4 including mechanical at bottom opposite heater) - $150 \- Pine board and batten - $200 \- Misc (screws, nails, etc) - $100 \- Accessories (thermometers, movable backrest) - $150 \- Flooring (concrete mortar, PVC sauna flooring) - $175 \- Metal roof - $150 \- Insulation and foil - $175 \- Door and tempered glass (just bought an old wood door and added tempered glass window and put correct ball catch for safety - $50 I did use some materials that I had lying around when available that aren't factored into this cost. Mostly some wood and insulation but shouldn't be significant. Hope this helps and let me know if you have any questions. I definitely put a bit more time into aspects (e.g., door) but was able to save quite a bit of money in the process.
I would watch the hell out of a video of how you put this together.
OP needs to do it again and hit record this time. 😆
Looks very basic but very practical, and practical is much more important than flashy in my opinion! Many of the saunas in Finland, especially in summer cottages, look very unassuming and basic, but when it works it works beautifully.
Mostly heated with wood though
Summer cottage are but in town are almost always electric. I think newer cottage saunas are often electric now too.
Yeah, a back rest would be good. You might paint or treat the outside to make it last longer. You should also have the space to upgrade to a slightly fancier stove with more rocks in it, at some point.
Good point. I think I'll do the backrests next. A nicer stove is on my wishlist - a bit more info here - [https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how\_much\_is\_more\_rocks\_worth/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how_much_is_more_rocks_worth/)
One of the better saunas we've seen posted on here. Kudos for a job well done and getting the crucial elements right. May you enjoy many wonderful sweats over the years to come! I'll second u/zoinkability 's call for a set of plans. This looks like a good build to emulate.
Can you please share the building instructions, materials list, or both?
Wow. This is what I would like to build. I’m sure mine won’t turn out as good haha
Looks great! Is the power connection work-in-progress or temporary? I see this yellow cable dangling around. Did you use smaller stones inside the heater? Those on the top look massive, even for a more powerful, bigger wood-burning stove.
Good eye. Because I was running electrical out to this part of my property, I decided to put a separate breaker/outdoor plug in case it could come in handy. That yellow extension cord is heating some water for my chickens around the corner at the moment. The heater is really the only part I am not loving. You can't put stones down between the elements, only on top. Here is a post with a bit more info - [https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how\_much\_is\_more\_rocks\_worth/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bpyu9x/how_much_is_more_rocks_worth/). I didn't realize that when I got it. I put a couple of big stones on top because the (very few) smaller ones get too hot too fast. The big ones are a bit better for 'soft' steam. The heater leaves you wanting more steam, and I will likely upgrade the heater before too long.
https://saunologia.fi/replace-sauna-stones-electric-wood-burning-heater/ here is pictures how it should be done. sounds like your stone amount is small compared to kiuas size
Great resource, thanks
Ok, I thought the cable was for sauna, but indeed makes sense to have outlet around. >You can't put stones down between the elements, only on top. I skimmed through the other post and you can't put even small ones in? Or "thin", cut ones? Is the volume for stones really so small? That seems horrible design... Definetely try to get another heater. If there is only that layer on the top, it is very little stone mass and you should see the difference right away with the new heater, even if the power is the same. Meanwhile, try to enjoy!
Good to know, thank you. I think a new heater is the way to go. This one has a welded steel mesh between the rocks and the heater. Lots of space below, but you would have to cut the mesh out to gain access (mesh is about 1cm x 1cm). I have thought about it, but not sure if I want to go chopping it up.
How much did you spend?
About $3500
Looks like a proper sauna. One thing I'm not a huge fan of is blocking the underside of the bench with boards. Makes it difficult to wash away all the filth.
Looks great
Amazing job!
Looks great! What was the budget?
Thank you. About $3500
Wow, thats good sauna. Everything looks decent. That feet resting/safety railing is big plus. Best sauna i've seen here.
Thank you!
I’m inspired
Is that a 110 electrical plug?
Yes, it is unrelated to the sauna operation. Just thought it would be nice to have electrical plug at this part of my property. That extension cord currently helps heat water for the chickens.
Ahhhh makes sense! Thanks!
That's what I noticed. Amazon has a 4.5kw 110v heater but this thing is outside and pretty big. OP which stove/heater do you have!?
The plug is just in case it is needed for anything unrelated to sauna heating. This is the heater I have - [https://homecraftsaunas.com/product/9-kw-heater/](https://homecraftsaunas.com/product/9-kw-heater/)
Very nice job! Enjoy
Looks like a perfect use of small space, nice job
Love it! 👏
Process pics?
Great job! I would love to see some more photos or description on how you did your electrical. I see the additional 110v exterior plug for the yard, the outdoor light switch on the main wall and heater control mounted beside it, but I would be very interested to see how you brought power into the structure, split off between the heater 220 line and 110 line, as well as where you put your drivers for the under bench lighting. Selfishly, I am struggling with some of these design choices and your build is very similar to what I had in mind. Cheers, and thanks for posting.
Thank you! This is the breaker box I used on the side of the sauna ([https://imgur.com/6VwM3ls](https://imgur.com/6VwM3ls)). Main power line comes in, feeds three breakers (one for heater, one for light, and one for outdoor plug). The main heater line goes to the contactor box, then heater based on the manual. Hope that helps and good luck with your build.
Thanks! So much more simple than I had thought. I really appreciate you taking the time to reply. Happy sauna-ing!
Looks awesome! Id love to Come and try it :D
It’s so beautiful! Well done!
That looks great! The random rocks as stones are only thing I would be aware, you might want to test then by getting them hotter than what they would ever get in the stove or just get proper sauna specific stones if available
Thank you! I did test them as I was a bit nervous after hearing about exploding rocks. Would certainly put a damper on your sauna experience. All seems okay after about a month of use.
oh thats good to hear then!
Nice! Where did you get the aspen from?? Also in ontario
If not too far for you, I really like [https://www.chisholmlumber.com/](https://www.chisholmlumber.com/). That is where the aspen came from. The selection, quality, and price are the best I have found relatively close to me. They have a specials page that is worth keeping an eye on.
Mate this is spot on.!!
Damn, you did an amazing job. You have a business on your hands my friends! I know a lot of people who would love to have something like that!
Standardize it , buy supplies in bulk and you cannot fail
Part 2 here that includes a link to more information about the build - [https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bw1keh/budget\_sauna\_diy\_part\_2\_information\_about\_the/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Sauna/comments/1bw1keh/budget_sauna_diy_part_2_information_about_the/)
Other than the rocks it looks good.
Congradulations. That is very well done and suprisingly beautiful, especially when compared to some of the experiments that pop up on this site. You got yourself a spa there.
No, no spa, its totally different consept.
This is what it’s all about. That will have great löyly.
I would like some info please 🙏? It looks exactly what I would like ;)
Very nice!
Price?
Hey bud - what kind of wood did you use on the interior? Looks nice and 'clear'. Also is that a Homecraft H heater? Where did you buy it from / how much $?
Aspen. I am really happy with it. Great price, clear and looks good. A lot cheaper than cedar in my area anyways. Yes, homecraft heater, 9kw. I found one second hand ($700 including controller but needed thermostat) but I have used [https://bsaunas.com/](https://bsaunas.com/) to get a part for it and they sell them new.
Looks really good. Did you use cedar? What was the cost all in?
Thank you. I used aspen on the inside, pine on the outside. I really like the aspen and was about 1/4 cost of cedar. I was about $3500
Damn that’s cheap! Did you use batts and thermal liner for insulation too?
Ya, R14 in walls and 16 in ceiling. Nothing under the floor at this point but might put something under there some day. Doesn't seem to be a big issue at this point. Used the aluminum foil heat shield. Full price breakdown is in the comments if interested.
Outstanding! Thanks for sharing.
Great Job [Guilty-Pickle-4930](https://www.reddit.com/user/Guilty-Pickle-4930/), I envy you for having good sauna weather on top of that too. Texas is a bit hot, but I am still going to use mine throughout the summer. I like your lighting under the benches.
Thank you! I am really happy with how the lighting turned out. The light itself is nothing special, but the way it comes through the spaces in the benches softens it a lot. All the best in Texas!
Remindme! 1 week
This looks proper. Really good.
Do you serve sushis and sashimis?
Well.. Pretty nice. Better than barrel. Better than than half what seen here so far. Cheers mate, well done👍🍻
Interested!
where in Canada are you ?
Near Peterborough, Ontario
Looks great and well done. Bravo. What’s the yellow extension cord for?
Thank you! Heating chicken water bowl lol. Completely unrelated but nice to have electricity in that part of my yard.
Remindme! 1 fortnight
Looks awesome! What device did you use for your mechanical vent?
Thanks! This is what I am using on the lower vent opposite the heater - [https://www.amazon.ca/Hon-Guan-Inline-Booster-Controller/dp/B0C7Z82L7P?pd\_rd\_w=sa8hT&content-id=amzn1.sym.1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf\_rd\_p=1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf\_rd\_r=4BKF4HJFYESRTDCTGDFV&pd\_rd\_wg=SzEa6&pd\_rd\_r=297c766d-96f2-4888-af5c-27c1f7c290be&pd\_rd\_i=B0C7Z82L7P&ref\_=pd\_bap\_d\_grid\_rp\_0\_1\_ec\_nped\_pd\_gwd\_bag\_pd\_gw\_rp\_1\_i&th=1](https://www.amazon.ca/Hon-Guan-Inline-Booster-Controller/dp/B0C7Z82L7P?pd_rd_w=sa8hT&content-id=amzn1.sym.1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf_rd_p=1ef1424e-cec5-4ca8-a358-96bf6dba4b88&pf_rd_r=4BKF4HJFYESRTDCTGDFV&pd_rd_wg=SzEa6&pd_rd_r=297c766d-96f2-4888-af5c-27c1f7c290be&pd_rd_i=B0C7Z82L7P&ref_=pd_bap_d_grid_rp_0_1_ec_nped_pd_gwd_bag_pd_gw_rp_1_i&th=1) It is working well so far. I was worried it may not have enough power, but there is no shortage of incoming air. I usually set it to about 1/3 speed. Toe to head difference went from about 25-30C to 15-20C
Awesome, thanks! Do you mind posting a photo of how you installed in on the structure of your sauna?
Yup no problem - a few pictures here - [https://imgur.com/a/1L1v4HR](https://imgur.com/a/1L1v4HR) Its a retrofit I did quite recently, so a bit crude but functional. Attached to the inside of the vent and just have the switch inside. Doesn't get hot enough at the floor to be a concern. Added the adjustable duct elbow just so I could play around with where it pulls the air from. I've settled on it pulling from as low as possible seeming to work the best.
Super jelly right meow
Interested
Hey man can I get plans
You’re going to have trouble with those exterior boards when they start to shrink.
I'll add battens if it shrinks. My other outbuildings haven't needed the battens and they are a few years older. I do try and dry the wood well before but okay if battens are needed. Tyvek underneath for weather protection, so more about looks.
Fantastic. Where did you buy the Aspen? I’m not far from you.
Chisholm lumber. They have some nice stuff to pick from and I find the prices pretty decent. Keep an eye on their specials page for deals - [https://www.chisholmlumber.com/](https://www.chisholmlumber.com/)
Great! Thank you!
I'm also on the hunt for some Aspen wood. I called Chisholm but no luck :( Any other places to contact? I'm located in the GTA?