Key Takeaways

• Cedar is great for outdoor saunas because of its superior moisture resistance and natural antimicrobial properties, but it is more expensive
• Hemlock is a great value with minimal aroma and good heat retention, perfect for indoor installations and those with sensitivities
• Strategic wood combinations (cedar benches with hemlock walls) can optimize both budget and performance
• Wood selection significantly impacts maintenance requirements - cedar requires less upkeep while hemlock may need more frequent treatment
• Collective Relaxation offers expert guidance on selecting the perfect wood for your specific sauna needs and environment

The wood you select for your sauna isn't just a matter of aesthetics—it fundamentally shapes your entire sauna experience. From the temperature characteristics to the aromatic environment and long-term durability, your choice of lumber determines how your sauna performs for decades to come. With temperatures regularly exceeding 175°F and humidity fluctuating dramatically, sauna woods must withstand extreme conditions while remaining comfortable to the touch and safe for repeated exposure.

Why the Wood You Choose for Your Sauna Matters

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Hemlock: A New Favorite for Sauna Construction

Western hemlock has quickly become a preferred choice for modern sauna construction, especially for indoor saunas. This light-colored wood with a straight grain provides an ideal combination of performance and value, which is attractive to both commercial builders and home sauna users. Unlike some traditional sauna woods, hemlock has been extensively tested in modern sauna uses and has shown to be a dependable choice.

Thermal Stability and Heat Resistance

When it comes to sauna construction, hemlock is a top choice because of its thermal properties. Hemlock is known for its outstanding insulation abilities, which help to keep the temperature steady during your entire sauna experience. Unlike some softwoods that can get too hot to touch, hemlock benches stay fairly comfortable even when the temperature is high, so you may not need to use towels on the seats. Plus, because hemlock is thermally stable, it takes less energy to heat and keep the temperature steady, which could save you money in the long run.

The innate density of the wood is a factor in its resilience to the repeated cycles of heating and cooling that it will experience. Hemlock, when tested in the lab, showed very little change in size when exposed to the high temperatures that are common in saunas. As a result, it is less likely to crack and split over time than some other types of wood.

When it comes to infrared saunas, hemlock wood is often the go-to choice. Its thermal properties are well-suited to the way infrared saunas heat up. Hemlock wood can absorb and radiate infrared energy well, all while keeping its shape. That's why a lot of top-tier infrared sauna makers prefer to use it.

Minimal Scent, Ideal for Sensitive Noses

What sets hemlock apart is its lack of strong aroma. While cedar emits a potent smell due to its essential oils when heated, hemlock remains almost scentless, even at high temperatures. This makes hemlock a great option for people who are sensitive to strong smells or prefer to add their own essential oils instead of smelling the natural scent of the wood. For businesses that serve a wide range of clients, hemlock's lack of scent helps avoid scent fatigue and caters to a variety of tastes.

Indoor Durability

Hemlock can last a long time in indoor environments when taken care of properly. The wood's compact grain structure and low expansion/contraction rate make it unlikely to crack or warp like lower-quality sauna woods. Hemlock's natural resistance to wear and tear also makes it perfect for areas that see a lot of use, like bench surfaces and floors.

• Low susceptibility to checking (surface cracking) when properly seasoned
• Excellent dimensional stability with minimal movement during heating/cooling cycles
• Moderate natural resistance to decay organisms in indoor applications
• Superior hardness compared to some alternative softwoods, resulting in better wear resistance

Cost Benefits and Availability

Perhaps hemlock's most compelling advantage for many sauna builders is its cost-effectiveness. Typically priced 30–40% lower than premium Western Red Cedar, hemlock offers significant savings without major performance compromises for indoor applications. This pricing advantage makes quality sauna construction accessible to more homeowners and allows commercial operators to optimize construction budgets without cutting corners on essential components.

Hemlock is readily available in standard sizes, which makes the construction process smoother and reduces waste. Unlike some specialty woods that may need to be special ordered or come with long lead times, hemlock is widely accessible through most lumber suppliers. This allows for faster project completion and easier repairs if needed.

Cedar: A Classic Favorite

Western red cedar has long been considered the top choice for sauna construction, and for good reason. It has a beautiful, warm color that can range from a light amber to a deep, rich red. This is the look that many people think of when they imagine a high-end sauna. It is more expensive than other options, but many sauna lovers believe it is worth the extra cost, especially for outdoor saunas or traditional steam saunas. For more details on choosing the right wood, you can read about hemlock vs cedar saunas.

Top-Notch Moisture Resistance and Natural Oils

One of the key reasons cedar is so resistant to moisture is because of its natural chemical makeup, specifically the presence of thujaplicins and other extractives that actively prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria. These natural preservatives are found throughout the entire structure of the wood, not just on the surface, offering protection that goes deep into the core. This innate resistance to decay makes cedar especially useful in the high-humidity environment of traditional steam saunas, where condensation is a regular occurrence on surfaces.

When it comes to outdoor saunas, cedar’s natural ability to resist water damage is even more important. The cellular structure of the wood naturally repels water instead of absorbing it, which greatly reduces the likelihood of warping, cupping, and splitting when exposed to changes in weather. Many cedar saunas that have been installed outside have remained structurally sound for decades with very little maintenance, proving the exceptional durability of the wood in challenging environments.

The Unique Smell of Cedar

The smell of cedar is probably its most well-known characteristic. When it is heated, cedar gives off natural essential oils that create the aroma many people associate with a real sauna. This smell is a big part of the healing benefits of using a sauna. It might help with breathing, and it definitely promotes relaxation. The scent is a little bit sweet, a little bit woodsy, and a little bit earthy—changing subtly as the sauna gets hotter. It is a full sensory experience.

Surprisingly, the same aromatic compounds that give cedar its lovely smell also help to repel pests. These natural oils are effective at keeping insects and small pests away, which is especially useful for outdoor installations. Although the scent will slowly fade over several years of use, if a cedar sauna is properly maintained, it can retain its aromatic qualities for ten years or more.

Outdoor Durability and Weatherproofing

For outdoor saunas, cedar is the best choice over other types of wood. Cedar is naturally resistant to water, UV rays, temperature changes, and insects, making it perfect for outdoor use. With the right care and maintenance, cedar saunas can last 20–30 years outdoors, while other woods might only last 5–10 years without heavy chemical treatment.

When it comes to outdoor performance, cedar's remarkable dimensional stability is a major advantage. This means that even when exposed to significant changes in temperature and humidity, cedar expands and contracts very little. This helps reduce the strain on joints and fasteners, maintaining the structural integrity and vapor seal of the sauna over time. This stability helps preserve energy efficiency and prevent moisture damage to other parts of the building.

Price Matters

While cedar is an excellent choice for a sauna, it does come with a higher price tag, usually 30-50% more than hemlock or spruce options. This is a big factor for many people building saunas, especially those building them indoors where the weather resistance of cedar is less of a benefit. But if you're looking at the long-term value rather than just the upfront cost, cedar often ends up being worth the extra money because it lasts longer and requires less maintenance, particularly in harsh conditions.

If you're looking to save some money but still want the benefits of cedar, a good compromise is to use it strategically. You can build the bench surfaces, backrests, and other areas that will come into contact with the body out of cedar. Then, use cheaper woods for the structural elements and wall panels. This way, you get the smell and comfort where it counts, but you also save a lot of money on materials.

Other Sauna Woods to Consider

While cedar and hemlock are the most popular woods used for saunas in North America, there are a few other types of wood that have their own unique features that might be worth considering depending on what you're looking for. Each of these woods have their own pros and cons, and they might be just what you're looking for depending on your specific needs or tastes.

Nordic Spruce: A European Tradition

Nordic spruce has long been the standard choice for Finnish saunas, providing top-notch performance features at a reasonable cost. The wood's light hue creates bright, spacious sauna rooms that many find mentally refreshing compared to darker options. With its straight grain, few knots, and solid dimensional stability, high-quality Nordic spruce offers dependable performance that is especially well-matched to traditional steam saunas.

Nordic spruce has a light, subtle scent that’s a balance between the strong aroma of cedar and the neutral tone of hemlock. The scent resembles the fresh air of a forest and can enhance your senses without being overpowering. Although Nordic spruce isn't as naturally resistant to decay as cedar, it can still last for several decades with proper care in indoor environments. This makes it a popular choice for people who want a traditional European sauna experience.

Aspen: The Ideal Choice for Those with Allergies

Aspen is a top choice for sauna users who have severe chemical sensitivities or respiratory issues. This wood is incredibly clean-burning and releases almost no aromatic compounds or irritants when heated, making it a safe environment for even the most sensitive individuals. Its bright white color creates a visually larger space that reflects light well, which can help reduce lighting needs and save energy.

Aspen wood not only has hypoallergenic properties, but it also offers practical advantages such as resistance to splintering, low heat conductivity, and excellent workability. Its smooth surface texture provides exceptional comfort for body contact areas like benches and headrests without the need for extensive finishing. Although it is not as naturally decay-resistant as some alternatives, aspen performs very well in properly ventilated indoor installations, especially in infrared saunas where moisture levels are lower.

Basswood: Comfort First

Basswood is a great choice for sauna benches because it is so comfortable. The way the wood's cells are structured means it insulates really well, so even when the sauna is hot, the bench isn't. This means you don't need a towel on the bench, which makes the sauna experience feel more real and means less washing for businesses.

Basswood, similar to aspen, doesn’t have a strong smell and is a good choice for people who are sensitive to strong scents or who want to use their own essential oils in the sauna. Its fine grain makes for a smooth, splinter-free surface. The light color of basswood can also make the interior of the sauna feel brighter. While it does require more upkeep than cedar to prevent water damage, basswood is a great value choice for the parts of the sauna that will come into contact with the body, especially in an indoor setting where the humidity can be controlled.

Pine: Affordable, but Short-Lived

Pine is the cheapest option for building a sauna, usually costing 50-60% less than high-quality cedar. This cost benefit makes pine appealing for projects on a budget, temporary setups, or backup saunas where long-term use isn't the main goal. The wood's common availability in standard dimensional lumber sizes also makes construction easier, potentially lowering labor costs and making repairs more straightforward. For more insights on sauna wood options, check out this comparison of hemlock vs cedar saunas.

It's important to remember that pine does have its drawbacks. The wood has a high resin content that can leak out when it's heated, which can lead to sticky surfaces and strong smells that some people find unpleasant. Pine also isn't as dimensionally stable as other, higher-quality options, which means it can warp, check, and split more significantly over time. Because of these issues, pine usually only lasts for about 5-7 years in sauna applications before it needs major maintenance or replacement. This is much shorter than the lifespan of hemlock (10-15 years) or cedar (20+ years).

How Different Woods Hold Up in the Heat and Humidity

The harsh conditions inside a sauna—often with temperatures over 175°F and humidity that changes drastically between dry and steam phases—make it one of the toughest environments for any building material. Knowing how different woods react to these conditions is key to choosing materials that will last for decades instead of wearing out too soon.

The perfect sauna wood needs to have incredible dimensional stability when exposed to extreme temperature and humidity changes. It must also maintain structural integrity through thousands of heating and cooling cycles. Plus, it should resist the biological decay organisms that thrive in warm, moist environments. Different species offer unique performance profiles in each of these critical areas.

Comparing Heat Conductivity

The heat conductivity of the wood used in a sauna directly affects both how energy efficient it is and how comfortable it is for the user. Cedar offers the best insulation properties, meaning it needs less energy to keep it at the right temperature and the outside surfaces stay cooler. Hemlock and spruce are in the mid-range, offering decent insulation but conducting heat more than cedar. This is most noticeable on the benches, where cedar stays comfortable even when the sauna is at its hottest, while pine or spruce can get too hot to sit on without a towel.

Unlike traditional steam saunas, infrared saunas have different heating requirements. The wood used needs to be able to absorb and redistribute the infrared energy effectively, rather than just insulating against heat from convection. For this purpose, hemlock and basswood are often better choices than cedar. Their cellular structure is more effective at absorbing and radiating the specific wavelengths that infrared heaters produce. This is why many high-end infrared sauna manufacturers prefer hemlock, even though cedar is a better choice for traditional steam saunas.

Dealing with Moisture and Preventing Warping

In the sauna environment, wood is subject to high levels of humidity that cause it to expand and contract. This can put a lot of stress on the wood fibers and connections. Cedar is a great choice for this environment because it has excellent dimensional stability. It typically only moves about 2% between being extremely dry and completely saturated. This means that the joints stay tight and there is minimal cracking, even after many years of use. Hemlock is also a good choice, but it doesn't perform quite as well as cedar. It can move 3-4% when exposed to outdoor humidity fluctuations. This might mean that you have to do a bit more maintenance to keep the structure sound.

Pine and certain types of spruce are the most susceptible to significant size changes, with some seeing fluctuations of more than 6% between the most extreme conditions. This instability often results in warped boards, loose connections, and noticeable surface cracking within just a few years of being installed. In traditional steam saunas, where condensation regularly forms on surfaces, this sensitivity to moisture can seriously affect both the sauna's long-term performance and its appearance.

Knots and Their Impact on Structure

Knots in the wood can drastically affect how your sauna looks and how well it holds up. Cedar that is clear, or free of knots, is the strongest and most uniform in appearance, but it's also the most expensive. Hemlock usually has a moderate amount of knots, but they're solidly embedded in the wood and stay put even when the sauna heats up. Pine, on the other hand, has more knots, and they're not as stable. They can come loose or fall out over time, which can make the surface rough or even weaken the structure.

When it comes to building benches, the amount of knots in the wood is a key factor to think about, and not just because of how it looks. Knots don’t conduct heat in the same way as the rest of the wood, which can lead to hot spots on the seating surfaces. Knots also break up the grain of the wood, which can make it more likely for splinters to form over time with use and cleaning. That’s why a lot of top-quality sauna manufacturers choose wood that’s clear or has very few knots for the bench surfaces, even if they’re okay with using wood with more knots for the wall panels.

How Wood Choice Affects Your Sauna Experience

Of course, the type of wood you choose for your sauna isn’t just about durability and heat retention. The aroma of the wood, the texture, and even the cleanliness can all contribute to the overall sauna experience. Depending on your personal preferences, these factors could make or break your sauna sessions.

The Influence of Aromatic Compounds

When cedar is heated, it releases essential oils that are known to promote improved breathing and reduce congestion. These naturally occurring aromatherapeutic compounds can help to increase relaxation and reduce stress, which contributes to the overall wellness experience. However, the same compounds that provide these benefits may also cause sensitivities in some individuals, especially those with chemical sensitivities or respiratory conditions such as asthma.

When it comes to Hemlock and basswood, these two types of wood are virtually scent-free. This makes them perfect for people who want to add their own essential oils to match their wellness goals. This also makes these woods a great choice for shared or commercial saunas where users might have different scent preferences. If you want to use aromatherapy in your sauna, these woods won't interfere with the scents you choose.

Choosing the Right Wood for Those with Allergies

For those who have allergies or respiratory conditions, the type of wood used in the sauna can be the difference between a relaxing or a miserable experience. Aspen is particularly good for those with allergies, as it releases very few volatile compounds, even when heated. Basswood is also a good choice, as it is unlikely to trigger allergies. Hemlock is not quite as good as Aspen or Basswood, but it is much better than aromatic woods like cedar or pine, especially in saunas with good ventilation.

Aside from the wood itself, the products used to finish the wood also need to be carefully considered for those with sensitivities. Traditional sauna woods should never be sealed or finished with standard woodworking products, as these can release harmful compounds when heated. For maximum hypoallergenic performance, woods should be left completely untreated or finished only with pure mineral oil or specifically formulated sauna-safe products designed for high-temperature applications.

Naturally Inhibits Microbes

Traditional saunas create a high-humidity environment that could potentially support the growth of microbes without the right materials and maintenance. Cedar contains natural extractives, including thujaplicins, that actively work to stop the growth of fungi and bacteria, making surfaces naturally more hygienic. This is especially useful in saunas that are shared or used commercially. This natural property that inhibits microbes reduces the need for maintenance while potentially creating a healthier environment for those who use the sauna.

Although hemlock doesn't have the strong antimicrobial properties of cedar, it does have a moderate amount of natural extractives that can resist some microbial growth, especially when well cared for. Woods like pine have very little natural protection, which may necessitate more frequent cleaning and occasional antimicrobial treatment to keep surfaces clean. Regardless of the wood's natural characteristics, proper ventilation between uses is critical for all sauna woods to control moisture levels and prevent microbial problems.

Upkeep Needs for Different Types of Wood

The lifespan of a sauna is largely dependent on the right care and upkeep, which can vary based on the type of wood it's made from. Knowing what kind of maintenance different woods need before you choose them can help you pick a material that matches your upkeep style and abilities.

Self-Preservation of Cedar

With cedar, you get a wood that is naturally durable, which means less maintenance, especially for outdoor installations. The natural oils and extractives in cedar continually migrate to the surface, providing ongoing protection against moisture, decay, and insect damage. For indoor installations, cedar typically requires little more than occasional cleaning with mild soap and water, and no need for additional preservatives or treatments even after decades of use.

Cedar's natural preservation properties make it an excellent choice for commercial settings where upkeep needs to be kept to a minimum, or for homeowners looking for a sauna that requires little maintenance. Although cedar may be more expensive initially, it can save money in the long run due to its significantly lower maintenance costs and longer lifespan, especially in harsh conditions where other types of wood would need to be treated frequently or replaced prematurely.

Keeping Hemlock Clean

Although hemlock needs more upkeep than cedar, it's still pretty low-maintenance for indoor use. You'll want to clean this wood regularly with gentle cleaning agents made specifically for saunas. This will help get rid of body oils and stop the wood from gradually getting darker from frequent use. To keep hemlock working its best, you'll usually need to treat it with wood protectants that are safe for saunas every 2-3 years. This is especially true for bench surfaces that people come into contact with the most. For more detailed comparisons, check out this article on hemlock vs cedar saunas.

The light color of Hemlock makes dirt and stains more noticeable than on darker woods like Cedar, potentially necessitating more frequent cleaning to maintain aesthetic appearance. However, this visibility also serves as an effective indicator of when maintenance is required, potentially preventing the accumulation of biofilms that might go unnoticed on darker surfaces. With proper care, Hemlock saunas can typically deliver 15+ years of service in indoor environments before requiring significant refurbishment.

Options for Finishing and Treatment

No matter what type of wood you use for your sauna, it’s crucial that you don’t finish it with standard woodworking products that aren’t specifically designed to withstand high temperatures. Regular sealants, stains, and varnishes can emit potentially harmful compounds when heated, which can negatively affect air quality and potentially pose health risks. If you want to enhance or preserve the natural look of your sauna wood, there are several safe options available.

Here are some ways to protect the wood in your sauna:

• Use pure mineral oil. It brings out the natural grain of the wood, and it's completely non-toxic when heated.
• Use a paraffin wax treatment. This creates a water-resistant surface, which is great for bench tops in traditional steam saunas.
• Use a specialized sauna-safe wood treatment. These are designed specifically for high-temperature applications.
• Use natural linseed oil. But only use this on exterior surfaces, not inside the hot room.

No matter what type of wood you use in your sauna, the most important thing you can do to maintain it is to make sure it's properly ventilated between uses. This lets the moisture dissipate, and prevents conditions that can cause decay. Your sauna should have a venting system, and you should keep the door open when you're not using it. This will help maintain the right level of moisture, no matter what type of wood you use.

Choosing the Right Wood for Your Sauna Type

There are various types of saunas, each with its own unique features and requirements. Certain types of wood may be more suitable for specific sauna styles and usage habits. Knowing this can help you choose the right wood for your sauna. For more information on wood types, check out this article on Hemlock vs Cedar saunas.

Finnish Sauna Wood Types

True Finnish saunas are often made of Nordic spruce or aspen, which results in a bright, light-colored interior that mentally elevates the sauna experience. These types of wood are particularly good at dealing with the unique heat and humidity conditions of Finnish saunas, where the temperature often gets to 175-195°F and water is periodically poured on heated stones to produce steam. The natural characteristics of these woods are able to handle these intense conditions while also creating the sensory environment that is at the heart of the Finnish sauna experience.

In North America, when it comes to Finnish-style saunas, cedar is the wood of choice. This is because cedar offers similar performance to traditional Finnish sauna woods, but it's more durable in less controlled environments. Many modern Finnish-style saunas blend traditional design with cedar construction. This combination creates a sauna experience that is both authentic and long-lasting. Cedar is especially good for outdoor saunas or commercial saunas where maintenance needs to be kept to a minimum.

Top Wood Choices for Infrared Saunas

Infrared saunas work very differently than traditional steam saunas, as they usually operate at lower temperatures (120-140°F) and use infrared radiation to directly heat the body. Because of this, the type of wood used in their construction is chosen based on its thermal mass and radiant properties, rather than its resistance to steam. Hemlock is often the wood of choice for high-end infrared sauna manufacturers because its cellular makeup allows it to efficiently absorb and redistribute infrared energy. Plus, it maintains its shape well in the lower-humidity environment.

Those with chemical sensitivities will find basswood and aspen to be the best choice for infrared applications, as they release almost no aromatic compounds when heated. These woods also have minimal thermal conductivity, which improves efficiency by reducing heat loss through walls and bench surfaces. Cedar is also a good choice for infrared applications, but its higher price point and strong natural aroma make it less common in this type of sauna unless specific benefits such as outdoor durability or traditional aesthetics are desired.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Installation Factors

The type of installation can greatly affect the performance needs of the wood, as outdoor saunas have to deal with much more from the elements, temperature changes, and possibly even contact with the ground. For outdoor installations, the natural decay resistance of cedar becomes especially important, potentially doubling the lifespan compared to other woods that haven't been treated with chemicals. The wood's dimensional stability through changes in humidity throughout the seasons also helps to keep the structure intact and energy efficient by keeping the seals between the parts tight, which is especially important for standalone structures that are exposed to the weather.

Understanding the True Value

When it comes to choosing materials for a project, the initial cost is often the main factor. However, the true value comes from balancing the initial cost with the performance, maintenance needs, and lifespan of the material. A thorough value analysis will take all of these factors into account to find the most cost-effective solution for a specific project and its conditions.

When it comes to indoor saunas, hemlock is often the best choice in terms of both performance and cost. It lasts for over 15 years and is about 60-70% cheaper than cedar. However, for outdoor saunas or traditional steam saunas, cedar is worth the extra cost due to its durability and low maintenance. This means it will last longer and provide a better experience for the user.

Initial Investment by Wood Type

• Cedar (Western Red): $4.50-$7.00 per board foot, most expensive upfront
• Hemlock: $2.75-$4.25 per board foot, moderate upfront cost
• Nordic Spruce: $3.25-$5.00 per board foot, premium import option
• Aspen: $3.00-$4.50 per board foot, specialty selection for sensitivity
• Pine: $1.75-$3.00 per board foot, cheapest upfront

These price ranges reflect typical retail costs for kiln-dried, sauna-grade lumber and may vary significantly by region, supplier, and current market conditions. Commercial builders typically access wholesale pricing 15-30% below these ranges, potentially altering the value equation for large projects. For most home sauna projects, the total lumber cost difference between cedar and hemlock typically ranges from $500-$1,200 depending on sauna size and design complexity.

Aside from the actual cost of the materials, the complexity of the construction also affects the total cost of the project. Pine and hemlock are usually available in standard sizes, which simplifies the construction process and could possibly lower labor costs. Cedar and other specialty woods often require more careful selection and may require custom milling for certain uses, which could increase both the cost of the materials and the labor for the project.

If you're looking to save money without sacrificing quality, a hybrid approach might be the way to go. By using cedar for bench surfaces and backrests and hemlock for walls and structural elements, you can cut material costs by 25-30%. Plus, you'll still get the aromatic and comfort benefits of cedar where it counts the most.

Longevity and Cost of Replacements

When you consider the cost of owning a sauna, you must think beyond the initial building cost. You should also consider ongoing upkeep, repairs, and the eventual cost of replacing parts. Cedar has a remarkably long life, which cuts down these life cycle costs. If a cedar sauna is built correctly, it may only need minor upkeep for more than 20 years. The wood naturally resists decay, insects, and changes in size. This preserves the structure and appearance of the sauna with little intervention. This adds significant value over the life of the sauna.

Unlike cedar, other types of wood usually need more regular upkeep and earlier substitution of crucial parts, especially in harsh conditions. For instance, hemlock benches used outside may need to be replaced within 5-7 years, while cedar benches can last for over 15 years. The costs of these replacements, along with the more demanding maintenance needs, can end up being more than the initial extra cost of using premium wood. This is especially true for commercial projects where the labor costs for maintenance and replacements have to be factored in.

Effect on Resale Value

When it comes to home saunas, the material you choose can greatly affect your potential resale value and how marketable your home is. Real estate professionals often report that saunas made from cedar wood are more likely to fetch a higher price and attract more interest from buyers compared to other types of wood. In fact, cedar saunas often return 65-80% of the original investment, while saunas made from hemlock wood typically return 40-60%. This increased value is due to both the well-known high quality of cedar wood and its visibly superior aesthetics, which make a great first impression during home showings.

Choosing the Right Wood for Your Sauna

When it comes to selecting the best wood for your sauna, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, the ideal choice will depend on your individual needs, usage habits, installation location, and budget. Rather than trying to find the "best" material, focus on finding the one that best meets your unique needs. For expert advice on which woods are best suited for your specific application, consult with Collective Relaxation. They can provide you with valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

Identifying Your Essential Features

Start by pinpointing the must-have features for your specific use. If you're installing outdoors, you'll need to prioritize moisture resistance, which makes cedar a top pick even though it's more expensive. For those who are sensitive to chemicals, the hypoallergenic nature of aspen or basswood might be the most important factor. By determining your key needs upfront, you can easily eliminate options that won't meet your core needs instead of getting bogged down with choices that aren't right for your primary objectives.

How Does Location Impact Wood Availability?

Where you're building your sauna will have a big impact on both the cost and the environmental impact of your project. For example, if you're in the Pacific Northwest or parts of Canada, where cedar is grown, the cost for cedar will be significantly less, which could change the overall cost comparison. Similarly, if you're near an Atlantic port where European imports come in, Nordic spruce could be a more cost-effective option. Choosing a wood that's locally available can reduce both the cost of transportation and the carbon footprint of your project, and it can also potentially give you access to higher-quality wood at a lower cost if you can build a relationship with a local supplier.

Combining Different Woods for Optimal Performance

Many high-end saunas use a combination of woods to balance cost and performance. This method uses specific types of wood where their unique properties are most beneficial, while using cheaper alternatives where less is demanded of the material. A popular and effective combination is using cedar for benches, backrests, and heater surrounds where the user can directly benefit from its aromatic properties and comfort, while using hemlock for the wall panels and structural elements due to its great cost-to-performance ratio.

Another great combination, especially for outdoor saunas, is to use cedar for all exterior parts and areas prone to moisture, and hemlock or spruce for the interior wall panels above the bench. This focuses the higher-end material where it is most needed for durability, and can help keep the overall cost down. Some people also like to use small amounts of more exotic hardwoods as accents, while using traditional sauna woods for the bulk of the construction.

Common Questions

Over the years, we've noticed that sauna builders often ask similar questions about wood selection and how it affects performance. By answering these questions, we can help them understand the practical implications of their choices and avoid any misconceptions that could lead to less than ideal decisions.

When it comes to choosing the right material, you have to look at both the technical aspects of different woods and how they affect the overall sauna experience. Lab tests can provide a lot of useful information about specific properties, but sometimes the real test comes when the sauna is actually in use. There may be certain nuances that standardized testing just can’t pick up on.

The following questions address the most common concerns expressed by both novice sauna builders and experienced enthusiasts considering upgrades or replacements. The answers reflect both technical knowledge and practical experience with how different woods perform in various applications and environments over extended service periods.

Is cedar worth the extra cost compared to hemlock for a home sauna?

For indoor home saunas, the value of cedar primarily depends on your preferences for aromatherapy and long-term ownership. If you specifically want the unique cedar aroma as part of your sauna experience or intend to keep the sauna for 10+ years, the premium price of cedar typically pays for itself through increased enjoyment and a longer lifespan. For outdoor installations, cedar's superior weather resistance almost always justifies its higher cost through significantly reduced maintenance needs and a lifespan that is two or three times longer than alternatives.

A lot of homeowners find a happy medium by using cedar for benches and backrests and using hemlock for the walls. This way, you get the smell and comfort where it matters most, and you can reduce the cost of the project by 25-30%. If you're unsure about the smell of cedar, it might be a good idea to visit a few saunas that use different woods before you make a big investment.

Is it possible to combine different types of wood in sauna construction?

Not only is it possible to use a variety of woods in sauna construction, but it's also often the best way to achieve the best results. By placing specific species in areas where their unique characteristics are most beneficial, you can get the most out of each type of wood. The key to successful mixing is understanding how different woods interact with each other, both structurally and aesthetically. Woods with similar expansion and contraction characteristics should be used in the same assemblies to avoid joint separation during temperature and humidity changes. On the aesthetic side, contrasting woods can be used to create visual interest, or similar-toned species can be chosen for a more cohesive look.

What are the best ways to take care of my wooden sauna to make it last as long as possible?

The most crucial thing you can do to maintain any wooden sauna is to ensure it is properly ventilated between uses. This allows any moisture to evaporate, preventing the wood from rotting. In addition to this, you should only use cleaning products specifically designed for saunas. These products will remove any body oils without damaging the wood's natural protective oils. Avoid using any standard household cleaning products, as these often contain harsh chemicals that can strip away the wood's essential oils and create potential respiratory hazards when heated. For the benches, a light sanding every two to three years will remove any surface dirt and make the wood look as good as new, without damaging the wood's structure.

Which sauna wood is best for people with allergies or asthma?

If you have allergies or asthma, aspen is your best choice for a sauna. It's the most hypoallergenic wood, and it doesn't release any fragrances, even at high temperatures. Basswood is another good choice. Hemlock is also a good option, and it's more widely available than aspen or basswood. On the other hand, you should avoid cedar, pine, and some types of spruce if you have allergies or asthma. These woods release a lot of fragrant compounds when they're heated. To make your sauna as hypoallergenic as possible, don't treat the wood or only use pure mineral oil. Commercial wood finishes can contain allergens or irritants.

Does the wood type change the maximum temperature of my sauna?

While all sauna woods that have been properly dried can withstand temperatures over 200°F, their thermal properties do have an impact on how efficiently they heat and distribute temperature. Cedar, with its superior insulation properties, helps maintain a consistent temperature with less energy, potentially allowing for higher peak temperatures with the same heater capacity. Denser woods like oak or some exotic hardwoods require more energy to reach the same temperatures due to their higher thermal mass, potentially limiting maximum temperatures with standard heater sizes. For any wood selection, proper insulation behind the wood paneling has a significant impact on both maximum temperature and energy efficiency, more so than the specific wood choice.

Wood Type	Indoor Durability	Outdoor Durability	Aroma Profile	Initial Cost	Maintenance Requirements
Western Red Cedar	Excellent (20+ years)	Superior (15-30 years)	Strong, distinctive	Premium ($$$$)	Minimal
Hemlock	Very Good (15+ years)	Moderate (5-10 years)	Minimal, neutral	Moderate ($$)	Low-Moderate
Nordic Spruce	Good (12-18 years)	Low-Moderate (4-8 years)	Mild, pleasant	Moderate-High ($$$)	Moderate
Aspen	Good (10-15 years)	Poor (3-6 years)	None (hypoallergenic)	Moderate-High ($$$)	Moderate
Pine	Fair (5-10 years)	Poor (2-5 years)	Strong, resinous	Economy ($)	High

Selecting the ideal wood for your sauna ultimately comes down to balancing your specific priorities regarding aromatherapy preferences, maintenance willingness, installation environment, and budget constraints. By understanding the distinctive characteristics of different sauna woods and considering how they align with your particular requirements, you can make an informed decision that will provide decades of satisfying sauna experiences.

Even though cedar is the top-tier choice, especially for outdoor setups, smart use of other types of wood can lead to just as pleasing results for a lot of people, and it could save a good amount of money. Many people who love saunas have found that the best way to go is to mix different types of wood. They use the high-quality materials in the spots that make a difference to how the sauna feels and the cheaper options for the parts that hold the sauna together.

For expert advice that takes into account your unique project needs and local conditions, talk to the professionals at Collective Relaxation. They can guide you through these important choices and help you design a sauna that perfectly fits your wellness goals and practical limitations.