Is it possible to put an indoor infrared sauna outdoors?
We all have different needs and ideas about our future home wellness corner. Fortunately, the infrared sauna can be purchased in various shapes and sizes, so you can turn your ideas into reality.
In this article, we will focus on the differences between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna, and you will also find out the answer to a frequent question we encounter in our practice, which is whether it is possible to place an indoor infrared sauna outside.
What is the difference between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna?
It's hard to believe, but the biggest difference between an indoor sauna and an outdoor sauna is... the fact that one is made for the interior and the other for the exterior.
The specificity of the outdoor infrared sauna lies in the materials specially made for the outdoor environment, especially due to the weather conditions that come with being outside.
Infrared saunas are electric, so any moisture that gets into the sauna's wiring or heating equipment can destroy it.
Usually, outdoor infrared saunas are made of ecological wood, and the interior is also made of very soft and delicate (cedar or other) wood. Even excessive sweating without a towel, let alone torrential rain, will leave marks on such wood.
Outdoor saunas must therefore be extremely durable and have additional waterproofing and sealing to prevent damage from wind, sun, salt, rain and hail. For this reason, many outdoor saunas also require a sauna cover to minimize the risk of any damage, both aesthetic and technical.
Outdoor saunas are usually slightly larger than indoor saunas. One of the reasons is that outdoor saunas are a great choice for saunas of several people, so such a sauna can become a place for regular gatherings with friends or family. Another reason why an outdoor sauna is larger is the additional material used to protect the interior from the weather, and this then adds to the width of most structural components.
Indoor saunas do not have such materials "extra", this would unnecessarily increase their price. Internal infrared saunas often have incorporated materials or are made of wood that are not resistant to external weather conditions.
To sum it up - the main differences between an indoor and an outdoor sauna are the size, cost, materials used and the weight of the sauna.
Waterproofing of the outdoor infrared sauna
Like it or not, if you are planning an outdoor infrared sauna, it must be well waterproofed. Therefore, the best solution is to always buy an external sauna directly, which meets the conditions of waterproofing, and you don't have to worry about it so much. Another way is to place the sauna in areas where it will be protected from rain and moisture. Whether a pergola is such a place, for example, is questionable, it all depends on its cover and side wind and rain.
In no case do we recommend using various chemical and toxic preparations to ensure the waterproofing of the sauna, which can evaporate when the sauna is heated. And that is undoubtedly counterproductive to what the sauna is supposed to be for - a healthy lifestyle.
An indoor sauna can be placed, for example, in a shed/workhouse, as long as it is well insulated from water, moisture, strong sun, etc. The floor must be level and have no drainage points underneath. It is also necessary to keep moisture from other surfaces out of your indoor sauna.
What is the best place to place a sauna?
Whether you place the sauna outside or inside depends solely on you. According to what you prefer and what you like.
The external environment in the garden offers more space, is more aesthetic and can be the focal point of your outdoor space during the day and especially at night. When considering an outdoor sauna location, think about themes of nature, flow, spirituality and openness.
Placing a sauna indoors brings another range of fantastic possibilities. Modern home wellness spaces are a hit and are becoming more and more a standard of modern life. Internal infrared saunas or other types of saunas combined with a cooling pool, tub or bucket and home fitness equipment are the perfect way for physically active people/athletes.
Lovers of romance, reading books or meditation can create a relaxing oasis made for relaxation, full of aromatic scents and floor cushions. Or you have a large bathroom at your disposal, where you can fit both a bathtub and a sauna, and you are guaranteed a luxurious experience.
