People have been enjoying saunas and steam baths for thousands of years. Primitive saunas existed in pits in the ground and caves as early as the Stone Age. Contrary to popular belief, the Finns did not invent the sauna, but they played an essential role in its spread, including in Germany. Finnish athletes brought the trend to Germany for the 1936 Olympic Games, revolutionizing the German sauna scene.
The healing effects of the sauna
Regular sauna visits offer many health benefits. The immune-boosting effects are especially valued in cold regions and during winter. The alternation of heat and subsequent cooling is thought to protect the body from colds.
A visit is also beneficial for the skin and hair, as heavy sweating is believed to detoxify and cleanse the body, while the high temperatures stimulate circulation. After a sauna, you look rosy and refreshed.
Your hair will shine beautifully if you visit the sauna with a hair treatment in it, as the heat helps the nutrients absorb more effectively.
An indoor sauna at home
Many people dream of having a sauna in their own home so they can regularly enjoy its health benefits and relaxing effects. Before construction can begin, a few questions need to be answered.
Indoor saunas come in a wide range of sizes and designs, depending on the space available. They are usually around 2 meters tall. Designs range from modern and elegant to simple or traditional.
Even challenging spaces with sloped ceilings, windows, or awkward support columns are no longer obstacles to making your dream of a sauna at home come true.
Good to know: Installing an indoor sauna is generally straightforward; all that is needed is to install the required electrical connections.
Sauna bathing in a traditional outdoor sauna
An outdoor sauna is not only an eye-catching addition to your garden, but also makes you feel much closer to nature. What could be more relaxing than stepping out into the fresh air after sweating and taking a deep breath, or cooling off in the snow in winter?
Good to know: However, an outdoor sauna often needs a solid foundation because of its size and shape, and should be made from weather-resistant materials. Electrical connections must also be protected from snow and rain. To prevent weather damage, you should also choose weatherproof exterior cladding and a suitable roof design.
In short, an outdoor sauna costs more to build than an indoor sauna.
Other decisions: Which type? Which heater?
Not all saunas are the same. You can choose between a solid wood sauna and a modular sauna, as well as between a wood-burning stove and an electric heater. When choosing an indoor or outdoor sauna, you should consider several factors.
Solid wood sauna or modular sauna?
The traditional solid wood sauna, especially widespread in Scandinavia, is made of solid timber boards or panels joined together using tongue-and-groove systems or screw and plug connections. The material is typically Nordic spruce, whose slow growth makes it ideal for sauna construction.
The solid wood sauna is a traditional option that is ideal for outdoor use. Its natural materials make it highly sustainable. Steam and moisture are regulated naturally, without the risk of mold. It also stands out for its warm, natural look.
The modular sauna is the modern counterpart to the solid wood sauna. The main difference between the two models is that a modular sauna has insulating mineral wool and an aluminum foil vapor barrier on the inside, while insulation in a solid wood sauna is provided solely by its thick wooden walls.
Wood-burning stove or electric heater?
The wood-burning stove is the traditional option, creating a cozy atmosphere with natural, authentic warmth.
It does not require electricity, but heats the sauna with firewood. This is cost-effective and lets you control the heat precisely.
Good to know: Installing a wood-burning stove is complicated, and you will also need a dry place to store the firewood. It is also advisable to contact your local district chimney sweep in good time, as they must ultimately approve the fireplace.
The electric heater is the modern counterpart to the wood-burning stove. It is easy to install and makes it simple to regulate the heat. You also do not need to remove any ash or wood residue.
Conclusion: The difficult choice
Choosing between an indoor and outdoor sauna is certainly not easy, but a few key points can help make the decision easier. Consider how much space, time, and money you want to invest in your sauna and what you hope to get out of it.
Ask yourself which benefits matter most to you.
An indoor sauna is the space-saving, cost-effective option. It requires less effort and can be tailored to your preferences depending on the heater and materials. It is convenient to use. Both modular and solid wood saunas are suitable for indoor use.
An outdoor sauna stands out with its traditional look and makes a real eye-catcher in the garden. It is especially well suited to colder regions and winter, when you can combine a sauna session with a dip in the snow.
The only drawback is the extra cost you will need to factor in when building an outdoor sauna.
Whichever you choose, you are unlikely to regret buying a sauna and will be able to enjoy its benefits for many years to come.