If you’re someone who values health and wellness, building a sauna in your home may be one of the best decisions you can make. Home saunas are excellent tools for self-care and can also add value to your property. With benefits such as relaxation, detoxification, and improved circulation, investing in a DIY sauna is well worth it.
However, specific DIY sauna safety precautions should be considered before starting your build. This is especially important if you’re new to DIY projects or haven’t worked with these materials and tools before.
This article will cover everything you need to know about DIY sauna safety, helping you build your sauna confidently and without worry.
Why DIY Sauna Safety is Critical for Home Sauna Builders
When anyone considers building a sauna for the first time, safety is usually at the forefront of their mind. The short answer is yes – with proper preparation and caution, DIY home saunas are very safe!
It is important to be mindful of the potential risks that could arise if precautions are not taken.
Saunas have various features that can be dangerous if installed incorrectly, such as electrical wiring and heat sources. Understanding DIY sauna safety (and the mistakes to avoid) will help you build a safe and enjoyable sauna.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid in DIY Sauna Building
Starting a DIY sauna project can be exciting, but there’s a good chance you might make a few mistakes along the way. While some errors in DIY projects are no big deal, certain mistakes when building a home sauna can present significant safety hazards. You’re working with high temperatures and potential fire risks, so extra care is essential.
Let’s explore some of the most common mistakes to avoid when constructing your DIY sauna:
1. Not Having Adequate Ventilation
Ventilation is not technically required for electric-heated or indoor or outdoor infrared saunas, but it is a good precaution to take. Poor ventilation can cause temperatures to increase dramatically, which can cause dizziness or other health issues. If you have a traditional sauna, you must have proper ventilation to prevent a build-up of carbon monoxide.
2. Improper Placement
Choosing the wrong location for your indoor sauna or outdoor sauna can lead to both safety and practical issues. Always ensure that your sauna’s placement is suitable for its type, and make sure there’s enough room for a door that swings outwards, along with access to power outlets where needed.
3. Not Using the Right Materials
Using the correct, heat-resistant materials is crucial when building a DIY sauna. Avoid materials like plastic or other flammable items that can pose serious fire risks. Only use materials designed to withstand the high temperatures of a home sauna.
4. Not Following Building Regulations and Permits
Before building your DIY sauna, ensure that you comply with local building regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Failure to do so could lead to hefty fines or the need to dismantle the sauna later. Make sure to allow enough time for the permit process, as it can sometimes take weeks or months.
5. Overlooking Sauna Vapour Barrier Installation
Proper insulation keeps the heat in your sauna, while a sauna vapour barrier prevents moisture from seeping into your home. Without a vapour barrier, you risk moisture infiltration, which can lead to mould growth. This step is critical for ensuring your sauna is safe and long-lasting.
Essential DIY Sauna Safety Precautions to Consider
Crafting a DIY sauna is more than just building a structure and choosing the best heat source.
Safety should always be your priority when building and operating a sauna. Whether you’re using a prefabricated sauna kit or creating your own from scratch – it’s essential to consider what precautions you should take.
Choose the Right Size Space
When building a DIY sauna, the space should ideally be 7 feet high to ensure proper heat distribution. Since heat rises, having a higher ceiling than this will result in the hottest air gathering at the top, making your home sauna less efficient in terms of heat retention and energy consumption.
Choosing the right size also ensures proper air circulation. If the space is too small, it can become stuffy, which could lead to discomfort or even safety hazards. A traditional sauna designed for up to four people typically measures around 6×8 feet. The size of your DIY sauna will depend on how many people will use it and the available space in your home.
Proper Sauna Ventilation to Prevent Overheating
Ventilation is essential for any indoor sauna to ensure proper air movement, maintain safety, and keep your sauna hygienic. After each use, the ability to air out your sauna prevents moisture build-up and helps maintain a fresh environment.
You can choose between natural and mechanical ventilation methods. Natural ventilation involves installing a vent or chimney, while mechanical systems use exhaust fans. The type of ventilation required depends on the type of heat source in your DIY sauna.
Infrared and Electric Heated Saunas
For electric-heated saunas and infrared saunas, place an intake vent as close as possible to the heater and an extraction vent on the opposite wall, about 6 inches below the ceiling. The intake pulls fresh air in, while the extraction vent releases hot, stale air.
The only downside to this system is that it may slow down the heating process on particularly cold days, especially in outdoor saunas. To resolve this, you can keep the extraction vent closed while the sauna heats up, then open it when needed to prevent stuffiness.
Wood-Burning Saunas
Wood-burning stoves should only be used in outdoor saunas due to the higher fire risk and the need to vent smoke outside. These saunas require a lot of air as the fire consumes oxygen from the room. Proper ventilation is vital for safety, as the room’s oxygen levels must be replenished while smoke and fumes are vented outdoors.
Chimneys or air pipes placed near the stove help circulate fresh air and prevent the room from becoming unsafe. Many traditional Finnish saunas also have a 4-inch gap under the door to allow airflow, keeping the environment comfortable and safe for users.
Use a Control Unit or Thermostat in Your DIY Sauna
According to the UL Safety Standard (UL 875), all home saunas in the USA should not exceed 195°F (90°C). If you’ve purchased a UL-certified heater, it’s already programmed not to surpass this temperature. However, installing a control unit in your DIY sauna provides an extra layer of safety.
A control unit functions like a thermostat, allowing you to set and monitor the temperature. It can also be used to turn the sauna off when you’re done or in an emergency. Some units feature a built-in safety switch, which automatically shuts off the heat source if needed.
If you’re using a wood-burning sauna, you won’t be able to control it with a standard control unit. In this case, installing a thermostat is the best way to maintain user safety.
Ensure the Foundations are Level
For the safety and durability of your DIY sauna, ensuring the floor is level is crucial. Unless you’re installing a drainage system, which requires professional expertise, the sauna’s foundation must be flat to avoid any tripping hazards or structural issues.
To verify, use a spirit level across the floor. If you’re building an outdoor sauna, it’s a good idea to lay a concrete foundation or use pavers to create a stable and level platform.
Hire Professionals When Needed
Knowing when to get help is key to ensuring safety in your DIY sauna. Most sauna heaters require 220v power, which typically involves hardwiring and may need a dedicated breaker in your home’s electric panel.
All electrical work, rewiring, or drain installation should be handled by a professional. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to consult an expert to make sure everything is installed safely and correctly.
Read Prefab Reviews for DIY Saunas
If you’re considering building a DIY sauna, prefabricated kits can be a safety godsend. These home sauna kits come ready-to-go and can save you the hassle of sourcing individual materials. Before purchasing, be sure to read customer reviews to ensure that the sauna kit you choose is of high quality and includes clear, reliable instructions for safe assembly.
Install Waterproof Flooring in Your DIY Sauna
Whether you’re building an indoor sauna or an outdoor sauna, waterproof flooring is essential for durability and safety. As temperatures rise and water is poured over hot rocks, condensation will build up. This could potentially damage your floors. Opt for materials like ceramic tiles, natural stone, or cement flooring, which are all slip-resistant and easy to clean.
Avoid using carpet at all costs. Carpet is highly flammable and susceptible to mould growth in the humid environment of a sauna. Choosing waterproof and slip-resistant flooring is critical for maintaining a safe home sauna
Use the Correct Wood for Your Sauna
Choosing the right wood is key when constructing your DIY sauna. Softwoods like pine, spruce, and cedar are ideal as they can withstand high temperatures without warping or splitting. On the other hand, hardwoods like oak and teak may warp and develop unpleasant odors or mold over time.
Pressure-treated wood should also be avoided, as the chemicals used in the treatment process can become toxic when exposed to heat.
Fit the Door Correctly
The sauna door is often overlooked by DIY enthusiasts, but it’s a critical safety consideration for any DIY sauna. Always install the door to open outwards, not into the sauna. In case of an emergency, outward-opening doors allow for a quicker exit.
Additionally, never install a lock on your home sauna door. Locks can fail under extreme heat, leading to potentially dangerous situations. A well-fitted, outward-swinging door is essential for ensuring user safety in your indoor sauna or outdoor sauna.
Work With Quality Tools and Materials
When constructing your DIY sauna, prioritise quality tools and materials. Although it might be tempting to cut costs with cheaper products, this can compromise safety. Poorly fitted features like door hinges or bench supports could give way over time, leading to accidents.
By using high-quality tools and materials, your home sauna will not only be safer but will likely last longer, providing a greater return on your investment.
Properly Insulate and Install a Vapour Barrier
Before fitting the interior panels of your DIY sauna, insulating the walls and ceiling is crucial. Insulation helps retain heat while also minimising noise. Fiberglass wool is a top choice for DIYers—it’s cost-effective and simple to install.
In addition to insulation, you should install a vapour barrier to protect your home from moisture. Pouring water on the hot stones in your sauna generates steam, which, without a proper vapour seal, can escape and cause water damage or mould growth in your home. A foil vapour barrier will keep moisture where it belongs: inside the sauna.
Always Use Stones on Your Stove
Whether you have an electric heater or a wood-burning stove, it’s essential to use sauna stones. These stones help evenly distribute heat and protect the stove from water damage when water is poured over them.
Ensure your stones are clean before using them for the first time, and replace them if they become damaged. Proper care of your sauna stones and heater will ensure the long-lasting functionality of your home sauna.
Never Use Extension Cords
For your home sauna, your electric stove or infrared heat source should have a dedicated outlet. Avoid the temptation to plug the device into an extension cord, as this can lead to power surges and sparks, creating a fire hazard.
Additionally, never use a power bar to plug in your sauna heater. Power bars are not built to handle the high wattage requirements of sauna stoves. Doing so can pose serious safety risks.
Secure Your Heat Source
Whether you have a wood-burning sauna or an electric heater, securing your heat source is critical for safety. Wall-mounted heaters are typically more secure by design, but if you’re using a freestanding stove, it’s important to anchor it firmly in place. This prevents any accidents, such as the heater tipping over or moving while in use.
If you’ve opted for a portable stove, always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for safe usage.
Consider a Stove Guard
For families with children or pets, a stove guard is a worthwhile investment. A stove guard acts as a protective barrier around the heater, reducing the risk of burns or accidents. This is especially important because sauna heaters can remain hot long after they’ve been turned off.
Though optional, a stove guard adds an extra layer of protection for your DIY sauna, making it safer for everyone.
Always Abide by Local Regulations
When building a DIY sauna, it’s crucial to follow local rules and regulations. Permits are often required for installing electricity, plumbing, or gas-related components in your home, especially for a home sauna. Building codes typically govern aspects like insulation and electrical wiring, ensuring the safety and integrity of your structure.
If you’re installing a wood-burning stove, verify that you have the correct permits for wood-burning appliances. Ignoring safety regulations isn’t just dangerous—it’s illegal. Always check with your local authorities before starting your DIY sauna project to avoid complications.
DIY Sauna Safety Checklist for a Secure Build
It isn’t just the building process that requires safety precautions – using your new sauna does too.
To ensure you reap the health and wellness benefits of your sauna without any risks, we’ve complied a concise checklist to ensure your sauna is built safely and effectively.
- Check that the temperature does not exceed 195°F / 90°C: Anything more can cause health risks.
- Slowly increase your tolerance: Start by using the sauna for just 5 minutes, and build up your tolerance over the following weeks.
- Keep hydrated: Saunas cause you to sweat, which can be dehydrating. Drink water before you get in the sauna and again after to replenish lost fluids.
- Avoid using alcohol: Never drink alcohol before and while using a sauna; it can impact your ability to regulate heat.
- Limit your time to 15-20 minutes: No one should stay in a sauna for longer than 20 minutes.
- Monitor how you feel: Listen to your body and take a break if you feel dizzy or unwell.
- Take a buddy: Using a sauna with someone else is always safer. That way, if something happens, help is at hand.
- Take off your jewellery: You don’t want your metal jewellery to heat up and cause you discomfort in the sauna!
- Wear appropriate clothing: A swimsuit or simply a towel is all you need to wear when in a sauna.
Sauna Maintenance and Safety Precautions
Are DIY saunas fire hazards?
When built and maintained correctly, DIY saunas are generally safe to use. However, you should always check for potential issues such as wear and tear on the heater or other components before each use. One essential precaution is to never use a wood-burning stove in an indoor sauna, as it poses a greater fire risk due to smoke and ventilation concerns.
Do saunas affect the temperature of your home?
Indoor saunas must be properly insulated and vapour-sealed to prevent steam from entering your home. This helps to regulate your home’s temperature – meaning you don’t have to worry about the sauna affecting it!
Can saunas flood?
A sauna poses no risk of flooding since the only water used is the small amount poured on hot stones to generate steam. This controlled amount is minimal and never enough to cause flooding in any DIY sauna.
Can I use an extension cord with my sauna stove?
No, you should never use an extension cord with a sauna stove. This is a serious fire hazard! Extension cords are not designed to handle the high wattage required by sauna heaters. Your infrared heater or electric stove must always have a dedicated outlet to ensure safety.
Are there any age limits when using a DIY sauna?
Children over the age of 6 can safely use a sauna under supervision. It’s essential to allow them to build their tolerance to heat gradually. Children should not stay in the sauna for more than 15 minutes at a time, and they should hydrate before and after. Never leave a child unattended in a sauna to avoid any safety issues.
What should I do if the temperature of my DIY sauna exceeds 195°F(90°C)?
It’s crucial not to let your sauna exceed 195°F (90°C), which is the maximum temperature recommended for safety. Choosing a UL-certified heater ensures that your sauna will not surpass this limit. To monitor the temperature, install a control unit or thermometer. If the temperature does exceed the limit, immediately turn off the heater and allow the sauna to cool down before using it again.
Final Thoughts on DIY Sauna Safety
DIY saunas offer a serene and relaxing space, allowing you to unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Keeping your sauna safe is straightforward if you follow the appropriate DIY sauna safety measures. By taking the right precautions and understanding how to properly use your sauna, you can enjoy all its incredible benefits with peace of mind.
