Designing Your Own Retrofit Sauna: A Step-by-Step Guide

Designing your own retrofit sauna is an excellent way to create a custom spa experience in your home. It’s also a great DIY project that allows for customization to fit your unique space and preferences. With the right tools and a bit of planning, designing your own retrofit sauna can be a straightforward and rewarding endeavor. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk through the process of creating your own custom sauna.

Step 1: Choose Your Space

The first step in designing your own sauna is to select the space where you want to install it. Saunas can be installed in almost any room of your home, but the ideal location will have good ventilation and a waterproof floor. Basements and spare bedrooms can be good options, but you’ll want to ensure that the room is large enough to accommodate your sauna and has easy access to electricity.

Step 2: Determine Your Size

Once you’ve chosen your space, you’ll need to determine the size of your sauna. This will depend on the number of people you want to accommodate and the available space. A standard home sauna can range in size from 4×4 feet to 8×12 feet. Keep in mind that larger saunas will require more heat to maintain the desired temperature.

Step 3: Select Your Type

There are two primary types of saunas to choose from: traditional and infrared. Traditional saunas use a stove or heater to heat the room, while infrared saunas use infrared heating panels. Both are excellent options as a traditional sauna provides that steamy experience saunas are known for, while an infrared sauna uses light to generate the heat and may be more comfortable for those less heat-tolerant. 

Step 4: Choose Your Sauna 

Once you’ve determined the size and type of sauna you want, it’s time to choose your sauna’s basic design. Finnleo® saunas are customizable, making it easy to design your own retrofit sauna. Simply choose your model and features, and select your sauna accessories. 

Step 5: Install Your Sauna

With your materials in hand, it’s time to begin the installation process. This will involve constructing the sauna walls, installing the benches, and adding the heater or infrared panels. You’ll also need to add a door and ventilation to ensure that your sauna is safe and comfortable to use.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Details

With the major components of your sauna installed, it’s time to add the finishing touches. This may include adding lighting, sound, and other amenities to make your sauna more enjoyable. You may also want to add a shower or change area nearby to make it easier to transition in and out of the sauna.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Sauna

Once your sauna is complete, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your new home spa. Make sure to follow safety guidelines, such as not staying in the sauna for too long or drinking plenty of water before and after your session. With your own custom sauna, you’ll have a spa-like retreat right in the comfort of your own home.

Designing and building your own retrofit sauna is an excellent way to create a custom home spa experience. At Maximum Comfort, you’ll discover a world of options when it comes to designing your own retrofit sauna. Contact us today to learn more about our Finnleo options!