Once the location is set, you have to decide what kind of sauna heater you’re going to use.

Depending on where your sauna will be located, you may not have much of a choice.

Choosing A Heater

You'll need to have access to electricity if you want to use an electric sauna heater, which is the most popular choice.

If you're going to build a sauna in the country, a wood sauna heater would not only be a good choice, it may be your only option.

You can also purchase a gas sauna heater, but they are more expensive.

Professional installation will be required and the sauna will need to be ventilated. Gas heaters also require more clearance than an electric heater.

Before you make any final decisions, you better know what the local building codes are. For example, there may be an ordinance for your community that restricts the use of wood burning stoves.

Construction

If you plan on converting an existing room into a home made sauna, you’ll have to take protective measures against the moisture that’ll come from the sauna. The room will have to be properly insulated and have a vapor barrier to guard against moisture damage.

You’ll have to find-and-buy or special order the wood you’re going to use, then you’ll have to carefully measure and cut it.

Unless you purchase tongue-and-groove lumber, you'll have to make tongue-and-groove joints in the sides of the wood for strength and tight seals, and it takes a special tool for that.

Of course you'll also need a sauna door. Manufacturers sell them in many shapes, sizes and styles.

You can also buy a sauna bench or you can build your own.

As you can see, building your own sauna is no small task, but it is doable!

More info on how to build a sauna: