Backyard vs. Indoor Saunas: Which One’s Right for You?
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So you’ve decided to bring the spa to your home. That’s a great choice! We think adding a sauna into your at home routine is the best thing for your health. It reduces stress, improves circulation and also feels great after a long day.
Where does it go?
Between a backyard or an indoor sauna that is a big call. What each has to offer is amazing but what works best varies by your lifestyle and space you have. We are going to go through it all to help you find your perfect fit.
The Charm of the Backyard Sauna
There’s a magic to that which happens when you step out for a sauna. Backyard saunas, what we also know as outdoor saunas, are very much in trend at the moment. Here is what people love about them.
The Relationship with Nature.
A home sauna which is set up in the back yard provides a break from daily life which a room in the house can’t. Picture yourself in the warmth as the snow falls or the sun sets beyond the window. It brings your health routine to the great outdoors. If you like the crisp air and the sound of birds that’s what you will get with a backyard sauna.
No space issues:
In your home you are bound by the height of your ceilings and width of your hallways. Outdoors the sky is the limit. We have larger cabin options as well as barrel saunas. These are great for throwing “sauna parties” with friends and family.
Aesthetic value:
In the back yard you will find a beautiful cedar sauna which is a piece of art. Also it can add to the value of your home and may even increase it. Many home owners use them as a focus for their outdoor living which is by the pool or fire pit.
Things to Consider for Outdoor Units
While at home saunas which are beautiful, they do require some work. You will want to create a solid flat base like a concrete pad or a wooden deck. Also bear in which weather condition you live in. In very cold climates your sauna may not get up to temperature as quickly.
Also you will see that we have the task of running in the electrical or gas to your back yard. This adds to the initial price. But for many the experience of privacy which it brings at home is well worth it. For the in-depth tech info on outdoor home saunas which will help you choose your site, see the various Home Sauna resources.
The Convenience of the Indoor Sauna
If you like convenience and ease of use then an indoor sauna may be what you are looking for. These units are to fit into your present home setting.
Ultimate ease of use:
Indoor saunas are the hands down choice in terms of convenience. You don’t have to brave the elements to get to your session which is a plus. Also because they are so easy to access, most people report that they use indoor saunas more often than outdoor ones.
Speed up heat transfer and efficiency:
Indoor saunas are sheltered from the elements. Also they are in a controlled temperature environment which they heat up very quickly. Also they are very energy efficient as they don’t have to counteract the cold of the outdoors.
Lower care:
In your indoor sauna you don’t have to worry about leaves, dirt, or insects they can’t get in. Also the exterior wood is protected from sun and rain which in turn will keep your sauna looking brand new for a very long time with almost no effort.
Where Does an Indoor Sauna Fit?
Many present day homes feature infrared technology in their indoor saunas. What we see is that they produce little to no steam which in turn makes them very safe for use in spare bedrooms, basements and even large master bathrooms. Companies like Sun Home Saunas also do very well at presenting a modern look which is very much at home in a home gym or a dedicated wellness room.
Comparing the Costs
Budget is a key issue. Also it has been noted that in most cases installing an indoor sauna is a more affordable option out there. This is due to the fact that you are reusing the existing floor and roof structure also in many cases the electrical is taken care of.
Outdoor saunas do break the bank. You are creating a small weather resistant structure. Also you have to factor in the cost of the foundation, the roof, and the long distance wiring. But the atmosphere which an outdoor sauna brings to you is hard to put a price on.
Feature
Indoor Sauna
Backyard Sauna
Ease of Access
Very High
Moderate
Installation Cost
Lower
Higher
View/Vibe
Homey/Private
Nature-focused
Maintenance
Minimal
Moderate
Social Space
Limited
High
Which One Is Right for You?
Still unsure? Consider this:.
What can I fit into my space? If you live in a condo or have a small yard go indoors. If you have a large garden, go outdoors.
What’s my climate? If you live somewhere that has very cold winters and you don’t care for it, you may regret going out of your home to get to the sauna.
What are you after? For a quick daily health pick me up indoors is best. If what you are looking for is a “get away” experience to share with friends, head to the backyard.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s an in-home sauna or a private cabin in the back yard, you are doing what is best for your health. Saunas improve your sleep, they aid in recovery from work out, and also give you a break from the digital world and real life.
Take your time to look at your space, see what your budget is, and imagine which one you will relax in the most. No matter which you choose, the heat will be great!
