How to Plan For a Sauna At Home

Imagine stepping into the warmth of a sauna without ever leaving the comfort of your home. More than just a luxury, having a personal sauna can elevate your wellness routine, helping to reduce stress, improve circulation, and create a peaceful escape from everyday life. Whether you dream of a traditional wood-burning sauna or a sleek, modern infrared option, careful planning is key to bringing your vision to life. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to consider—from choosing the correct dimensions of a sauna to finding the perfect location in your home. Let’s get started!

At-Home Sauna Plans: 3 Common Questions

Before drawing up plans for your at-home sauna, you may have the following questions:

1. How Big is a Sauna?

Saunas can range from 3×3 feet to 8×10 feet, depending on how many people use it. The general height of a sauna is 6.5–7 feet. For your at-home sauna, consider how many people will be using it to determine how big it will be:

• 1-person saunas are 3 ft by 3 ft
• 2-person saunas are 4 ft by 4ft
• 3-people saunas are 4 ft by 6 ft
• 4-people saunas are 5 ft by 6 ft
• 5-people saunas are 6 ft by 6 ft

A 5 ft by 6 ft sauna is the common choice, enough for 4 people to sit and move around comfortably. However, yours may be bigger or smaller depending on how many people will be inside at one time. Traditional saunas are usually larger than infrared rooms that require inhabitants to sit close to the emitters. If you plan on lying down in the heated room, you’ll need at least 6 feet in one direction to relax effectively. 

2. Where Should You Put a Sauna in Your House?

There are a few options for where to put a sauna in your house, each with its own benefits:

• Garage: Garages efficiently ventilate, meaning you won’t have to worry about ruining the flooring with moisture or heat permitted from the sauna. Additionally, garages tend to offer privacy, lots of space, and a cool atmosphere to step into after being in the heated room. 
• Basement: Away from the rest of the home, basements are a great place to install a private sauna. Basements are quiet and private and have extra space waiting to be used. Why not put that space to good use with a sauna in the corner for your daily use? Check the flooring for solid support and ensure moisture won’t be a problem. 
• Bathroom: Consider installing a sauna in the corner for a daytime sweat session if you have a large bathroom. Bathrooms are already places marked by relaxation and refreshment, so saunas can be great additions to these spaces, enhancing your experience. 
• Wellness Room: A dedicated wellness space in your home is a perfect form of self-care, and adding a sauna to that room benefits you even more. Whether a quiet den with essential oils diffusers and yoga mats or a workout room with weights and a cold plunge, placing a sauna in a wellness room can lead to greater relaxation and help you prepare for the day ahead. 
• Backyard: Turn your backyard into an oasis with an outdoor sauna. Host friends and have a sauna party, or enjoy it yourself while being in the great outdoors. A sauna is the perfect addition to your backyard, amongst the beauty and tranquility of nature. 
• Attic: Many people don’t even think of their attics, but what if it could be your weekly escape with a personalized sauna? Get away from the noise in your home and benefit from the privacy of a sauna in the attic. Attics are usually warm, so you won’t have to worry about cold floors or air after your refreshing session.

Deciding where to put your sauna depends on what you want from the sessions and how you’d like to curate your experience. Do you want to be able to step into the sauna after a BBQ with friends? Consider putting one in your backyard. Are you desiring a private space away from the noise and distractions in your home? Consider a sauna in the attic or tucked away in the basement of your home. Whatever you choose, ensure it aligns with your goals and budget.

3. How Big of a Sauna Heater Do You Need?

Generally, sauna heaters require approximately 1 kW of power for every 50 cubic feet of space. For example, if your sauna room is 500 cubic feet, you’ll need a 10 kW heater. Two other factors affect the size of the heater your sauna needs: 

1. Type of Sauna: Infrared saunas require a different size heater than traditional wood-burning saunas. A smaller heater is often enough for infrared-heated rooms since they require less energy to heat. When deciding on the size of heater your sauna needs, consider what type you have and do adequate research to find your answer. 
2. Desired Temperature: Do you like extra hot saunas or one at a comfortable, warm temperature? If you want a sauna that reaches 190℉, you’ll need a higher-powered and bigger heater than if you want a temperature of 140℉.

When determining how big of a heater you need for your sauna, the best thing to do is consult a professional. Sauna experts, like Tubzz in Northern Utah, can help you determine the correct heater size, choose the best type of sauna for your needs, and assist with installation. 

How to Plan For a Sauna At Home in 4 Easy Steps

Here’s how to plan for an at-home sauna with ease:

1. Pick Your Location

Picking the location for your sauna is the first step that determines how the rest of the planning will go. As mentioned above, you can install your at-home sauna in countless places. What kind of health goals do you have, and what space do you crave for your heated room? If you’re using a sauna for wellness benefits, perhaps putting it in a wellness room with weights and a cold plunge could be the best option. On the other hand, if you host people often and want to experience a sauna with others, consider putting it outdoors for visitors to enjoy with you. For those seeking retreat and solitude, installing your sauna in the basement or attic can be the ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pick your location before anything else to ensure your sauna fits its space’s design, dimensions, and vibe. 

2. Choose a Heat Source

Once you’ve decided where your sauna will be, it’s time to choose how it will be heated. There are 4 options to choose from: 

1. Wood Burning: A wood-burning sauna heater uses a traditional stove to heat rocks, offering an authentic sauna experience with soft, radiant heat and natural steam when water is poured over the stones. This option is perfect for those who’d like an outdoor sauna with a traditional feel. It’s also ideal for anyone who enjoys the ambiance of a crackling fire and the natural scent of burning wood.
2. Infrared: Infrared saunas heat the body directly using infrared light rather than heating the air around you. They operate at lower temperatures but still provide deep, penetrating heat. This type of sauna is best for people focused on health benefits such as detoxification, muscle recovery, and relaxation. Infrared saunas are an excellent choice for indoor spaces with limited ventilation or electrical capacity and for those who prefer a gentler heat than traditional saunas.
3. Electric: Electric heaters are one of the most popular options for saunas. They use an electric heating element to warm rocks and the air inside the sauna, offering the traditional sauna experience with modern convenience. Electric saunas are ideal for indoor and outdoor residential or commercial settings. They’re perfect for precise temperature control and a low-maintenance, reliable heating option.
4. Gas: Gas-powered saunas use natural gas or propane to heat the space quickly and efficiently. While less common, they are often more economical for larger saunas or commercial use. This type of sauna heater is best for people with large spaces or access to affordable gas. It’s also a good choice for those who want faster heating times and lower long-term operating costs than electric heaters.

Choosing the type of sauna heater is an essential decision in the planning process. Take your time considering your sauna session goals and how much your budget affords. Every type of sauna provides immense benefits for your mind and body, so you can’t go wrong with any of them.

3. Customize Your Sauna’s Design & Dimensions

Now that you’ve chosen your sauna’s location and heating method, it’s time to design it. Customizing the design and dimensions ensures your sauna is functional, stylish, and fits your needs:

1. Determine Size and Capacity: Consider how many people will use the space to decide how big your sauna will need to be. A compact, portable sauna is ideal for solo use, but larger spaces work better for groups. Allow at least 2 feet of bench space per person and aim for a ceiling height of around 7 feet for proper heat circulation.
2. Choose the Layout and Materials: Plan a layout with enough seating and safe access. Popular choices include L-shaped or U-shaped benches. For materials, opt for softwoods like cedar, spruce, or hemlock, which handle heat and moisture well. Cedar is especially prized for its durability and natural scent.
3. Personalize the Design: Decide on the overall aesthetic—rustic and cozy or sleek and modern. Add special features like adjustable lighting, sound systems, or glass doors to enhance the experience. Don’t forget proper ventilation to keep the air fresh and protect the wood.

Professional sauna providers will help you with the design and dimensions of your sauna, so ensure you choose the right partner to get the job done. With thoughtful design choices, you can create a sauna that reflects your style and provides a relaxing escape right at home.

4. Hire the Right Team to Install the Sauna

A well-installed sauna is essential for safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. While some experienced DIYers may attempt the project themselves, most homeowners will benefit from hiring professionals. Start by looking for contractors or sauna specialists with experience in sauna installation. Check their portfolio, read customer reviews, and ensure they know your chosen sauna type and heating system.

It’s also important to ensure your contractor is licensed, insured, and knowledgeable about local building codes. This protects you and ensures the installation meets safety standards. Request a detailed quote outlining labor, materials, and potential additional costs to avoid surprises and stay within budget. Since sauna installation involves electrical wiring, ventilation, and moisture protection, hire an expert team to guarantee everything is done safely and efficiently. 

Tubzz is Utah’s sauna expert, offering state-of-the-art saunas customizable to your design preferences. From the initial sauna plans to installation, our team covers the entire process. Take the stress out of getting an at-home sauna with the expertise of Tubzz in Northern Utah. Contact us to schedule a viewing at our showroom, pick out your sauna, and have our team install it for you.

5. Relax & Enjoy

Don’t wait any longer—after your sauna is installed, enjoy it! Have your own at-home spa experience, diffuse essential oils, pair your sweat session with a cold plunge, and reap the rewards of having your very own sauna. 

Making Planning for an At-Home Sauna Easy With Tubzz

Are your sauna plans starting to overwhelm you? Don’t worry—Tubzz is here to simplify sauna design, development, and installation. We are Utah’s #1 sauna provider; from infrared heated rooms to outdoor spaces, our saunas are top-quality. At Tubzz, we offer customizable options, ensuring your preferences are met every step of the way. Our comprehensive selection includes differing types of wood, heaters, dimensions, and more for you to choose from. Whether installing your sauna in an at-home wellness room or the basement, our team can do the job for you. Schedule a time to visit our showroom and find your dream at-home sauna with our expertise.