When the kit arrives, the fun begins. Here's what to expect.
A barrel sauna kit may be exactly what you need to add a touch of luxury to your garden or outdoor space. A barrel sauna is a cylindrical-shaped, standalone sauna that is ideal for relaxation and therapeutic effects. Typically, these kits include the pre-cut wooden staves, hardware, windows, lights, roof, and instructions required to assemble the sauna. When you acquire an outdoor barrel sauna kit, it is normally delivered to your door in a box including all the essential components for assembly. Depending on the kit and the source, it may arrive in numerous boxes, and shipment might take anything from a few days to several weeks. That being said, once it arrives, the fun of constructing your own sauna begins!
Only basic skills and equipment required.
To install a barrel sauna kit, you will need basic carpentry skills and equipment, such as a saw, drill, level, and hammer. Additionally, you will need assistance, as some of the components are extremely heavy. The amount of time necessary to finish the installation depends depend on the size and complexity of the kit, as well as your level of expertise and skill. Some kits can be assembled in one or two days, but others may take longer, especially if you need to prepare the site or make adjustments to match your specific location. Overall, building a barrel sauna kit can be a fun and rewarding do-it-yourself project for many people, even if they don't think they have the skills needed.
Map out where your barrel sauna will go ahead of time.
Before you can install your new barrel sauna on your property, you must prepare a suitable location. Preparation is essential to ensuring that your sauna is sturdy, safe, and durable for many years. Consider the following factors when preparing your location for the building of a barrel sauna:
Choose a level place on your property that is free of obstructions and has adequate drainage. It's also a good idea to situate your sauna in an area that offers some solitude and seclusion.
Depending on your preferences and the type of soil you have, there are a range of base possibilities from which to choose. Concrete slabs, gravel or crushed stone bases, and hardwood decks are frequent possibilities. Each alternative has its own benefits and drawbacks.
Concrete slabs
Benefit: A concrete slab gives your barrel sauna a stable and level base. It is a durable choice that will keep your sauna secure and steady for many years. In addition, cleaning and maintaining concrete is simple, making it a low-maintenance material.
Drawback: Installing a concrete slab takes a substantial investment of time, energy, and money. In addition, particular equipment and knowledge are required to ensure that the slab is level and adequately reinforced. Additionally, damp concrete might be slick, posing a potential safety risk.
Gravel or Crushed Stone
Benefit: A gravel or crushed stone basis for your barrel sauna is quite inexpensive and simple to install. It allows for adequate drainage and prevents the buildup of moisture that can be a concern with other base alternatives. In addition, it is more forgiving if the site is not perfectly level.
Drawback: A gravel or crushed stone basis may settle or shift over time, resulting in an uneven surface. It can also be challenging to keep the surface level, especially if you have heavy foot traffic around your sauna.
Hardwood Decks
Benefit: A hardwood deck provides an attractive, natural-looking foundation for your barrel sauna. If you want to create a pleasant and inviting outdoor setting, it can be an excellent choice. In addition, hardwood is resilient and, with proper care, can last for many years.
Drawback: The installation of a hardwood deck can be time-consuming and costly. In addition, particular equipment and knowledge are required to ensure that the deck is level and adequately strengthened. Additionally, hardwood flooring can become hazardously slippery when wet.
Before beginning construction, ensure that you have measured the site and have a firm grasp of the sauna's dimensions. You must ensure that the size of your base is sufficient for supporting the building. Last but not least, depending on your location, you may need a building permission to install a barrel sauna. Check with your local government to ensure you're abiding by all applicable rules and regulations.
Now for the steps you'll follow once you receive your barrel sauna materials.
Unpack the kit: Unpack the components of your sauna kit with care, keeping track of all the hardware and parts. Before beginning, you should conduct an inventory check to confirm that you have everything you need.
Lay out the staves: Using the diagram or instructions provided, arrange the pre-cut wooden staves in a circular pattern. Ensure that the staves are level and equally spaced.
Install the benches: Using the included hardware and instructions, install the inside benches. Make sure to check the measurements carefully to make sure it will fit.
Insert the heater: Install the sauna heater according to the instructions. The heater is the heart of your sauna and must be installed properly for best performance.
Use the supplied metal bands to secure the staves in place. Evenly tighten them to assure the sauna's stability and security.
Finish the exterior: Using a high-quality sealer or stain, finish the exterior of the sauna as desired, protecting the wood and enhancing its natural beauty.
Pro Tips
Get help from friends & family. Installing a barrel sauna can be a challenging task, and you'll want to have more hands to help with heavy lifting and other activities.
Follow the directions. This may seem obvious, but it's worth mentioning. Skipping a step or committing an error can result in costly blunders later on.
Take your time. Installing a barrel sauna can be a gratifying and enjoyable DIY project, but it is essential to take your time and execute the job correctly. Avoid rushing through the installation process, since doing so could lead to mistakes and an inferior desired outcome.
Have fun. Above all, enjoy the process of putting your new sauna together. This will make it all the more worth it once you're ready to get in for your first session!