How Much Space Do I Need For A Home Sauna?

The amount of space needed for a home sauna depends on the size of the sauna and the number of people it will accommodate.

A typical sauna can be as small as 3 feet by 3 feet or as large as 8 feet by 12 feet.

A smaller sauna will be easier to heat and keep hot.

You should allow 2 feet of seating space for each person or 6 feet of bench space for reclining per person.

A small sauna can be built in a 4 by 4 foot open floor space plus some room for the sauna door and electrical.

The space should be at least 7 feet high and have a smooth level waterproof floor made of tile concrete or other suitable material.

What Are The Minimum And Maximum Ceiling Heights Required For A Home Sauna?

The minimum permitted ceiling height for a home sauna is 77 inches.

The average sauna ceiling height is 84 inches and the maximum safe ceiling height is 96 inches.

However it is important to check the specific make and model of the sauna for the recommended ceiling height.

Additionally the height from the upper bench to the middle bench is generally about 18 inches.

As a general rule saunas should have ceilings of no more than about 2.1m (7ft) in height.

Can A Home Sauna Be Installed In A Small Apartment Or Condo?

Yes a home sauna can be installed in a small apartment or condo.

Infrared saunas are more suitable for apartment living than traditional saunas as they heat up in minutes and are smaller in size.

As long as your rental agreement permits it installing a sauna in your apartment is possible.

You can place a sauna in the corner of a small apartment or condo.

However it is important to ensure that you have the proper hookups and electrical requirements for the sauna.

How Much Clearance Is Needed Around The Sauna For Ventilation And Safety Purposes?

The amount of clearance needed around a sauna for ventilation and safety purposes depends on the type of ventilation system being used.

The upper vent can be placed anywhere but it is usually placed about 6 inches from the ceiling level.

states that a sauna ventilation system is not necessary in a small sauna and not required for safety reasons.

However if there is no intake vent present a small sauna uses the 1/2″ gap between the door and the frame for ventilation.

Sauna ventilation is not required for safety reasons but makes the sauna experience more comfortable.

The ventilation of the sauna must be installed in the farthest corner of the sauna from the entrance to the sauna while the heater must be installed near the entrance.

Are There Any Specific Electrical Or Plumbing Requirements For A Home Sauna?

Yes there are specific electrical and plumbing requirements for a home sauna.

Most saunas require 220/240V power with hard wire to a separate 30 AMP or 40 AMP breakers in the house.

Sauna heaters require 220v and must be hard-wired to the electrical box.

For saunas with 4.5kw or 6.0kw heaters require a 30-amp breaker and 10/2 wire unless it is positioned more than 30 feet from the breaker in which case it requires an 8/2 wire.

The electrical wiring for a sauna must be installed by a licensed electrician and rated for high temperature and moisture.

What Are The Ideal Materials To Use For The Walls Ceiling And Flooring Of A Home Sauna?

According to various sources the ideal materials to use for the walls ceiling and flooring of a home sauna are:

• Walls and ceiling: Cedar is the most popular choice but other good options include poplar basswood pine and hemlock.
  Use fiberglass insulation and an aluminum vapor barrier to line the walls and ceiling.
• Flooring: The floor can be concrete tile or wood but not carpet.
  Vinyl is also an option.
• All materials should be moisture-resistant and able to withstand high temperatures.

Helpful Resources

• https://www.homedepot.com/c/ai/how-to-build-a-sauna/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90136a52cc8
• https://mainelytubs.com/saunas/sauna-buyers-guide/sauna-sizes-dimensions/
• https://www.homestratosphere.com/sauna-dimensions-and-layouts/
• https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/diy-sauna-guide
• https://www.saunasociety.org/build-a-sauna