On average, adding an in home sauna to your home costs about $4,500, with overall expenses ranging from $3,000 to $6,000, including labor, materials, and extras. Although it’s a significant investment, having a sauna could make your home more attractive to potential buyers in the future. There are a variety of sauna designs to fit your home, and it’s important to consider the costs, the type of sauna that suits your space, and other factors before deciding to build one, which we’ll discuss in more detail below.
How much does it cost to build a sauna at home?
The cost to build a sauna varies based on several things, like the kind of sauna you want, if you need to lay down a foundation for it, and the kind of heater it will use. If you decide to customize every detail of your sauna, it’ll be great but also more expensive. Alternatively, you can pick a prefabricated sauna, which is made in a factory and tends to be cheaper. Here, we’ll talk about the expenses involved in creating a sauna that meets your specific needs, whether it’s going to be inside or outside.
Indoor Sauna
Adding an indoor sauna to your house might cost about $3,000, but if you want a custom one, it could be more than $9,500. This is because the sauna needs good ventilation and sealing to stop heat and moisture from affecting nearby areas. People often put indoor saunas in large closets, basements, or even in a big shower if it’s a steam sauna.
Outdoor Sauna
Outdoor saunas, usually made of wood, are set up on a concrete base outside your home. The price for a custom outdoor sauna that’s a standard size can be between $3,000 and $6,000, depending on its size and the wood type.
Wood is chosen for saunas because it can handle heat and moisture well, preventing rot and warp over time. Cedar and redwood are top choices for their durability, but there are cheaper options too. Here’s a simple breakdown of how much different types of wood cost per square foot for a sauna:
- Pine: $2 to $5
- Cedar: $3 to $7
- Spruce: $5 to $9
- Hemlock: $5 to $10
- Redwood: $30 to $35
- Nordic white spruce: $11 to $20
Prefab Sauna
If you want to save money on a sauna, consider getting a prefabricated one. These come in kits and cost about $60 to $120 per square foot. So, a standard size sauna (8-by-5, for around four people) would be around $2,450. Infrared saunas, which also come in prefab kits, range from $1,500 to $7,200.
The great thing about prefab saunas is that they’re almost ready to use right out of the box, saving you the hassle of building. The downside is that you can’t customize them much.
Factors that Affect How Much a Sauna will Cost
The price of a home sauna changes based on its size, type, and other details. Here’s what affects the cost:
- Size: Bigger saunas cost more. A small sauna for two might be around $2,000, while a larger one for four could cost about $4,200. Pick a size that fits your budget and how you plan to use it.
- Type: There are many sauna types, like indoor, outdoor, or wood-burning. Prices can range from $3,000 to $6,000, especially for custom ones.
- Labor: Putting in a sauna costs extra for the work done. This can be 30% to 50% of the total price. A basic kit installation might cost between $300 and $1,500, but professional installation and additional services like electrical and plumbing can increase the price.
- Location: Installing your sauna inside your home is usually cheaper than putting it outside. The place you choose can impact the cost, so think about your space and maybe get advice from a pro.
- Model: The specific sauna you choose also matters. Pre-built kits are less expensive, starting at $2,500, but custom saunas, which are made exactly how you want, can be more costly.
What are the benefits of having an in-home sauna?
Buying a home sauna is a big deal, but it’s worth it. You and your family can relax and feel great with just 10 minutes in the sauna each day. More of its advantages include:
- Health: Saunas are great for chilling out and feeling good. They help you detox, relax, and clean out your body. The heat soothes aches, helps your skin, and can ease congestion or sore throats. It’s a nice way to take care of your body and mind.
- Stress relief: Using a sauna can make you relax, feel better, and boost your health. It raises your body’s endorphins, which cuts down on stress and gives you more energy.
- Increase home value: Adding a sauna to your home can attract buyers and raise your home’s value. This is because a sauna suggests a luxurious lifestyle and offers relaxation, something many busy people want.
Build Your Own Sauna at Home while Considering All Costs
Consider the warmth and relaxation a sauna could bring right into your home. Imagine unwinding after a long day and boosting your health with every session. It’s not just a spa experience; it’s an investment in your wellbeing and your home’s value. Dive into the sauna lifestyle; your future self will thank you.