Indoor vs. Outdoor Saunas: Pros and Cons Compared
Saunas have been around for centuries, offering relaxation and health benefits. A sauna is a heated room designed to make you sweat, helping your body release toxins and improve circulation.
There are different types, including traditional steam saunas and modern infrared saunas.
Traditional ones use heated stones to create steam, while infrared saunas use light to warm the body directly.
Saunas originated in Finland, where they have been a key part of culture for over 2,000 years. Beyond history, saunas help blood flow better, reducing muscle tension and stress, leaving you feeling refreshed.
Practical Considerations: Installation, Space, Location & Cost
Installing an indoor sauna starts with choosing the right space, ensuring enough room for ventilation, insulation, and heat circulation.
A small indoor sauna typically needs at least 4x4 feet, but more space means better comfort.
For outdoor saunas, a solid and level foundation like concrete, gravel, or a sturdy deck is important for stability.
If placing an outdoor sauna on a deck, the structure must support the weight and handle heat exposure.
Indoor saunas often cost less to install, but outdoor ones may have fewer home modification costs.
Durability, Maintenance & Energy Efficiency
Outdoor saunas face harsh weather, which can wear down the wood over time. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures cause cracking and warping, so using durable wood like cedar, thermally treated pine, or hemlock helps them last longer.
Indoor saunas, protected from the elements, need less maintenance. Before winter, weatherproofing an outdoor sauna by applying protective coatings, sealing gaps, and ensuring proper drainage prevents damage.
Good insulation in both indoor and outdoor saunas reduces heat loss, lowering energy costs and improving performance.
Dr. Brent A. Bauer, director of the Mayo Clinic Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program, highlights that infrared saunas not only provide relaxation and circulation benefits but also operate at lower temperatures, making them more energy-efficient.
This allows users to enjoy the health benefits of a sauna while using less power compared to traditional heating methods.
Infrared heaters are the most energy-efficient, using less power than traditional wood-burning or electric heaters.
This makes them a great choice for those looking to reduce energy consumption while still getting the full sauna experience.
Seasonal and Usage Factors
Outdoor saunas offer a unique experience but can be less convenient in extreme winter conditions.
They take longer to heat up in cold weather, requiring extra preheating time. In summer, placement matters—outdoor saunas can overheat if exposed to direct sunlight, making them uncomfortable.
Seasonal humidity also plays a role—indoor saunas may need better ventilation, while outdoor ones might struggle with excess moisture.
Bad weather, like heavy rain or snow, can discourage outdoor sauna use, while indoor saunas remain accessible year-round.
Lifestyle Impact & Home Value
Indoor saunas make daily relaxation easy, offering a warm retreat just steps away. They integrate seamlessly into routines without being affected by weather.
However, if peace and quiet are a priority, an outdoor sauna creates a true escape away from household noise.
"Wellness is emerging as an important role in real estate because the home is a central component of a life well-lived," says Stephanie Anton, president of Luxury Portfolio, Chicago.
The choice between indoor and outdoor saunas also affects home value. Indoor saunas attract buyers looking for convenience and luxury, while outdoor saunas boost curb appeal, especially in scenic areas.
Ambiance & Experience
The ambiance of a sauna sets the tone for relaxation, and indoor and outdoor saunas create very different experiences.
An indoor sauna feels private and convenient, perfect for those who enjoy a controlled, cozy environment.
However, an outdoor sauna provides something unique—a deep connection to nature.
The fresh air, surrounding trees, and open space make it feel more immersive and peaceful.
Outdoor saunas often offer a rustic, traditional charm that many find more authentic.
If you seek a spa-like retreat, an indoor sauna works best, but for pure nature-driven relaxation, nothing beats the outdoors.
Privacy Considerations
Privacy plays a big role when choosing between indoor and outdoor saunas. Indoor saunas naturally offer more privacy since they are inside your home, away from outside visibility.
With an outdoor sauna, privacy can be a challenge, especially in residential areas where neighbors might see in.
However, this can be addressed by using fences, trees, or frosted glass, or placing the sauna in a less visible spot.
Unlike outdoor saunas, indoor ones don’t require extra barriers since walls naturally block views.
If privacy is a top concern, an indoor sauna is the better choice, but outdoor options can still work with proper planning.
Resale Impact
A sauna can enhance a home’s resale value, but its appeal depends on the type and location.
Indoor saunas attract buyers who want convenience, while outdoor saunas appeal to those seeking a spa-like retreat.
Some buyers consider built-in saunas a luxury, while others worry about maintenance or space limitations.
If the sauna complements the home and is well-maintained, it can increase desirability, especially in colder regions.
However, if it feels outdated or unused, removing it might be the better option. The key is to highlight its benefits and ensure it fits seamlessly with the home’s overall appeal.
Final Verdict
Would you rather have the ultimate convenience of a spa-like retreat inside your home or the immersive tranquility of a nature-inspired escape?
Both indoor and outdoor saunas offer relaxation, health benefits, and a boost to home value, but their advantages cater to different lifestyles.
If seamless integration into your daily routine is your priority, an indoor sauna provides year-round accessibility and privacy without the concerns of weather or maintenance.
On the other hand, if you crave a more rustic, open-air experience that enhances your connection to nature, an outdoor sauna delivers an authentic and peaceful getaway.
No matter your preference, investing in a sauna is an investment in your well-being.
Explore the options available and choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.
study
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2130724
