An outdoor sauna is more than just a luxury—it’s a wellness retreat in your own backyard. Whether you want the sleek modern design of a Finnleo sauna or the handcrafted rustic charm of a Leisurecraft sauna, proper installation ensures that your investment delivers years of relaxation and rejuvenation. While outdoor saunas are designed for convenience and durability, there are a few key factors every homeowner should consider before installation: platform preparation, power requirements, and placement.
At Bear Naked Hot Tub and Sauna Co., we’ve helped countless homeowners in Colorado and beyond transform their backyards into personal sanctuaries. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up your outdoor sauna the right way.
Why Outdoor Saunas Are Growing in Popularity
Outdoor saunas have become increasingly popular because they combine the health benefits of traditional and infrared sauna therapy with the charm of an outdoor lifestyle. Unlike indoor saunas, outdoor models can be enjoyed year-round without taking up space inside your home. Imagine stepping into a warm cedar sanctuary on a crisp winter evening or relaxing after a dip in your pool during the summer—an outdoor sauna turns your backyard into a wellness destination.
Both Finnleo and Leisurecraft offer high-quality outdoor saunas built to withstand harsh climates while providing a luxurious experience. Choosing the right brand and model is the first step, but setting it up properly is just as important.
Step 1: Preparing the Platform
Before installing your sauna, you’ll need a stable, level platform to set it on. The foundation is crucial because saunas are heavy structures that require solid support.
Platform Options:
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Concrete Pad
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Most common and durable option.
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A standard 4-inch thick reinforced concrete pad works well.
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Ideal for long-term placement and heavy-use saunas.
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Paver Stones
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Attractive and functional alternative.
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Allows for proper drainage and blends seamlessly with landscaping.
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Best for smaller saunas or when you want flexibility in placement.
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Deck or Wooden Platform
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Works well if you’re adding the sauna near an existing deck.
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Must be structurally reinforced to handle the sauna’s weight and high humidity.
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Tips for Success:
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Ensure the surface is completely level.
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Account for drainage so water doesn’t pool underneath.
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Leave a slight gap between the sauna base and the platform for ventilation.
Both Finnleo and Leisurecraft saunas are built with precision craftsmanship, but even the best sauna won’t last without a stable base.
Step 2: Understanding Power Requirements
Once the platform is set, the next step is ensuring your sauna has the proper electrical connection. Most outdoor saunas are powered by electric heaters, though some models also use wood-burning stoves.
Electrical Saunas
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Voltage & Amperage: Most outdoor electric saunas require a 240V dedicated line.
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Breaker Size: Typically a 30–40 amp breaker, depending on the model.
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Professional Installation: Always hire a licensed electrician to run the wiring. This ensures compliance with local building codes and keeps your system safe.
Wood-Burning Saunas
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Wood-burning stoves don’t require electrical hookups but do need proper ventilation and chimney clearance. Leisurecraft offers wood-fired sauna options for those who prefer the authentic, off-grid sauna experience.
Safety Tips:
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Use outdoor-rated conduit for all wiring.
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Install a waterproof disconnect switch near the sauna for emergency shut-off.
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Never attempt DIY electrical work—leave it to professionals.
At Bear Naked Hot Tub and Sauna Co., we can connect you with trusted electricians who have experience installing sauna systems, so you don’t have to worry about safety or compliance.
Step 3: Choosing the Perfect Placement
Location is everything when it comes to outdoor sauna enjoyment. The right placement not only ensures convenience but also enhances the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Things to Consider:
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Accessibility
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Place your sauna close to your home, pool, or hot tub for easy access.
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If you’re planning to use it in the winter, keep pathways clear and convenient.
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Privacy
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Position your sauna where it’s shielded from neighbors, or use landscaping for natural privacy.
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Leisurecraft’s barrel saunas, for example, look beautiful tucked into a wooded corner of a yard.
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View and Atmosphere
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Outdoor saunas are about the experience—place yours where you can enjoy mountain views, garden surroundings, or peaceful water features.
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Utilities
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Ensure proximity to electrical access if installing an electric model.
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For wood-burning models, allow space for safe chimney clearance.
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Drainage
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Avoid low-lying areas where water can accumulate.
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Proper drainage extends the life of your sauna and prevents wood rot.
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Additional Installation Tips
To make the most of your sauna, here are some extra considerations that many first-time sauna owners overlook:
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Ventilation: Good airflow enhances comfort and prevents excess humidity buildup.
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Lighting: Install soft, outdoor-rated lighting along pathways for safe nighttime use.
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Outdoor Showers: Many sauna enthusiasts add an outdoor shower nearby for rinsing off between sessions.
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Landscaping: Surround your sauna with plants, stones, or decking to create a spa-like atmosphere.
Finnleo vs. Leisurecraft: Which Brand Is Right for You?
At Bear Naked Hot Tub and Sauna Co., we carry two of the industry’s most trusted sauna brands—Finnleo and Leisurecraft. Each has unique features that make them excellent choices for different homeowners.
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Known for sleek, modern designs with premium insulation.
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Great for homeowners who want low maintenance and cutting-edge technology.
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Infrared and traditional models available.
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Handcrafted from Canadian cedar or pine.
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Rustic, natural look that blends beautifully into outdoor settings.
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Wide variety of shapes, including barrel, cube, and cabin-style designs.
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No matter your preference, we’ll help you choose the sauna that best matches your space, lifestyle, and budget.
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Some homeowners prefer the satisfaction of a DIY sauna build, especially with pre-fabricated kits from brands like Leisurecraft. These kits come with detailed instructions and can often be assembled in a weekend with a few helping hands.
However, if you’re not handy—or if your sauna requires significant electrical work—professional installation may be the best choice. Our team at Bear Naked Hot Tub and Sauna Co. offers delivery and installation services to ensure your sauna is perfectly placed, leveled, and ready to enjoy.
Enjoying Your Sauna Year-Round
Once your sauna is installed, it’s time to relax and reap the benefits. Outdoor saunas are perfect for:
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Winter warm-ups after skiing or snow shoveling.
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Summer relaxation following a swim.
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Year-round wellness routines to reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote better sleep.
Whether you’re unwinding after work or hosting friends for a spa-like evening, your outdoor sauna will quickly become one of your favorite backyard features.
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Installing an outdoor sauna requires careful planning, but the payoff is immense. By focusing on the platform, power, and placement, you’ll set yourself up for years of enjoyment. At Bear Naked Hot Tub and Sauna Co., we proudly carry Finnleo and Leisurecraft saunas—two of the finest brands available—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from choosing the right model to ensuring it’s installed correctly.
