How to Install an Outdoor Sauna: Platform, Power, and Placement Tips

 

 

An outdoor sauna is more than just a luxury—it’s a personal wellness retreat right in your own backyard. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek modern style of a Finnleo sauna or the rustic charm of a handcrafted Leisurecraft sauna, the key to years of relaxation and rejuvenation is proper installation. While outdoor saunas are built for convenience and durability, there are a few essential factors every homeowner in the Longmont area should consider before setup: platform preparation, power requirements, and ideal placement.

At Mountain Mist Spa and Sauna, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Colorado transform their backyards into personal sanctuaries. Here’s a detailed guide on how to set up your outdoor sauna the right way.

The Rise of Outdoor Saunas

Outdoor saunas are becoming a staple for many homeowners because they blend the proven health benefits of traditional and infrared sauna therapy with the beauty of the outdoors. Unlike indoor saunas, outdoor models can be enjoyed year-round without taking up valuable space inside your home. Imagine escaping into a warm cedar sanctuary on a crisp winter evening or unwinding after a day of gardening in the summer. An outdoor sauna transforms your yard into a private, year-round wellness destination.

Both Finnleo and Leisurecraft offer premium outdoor saunas designed to withstand our Colorado climate while providing a luxurious experience. Choosing the right brand and model is the first step, but a correct and safe installation is just as critical.

Step 1: Preparing Your Foundation

Before you can install your sauna, you need a stable, level foundation to place it on. The base is crucial because saunas are heavy structures that need solid, unwavering support to ensure their longevity

Foundation Options:

• Concrete Pad: The most durable and common choice. A standard 4-inch thick reinforced concrete pad is ideal for a long-term, heavy-use sauna.
• Paver Stones: A beautiful and functional alternative. Pavers allow for proper drainage and can seamlessly blend with your existing landscaping. This is a great choice for smaller saunas or if you want some flexibility in placement.
• Deck or Wooden Platform: This works well if you’re installing the sauna near an existing deck. Just be sure the deck is structurally reinforced to handle the sauna’s weight and the high humidity that may be present.

Tips for a Solid Base:

• Make sure the surface is perfectly level.
• Ensure proper drainage so water won’t accumulate underneath the sauna.
• Leave a small gap between the sauna base and the platform to allow for air circulation.

Even the highest quality saunas, like those from Finnleo and Leisurecraft, won’t last without a solid foundation.

Step 2: Understanding Your Power Needs

Once the platform is ready, the next step is making sure your sauna has the right electrical connection. Most outdoor saunas are powered by electric heaters, though some models, like those from Leisurecraft, also offer wood-burning stoves.

Electric Saunas

• Voltage & Amperage: Most outdoor electric saunas require a 240V dedicated line.
• Breaker Size: The typical size is a 30–40 amp breaker, depending on the sauna model and heater size.
• Professional Installation: Always hire a licensed electrician to run the wiring. This is non-negotiable for safety and to ensure compliance with local building codes.

Critical Safety Tips:

• Use outdoor-rated conduit for all wiring.
• Install a waterproof disconnect switch near the sauna for easy emergency shut-off.
• Never attempt electrical work yourself—always rely on a professional.

At Mountain Mist Spa and Sauna, we can connect you with trusted local electricians who have experience with sauna installations, so you don’t have to worry about safety or compliance.

Step 3: Choosing the Right Location

Location is everything when it comes to enjoying your outdoor sauna. The right placement not only adds convenience but also enhances the overall ambiance of your outdoor space.

Key Factors to Consider:

• Accessibility: Place your sauna close to your home, pool, or hot tub for easy access. In the winter, make sure the path is clear and well-lit.
• Privacy: Position your sauna where it’s shielded from neighbors, or use landscaping to create natural privacy. A Leisurecraft barrel sauna, for example, looks beautiful tucked into a private corner of a yard.
• The View: A sauna is an experience. Place yours where you can enjoy views of the mountains, your garden, or a peaceful water feature.
• Utilities: Be sure your chosen spot is close to your electrical access if you’re installing an electric model. For wood-burning saunas, allow space for a safe chimney clearance.

Additional Setup Tips

To get the most out of your sauna, here are a few extra points to consider that many new owners often overlook:

• Ventilation: Good airflow improves comfort and prevents excessive humidity buildup.
• Lighting: Install soft, outdoor-rated lighting along the pathways for safe nighttime use.
• Outdoor Shower: Many sauna enthusiasts add an outdoor shower nearby for rinsing off between sessions.
• Landscaping: Surround your sauna with plants, stones, or decking to create a complete, spa-like atmosphere.

Finnleo vs. Leisurecraft: Finding the Right Sauna for You

At Mountain Mist Spa and Sauna, we carry two of the industry’s most respected brands—Finnleo and Leisurecraft. Each offers unique features that make them excellent choices for different homeowners.

• Finnleo Outdoor Saunas: Known for sleek, modern designs and superior insulation. They are ideal for those who want low-maintenance and cutting-edge technology. Both infrared and traditional models are available.
• Leisurecraft Outdoor Saunas: Handcrafted from Canadian cedar or pine, these saunas have a rustic, natural look that blends beautifully into outdoor settings. They come in a wide variety of shapes, including barrel, cube, and cabin-style designs.

No matter your preference, we’ll help you choose the sauna that best fits your space, lifestyle, and budget.

Professional vs. DIY Installation

Some homeowners love the satisfaction of a DIY project, 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 friends.

However, if you’re not comfortable with the build process—or if your sauna requires significant electrical work—professional installation is the safest and most convenient choice. Our team at Mountain Mist Spa and Sauna offers delivery and installation services to ensure your sauna is perfectly placed, leveled, and ready for you to enjoy.

Enjoying Your Sauna Year-Round

Once your sauna is installed, it’s time to relax and enjoy the immense benefits. Outdoor saunas are perfect for:

• Warming up after a day of skiing or snowshoeing.
• Cooling down and relaxing after a dip in the pool during the summer.
• A year-round wellness routine 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.

Installing an outdoor sauna requires careful planning, but the payoff is immeasurable. By focusing on the platform, power, and placement, you’ll set yourself up for years of enjoyment. At Mountain Mist Spa and Sauna, 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.