The article “How to build a Finnish sauna” looks at some important things I remembered about the Finnish sauna and what its features are.
Many of you have already built your own sauna or are in the process of doing so. Some have also bought a ready-made sauna. However, there are a few things to consider when building or buying a Finnish sauna.
A Finnish sauna
The Finnish sauna is always made of wood. There is insulation and a damp proof barrier under the panels. The floor can be a moisture-proof concrete or tiled floor.
The sauna benches are also made of wood. The wood can be any type of resistant wood. For example aspen, pine or blue spruce.
The sauna benches are installed so that the distance between the top bench and the ceiling is 110 cm. As the heat rises upwards, it is also energy-efficient to position the benches in this way. This is because if the distance is more than 110 cm, the heat rises above the sauna user’s head.
The upper bench should be 60 cm deep. The middle bench is placed 40 cm lower and has a depth of 40 cm.
A stool is placed on the floor to make it easier to climb up to the benches. It also makes it possible to adjust the height of the boarding aid.
An important factor when positioning the sauna benches is that the “law of steam” is observed. This means that the lower bench is positioned higher than the stones of the sauna heater. This law ensures that good steam, löyly, can develop in the sauna.
When calculating the number of seats in the sauna, it should be borne in mind that one person should have at least 60 cm of width to sit comfortably.
The benches must also be built safely. So that they are easily accessible. Also pay attention to the nails, they must not stick out so that you don’t burn your skin.
The sauna heater
It can be a metal heater, but check that it is the right size for your sauna. Cheaper heaters are made of thin metal and are not efficient. So be careful when buying a heater.
Again, the cheapest is not always the best.
At the same time, make sure that there are enough stones for the size of the sauna. The heater can also be a brick heater.
The drain
A Finnish sauna always has a drain in the floor through which the water can drain away. The drain can be located in the sauna or, as in our home, on the floor of the bathroom. It is important that the water does not remain on the floor of the sauna.
How warm is the Finnish sauna heated?
The sauna is heated to 70-100 degrees using the heater, depending on your own preferences. The temperature is measured at the sauna user’s head height.
It may be that an electric heater is so efficient that the lower temperature is sufficient for a good sauna session.
The heater can be heated with electricity or wood.
I have also seen gas or oil stoves, but they are not very common.
Wood-burning stoves are always heated with dry wood.
Read more here: How to light a wood burning sauna
The steam – Löyly
The water used to make the steam should be warm but not hot.
Warm water from the tap is suitable. So that it is not dangerous for the children.
Ventilation
The Finnish sauna is also known for the fact that you can breathe well in it and that the air circulates. Ventilation must therefore be provided. If you feel uncomfortable in your sauna, get a headache or find it difficult to breathe, I would definitely check whether there is a problem with the ventilation.
There should be a ventilation shaft through which fresh air can enter the sauna if necessary.
A clean sauna
A clean sauna is half the battle. A sauna that smells musty is not a pleasant place. So don’t forget to take care of your sauna.
Clean the sauna 2-3 times a year if you sauna once a week.
Read more: How to maintain and care for your sauna
The lighting is indirect
Indirect lighting is also a characteristic feature of the Finnish sauna. The sauna is wonderfully atmospheric and not too bright.
We have a lamp above the heater. If I want a really nice atmosphere, I bring candles into the sauna and switch off the light.
There is often a small window in Finnish saunas, but I don’t think it’s necessary.
These are the characteristics of a Finnish sauna that came to my mind. What do you think, is your sauna built according to the Finnish criteria?
And if I have missed something important, please send me a message or a comment.
Kind regards,
Sauna-Kati
