Hello - we want to install an electric outdoor sauna on a 3.5m x 3.5m level composite decking platform.

 

The sauna will be 2m x 2m with a timber door and a single large (1500x1500mm) plate glass window. Please see attached hand-sketch and the finished look we'd like. Research on the net suggests a wide range of prices, but mostly £5K+. Our budget is closer to £3K.

 

Would anyone know of an experienced local builder (near Langton Green/Tunbridge Wells/Kent) who might be able to build an outdoor sauna for us? We'll have equipped the sauna platform with single phase electricity and water source (for a cold, outdoor rustic shower). Any and all pointers will be most useful. Many thanks!

 

I used to make saunas, you are going to struggle at the price you are thinking of.

 

Thanks for your prompt reply @SteamyTea. I should have mentioned the budget of £3K was without installation and the cost of utility connections.... What would be a reasonable budget for a 2x2m sauna? And, can you recommend an installer near TN3 (if we were to buy a modular/flat-packed one)? 

I can't recommend anyone these days.  We used to make out own log saunas because of the high price of getting them imported.

 

You can look at getting a log shed, and then modifying it.  Probably your best bet.

1 minute ago, SteamyTea said:

getting a log shed, and then modifying it.

Does this small shed  not lend itself to 'stick build'?

Any decent builder or diy'er could do it and it would be customised and probably sturdier.

From my recent enquiries about building a sauna at home the internal material costs alone for a 2100 x 2100 are £2600.00 from here :

https://www.saunashop.co.uk/product-range/details/2100-x-2100/377/

That price excludes all timber framing for walls , floor, roof, double glazing and any labour.

I would expect a sauna in the above image to cost between 7.5 - 10K.

Edited January 9, 20251 yr by JamesP

What about one of these for 3900

 

https://www.fonteyn.co.uk/barrel-sauna-rustic-6-feet

I understand the rounded ceiling of Barrel Saunas make them a less effective shape than a cube shape - @SteamyTea would you have an opinion on this given your experience?

 

It also seems that the Polhus quote of £5.5K + installation for a 2x2m sauna might not be too much...   

thank you for this useful resource, @JamesP - I'll have a close look.

9 hours ago, LionessHeart said:

I understand the rounded ceiling of Barrel Saunas make them a less effective shape than a cube shape

Other way around.

A dome has less surface area than a cube.

4 hours ago, SteamyTea said:

Other way around.

A dome has less surface area than a cube.

True, but I understand the shape of the barrel, because it doesn't allow for 2nd/high tier seating, reduces the efficient use of the hot air that accumulates near the ceiling. Seems like I need to read up on this! Thanks for your input.

I suggest first establish what geometry is best. There is no point in having an unpleasant space.

Then we look at the best way to build it.

Lots of insulation for sure, and draught free.

16 minutes ago, saveasteading said:

and draught free

No.

Saunas, because of the high temperatures , and associated convection, need proper ventilation.

People worry about the off-gassing of foam insulation that is behind a VCL, but don't give too hoots for the VOCs coming off timber.

No. You know better than that. Controlled ventilation requires an absence of draughts. Airtight first, ventilation second. Unless the occupants are wearing warm clothing.

3 hours ago, saveasteading said:

You know better than that

I do, but with a sauna, which is a relatively flimsy timber structure, that is thermally cycled, with ΔT of 80K, uncontrolled ventilation becomes a fact or life, so embrace it.  Just make sure that there is a controllable vent on the roof.

 

On 09/01/2025 at 19:55, LionessHeart said:

Hello - we want to install an electric outdoor sauna on a 3.5m x 3.5m level composite decking platform.

 

The sauna will be 2m x 2m with a timber door and a single large (1500x1500mm) plate glass window. Please see attached hand-sketch and the finished look we'd like. Research on the net suggests a wide range of prices, but mostly £5K+. Our budget is closer to £3K.

 

Would anyone know of an experienced local builder (near Langton Green/Tunbridge Wells/Kent) who might be able to build an outdoor sauna for us? We'll have equipped the sauna platform with single phase electricity and water source (for a cold, outdoor rustic shower). Any and all pointers will be most useful. Many thanks!

 

By the way, for the planning phase we double-checked some structural dimensions using https://overchat.ai/math/math-ai — super handy when you need quick math help.

That sketch looks great and the inspiration photo is absolutely spot on – love the simple, modern look with that big glass window framing the view. I was actually in a similar boat not long ago trying to get a compact sauna built on a tight budget (also around £3K), and it’s definitely doable if you find a small local outfit or even a skilled independent builder.

I’d suggest checking Facebook community groups around Tunbridge Wells or even posting on Checkatrade and Rated People with very clear specs and your drawings – I found a guy that way who was happy to work with my materials and plans. Also, worth calling local carpenters directly, some of them are surprisingly open to side projects like this.

And if you end up building it yourself or part-DIYing, feel free to reach out — I’ve got a bunch of notes from when I did mine, including tips on moisture protection and window fitting. Good luck, it’s going to be a great setup!

Tradespersons round TW are busy and picky just now. I think first try your local community Facebook page.