Table of Contents
Introduction
When it comes to enhancing your sauna experience, the choice of wood is crucial, and cedar wood stands tall among the favorites. With its natural charm and durability, cedar is the go-to option for many sauna enthusiasts. But why is this type of wood such a game-changer? Let’s dive into the specifics of cedar wood saunas and uncover everything you need to know!
Why Cedar is a Top Choice for Saunas
Cedar’s ability to withstand the intense heat and moisture of a sauna makes it a premier choice. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving! Here are some standout benefits:
- Durability: Cedar can weather the elements, from heat waves to moisture monsoons.
- Softness: Sitting on cedar feels like you’re lounging on a cloud.
- Insulation: Keeps the heat in, so you get all the sweat without the chill.
- Aroma: There’s nothing like that lovely cedar scent to whisk you away into relaxation paradise.
- Resistance: Bugs and rot hate cedar. That’s bad for them but great for your sauna!
Compared to other common sauna woods, cedar stands out with its superior thermal properties, upping the comfort and insulation game.
Types of Cedar for Saunas
Not all cedar is created equal. Here’s a look at the types of cedar commonly used in saunas.
Western Red Cedar
The Western Red Cedar is the crowd favorite, sourced from the lush forests of Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia. With a beautiful reddish to golden hue, it adds a warm aesthetic to any sauna. Highly stable and resistant to rot—this wood doesn’t need artificial treatments to stay in top form.
Western Red Cedar comes in two main grades:
- Clear Cedar: Expect a smooth and uniform look, perfect for those who like their saunas chic and neat. Just be ready to pay a bit more.
- Knotty Cedar: Adds rustic flair and costs less than its clear counterpart. Perfect for those who want character without breaking the bank.
Eastern White Cedar
For a more affordable cedar, consider the Eastern White Cedar. Growing in the southern parts of Canada and northern US, it has a lighter hue, leaning towards yellowish-grey. While it may require more maintenance because of its tendency to yellow with moisture, it still offers robust protection against decay, pests, and moisture.
Other Cedar Variants
Some people venture beyond the usual suspects with these options:
- Northern White Cedar: A softer but popular choice.
- Incense Cedar (California Cedar): Not a big hit due to its streaky demeanor.
- Eastern Red Cedar (Aromatic Cedar): Beware its overpowering aroma. You want to relax, not get overwhelmed!
Common Benefits of Red and White Cedar
Whether red or white, cedar brings a host of perks to your sauna sanctuary. Both types boast a spicy, pleasant aroma, coaxing your mind towards serenity. Their natural tannins fend off pesky insects and decay, eliminating the need for toxic treatments.
Cedar’s softness means it warms quickly—a plus for sitting comfortably without getting too hot! It also cancels out noise, immersing you in tranquility while retaining heat efficiently to keep sauna costs low. What’s not to love?
Cedar For Exterior Sauna Siding
If your home sauna intends to bask in sunshine, consider cedar for your exterior as well. Its inherent resistance to rot and decay makes it ideal for outdoor siding. Plus, cedar complements various home exteriors, enhancing that backyard bliss. Whether you opt for traditional lap siding or something more avant-garde, cedar has your back.
Cost-Effective Cedar Options
Turn your sauna dreams into reality without emptying your bank account. Consider options like dog ear fence pickets for budget-friendly siding or paneling! Local sawmills, lumber wholesalers, and even sites like Craigslist can be treasure troves of affordable cedar. And if you’re eyeing knotty cedar, rejoice! It flaunts a rustic charm and saves you money compared to its clear counterparts.
DIY Cedar Wood Sauna Options
Feeling crafty? A DIY cedar wood sauna could be right up your alley. Whether you’re starting from scratch or working with a pre-packaged kit, customizing your sauna can be a rewarding journey.
- Plan Your Space: Define your dimensions, insulation needs, and preferred wood type.
- Pick Your Cedar: Decide between clear or knotty, and get ready to transform your vision into a breezy, aromatic reality.
- Feature Planning: Consider your sauna’s layout, including benches, walls, and floors.
Kits offer streamlined solutions with pre-selected quality; however, if you go full DIY, ensure proper installation techniques to avoid pitfalls like wood shrinkage.
Installation Tips and Considerations
Installing cedar in a sauna isn’t just about nailing wood to walls. To prevent moisture damage, place a foil vapor barrier behind cedar panels. Expect a bit of movement in your wood—cedar can expand and contract with the sauna’s conditions. Embrace this natural wiggle and install it in ways that accommodate its mood swings.
Make sure your sauna stays beautiful and durable by following best practices for high-humidity conditions.
Maintaining Sauna Cedar Wood
Keeping cedar looking its best is simpler than you might think. Regular cleaning is key—use a solution of water and white vinegar for stains or reach for hydrogen peroxide if things get stubborn. Remember, bleach is a no-go as it can damage the wood.
Protect your sauna benches with towels, wipe away dust regularly, and give discolored wood a touch-up with some light sanding. Staying away from harsh chemicals ensures your sauna remains a safe haven.
Cedar vs Other Common Sauna Woods
Compare cedar with the competition, and it’s clear why it remains the frontrunner. Pine might save you a few bucks but doesn’t last like cedar. White Fir is another affordable option, but lacks the aromatic invitation and resilience cedar offers.
And while hardwoods like Oak and Teak scream durability, their stiffness might leave you dreaming of cedar’s cushier embrace. Cedar balances comfort with durability, full of charm and free from endless replacement woes.
Sustainability and Sourcing of Cedar
Eco-warriors will be pleased to know that when sourced sustainably, cedar is a friend to the environment. Seek out cedar from responsibly managed forests in Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia. Cedar’s durability means it doesn’t need constant replacing, reducing waste and avoiding the reliance on harmful chemical treatments.
Look for eco-certifications in your wood supplier to ensure they’re adhering to environmentally friendly practices. You’re not just building a sauna; you’re nurturing a legacy of sustainability.
