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What timber to use for outdoor sauna?

Hi,

Going to be building an outdoor sauna in the backyard (this will be the inspo Family handyman Sauna) with some changes such as a vent, flat roof, tile floor and slightly different size 2.0m L by 1.2m W and 1.8 H approx. Still in the early planning stages but once all sorted and done and dusted will post the journey of what we've done

Biggest question at the moment is figuring out what framing timber is best and safe to use. Seeing as it's a sauna will H2 be okay for the framing? And H3 okay to use for the base of the build? Also wondering if fibre cement sheeting is okay to use for the interior ceiling?

Essentially will H2/H3 be safe to use for a sauna? Or should I go for untreated timber for everything?

Thanks

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Comments

Dave-1

Afternoon @darcyDIY

Now that is an exciting project. One that I do admit I havnt tried before 🙂

-I would suggest H3 timber throughout, mainly becuase of the high humidity that will be in and around it.

-Flat ceiling possible a no, A slope ceiling will help condensation roll off.

-Not sure about the fibre ccement sheeting for a suana is about all.

I did notice that the dimensions are all imperial, makes me think that the products that are "off the shelf" overseas may not be so common here, but can probarrly be factored in.

A few of the other members might have some more ideas @Noyade, @Jewelleryrescue and @Nailbag

Dave

Nailbag

Hi @darcyDIY

I've not built a sauna before only been in a few. One thing that common, is they have all been made of cedar. for a range of properties that suit both the internal and external environments. Anything treated would definitely be out of the question.

Check out this link I found which has some pretty good advice on what to use and planning process from build materials to heating.

Nailbag

JacobZ

Hi @darcyDIY,

As both H2 and H3 timbers are treated with chemicals, considering the intent of a sauna, using them in this kind of environment does not seem like a good idea.

Unfortunately, I'm not aware of any structural timber that would be suitable for your project, as anything that is resistant to moisture also contains chemicals, making it unsuitable for use in an enclosed humid wet area due to potential leakage.

There is untreated pine framing, but it is not going to stand up to weathering.

Untreated hardwood or cedar framing are likely good options, as they are free from chemicals and naturally weather resistant, but they can be difficult to come by.

It might be worth contacting a company that builds saunas to ask them a few questions about what materials they use.

I hope this helps.

Jacob

darcyDIY

Hi,

Thank you all very much for your input and information

Lots to think about for the framing so back to the drawing board

Cheers

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