How do you choose a sauna house that suits your needs and your plot? Buying a sauna house is a long-term investment, so before deciding it’s worth thinking through several important topics: size, materials, heating method and whether the sauna house needs a building permit. This overview helps you understand what we recommend paying the most attention to.
What size sauna house should you choose?
When choosing the size of a sauna house, consider how comfortable the space will actually be to use. One of the most popular choices is an 18 to 20m² sauna house, which comfortably fits a steam room, washroom and front room while staying below the building permit threshold. It’s also worth paying attention to the shape of the building: in a sauna house with straight walls the entire interior is usable, whereas with round or oval designs the curved walls limit the space and furniture placement.
Do you need a building permit for a sauna house?
If the sauna house’s footprint is under 20m² and its height under 5 metres, a building permit is generally not required in Estonia. This makes installation quick and free of bureaucracy. We’ve summarised the more detailed rules, including building notice requirements and local differences, in a separate article on sauna houses and building permits. You can also read about the general background of building law on the Ministry of Climate’s building law page (in Estonian).
Year-round use or summer only?
An important question is whether you want to use the sauna all year round or only in the warm season. A fully insulated sauna house lets you enjoy pleasant steam even in freezing weather, whereas an uninsulated structure cools quickly and is better suited to summer use. You can read more about the differences between year-round and uninsulated solutions in our article on the benefits of an insulated sauna house.
Materials and build quality
The foundation of a good sauna house is the right materials and careful construction. Natural wood in the interior creates a pleasant, authentic sauna feel, while weather-resistant exterior materials and proper insulation keep moisture and cold out. This way the sauna is always warm, needs little maintenance and stays in good condition for years.
Stove and front room
When choosing a sauna house, think carefully about the type of stove and the washing facilities. Many people prefer a wood-fired stove fed from the front room, as it not only heats the steam room but also creates a cosy atmosphere in the lounge with the glow and warmth of an open fire. It’s also worth making sure the sauna house has an integrated shower with a water heater. This ensures complete comfort right on site, without having to go back to the house to wash after the sauna.
Delivery time and ordering
The delivery time of a sauna house depends mainly on production and stock. Custom-made houses require a longer production time, but with a ready-made model in stock you can start enjoying your sauna very quickly. When planning an order, always ask about the exact delivery time, transport options and installation conditions.
Summary
When choosing a sauna house, think through five key questions: the right size, the quality of materials and construction, frequency of use (summer or year-round), the layout of the stove and front room, and the desired delivery time. Once these needs are clear, it’s easy to compare different solutions and make an informed choice. Our team is happy to advise you in finding the sauna house that best suits your plot and wishes.
Frequently asked questions
How big should a sauna house be?
The most practical choice is a building of 18 to 20m². This floor area offers enough space for a steam room, washroom and front room, while staying within the limits that are exempt from a building permit and building notice, saving you from unnecessary bureaucracy and paperwork.
Rectangular or round sauna house?
The biggest advantage of a sauna house with straight walls is space efficiency: the entire interior can be used fully and logically. In round or oval saunas, the curved walls reduce the actual floor area, making it much harder to fit furniture and a washing area comfortably.
What else should you ask before buying a sauna house?
The most important thing is to clarify the final price and what it includes: check whether the offer covers transport, installation and interior finishing in addition to the house itself. It’s also worth confirming the delivery time and asking which materials have been used to insulate the building and weatherproof the roof.
Ready for your own sauna house?
Browse our products or ask for personal advice on what suits your needs best.
