How much does it cost to build a DIY sauna?
Cost to build your own sauna:
$8,000-$12,000
Our price estimate reflects a budget-oriented DIY approach, using our 6’x8’ plans, available for free here.
This means choosing options like cedar cladding with knots, versus clear, a Harvia stove, and using decking for your bench tops. Our goal is to make sauna-building approachable, yet quality.
Complete DIY sauna materials list
See the complete materials list for building your own sauna and start scheming up your build! Looking for what you need to make it happen? We have links to everything you should need to make it happen.
Where to spend and where to save
For budget-minded builders, there are some key places to save and some areas where you don’t want to skimp out and impact performance.
Where to save
Cedar - Shopping around for your cedar, both the t&g cladding, 2x4s for the benches, and and decking you might use for the floor can save on perhaps the priciest line item on your build. Skip the big-box stores and look for a local lumber yard or mill. Instead of paying $3+ per foot for your t&g, you can end up with prices closer to $1.50. Look on Facebook Marketplace, ask your local building supply store, and even check old-school Craigslist.
Likewise, there are recommendations for all different kinds of cladding, from the traditional alder used in Finland to various fancy “thermally modified” options, going for cedar will be sufficient and more cost-effective.
Doors & windows - Another great place to save, look for used windows and doors. Online marketplaces can be great, like finding a door coming out of someone’s steam shower remodel. Doors can be a bit tough, since shower doors are usually pretty short, but keep your eye out. You can also call local glass and shower shops to see if they have any mis-orders or overstock that they might sell for less than retail. For both, make sure to opt for stronger tempered glass. Also keep in mind that you might need to adjust your framing and bench layout depending on what you end up with.
Metal roofing/siding - By ordering your metal roofing or siding through your local building supply or lumber yard you can save big by getting panels that are customized for your sauna’s dimensions instead of getting standard length panels off-the-shelf
Where to spend
Sauna stove - Buying a legit, new sauna stove is absolutely worth the money. This is especially true for wood-burning saunas, but also for electric ones. While the price tag might be a bit of a bummer, starting new ensures that the heart and engine for your sauna is strong and backed by warranty. You can find some pretty sweet deals, like 0% interest financing from various sauna websites. Many of these sites also price match, so shop around a bit, too.
Cedar - We also said this is a place to save, but that was more aimed at where you buy your cedar. Here we want to focus on using a wood like cedar that will hold up over time and not have any dangers. Sappy woods like pine and fir might be cheaper, and some people may have used them successfully, but you don’t want to be replacing your cladding! So spend the coin to get the right product.