Is an outdoor sauna right for you?

In the Midwest, winters can hit hard. Cold temperatures, biting winds, a barrage of snowfall, and overcast skies for months on end are enough to make us all want to hibernate inside the comfort of our homes for the season. But what if a sizzling, toasty, cozy warm reprieve was waiting for you just a few steps into your yard? A sauna might not be the first thing you think of for a backyard addition, but these perks might change your mind.

Affordable Luxury

If you are a lover of self-care and spa-like ambiance but not looking to start an indoor remodel to achieve this, an outdoor sauna may be the right move for you. While still a significant expense, a basic 1-4 person outdoor sauna is going to come in at a more affordable price than your average hot tub. Plus, a backyard sauna allows for easy, year-round usage for ultimate relaxation. Outdoor saunas nowadays are customizable, so you can choose materials and features to match your style and personalize your experience. With relatively low ongoing maintenance and operation costs, a sauna is worth the investment for the ambiance, relaxation, and comfort it provides.

Health for the Mind and Body

Saunas have been used throughout history, having originated in Finland over 2000 years ago, to heal and restore the body. Today the top reason why homeowners install saunas is for the same relaxation and health purposes. Stress is an unavoidable factor of life, and people combat it with anything from exercise, diet, and massage to wine, Netflix-binging, and snacks. While some of these methods can help to alleviate stress, a quick sit in a sauna is an easy option for nearly instant relaxation.

Many studies have concluded that saunas offer potential health benefits to the body, improving cardiovascular health, joint health, athletic ability, and alleviating symptoms of depression in a few studies. As the heat exposure raises the body’s temperature, heart rates increase, and blood vessels widen, enhancing circulation and simulating a moderate exercise heart-rate level. A work-out without the work? You bet. Within minutes, one feels a reduction in anxiety and stress and can move forward in their day refreshed.

Low Maintenance Luxury

Unlike swimming pools and hot tubs, saunas require minimal maintenance when properly used. When using a sauna, it’s best to sit or lay on a towel to prevent excess sweat stains and odors from setting in. Wiping your feet before entering is also a good idea to keep things as clean as possible. With daily usage, a monthly wipe down of surfaces with water and a mild detergent while the sauna is off is all you need!

As far as mechanics go, all types of sauna heaters – electric, gas, and wood – have few moving parts and rarely break down. If you do need something replaced due to damage or break-down, your vendor can likely provide the pieces you need for a quick fix.

If you are looking for a way to relax, improve your health, and add a little luxury to your home, an outdoor sauna feature might be for you! Call the Pros for a free estimate!