Two premium woods. Two very different philosophies.
Both Cedar and ThermoWood® are excellent materials for sauna construction—but they shine in different environments and for different types of owners. Understanding the difference helps you choose a sauna that fits your climate, lifestyle, and long-term expectations.
🌲 Cedar Saunas
Classic, aromatic, and naturally beautiful
Cedar has been used in sauna building for generations—and for good reason.
Why people love cedar:
- Naturally resistant to moisture & decay
- Warm, rich wood tone that ages gracefully
- Signature cedar aroma (many people find it calming)
- Comfortable to the touch — stays cooler than many woods
Best uses for cedar:
- Indoor saunas
- Covered outdoor installations
- Moderate or mixed climates
- Buyers who love the traditional sauna look & smell
Things to consider:
- Aroma is strong at first (some love it, some don’t)
- Can weather and gray outdoors if not protected
- Requires more care in extreme cold or wet climates
Cedar is ideal if you want:
✔ A classic sauna experience
✔ Natural scent and warmth
✔ A timeless, North American aesthetic
🔥 ThermoWood Saunas
Engineered for durability, stability, and harsh climates
ThermoWood is real wood—usually spruce or pine—that’s been heat-treated (not chemically treated) to dramatically improve performance.
Why ThermoWood stands out:
- Exceptional resistance to moisture, rot, and mold
- Extremely dimensionally stable (less warping or cracking)
- Performs exceptionally well in cold climates
- Low maintenance and long lifespan
- Rich, dark, modern appearance
Best uses for ThermoWood:
- Outdoor saunas
- Cold, snowy, or coastal climates
- Exposed installations (no roof or enclosure)
- Buyers focused on longevity & performance
Things to consider:
- No natural aroma like cedar
- Darker, more modern aesthetic
- Often slightly higher upfront cost
ThermoWood is ideal if you want:
✔ Maximum durability
✔ Minimal maintenance
✔ A modern, Nordic-inspired look
✔ Reliable performance in winter conditions
🆚 Quick Comparison
| Feature | Cedar | ThermoWood |
|---|---|---|
| Aroma | Strong, natural | Neutral |
| Climate Performance | Moderate | Excellent (cold & wet) |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Stability | Good | Excellent |
| Aesthetic | Classic & warm | Modern & dark |
| Outdoor Use | Best covered | Excellent exposed |
✅ Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Cedar if you value tradition, aroma, and a cozy indoor or covered sauna experience.
- Choose ThermoWood if you want a worry-free outdoor sauna that laughs at winter, rain, and time.
👉 At Martin Sauna, we carry both—because the best sauna is the one that fits your life, not just your space.
