Outdoor Saunas for Cold Climates
Cedar, ThermoWood® & Smart Build Tips for Winter
Cold weather doesn’t limit sauna use — it elevates it.
If you live in a region with real winters, an outdoor sauna can become your most reliable year-round reset. Crisp air outside. Deep heat inside. The contrast is part of the experience — but only if the sauna is built for it.
This guide covers the best materials, designs, and winter-ready considerations for outdoor saunas in cold climates.
🌲 Best Woods for Cold-Weather Saunas
Pacific/Canadian Red Cedar
A cold-climate classic
Cedar has been used in outdoor saunas for decades — and for good reason.
Why cedar performs well in winter:
- Naturally resistant to moisture and rot
- Excellent thermal insulation
- Stable in temperature swings
- Light, pleasant aroma that doesn’t overpower
Cedar is a great choice if you want traditional character, natural insulation, and proven durability in freezing conditions.
Golden Designs "Klosters" 6 person Barrel Traditional Sauna - Pacific Cedar
🌡️ ThermoWood®
Engineered for extreme climates
ThermoWood is heat-treated lumber designed specifically for outdoor performance.
Why ThermoWood excels in cold climates:
- Reduced moisture absorption
- Minimal expansion and contraction
- Exceptional resistance to warping and cracking
- Modern, refined appearance
ThermoWood is ideal for homeowners who want low maintenance, modern aesthetics, and long-term structural stability in harsh winters.
MW20 ThermoWood® Outdoor Sauna
🧊 Winter-Ready Build Features to Look For
Not all outdoor saunas are created equal. For cold climates, construction details matter just as much as materials.
Insulation & Wall Design
- Double-wall construction with insulation
- Tight panel tolerances to prevent heat loss
- Vapor barriers to manage condensation
Heater Capacity
- Slightly oversized heaters perform better in sub-freezing temperatures
- Faster heat-up times and more consistent sessions
Door & Glass Considerations
- Insulated doors or tempered glass
- Proper seals to prevent drafts
- Minimal exposed glass in extreme cold zones
Roof & Snow Load
- Sloped or reinforced roofs
- Weather-resistant shingles or metal roofing
- Designed to handle snow accumulation
❄️ Using an Outdoor Sauna in Winter
Yes — it’s absolutely worth it
Many cold-climate sauna owners say winter is when their sauna gets the most use. Stepping into deep heat after cold exposure enhances relaxation, circulation, and mental clarity.
Pro tips:
- Pre-warm the sauna slightly longer in extreme cold
- Keep a robe or towel nearby for transitions
- Ensure proper drainage around the base
Is an Outdoor Sauna Right for You?
An outdoor sauna built for winter is a long-term investment — but when done right, it delivers unmatched year-round value.
Best fit if you want:
✔ A true sauna ritual in every season
✔ Natural materials that age beautifully
✔ A backyard wellness space built to last
→ Explore Outdoor Saunas Built for Cold Climates
→ Compare Cedar vs ThermoWood Saunas
→ Talk to a Sauna Specialist: 307-223-2259
