While Western Red Cedar is the most popular choice for sauna wood in America, in Finland, where there are more saunas per capita than any other country, they use a variety of woods that you may prefer over cedar for their appearance and performance. SteamSaunaBath offers the widest selection of wood from Prosaunas to allow you to create a sauna room that reflects your personal taste and style.
The best and most resilient woods for saunas are thermally modified. These woods have greater dimensional stability and are much less prone to weathering with age than non-modified wood. Thermal modification involves a chemical-free, organic process that alters the timber using only heat, steam, and pressure, which modifies every fiber of the board resulting in superior rot-resistance, reduced moisture absorbency, and greater longevity.
1. Unrivaled Quality and Grading
Not all wood can handle the extreme temperature fluctuations of a sauna. At SteamSaunaBath, we provide only the highest-grade lumber, specifically selected for thermal stability.
Vertical Grain Selection: We prioritize vertical grain cuts, which minimize warping, cupping, and twisting over time.
Clear, Knot-Free Options: Knots in wood can get significantly hotter than the surrounding surface, potentially causing burns. Our "Clear" grade selections ensure a smooth, cool-to-the-touch experience, which is essential for sauna benches and backrests.
Kiln-Dried Precision: Our wood is kiln-dried to a specific moisture content (typically 10%–12%) to ensure it doesn't shrink or gap after installation.
2. Diverse Species for Every Aesthetic
Different woods offer different benefits and looks. Our wood selection is meticulously selected, and we stock the most sought-after species in the industry:
Western Red Cedar: Naturally decay-resistant with that iconic, soothing aroma.
Hemlock: A non-allergenic, economical choice with a clean, uniform look.
Aspen & Alder: Contemporary, light-colored woods that stay exceptionally cool.
Thermo-Aspen & Thermo-Alder: Warm, rich color and superior durability.
Nordic Spruce: Authentic "Finnish" feel with small, tight knots for a rustic vibe.
3. Technical Expertise & Project Support
Buying sauna wood isn’t like buying lumber for a deck. You need to calculate board footage accurately.
The SteamSaunaBath Advantage: Our team consists of sauna specialists, not just warehouse clerks. We help you calculate exactly how much wood you need, reducing waste and saving you money.
4. Sustainability and Sourcing
We believe a wellness product should be good for the planet. SteamSaunaBath partners with mills that practice sustainable harvesting. Our Western Red Cedar and Hemlock are sourced from responsibly managed forests, ensuring your home retreat is built with an ethical conscience.
Ready to Start Your Build?
Choosing the right wood is the difference between a room that lasts five years and one that lasts fifty. Don't settle for "big box" lumber that isn't rated for high-heat environments.