Tahoe Backyard Sauna

Location (City/State/Country): South Lake Tahoe California

Construction Type: custom_build

Structure Type: shed/cabin

Stove Type: electric

Stove Model: FLB-80

Ventilation: passive

Interior Wood Types: cedar, pine, redwood

Cost of Construction: 6000

Year of Construction: 2022

Notable / Unique Features: Custom exterior "steampunk Sauna" light

Rating: 6

Review of Sauna: Built this sauna in my backyard. This was my introduction to sauna construction (and building construction in general). Generally, the sauna turned out great, even on a frugal budget. It fits 6 people comfortably and we've fit up 10 inside on the top bench. It heats up to 180-200 F within one hour and stays pretty warm as people come and go to the cold plunge. I've had some issues with heating elements in the FLB-80 burning out and needing replacement. If I were to do anything different I would have wired in some under-bench lighting for a good mood light. The loyly (steam) experience still feels a bit harsh even though all of the sauna seats are a good distance away from the heater. The heat cavity above the door is above 12 inches; in an ideal world I would have increased that to 18-24 inches and made the benches higher. The benches were constructed of redwood 2x4s. For the interior paneling I used cedar fence pickets and used a dado blade on a table saw to create shiplap panels out of them. They turned out great, though it took some time. On one of the walls and for part of the ceiling I used pine paneling from Lowes. I wouldn't recommend it as the pine knots drip sap at high heat conditions.

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