Sauna Installation Costs

Installing a home sauna is a more common occurrence than most people realize. The cost of sauna installation varies, depending on the size and style of sauna you want, what extras or additional features are included, where it is installed, and the costs of labor. If there is any electrical or construction work required, you will need to factor that into your budget, as well.

It is less expensive, generally speaking, to install a sauna outdoors than indoors. Although you need higher-quality materials, you do also avoid the space constraints of installing one indoors. You can find basic, affordable options all the way up to high-end, custom models.

Sauna installation: 4 person sauna, labor cost included.

Heat source costs:

Other considerations and costs

• If you choose a custom-built sauna, you may have to factor in additional materials and expenses for seating, doors, lighting and additional features. Some sauna kits include all of these elements in a package that just requires assembly and installation.
• If you need construction or demolition in order to complete the sauna installation, this will add labor costs to the project.
• Installing an outdoor sauna will require some kind of base or foundation, which could be a deck or a concrete slab. Either way, you’ll have to add this if you don’t have one and factor the costs into your budget.
• You can add a control panel to your sauna for a few hundred dollars to control the humidity and temperature. If your kit doesn’t come with one or you are custom-building one, it’s worth the upgrade.
• Additional lighting or music can be added to create the perfect mood if you have the money for additional upgrades.
• This estimate does not include taxes or permit fees. Permits may be required for the installation of a sauna, depending on its size and location, as well as where you live. Check with your installer or municipality to find out about permit costs and requirements.

Check out our guide if you need a loan for your home improvement project.

DIY considerations

• A sauna is a specialty item and it needs to be handled, installed, and set up by a trained professional. While you may be able to help with demolition or save money by purchasing your own sauna and then hiring an installer, you can’t do the entire project yourself.

References

• Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
• Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
• Literature review of DIY Web sites.