Choosing between an indoor and outdoor sauna is one of the most important decisions you'll make before purchasing. Both deliver a genuine steam sauna experience — but they are engineered for fundamentally different environments. Installing the wrong model in the wrong location will not only damage the unit, it will void your warranty entirely. This guide will help you understand exactly what sets them apart and how to make the right choice for your space.
The Core Difference: Weatherproofing
The single most important distinction between our indoor and outdoor saunas is how they handle moisture and weather exposure.
Our outdoor saunas (VS and VT series) are built with a V-shaped roof specifically designed to channel rainwater away from the structure. All exterior wood surfaces are treated with oil-based wood wax — a deep-penetrating finish that seals the wood against moisture, UV radiation, and seasonal temperature changes. These units are engineered to remain outdoors year-round without degradation.
Our indoor saunas (SH and ST series) use a water-based clear lacquer on their surfaces and feature a flat panel top that provides no waterproofing whatsoever. If an indoor sauna is placed in any environment where it is exposed to rain, condensation, or standing water, moisture will penetrate the wood, reach the internal wiring and electrical components, and cause irreversible circuit damage.
⚠️ Warranty Notice: Any electrical damage resulting from incorrect placement of an indoor sauna in an outdoor or moisture-exposed environment is not covered under warranty. Please ensure you select the correct model for your intended installation location before purchasing.
Outdoor Saunas: VS & VT Series
Our outdoor sauna lineup is purpose-built for open-air installation. Whether positioned on a backyard deck, a garden patio, a poolside area, or any other exposed outdoor surface, these units are designed to withstand the full range of outdoor conditions across all seasons.
Both the VS and VT require installation on a stable, level, solid base — a concrete pad or composite decking is strongly recommended. An uneven or soft surface can compromise the structural integrity of the unit over time.
VS Model — US Fir Wood
The VS Series is crafted from US Fir, known for its light natural color, straight grain, and clean wood appearance. Its warm, understated tone gives the sauna a classic, natural look that blends easily into patios, backyards, and other outdoor spaces.
US Fir also takes protective finishes well, allowing the wood’s natural grain and character to remain visible while enhancing everyday protection. The result is a simple, natural, and traditional sauna aesthetic that works well across a wide range of outdoor settings.
VT Model — African Mahogany
The VT series is crafted from African Mahogany, a premium hardwood prized for its rich, deep grain, warm reddish-brown tones, and exceptional resistance to warping and shrinkage. Mahogany's density gives it outstanding long-term dimensional stability, making it particularly well-suited to climates with significant humidity variation or seasonal temperature swings. If you are looking for a sauna that makes a visual statement in your outdoor space while delivering lasting structural performance, the VT is the premium choice.
Both VS and VT include:
- V-shaped roof with engineered rain runoff — no pooling, no leaks
- Oil-based wood wax treatment on all exterior surfaces
- Full outdoor weatherproofing for year-round use
- Designed for installation on a stable, level, solid outdoor base
Indoor Saunas: SH & ST Series
Our indoor sauna lineup is designed for controlled interior environments where moisture and weather are not factors. Ideal installation locations include a dedicated sauna room, a finished basement, a home spa bathroom, or a climate-controlled garage. In these settings, the SH and ST deliver a full, immersive steam sauna experience with a refined interior finish.
It is essential to understand that indoor saunas must never be installed in any location exposed to rain, outdoor humidity, or water ingress. This includes covered patios, carports, or semi-enclosed outdoor structures where condensation or indirect moisture can accumulate.
SH Series — Canadian Hemlock
The SH series is built from Canadian Hemlock, a fine-grained, pale-toned softwood that has been a staple of indoor sauna construction for decades. Hemlock is prized for being virtually odorless when heated — an important quality for those who are sensitive to strong wood scents or who prefer a neutral sauna environment. It is lightweight, thermally efficient, and provides a clean, bright interior aesthetic. The SH is the ideal choice for buyers who want a classic, no-compromise indoor sauna experience.
ST Series — African Mahogany
The ST series brings the premium character of African Mahogany into the indoor environment. The rich grain pattern and warm, deep tones of mahogany create a distinctly spa-like atmosphere that elevates any interior space. Mahogany's density also contributes to excellent heat retention, meaning the sauna reaches and maintains temperature efficiently. For buyers who want their indoor sauna to serve as both a wellness tool and a design feature, the ST is the premium option.
Both SH and ST include:
- Water-based clear lacquer finish — optimized for interior aesthetics
- Flat panel top — not designed or rated for water or weather exposure
- Must be installed in a fully enclosed, dry indoor environment
- Not suitable for outdoor use under any circumstances
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Outdoor — VS / VT | Indoor — SH / ST | |
|---|---|---|
| Wood Type | US Fir (VS) / African Mahogany (VT) | Canadian Hemlock (SH) / African Mahogany (ST) |
| Roof Design | V-shaped with rain runoff | Flat panel — not waterproof |
| Surface Finish | Oil-based wood wax (exterior) | Water-based clear lacquer (interior) |
| Weather Resistance | ✅ Full outdoor exposure rated | ❌ Indoor dry environment only |
| Installation Surface | Stable, level outdoor base required | Dry, enclosed indoor space required |
| Electrical Safety | Designed for outdoor moisture conditions | Not rated for moisture exposure |
| Warranty Coverage | Valid for outdoor installation | Void if installed outdoors or in wet conditions |
How to Choose: The Right Questions to Ask
1. Where exactly will this sauna be installed?
This is the most critical question. If the installation location is exposed to rain, outdoor humidity, or any form of moisture — even indirectly — you must select an outdoor model (VS or VT). If the location is a fully enclosed, climate-controlled indoor space, an indoor model (SH or ST) is appropriate. When in doubt, choose the outdoor model. The consequences of installing an indoor sauna in a wet environment are severe and not covered under warranty.
2. What wood character suits your space?
US Fir and Canadian Hemlock offer a lighter, cleaner aesthetic with a more traditional sauna feel. African Mahogany delivers a richer, darker, more premium visual character. Mahogany is available in both outdoor (VT) and indoor (ST) configurations, so you do not have to sacrifice aesthetics for the right environment rating.
3. What matters most to you — durability in the elements, or ambiance in a curated space?
Outdoor models are engineered for structural longevity under real weather conditions. Indoor models are optimized for interior finish quality and the spa-like atmosphere of a controlled environment. Both perform exceptionally well in their intended setting — the key is matching the model to the environment, not the other way around.
4. Do you have the right base or floor prepared?
Outdoor saunas require a solid, level foundation — a concrete pad is ideal. Indoor saunas require a flat, dry floor surface. Confirm your installation site is ready before ordering to avoid delays.
Still unsure? Contact our team before purchasing. We're happy to help you confirm the right model for your specific installation environment. Getting this right from the start protects your investment and ensures your warranty remains valid.
