The Ultimate Guide to Backyard Barrel Saunas with Western Sol

Okay, Live Love Spa fam, let’s talk barrel saunas - why you need one, which one to get, and what to expect for installation. Imagine having a sleek, cozy outdoor barrel sauna right in your backyard—hello, wellness dream! That’s exactly what Lisa, our fabulous CEO, just did, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer. After connecting with Luke Chapman and Owen Buchanan from Western Sol at our Live Love Spa event in Denver, we are officially obsessed, and you’re about to be, too.

Here’s why you need a barrel sauna for your spa or home.

Why You Need a Sauna (Like, Yesterday)

I know, I know—“But why do I need a sauna?” Where do we begin? Let’s break it down:

Detox your life: Sweat out those toxins and feel fresh as a daisy.
Stress? What stress?: You’ll be zenned out in no time.
Glow, baby, glow: Sauna time = refreshed, glowing skin.
Relief for days: Say goodbye to muscle aches and hello to cozy relaxation.
Boost that immune system: Keep those sniffles away.
Clear that mind: It's basically therapy but in a steamy, wood-paneled room.
Bonding central: Best conversations happen when you’re all blissed out in a sauna—trust me.

What is a barrel sauna?

A barrel sauna is shaped just like its name suggests—a charming, oversized barrel that’s been laid on its side. The curved, cylindrical design is not just for show; it helps distribute heat evenly throughout the space. The walls are typically made of high-quality wood, like cedar or aspen, which adds a natural, rustic vibe. The front often features a glass door, and some models include additional glass windows, offering a glimpse of the world outside while you're inside relaxing in the warmth. Its compact, rounded structure makes it perfect for outdoor spaces, blending seamlessly into a backyard or garden while giving it a Scandinavian spa feel.

Why is Western Sol considered the Audi of Saunas

Western Sol isn’t just any sauna brand—it’s hand-crafted wellness magic, custom-built to look stunning and keep you feeling fab so you can focus on sweating out toxins, not stressing on the quality or process.

Why are Barrel Saunas so popular?

Barrel saunas have become super popular for a few key reasons:

Efficient Heating: The unique barrel shape allows for better heat circulation. With less unused air space, it heats up faster and stays warm longer, making your sauna experience more enjoyable and energy-efficient.
Space-Saving Design: Their compact and rounded structure makes them ideal for outdoor spaces without taking up too much room. Plus, they have a stylish, rustic look that can complement any backyard or patio. For Lisa’s sauna that fits up 6-8 people, we only needed a 7x7 footprint.
Outdoor Durability: Barrel saunas are designed to withstand the elements. Made from sturdy, weather-resistant wood, they can handle outdoor conditions while still maintaining their charm and functionality.
Customizable Options: Many brands, like Western Sol, offer custom-built features, from glass fronts to wood-fired heaters, so you can get exactly what fits your wellness goals and aesthetic.
Quick Installation: Compared to larger, more complex indoor saunas, barrel saunas are easier to assemble and set up, making them a popular choice for DIYers or those who want a hassle-free installation.
Private Spa Experience: Having a barrel sauna at home gives you all the benefits of a spa—detoxification, stress relief, and relaxation—without leaving the comfort of your home.
Social Appeal: Their cozy, intimate design makes them perfect for sharing with friends or family, turning your wellness time into a bonding experience.

With these perks, it’s no wonder barrel saunas have become a backyard favorite!

Infrared vs. Barrel Sauna: What’s the Difference?

Western Sol specializes in barrel saunas—super chic and designed for outdoor use with traditional HUUM heaters. If you’ve got the space, the barrel sauna is a great option. Infrared saunas, on the other hand, are better for indoors and plug right into a 120V outlet. Easy peasy! Although Western Sol loves their custom barrel saunas, they also offer infrared options.

Is Aspen Better Than Cedar? Oh, You Bet!

Western Sol uses Aspen wood. Honestly, total game changer. It's heat-resistant and has all the antimicrobial perks of cedar, but with better durability. So yes, it’s basically like upgrading from regular to first-class wood.

What you need to consider for a Barrel Sauna installation.

1. Determine Your Space - You’ll need approximately 10x10 space, which is a 7ft x 7ft space for your barrel sauna with a 3ft clearance around; ideally with a concrete or deck foundation (concrete pavers can be added if needed).

2. Determine your size & budget - Western Sol offers a range of sizes and options, depending on how many people you want to sauna-party with. Pricing is approximate at time of article, please inquire for most up-to-date pricing:

2-4 person sauna w/ glass door: starting at $5,790
4-6 person sauna w/ glass door & half-moon window: starting at $7,500 ($8,500 for wood-fired)
6-8 person sauna w/ all-glass front wall: starting at $10,490 ($11,490 for wood-fired)

Custom options? Oh, they’ve got ‘em! And everything comes pre-cut, ready to assemble. Ask about their custom yoga bench inside a sauna so you can do personal hot yoga at your home.

3. Assembly - Luke and Owen came out to build out our sauna, and they can do this for you too! If you live around Boise,Idaho or have multiple installations, they’re willing to assemble for you (typically starting at approx $1,000 to build the sauna + adding travel costs and lodging). They also have DIY Options as well!

4. Hire an Electrician - to hardwire the heater after the sauna build is complete We worked with Ralph’s Electrical Company (available in Orange County, CA if needed) to get everything hooked up, and here are a few pro tips from him:

Keep a 3ft clearance around the sauna for ease of access of install, maintenance, inspection and repair.
The farther the sauna is from your electrical panel, the higher the cost of installation.
Electric Installation can range 1 - 2 days
For those who love ambiance, install extra lighting—Western Sol offers LED light bars! However, for some installs, a separate lighting circuit may need to be installed - check with your electrician.

Pro-tip - Budget for this as well. Electrician costs can range from $1,000 - $4,000 depending on placement of sauna, any obstructions, time and location. Ours cost approximately $2,500.

Caring for Your Sauna? Easy Peasy!

Once your sauna is set up, maintaining it is a breeze. Just coat the inside with a non-toxic oil (included) to preserve the wood, and after each session, wipe down any sweat with a towel. The exterior? It’s durable and made to last in the elements.

Time to Sweat It Out!

Ready to bliss out? Start at 140-180°F, and if you’re feeling fancy and want to enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy, throw some eucalyptus oil in the water for a spa-level steam experience. Pro tip from Luke himself: Be intentional with your sauna time—whether it’s for solo reflection or quality time with friends. This isn’t just about sweating; it’s about re-centering your mind, body, and soul. That’s the Western Sol way.

So, what are you waiting for? Connect with Western Sol and get ready to glow.

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Meet Luke from Western Sol: Luke Chapman is the mastermind behind Western Sol! His wellness journey started in the most unexpected way—after battling a nasty case of mold exposure that left him feeling incredibly ill, his doctor gave him the ultimate wellness tip: “Get in a sauna, stat! The daily use of sauna will detox the body” he said. Being the hands-on, DIY guy he is (thanks to his expertise in construction and framing), Luke didn’t buy a sauna—he built one! Not only did he sweat out the toxins and feel incredible, but his friends and family took notice and had to have one too. What started as a personal healing mission turned into a full-blown sauna phenomenon, and thus, Western Sol was born. Now, Luke’s passion is helping others detox, relax, and glow—one handcrafted sauna at a time.