Once you have chosen the type of stove you will be using you will need to plan for the following when you make your own sauna:
* The size of the room where the heater will be placed - In general a room's size will depend on how many bathers will usually use it, the stove's capacity and the bench arrangement.
* A space for washing - If possible, plan for a separate washing facility, but if your budget or space is limited you may plan an area within the sauna itself. This is common in many Finnish country saunas. The most important thing to make provision for is a way to produce hot water.
* A dressing/relaxation area - This provides some protection from the elements and could be a basic wind breaker or open porch next to the sauna.
* A simple wood design - Using a warm material like wood brings the room a sense of peace and harmony and brings it in line with the natural environment. It will also create and area that promotes quiet, meditation and friendly socializing.
* Location - You and your guests will need a place to cool down after your sauna session so if you are able to place your sauna adjacent to a lake, river or ocean this is ideal. If these are unavailable a swimming pool or pretty shower is a great substitute. Always remember to be considerate of your neighbors when you make your own sauna.
* Orientation - When you plan your windows make yourself aware of the course of the sun and moon so that you can make the best use of the natural light effects.
Here is a list of Finnish words used in the text that follows. They will enhance your understanding of the instructions to come:
Kiuas (ke-wus)-a sauna's stove or heater.
Loyly (lou-lu)-very hot vapor that rises off hot sauna rocks.
Sauna (sow-na)-now part of the English language. Often pronounced saw-na in America.
Kiuas - The Heart of the Sauna
If you plan to make your own sauna you need to understand the importance of the correct rocks and a heat source that will render them red-hot. The kiuas whether wood, electric or gas will distribute heat evenly throughout the sweat room and if hot enough, the water will explode off the rocks and fill the room with short bursts of loyly causing the right level of humidity
