The Foundation \nIn 1975, industry icon Locksin Thompson founded Blackthorne Hot Tubs on core values that remain the backbone of the company today. Those values have grown Blackthorne into the trusted pool and spa experts across six Central California counties.\nPride in Integrity\n"Do the right thing, because it is the right thing to do." These words, spoken by Locksin, define the daily fabric of everything Blackthorne represents.\nInnovative Experts\nBlackthorne stays cutting edge through ongoing consumer and staff training, embracing the latest technology, information, and world-class products.\nEnjoy the Experience\nEvery product, service, and piece of expert advice has one focus — you. Our ultimate purpose is to create the best possible experience for every customer.
"We purchased a Big Deal on gutter cleaning. We waited a couple of months to use it (waiting until all the leaves were down). It took several calls to get a response. I finally contacted the provider through the Angie's List Serve website, at which point I got a prompt and professional response. From there, the company was very easy to deal with. The service was scheduled within a few days, and the guys who came out to do it did a good job. They let me know that they could install a better gutter system if we were ever interested, but did not do a hard sell. "
"AHS is ok. They cover repairs of most everything under the roof of your house. The companies that contract with them are not always the best. You call AHS with the issue, they send a fax to the repair company and give you the contact info. If they don't contact you within 24 hours, you call them. Sometimes they answer, sometimes they don't. When they arrive (usually three days or so later), they service the item. if it has issues within the 90 days, you call AHS again, they are sent out with no charge. If the serviceman decides the unit is unrepairable, AHS will allow you to choose a replacement from their listing (usually not as good as what you have) they will install and remove your old item, or give you wholesale amount to buy and install your own. Prices vary on what you want covered and what you want the copay to be, plus where you live. For me it is 49.99 per month with a 75.00 time of service order. You can have more than one item serviced at the same time under the same fee. If you have a SEAR product the repair guys are great. Not that wild about the other ones they send out. But it is a big savings compared to calling someone on your own. The cost of service is only the 75.00 copay."
Both saunas and steam rooms offer some health benefits as well as a good return on investment. While there’s more research on saunas than steam rooms and fewer reported risks with steam rooms, the latter tend to be better for reducing stress. Which one is better depends on the benefits you’re looking for, your budget, and if you have space to build a sauna.
A home sauna may be considered a luxury item by some homebuyers, which can provide a good return on investment. However, whether it increases your home's value ultimately depends on the buyer, as some may not want to take on the extra costs and maintenance associated with heating and upkeep.
The primary difference between a steam shower and a sauna is the type of heat they produce. A sauna generates dry heat using electricity, while a steam shower creates wet heat from steam, resulting in nearly 100% humidity. A steam shower typically replaces an existing shower, has an opening at the top, and operates at a lower temperature (around 90-120°F) than a sauna, though the high humidity can make it feel just as warm. It is advisable to limit steam sessions to 20 minutes. In contrast, a sauna is a fully enclosed space that can be placed anywhere in a house and produces dry heat.
Considering the cost of tools, parts, and hiring assisted labor, building your own sauna can cost almost as much as purchasing one. It is less expensive to buy sauna kits, since they are premade and easier to set up. Still, you may need to hire a professional to assist in electric or plumbing installation.
No, you should only choose high-quality wood to build your sauna. Not all types of woods can withstand the pressure from heat or moisture. Only use softwoods, such as cedar and aspen, that are known for absorbing heat and resisting water.
The Big Sur, CA homeowners’ guide to sauna installation services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Home sauna costs aren’t cut and dry. It depends on the model and your space. If you want to install a sauna, this guide will help you plan your budget.
Find out what impacts sauna repair cost, get estimates, and learn how to save on repairs. Empower your budget with expert tips for every sauna repair scenario.
If you’re wondering who to call to install a sauna, we’ve got you covered. This guide weighs the pros and cons of hiring a sauna installer versus an electrician.
