Get matched with top sauna installation pros in Dover, NH

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.

It will take several hours or more to build a sauna. A prefab kit will take anywhere from three to 20 hours to install, depending on complexity and your skill level. If you’re doing a custom build, it can take more than 50 hours—especially if you need to add ventilation, ductwork, and other renovations.

Most people will opt to put their home sauna outside near a pool or on a screened-in porch so the heat doesn’t move into the rest of the house. If your house has enough room, you may choose to put it in a bathroom so you can shower right after.

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.