Can You Move an Outdoor Sauna?
Outdoor saunas aren’t glued to the earth—yes, you can move them! Whether it’s prefab or custom-built, relocating your sweat sanctuary takes the right tools, planning, and a bit of muscle. Read on for mobility tips, reinstallation advice, and how to avoid a steamy disaster mid-move.
Evaluating Portability: Kit Saunas vs. Custom Builds
Outdoor saunas come in different types, and each affects how easy they are to relocate. Some are made to be modular and simple to disassemble. Others are more permanent and fixed in place.
Modular Kits: The Most Relocation-Friendly Options
Pre-fabricated saunas are made in a factory and assembled on-site. Their modular design makes them easier to take apart and transport.
These types are ideal for anyone who may want to move their sauna later on. They’re designed with flexibility in mind, which can make relocation much simpler.
Barrel Saunas: Why Their Unique Shape Makes Moving Easier
Barrel saunas, with their rounded structure, are often simpler to shift around. Their shape allows them to be rolled or more easily placed onto a trailer.
They’re usually smaller and self-contained, which helps when moving short distances. With proper protection, they travel well.
Custom Built-in Saunas: When Moving Becomes Permanent
Custom saunas are built directly into a space, usually with permanent fixtures. These are the hardest to move and often require professional help or reconstruction.
Because they’re built to fit a specific location, moving them may mean dismantling major sections. It’s not impossible—but it’s a bigger project.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Safely Relocate Your Sauna
Once you've decided to move your outdoor sauna, it’s time to plan your approach. You’ll need to decide whether to hire professionals or tackle the task yourself.
This choice depends on the sauna's size, your available tools, your experience, and budget.
Preparation: Safety First and Electrical Disconnection
Before any move begins, safety comes first. Disconnecting the electrical supply properly is essential, especially if your sauna uses a heater.
Hiring a Licensed Electrician to Decommission the Heater
Always hire a licensed electrician to safely turn off and disconnect the heater. Electricity is no joke, and trying to DIY this part can be dangerous.
A proper disconnection avoids damage to the system and keeps everyone safe during the move.
Inventory Checklist: Labelling Screws, Brackets, and Trim
Before disassembly, label all screws, panels, and brackets. Take photos if needed and make a checklist to track each part.
This helps prevent confusion during reassembly and ensures you don’t lose anything important.
Disassembly vs. Whole-Unit Moving Methods
Depending on your sauna's type, you can either move it whole or take it apart first.
Each method has its pros and cons, depending on the distance and size of the unit.
The "Roll and Slide" Technique for Short-Distance Moves
For short distances, like relocating within your garden, you might be able to roll or slide the sauna using furniture dollies.
This works best with barrel or compact modular saunas. Just make sure the path is clear and stable.
Using a Flatbed Trailer or Professional Movers for Long Distances
If the sauna needs to travel far, loading it onto a flatbed trailer is a smart move. Professional movers have the tools and skills to handle heavy, awkward shapes.
This reduces the risk of breakage and makes transport much smoother.
Protecting the Cedar Wood and Glass Doors During Transport
Use padded blankets or foam to protect wood surfaces and glass panels. Secure everything tightly with straps.
This helps avoid scratches, cracks, or any structural damage during loading and travel.
Reinstalling Your Sauna in its New Location
Once you’ve moved your sauna to the new spot, proper setup is key. This ensures your sauna is safe and performs as it should.
A few checks and adjustments can make a big difference.
Site Preparation and Electrical Reconnection
Start by making sure the ground is level and stable. A poor foundation can affect performance and safety.
Ensuring a Level Foundation: Gravel, Concrete, or Decking
Options like gravel beds, wooden decking, or a concrete pad work well. Just make sure it’s flat and well-drained.
A solid base prevents warping and keeps the structure sound.
Upgrading Wiring and Meeting Local Building Codes
When reconnecting the electricity, bring in a professional again. This is also a good time to upgrade older wires or control systems.
Check your local building codes too—some areas have specific rules for outdoor sauna installations.
Post-Move Maintenance and Inspection
Before you fire up your sauna, give it a full once-over. Catching issues early helps prevent long-term damage or safety risks.
Checking Seals and Tightening Barrel Tension Bands
Inspect all seams and seals. Make sure nothing has shifted or come loose during the move. For barrel saunas, tighten the tension bands to maintain the shape and structure.
Replacing Sauna Stones and Re-Oiling the Exterior
Refill your heater with fresh sauna stones if any were damaged or lost. Clean and re-oil the exterior to protect the wood from the elements.
Regular maintenance extends the sauna's life and keeps it looking great.
Other content you might like:
Share this
Popular posts
Leave a comment