Introduction: DIY Sauna Update

First of all, big thanks to all of you who provided input on my DIY Sauna project. This is a Remix of https://www.instructables.com/DIY-Outdoor-Sauna in which I tried to address all main concerns on the project like fire hazards, waterproofness of the roof, rough interior and dangers of seizure due to the LED lighting system :-)

Stay safe!

Supplies

Step 1: Linseed Oil for the Exterior

  • I flammed the exterior of the Sauna to preserve the wood. It's an old Japanese technique called "shou sugi ban".
  • However, the black fades into grey after some time.
  • To increase the preservation effect I applied natural linseed oil.

Step 2: Stone Slabs Around the Stove

  • In order to mitigate possible fire hazards, I'm using stone slabs around the stove.
  • Place stone slabs on the floor and on the wall around the stove.
  • I used screw-in hooks for simple mounting.

Step 3: Improved Roof

  • In order to waterproof the roof you need to apply the bitumen felt over the edge.
  • Cut a proper sized piece of bitumen felt
  • Lay it over the corners
  • Mount it on the roof using heat, pressure and nails.

Step 4: Lining the Interior With Wooden Panels

  • I attached wooden panels to improve heat insulation and looks.
  • Cut the panels in size and attach them with nails or screws to the wall. Measure twice :-)
  • To save costs, I also used them on the floor.
  • Use skirting boards in the corners.

Step 5: Aerated Concrete and Metal Shield for Fire Protection

  • The chimney pipe of the wood fired Sauna stove causes fire hazards.
  • In order to protect the wooden wall where the pipe leaves the sauna I use an aerated concrete block. It is supposed to be sufficiently heat resistant and doesn't release toxic fumes.
  • First cut the block in size. You can use a saw. Then mark the cut out for the chimney pipe. I used a drill and a hammer to make the hole.
  • Make a cut out in the sauna wall. Insert the block in the Sauna wall. It should sit firmly so measure twice.
  • Right above the chimney pipe install a metal shield on the ceiling to deflect the heat. I used a simple metal shield which I put on screw-in hooks.

Step 6: Fibre Optic Star Ceiling

  • This one is optional. It is a lot of work to insert all the optical fibre into the ceiling...
  • I used the same wooden panels for the ceiling as for the wall and floor.
  • I used the space over the door to mount the LED light for the optical fibre.
  • Cut the panels in size.
  • Randomly mark drill holes on the panels. Make sure that the overall number of drill holes matches the available optical fibre.
  • Drill the holes slightly larger than the fibre. It will be easier to insert the fibre into the panels (e.g. 1mm drill and 0.75mm fibre).
  • Jam the first panel into the ceiling.
  • Pull the fibre trough the drill holes.
  • Secure the fibre with a drop of solvent-free glue.
  • Mount the panel on the ceiling using screws or nails.
  • Now test the functioning.
  • If the LED system is working repeat the steps above until the ceiling is covered.
  • Cut the protruding part of the fibre.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Now that I'm finished it's time for me to enjoy a Sauna session. With this remix it is even safer and more enjoyable!