Each type of wood has certain properties which impact the microclimate and even the healing effect during the time spent in the sauna. To make it easier for you to decide on the choice of material, this article will explain all about the different types of wood sauna and consider the advantages and disadvantages of each of them.

TYPES OF WOOD SAUNA

1. LINDEN 

This is a very interesting material for a sauna, which creates an excellent microclimate. The wood is light, moisture resistant, with a low shrinkage factor. It can be easily processed with any tool, even large logs can be hewn with a taiga hatchet in a couple of minutes. 

The pleasant aroma and healing properties of linden will be perfectly combined with the rapid heating of the wood and the high heat capacity of the material. 

2. ASPEN

The decoration and construction of a sauna from aspen are very popular. It is much cheaper than linden, but the mechanical characteristics are the same. It does not shrink, does not crack, does not change the geometry with frequent use of the sauna. 

Aspen fights moisture much better, but it lacks that scent and beautiful linden blossom. We can say that aspen is one of the best choices out there.

3. CEDAR

It would be a mistake to choose wood for a sauna according to the principles of "good or bad", "smells - does not smell", "beautiful - not beautiful", because all the peculiarities of wood must be taken into account. First of all, you should pay attention to the physical and technical characteristics of the tree.

As far as the options go, there are about 50 different types of wood saunas out there on the market. It is impossible not to find one that fits your expectations and preferences. With this said, here are several characteristics that you should consider.

1. Density. The average value is indicated at 15% moisture for each type of wood. In different localities, climatic conditions, and depending on the age of the tree, the density value can vary greatly.
2. Heat capacity. That is, how much heat is required for wood to raise its temperature by 1 degree Celsius. For a sauna, the lower the heat capacity, the better.
3. Thermal conductivity. That is, how energy is transferred from the warm part of the wood to the colder one. Sauna wood should not have a high thermal conductivity (that is, the smaller the better). The values ​​of the thermal conductivity of wood are given under conditions close to those of a sauna.
4. Water absorption. That is the ability of wood to absorb water, absorb it and hold it in its pores. Let us give the value of water absorption of wood in the form of the addition of the radial and tangential directions. The best wood for a sauna is one with a low water absorption value.
5. Resistance of wood due to compression (drying out). For ease of use, the given value functions have been categorized into three categories: 3 = low splitting resistance, 2 = medium, 1 = high. The lower the number, the better, naturally.
6. Resistance to decay of wood in a sauna. As in the previous case, it is divided into three conditional groups: 3 - low resistance to decay, 2 - moderate, 1 - high.

In the end, your preferences are the most important factor. But be careful with your choice of wood. For example, some people like the smell of pine needles in the sauna. But there is a prejudice that under the influence of high temperatures, conifers emit toxic and carcinogenic resins. Make sure to get well informed about the characteristics of each option before you make the decision.

FINAL WORDS

It is important to understand that a concept like "the best wood sauna" is entirely relative and depends on taste and preferences. In general, you can make one from most tree species but some are simply not suitable. 

Well, now you are well-versed in the choice of wood for bath and sauna decoration, and you can already imagine what your own steam room will look like. The harmonious decoration of this room with natural wood will not only delight the eye but provide a healing effect on the body - so think over all the details of your project, and make each visit to the sauna a holiday for both body and soul!