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Why is Western Red Cedar a preferred choice for saunas?
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Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insects — without requiring chemical or heat treatment. Its porous cell structure means it stays cooler to the touch, even in high heat, making it more comfortable for sauna use.
Cedar also offers excellent dimensional stability, a calming natural aroma, and rich, warm aesthetics. These qualities make it a popular choice for those wanting a long-lasting, premium sauna experience.
How does it compare to Thermowood?
Thermowood (a heat-treated softwood) is a more budget-friendly option and still performs well in sauna settings. However, it can become hotter to the touch, may be more prone to cracking over time, and doesn’t have the same scent or visual appeal as cedar.
While both woods are suitable, Western Red Cedar is generally preferred for its natural comfort, beauty, and durability.
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Can I customise my sauna?
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Yes, customisation options are available. You can choose different sizes, wood types, seating layouts, doors, and additional features such as porches or changerooms to suit your preferences.
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What heater options are available?
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You can choose between electric and wood-burning heaters:
- Electric heaters are easy to operate, heat up quickly, and often include timers and digital controls.
- Wood-burning heaters offer a traditional sauna experience, perfect for rural or off-grid setups.
We’ll help you decide which option best suits your space and lifestyle.
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How long does it take for a sauna to heat up?
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It depends on the heater and outdoor temperature, but most saunas heat up in 30–45 minutes. Barrel saunas heat slightly faster due to their efficient shape.
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How are the saunas shipped?
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All our saunas are shipped as pre-fabricated kits, designed for easy DIY assembly. Each kit includes all necessary components and clear instructions.
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What is the typical lead time for delivery?
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Lead times can vary based on the specific model and custom options. Typically, saunas are shipped within 12 weeks after the order is placed.
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Do I need planning permission for my sauna?
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In most cases, no planning permission is required for outdoor saunas. However, we always recommend checking with your local council, especially if your property is listed or in a conservation area.
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How easy is it to build the sauna ?
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Our saunas are designed for DIY assembly and come with detailed, step-by-step instructions. If you’re comfortable using basic tools, most customers find the build process straightforward. We also offer assembly videos and extra guidance to help along the way.
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Are the saunas covered under warranty?
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Yes, all Dundalk LeisureCraft saunas come with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers structural components. We’ll provide full warranty details with your purchase.
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How do I maintain my sauna?
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Our saunas are crafted from high-quality Canadian Western Red Cedar, which is naturally resistant to rot, mould, and decay — making it ideal for outdoor use with minimal upkeep.
To keep your sauna looking and performing its best:
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Allow it to dry out between uses by leaving the door open when not in use
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Clean benches and flooring regularly with warm water (no harsh chemicals needed)
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Avoid staining or sealing the interior — the cedar is best left untreated to breathe naturally.
We’ll include a full care guide with your sauna to help you maintain it for years to come.
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What if my sauna begins to leak?
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Outdoor saunas, especially those made from solid wood like cedar, can occasionally let in small amounts of water – particularly in heavy rain or as the wood naturally expands and contracts. This is normal and not harmful. The sauna will dry out quickly when heated, and any minor water marks can be gently sanded away.
To minimise this, we recommend the optional roof (included with our package deals), which offers added protection and helps preserve the saunas beautiful finish over time. Regularly checking and tightening the aluminium bands (barrel sauna) will also help maintain a snug, water-resistant fit.
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How can I take care of the wood?
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If not treated, under the influence of the weather, the sauna will turn grey-silver over the years. Keep in mind that this does not affect the quality of the sauna or the wood. If you want to maintain the original colour of the wood, you can treat the outside of the sauna with Osmo wood oil every two years to prevent discolouration. Please remember that you do not need to put oil on the inside of the sauna.
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What if I have additional questions or need support?
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Our dedicated team at Outback 365 is here to support you before, during, and after your purchase.
Whether you need installation advice or aftercare support, we’re just a call or message away.