HOW TO
Prepare for Your Sauna

Whether your sauna delivery is coordinated through our team, or prepared by your own contractor, there are a few important things to consider before delivery and placement.

Preparing your space in advance helps ensure a smoother process, safer installation, and better long-term experience.

  • No matter which sauna model you choose - barrel, tube, cube, cabin, or hot tub, we recommend leaving adequate clearance around the full perimeter.

    As a general rule, plan for approximately 12–18 inches of clearance around the sauna or wellness unit whenever possible.

    This additional space allows for:

    • delivery and setup access

    • easier installation

    • proper airflow

    • future cleaning and maintenance

    • service access if needed

  • Your sauna or outdoor wellness unit should be placed on a stable, flat, and level surface.

    Depending on the model and site conditions, suitable surfaces may include:

    • concrete pad

    • crushed stone

    • compacted gravel

    • pavers

    • flagstone

    • reinforced decking

    • professionally prepared hardscape surface

    A stable, level foundation is one of the most important parts of a successful installation.

    For organic surfaces such as grass or soil, we typically recommend adding a more stable base, such as pavers, compacted gravel, or another professionally prepared surface to help prevent settling, shifting, moisture issues, or uneven support over time.

    Foundation needs may vary by model, weight, site conditions, and local requirements.

  • Before your unit arrives, it is important to confirm the path from the delivery point to the final placement location.

    Please consider:

    • driveway access

    • gate width

    • side-yard clearance

    • steps or elevation changes

    • slopes or uneven terrain

    • fences, trees, walls, and structures

    • overhead wires or low branches

    • crane or lift access if needed

    Some models may require specialized equipment for placement depending on size, weight, and site accessibility.

    If access is limited, our team can help review possible options during the planning process.

  • If your sauna, hot tub, cold plunge, or heater requires electrical power, your site may need to be reviewed by a licensed electrician before installation.

    Electrical needs may vary depending on the model, heater type, accessories, and selected configuration.

    Customers are responsible for confirming:

    • electrical capacity

    • dedicated circuit requirements

    • wiring needs

    • permits

    • inspections

    • local electrical code compliance

    We can provide available product specifications to support conversations with your electrician or contractor.

  • If you are selecting a wood-burning heater, proper chimney clearance is essential.

    For wood-burning sauna systems, there must be adequate clearance from combustible materials surrounding the chimney and heater system.

    As a general planning reference:

    • there should be no combustible surface within the required clearance area around the chimney exhaust

    • surrounding structures, trees, fences, rooflines, pergolas, sheds, and overhead materials should be carefully reviewed

    • local requirements may vary based on your property, municipality, fire code, and insurance provider

    Because regulations differ by location, we strongly recommend confirming wood-burning appliance requirements with your local municipality, inspector, fire authority, licensed installer, and insurance provider before installation.

  • A sauna is often the centerpiece of a larger wellness experience.

    As you prepare your space, you may also want to consider:

    • cold plunge placement

    • outdoor shower access

    • lounge or recovery area

    • privacy screening

    • landscape design

    • lighting

    • drainage

    • pathways

    • towel and robe storage

    • seasonal access

    Through The Ritual Bar Co., we offer professional design support to help create a more complete outdoor wellness experience — from simple placement guidance to larger landscape and installation planning.

What Sets Us Apart

See the Craftsmanship in Person

Step inside select sauna models, compare styles, and understand the scale, materials, and design details before making your decision.

Designed Beyond the Sauna

From site preparation and placement to delivery coordination, installation guidance, landscape design, and cold plunge planning, we help you create the full outdoor wellness vision.

Rituals for Everyday Wellness

Beyond saunas, our wellness boutique is curated to support the rituals that surround recovery and intentional living — from robes and recovery essentials to skincare, body oils, aromatherapy, candles, and elevated products for before and after your session.