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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.