Which wood should you choose for your sauna?

When building or renovating a sauna, there are several wood options to consider. While appearance and color tones are important, other factors such as heat resistance, durability, and moisture tolerance also play a key role. The right wood enhances both the function and atmosphere of your sauna.

Below, we explore the most common sauna wood types, along with exclusive options for a more customized and luxurious sauna experience.

Popular sauna wood options

Aspen – The classic choice

Aspen is the most commonly used sauna wood in Sweden. It has a light color, low heat conductivity, and does not release resin, making it an excellent choice for sauna panels and benches. Additionally, aspen is highly stable against moisture fluctuations and has a smooth, natural surface.

For those looking for a darker tone with enhanced durability, heat-treated (thermo) aspen is a great alternative. This process strengthens the wood while giving it a refined and elegant finish. A particularly premium option is brushed thermo aspen, where the brushed texture enhances the wood’s rustic and natural look - perfect for a sauna with character. Another sleek option is ribbed aspen panels, which provide a modern Scandinavian touch. Available in both natural and thermo-treated aspen, these high-quality, slim panels add a stylish and contemporary feel to any sauna space.

Fun Fact: Aspen was one of the first deciduous trees to migrate north after the ice age, around 12,000 years ago.

Alder – Warm and elegant

Alder is a fast-growing hardwood that thrives in humid environments and naturally absorbs nitrogen from the soil. It is lightweight, moderately soft, and has good resilience. Its warm reddish hue is often accented by small clusters of knots, adding to its natural charm. Alder absorbs very little heat, making it an excellent choice for sauna interiors. It is often paired with aspen panels for a stylish and balanced contrast..

Fun Fact: One of the bilge pumps on the Vasa warship was made of alder. Additionally, due to its strong moisture resistance, alder is commonly used in boat building.

Spruce – A traditional favorite

Spruce is one of the most common tree species in the Nordic region and a dominant wood choice for construction and sauna building. It provides a classic, light-colored sauna interior with a natural Scandinavian feel. However, spruce can release resin, so choosing properly treated wood is crucial for sauna applications.

Fun Fact: The Royal Palace in Amsterdam stands on 13,659 spruce piles driven into the ground.

PS: Not related to saunas, but did you know that vanillin can be extracted from decayed spruce wood?

Exclusive sauna wood options

Driftwood – Rustic and natural charm

For those wanting a more organic and rustic sauna experience, driftwood panels are an excellent choice. With their textured surface, unique grain, and soft natural gray tone, they create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The distinctive appearance of driftwood makes every sauna feel personal and seamlessly connected to nature.

Taika – Modern design and exclusive finish

For those looking to create a contemporary sauna with a refined aesthetic, Taika panels are the perfect choice. These panels are wider than traditional ones and can be installed either horizontally or vertically. Their specially treated surface is maintenance-free and heat-resistant, making them excellent for a sleek and modern sauna.

Taika panels are available in several color options:

• Black – Bold and elegant, creating a striking contrast.

• Gray – A contemporary, sophisticated shade.

• Brown – Warm and inviting for a cozy atmosphere.

• White – Brightens the space for a fresh and airy feel.

• Untreated – Offers a customizable finish to match your personal style.

With the right choice of sauna panels and interior, you can create a space that is both functional and visually appealing. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of classic aspen or the luxurious feel of Taika panels, there are endless ways to customize your sauna to match your style and preferences.

Discover premium Swedish-made sauna panels

Explore our selection of high-quality sauna panels and interiors, crafted in Sweden with attention to detail. No matter the ambiance you want to create, we offer premium sauna wood options and designs tailored to your needs. Browse our collection and get inspired!

References: www.tracentrum.se and www.skogssverige.se