Choosing the Right Sauna | Craftsmanship Guide

At Ember and Ice Wellness, we know that investing in a sauna is about far more than just purchasing a product — it is about creating a sanctuary for longevity, recovery and everyday renewal.

But with the modern market expanding rapidly, how do you choose the right sauna for your home or commercial project?

Understanding the landscape is the first step.
O. Winter

The Three Tiers of the Sauna Market
1. Budget Saunas
Typically manufactured for the entry-level buyer, budget saunas often focus on affordability at the expense of performance, durability and aesthetics.
Materials are often softwoods such as untreated spruce or pine, and insulation is minimal or absent. These units tend to have a short lifespan — often showing wear, warping or mechanical failure within a few years.
2. Mid-Level Saunas
A step up in both build quality and design, mid-level saunas use more stable woods and somewhat improved insulation. You will find more attention to detail, better heating systems, and more stylish finishes. However, longevity can still vary significantly depending on the brand and craftsmanship.
3. Luxury Saunas
The luxury category is defined not only by beautiful aesthetics but by a commitment to true performance, long-term durability, and craftsmanship that honours sauna tradition.
This is where Nordic and Estonian-built saunas truly stand apart.

None of them were lost. In fact, I ended up hearing sounds that I hadn’t heard before. Echoes…birds chirping…wind blowing through trees…breathing of the characters…it was very impressive what the headphones ended up bringing out for me.

Nordic and Estonian Saunas: The Gold Standard
At Ember and Ice Wellness, we specialise in sourcing and supplying Nordic and Estonian saunas, and here’s why:
Superior Craftsmanship: These saunas are built by master craftspeople with generations of knowledge, using time-honoured construction methods refined by modern technology.

Thermo-Treated Wood: Thermally modified timber undergoes a controlled heating process which enhances its durability, moisture resistance, and stability — critical for maintaining structure under the extreme heat and humidity of sauna use. It also creates a beautifully rich, dark finish without the use of chemicals.

Full Insulated Construction: Unlike basic models, premium saunas use high-performance insulation, ensuring faster heat-up times, superior energy efficiency, and a more stable sauna climate.

Performance Longevity: With proper care, a high-quality Nordic sauna will last upwards of 20 years, delivering consistent performance and timeless beauty through decades of use.

Investment Guide: What to Expect
Budget Range: £2,000 – £6,000

Mid-Level Range: £6,000 – £12,000

Luxury Range (Nordic/Estonian Craftsmanship): £12,000 – £25,000+ depending on size, design, and level of customisation.

Why Paying More Truly Matters
A premium sauna is an investment not just in your space, but in your health, wellbeing and future.
Paying for superior materials, proper insulation, skilled craftsmanship and intelligent design ensures:
Lower running costs (through better heat retention)