Outdoor Saunas

Custom Sauna Installations for Irvine Backyards, Patios & Pools

Bring the comfort of a spa right to your backyard with a custom outdoor sauna designed for year-round use in Irvine’s mild climate. Whether you’re adding a retreat beside your pool, enhancing a garden space, or creating a rooftop sanctuary, our outdoor saunas are built for beauty, durability, and lasting performance in Southern California weather.

What’s Included in Every Outdoor Sauna Build

Each outdoor sauna we build is designed around your property layout, lifestyle, and long-term goals. From preparing the foundation to testing the heater, we manage every detail. Clients can also choose from optional features such as covered entries, accent lighting, or seamless integration with pools, spas, and outdoor living areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are outdoor saunas different from indoor models?

Outdoor saunas are engineered to withstand the elements while offering a direct connection to nature. Unlike indoor units that are limited by existing walls and space, outdoor saunas give you more freedom in size, design, and placement. They’re perfect for patios, pool decks, gardens, or even rooftop installations.

We construct them with premium materials like Western Red Cedar, thermally treated wood, and weather-protected hemlock. Each project includes weatherproof insulation, roof venting, and UV-resistant finishes. Thanks to Irvine’s temperate climate, outdoor saunas can be comfortably enjoyed throughout the year without heavy winter modifications.

Where can an outdoor sauna be placed on my property?

Outdoor saunas can be customized to fit a wide range of settings. Popular installations in Irvine and surrounding communities include:

Poolside retreats in Irvine, Lake Forest, and Tustin

Garden and patio corners in *Costa Mesa, Laguna Hills, and Mission Viejo

Rooftop saunas in Newport Beach luxury properties

Courtyards and wellness patios for spas, gyms, or wellness studios

During your consultation, we evaluate your site for privacy, exposure, drainage, power access, and aesthetics to determine the best location.

Do outdoor saunas require a foundation?

Yes. A stable, level base is essential for safety and performance. We typically recommend:

* Concrete pads for maximum durability

* Compacted gravel bases for natural drainage

* Raised deck platforms for elevated or wood-finish installations

Our team will assess your yard or patio and either work with existing surfaces or guide you through simple preparation steps. If needed, we can coordinate with trusted local contractors for foundation work.

What heating systems work best outdoors?

All major heating methods can be adapted for outdoor saunas. The best choice depends on your property and preferences:

* Electric heaters: Convenient, efficient, and easy to control—ideal for urban homes.

* Wood-burning stoves: Create a rustic, traditional sauna experience, popular in larger yards.

* Hybrid systems: Combine infrared and traditional heat for flexible use.

* Steam generators: Deliver a moist, spa-like environment for deep relaxation.

Whichever system you choose, our team ensures professional installation with safe wiring, clearances, and ventilation.

Are barrel saunas a good option for Irvine?

Barrel saunas have gained popularity for their compact size, fast heating, and attractive price point. Their rounded design allows for efficient air circulation, but there are trade-offs:

* Durability: Barrel saunas generally have a shorter lifespan compared to fully enclosed framed structures.

* Weather Protection: They may lack the insulation and resistance needed for long-term performance in coastal or humid environments.

* Placement: They must sit on a perfectly level, well-drained surface to prevent warping.

At The Custom Saunas Pros Of Irvine, we install barrel saunas for clients who want a quick, stylish option, but we often recommend custom-framed outdoor builds for those seeking better insulation, stronger weather resistance, and seamless integration with features like plunge pools, patios, or shade structures.

Not sure what’s right for you? Our design team will review all options during your consultation so you can make an informed choice that suits your space, budget, and lifestyle.