Barrel Sauna vs Square Sauna: Which One Should You Choose?

Ready to relax and unwind in the comfort of your own backyard? A home sauna might be just the ticket. But with so many options out there, how do you choose? Let’s dive into the ultimate sauna showdown: barrel sauna vs square sauna.

What’s the Difference Anyway?

Barrel saunas are just what they sound like – sauna rooms shaped like a giant barrel:

• Cylindrical shape with curved walls
• Typically made from cedar, spruce, or pine wood staves bound by metal bands
• Compact size, usually fitting 2-4 people
• Unique rustic aesthetic
  ![Barrel sauna example][]

Square saunas are the more traditional cabin-style rooms:

• Boxy rectangular shape with straight walls
• Wood or prefab materials
• Larger sizes available to fit more people
• Clean, modern look![Square sauna example][]

So besides looks, what sets these saunas apart? Let’s compare their key features and benefits.

Heating Efficiency

One of the biggest differences between barrel and square saunas is how quickly and evenly they heat up. Here’s the scoop:

Fast Heating

Barrel saunas have 23% less cubic feet of air to heat compared to square saunas of the same size. The cylindrical shape also eliminates cold corners. This means barrel saunas:

• Heat up faster, reaching optimal temps in about 30-40 min
• Require less energy to run
• Are more efficient and cost-effective

Square saunas take longer to preheat, around 45-60 min, because of their larger air capacity and 90° corners where heat gets trapped.

Even Heat Distribution

In a barrel sauna, heat circulates more freely due to the curved walls and lack of upper benches blocking airflow. This allows for:

• Steady, even temperatures throughout
• No cold spots
• Consistent heating from floor to ceiling

Square saunas are prone to heat rising to the ceiling, leading to uneven temps and chilly lower benches.

Comfort & Ergonomics

Barrel saunas may be more compact, but many find them to be surprisingly comfortable and spacious inside.

Roomy Interior

While barrel saunas look small from the outside, once you step in you’ll find:

• Ample head room, even for taller folks
• Spacious wraparound benches
• Plenty of leg room to stretch out

Square saunas can feel more closed-in, especially if crowded. Straight-back benches may not be as comfy for long sessions.

Ergonomic Seating

The curved benches in barrel saunas double as an ergonomic backrest that contours to your body. This offers:

• Built-in lumbar support
• Comfort for your head, neck and shoulders
• A natural reclined position for relaxing

Sit up straight on a flat square sauna bench for too long and your back may start to ache.

Size & Capacity

Barrel saunas are more limited in size, while square saunas allow for larger designs. Consider:

Capacity

Most barrel saunas accommodate 2-4 adults max. Square saunas can be built for:

• 4-8 person capacity, or more
• Multiple rooms and doors
• Separate changing areas

Dimensions

Common barrel sauna sizes range from:

• 4′ to 7′ diameter
• 6′ to 7′ total length
• 6’4″ total height

Square saunas have more flexible dimensions and can be customized. But they require more square footage overall.

Aesthetics

Looks aren’t everything, but they do matter when it comes to your dream sauna. Will you choose rustic charm or modern minimalism?

Unique Barrel Style

With its round profile and metal bands, a barrel sauna is a striking backyard feature. It offers:

• Cozy cabin vibes
• Vintage appeal
• An eye-catching conversation starter

Sleek Square Design

For a chic, streamlined look, go with a square sauna. You’ll get:

• Clean lines and right angles
• A spa-like atmosphere
• Easier integration with modern home design

Outdoor Durability

If your sauna will live outside, it’s got to withstand the elements. So which style is tougher?

Naturally Resilient

With its stave construction, a barrel sauna is built to expand and contract with temperature changes. The wood is also:

• Naturally moisture-resistant, especially cedar
• Able to endure harsh weather
• Pest and rot-resistant

Added Fortification

Square saunas can be reinforced with protective exterior materials like:

• Cement board siding
• Metal roofing
• Insulation between inner and outer walls

However, this bumps up the cost and may require professional installation.

Ease of Installation

Unless you’re a seasoned DIYer, you’ll want a sauna that’s relatively easy to put together.

Simple Assembly

Barrel sauna kits come with everything you need for assembly, including:

• Pre-built wall sections
• Benches and floorboards
• Hardware and fasteners
• Detailed instructions

One handy person can typically handle the job in a day.

Planning and Prepping

Square saunas require more materials, cuts, and construction. You’ll need to:

• Build on a level concrete pad or deck
• Frame the walls with studs
• Install insulation, vapor barriers, and paneling
• Wire the heater

The project could span several days to weeks, often with a crew or contractor.

Cost Comparison

OK, let’s talk budget. How much will each of these beauties set you back?

Barrel Sauna Prices

For a quality barrel sauna kit, expect to pay between $3,000 to $8,000. The exact price depends on:

• Size (4′ vs 7′ diameter)
• Wood type (cedar vs spruce)
• Heater (electric vs wood-fired)
• Extras like a porch or changing room

Square Sauna Costs

An average 4-person pre-built square sauna runs $3,000 to $6,000. Custom-built saunas can cost:

• $10,000 to $15,000 for a basic build
• Up to $30,000 for high-end designs
• Even more for commercial grade

Don’t forget to factor in site preparation, electrical, and labor costs for square saunas.

Health Benefits

Sweating it out in a sauna offers some pretty sweet health perks. But does shape make a difference?

Proven Sauna Therapy

No matter the sauna style, you’ll reap the many proven benefits of sauna bathing, like:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Muscle and joint pain relief
• Improved cardiovascular health
• Better sleep
• Glowing skin

Barrel Bonus

With their fast, efficient heat and steady temps throughout, barrel saunas may:

• Get you into a deep, healing sweat quicker
• Deliver more intensive sauna therapy
• Boost results for workout recovery or wellness treatments

Square saunas can definitely get the job done. You just may need to sweat a little longer to get the same impact.

Pros and Cons

Let’s sum up the biggest advantages and drawbacks of each sauna style:

Barrel Sauna Pros

• Lower upfront cost
• Energy efficient heating
• Durable and low-maintenance
• Easy to assemble
• Space-saving footprint

Barrel Sauna Cons

• Limited capacity (4 people max)
• Not ideal for tall users
• Can’t customize shape or size
• No upper benches

Square Sauna Pros

• Flexible sizing and layout
• More spacious interior
• Upper and lower benches
• Modern, built-in look
• Can convert an existing room

Square Sauna Cons

• Higher overall cost
• Slower, less efficient heating
• Requires more installation labor
• Takes up more space
• More upkeep over time

The Verdict

So, which sauna style comes out on top in the battle of barrel sauna vs square sauna? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Choose a barrel sauna if you value:

• Quick heating and energy efficiency
• Ease of installation and maintenance
• Rustic charm and space-saving design
• A lower price point

Opt for a square sauna if you prioritize:

• Maximum interior space and capacity
• Customizable layout and sizing
• Sleek, modern aesthetics
• Flexible indoor/outdoor placement

Whichever way you go, a home sauna is an investment in your health, happiness, and overall well-being. So heat things up, pick your favorite style, and start reaping the blissful benefits today!

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Feature	Barrel Sauna	Square Sauna
Heating efficiency	Faster, more even heat	Slower, less consistent
Comfort & ergonomics	Contoured benches, ample headroom	Straight benches, more closed-in
Size & capacity	Compact, fits 2-4	Customizable, fits 4+
Aesthetics	Rustic, eye-catching	Modern, built-in look
Outdoor durability	Naturally weather-resistant	Requires exterior fortification
Ease of installation	Simple kit assembly	More planning & construction
Cost	$3-8K for kit	$3-30K+ for pre-built or custom
Health benefits	Quick, deep sweat	Same benefits, may take longer

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