Cedar vs Thermowood – Which is Best for Your Outdoor Sauna?

Outdoor saunas have become a welcomed addition to many Australian homes however, one common question buyers often face is which type of wood is best for a sauna - Cedar or Thermowood?

In this article, to help you make an informed decision, we’ll outline the benefits and unique characteristics of these two popular wood choices.

Cedar is a type of wood that stands out for its durability and natural beauty. It's typically sourced from North America, with Western Red Cedar being the most commonly used variety in saunas.

This wood is loved for its straight grain, fine texture, and rich hues ranging from light amber to deep brown. It’s not just about looks, though - Cedar has some impressive functional qualities as well.

What is Cedar?

The Benefits

One of the standout benefits of Cedar is its natural resistance to decay and insects. This means you won’t have to worry about termites or rot compromising your sauna over time.
Additionally, Cedar offers superior insulation properties. It helps maintain the perfect heat levels inside your sauna, making each session a blissful experience.
But it’s not just about functionality; Cedar also scores high on aesthetics. Its rich colours and aromatic fragrance create a cosy, inviting atmosphere.
When it comes to durability, Cedar is hard to beat. The wood can withstand the harsh weather environments, whether it's scorching summers or wet winters. You don’t have to spend too much time or effort on maintenance either. You choose to let it go ‘architectural grey’ or for added protection a light natural UV protector can assist.

The amazing feature of Cedar is that it is an enduring timber and that it will retain its great aromatic smell for many many years.

What is Thermowood?

Thermowood is created through a process called thermal modification. This involves heating the wood to high temperatures in a controlled environment, altering its structure and properties.

The result is a stable and durable material. Common types of wood used for Thermowood include pine and spruce, which undergo this transformation to become more resilient.

The Benefits

One of the standout features of Thermowood is its enhanced stability. The thermal modification process reduces the wood's moisture content, making it less prone to swelling, shrinking, or warping. That can be particularly useful in the fluctuating climates found in many parts of Australia.
Thermowood also offers resistance to decay and insects.
And when it comes to durability, Thermowood performs well. It can withstand different weather conditions, from the hot, dry summers to the cooler, wetter months. However, while it's durable, it might not have the same longevity as Cedar in harsher environments.
In terms of maintenance, Thermowood is relatively low-maintenance. It doesn’t require frequent treatments or special care to maintain its integrity. A simple routine of regular cleaning should suffice.

Insulation and Heat Retention

When it comes to insulation and heat retention, Cedar and Thermowood each have their strengths.

Cedar is known for its excellent insulation properties. This is mainly due to the natural cells in the wood that are full of tiny air pockets - these act like a shield of insulation and it is why cedar. Due to this natural property of the cedar, you’ll spend less time and energy heating your barrel sauna. You’ll benefit by making sessions more efficient and enjoyable.

Thermowood also performs well in retaining heat due to its reduced moisture content from the thermal modification process. However, it may not match Cedar's natural insulating abilities.

For those seeking the ultimate in user comfort and energy efficiency, Cedar often has the edge.

Aesthetics and Sensory Experience

Aesthetically, both Cedar and Thermowood bring unique qualities to the table.

Cedar boasts rich, inviting colours that can range from light amber to deep brown. It's fine texture and straight grain give it a visually appealing look that enhances any outdoor space.

Add to that Cedar’s signature aromatic scent, and you have a sensory experience that elevates your sauna sessions.

Thermowood, on the other hand, offers a more uniform appearance with a neutral, understated look. While it lacks Cedar's natural fragrance, it still provides a clean and modern aesthetic. If you prefer a more subdued visual presentation, Thermowood might appeal to you.

Longevity and Lifespan

In terms of longevity and lifespan, Cedar tends to outperform Thermowood.

Cedar is naturally resistant to decay and insects, which means it can endure for many years, even under harsh outdoor conditions. Many users report their Cedar saunas lasting for decades with minimal maintenance.

Almost Heaven has barrel saunas constructed over 30 years ago still in use and being enjoyed everyday - now that is durability at its best!

Thermowood is durable as well, thanks to the thermal modification process that improves its resistance to decay. However, it might not be as long-lasting as Cedar, particularly in extreme climates, like in Australia.

Expert opinions generally agree that while Thermowood is a solid choice, Cedar’s natural resilience gives it a longer expected lifespan.

Cost and Value

When it comes to the initial investment, there’s a bit of a difference between Cedar and Thermowood.

Cedar typically comes with a higher price tag due to its premium qualities and natural durability, like the Lewisburg Cedar Barrel Sauna. Think of it as buying a high-end piece of furniture; you pay more upfront, but you’re getting something that will last and look great for years.

Thermowood, on the other hand, is generally more budget-friendly.

Now, let’s talk about long-term value.

While Cedar might be more expensive initially, it often pays off in the long run. Its natural resistance to decay and insects means fewer repairs and replacements over time. Plus, the excellent insulation properties of Cedar can save you energy costs, making each sauna session more efficient.

Thermowood does offer good value as well, particularly if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option. However, it might not have the same lifespan as Cedar, which could mean additional costs down the road for maintenance or replacement.

For buyers in Australia, considering factors like local weather conditions is important too.

Cedar’s natural resilience to harsh climates can provide peace of mind, knowing your investment will stand the test of time.

Environmental Impact

Cedar is often praised for its sustainability. Many sources of Cedar, particularly in North America, are managed responsibly to ensure long-term forest health. Sustainable forestry practices ensure that for every tree harvested, several more are planted, maintaining the ecological balance.

Additionally, Cedar’s natural resistance to decay means it doesn’t require chemical treatments, making it an eco-friendly choice from start to finish.

Thermowood also has a notable sustainability profile, but it comes with some nuances. The thermal modification process itself is quite eco-friendly, as it typically uses only heat and steam, without the need for chemicals. This process enhances the wood's durability and longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thus conserving resources over time.

However, the energy required for the thermal modification process should be considered when evaluating its overall environmental impact.

Which is Greener?

When comparing the overall environmental footprint, both Cedar and Thermowood have their strengths.

Cedar boasts sustainable sourcing and minimal need for chemical treatments, making it a green option from harvest to usage.

On the other hand, Thermowood’s chemical-free modification process and extended lifespan contribute positively to its eco-friendliness, though the energy used in the process does add to its footprint.

Yes, both Cedar and Thermowood offer environmentally conscious choices for your outdoor sauna.

Cedar’s sustainable sourcing and natural properties make it a strong contender for those prioritising eco-friendliness, while Thermowood’s innovation in durability and low-maintenance needs also presents a compelling case.

Weighing these factors can help you decide which option aligns best with your values and environmental goals.

Conclusion

We’ve learned that both Cedar and Thermowood both bring unique strengths to the table when it comes to outdoor barrel saunas.

However, it really comes down to personal preference and budget.

Cedar often edges out Thermowood due to its long-term cost savings, aesthetic appeal, and unmatched durability. These factors can make a significant difference in the overall experience and value of your outdoor sauna.

However, if you’re after a budget friendly option, Thermowood is still very much a viable option.

If you want to see it for yourself, check out Heavenly Saunas' extensive range of Western Red Cedar barrel saunas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Cedar a better insulator than Thermowood?

Cedar has natural insulation properties that help retain heat more effectively, making your sauna sessions warmer and more energy-efficient.

Is Cedar more expensive than Thermowood?

Yes, Cedar generally costs more upfront due to its premium qualities and durability. However, it offers long-term value that can offset the initial investment.

Which wood lasts longer—Cedar or Thermowood?

Cedar typically has a longer lifespan due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. Properly maintained Cedar saunas can last for decades. Thermowood is durable but may not last as long as Cedar in harsh climates.

Are both Cedar and Thermowood eco-friendly choices?

Yes, both woods are eco-friendly, but in different ways. Cedar is sustainably sourced and requires no chemical treatments. Thermowood's thermal modification process is chemical-free, although it does use more energy.