Barrel vs cabin sauna

Barrel makers argue the round shape heats less air and sheds weather well; cabin kits are square rooms that are often built by a carpenter. Most of the published argument comes from barrel makers, and it is attributed to them here.

Who is making the case

Most published comparisons of the two shapes come from companies that sell barrels. The points below are theirs, and named as theirs.

Heat and shape

Almost Heaven argues a barrel keeps the same usable space as a box with less overall area to heat, so it heats faster. Almost Heaven says rising heat collects at the ceiling of a box-shaped sauna, while a barrel's curved walls circulate it back down. (Almost Heaven Saunas)

Thermory says its barrels use thicker-than-usual staves, which it credits with durability and heat retention.

Weather and upkeep outdoors

Almost Heaven says a barrel's rounded roof sheds rain and the structure can carry a substantial snow load. (Almost Heaven Saunas)

Almost Heaven builds its barrels from jointed staves held under stainless steel bands so the wood can swell and shrink with humidity. Almost Heaven notes an outdoor barrel may need its bands tightened or filler staves added, usually within the first few months. (Almost Heaven Saunas; Almost Heaven Saunas)

Thermory ships its barrel saunas with a rain jacket for wet-weather cover.