
Why Canadian Cedar Is the Ultimate Choice for Your Outdoor Sauna
When investing in a traditional outdoor sauna for your home, the choice of timber matters. It affects everything—from how your sauna performs to how long it lasts. At Elevate Saunas, we exclusively use Canadian Western Red Cedar, and here’s exactly why it outshines cheaper alternatives like pine, thermowood, Nordic spruce, and Japanese rustic cedar.
Superior Durability in Australian Conditions
Canadian Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and decay—making it the perfect match for Australia’s diverse climate. Unlike pine or thermowood, cedar doesn’t warp, crack, or degrade under intense heat and humidity, ensuring your sauna stands strong for decades.
Exceptional Thermal Insulation
Cedar’s low density makes it one of the most thermally efficient sauna timbers available. It heats quickly, retains warmth, and stays comfortable to the touch—even at high sauna temperatures. This is a key advantage over denser woods like Japanese cedar or thermally modified spruce, which often get too hot or feel uncomfortable against the skin.
Naturally Aromatic and Non-Toxic
The signature aroma of Western Red Cedar is not only pleasant and grounding—it’s also naturally antibacterial and free from resin or sap. Pine and spruce can emit harsh resins under heat, which can irritate the skin and lungs. Cedar creates a clean, calm, and authentic sauna atmosphere—exactly what you want from your wellness sanctuary.
Unmatched Aesthetic Appeal
With its rich colour tones—from honey gold to deep reddish-browns—Canadian Cedar brings warmth, depth, and elegance to any outdoor space. Cheaper alternatives like pine or thermowood lack this natural character and often require artificial stains to look appealing.
Built to Last—and Worth the Investment
While pine, thermowood, and other budget-friendly timbers may lower the initial price tag, they often come with higher long-term costs in maintenance, repairs, or full replacements. Cedar’s structural integrity and resistance to weathering make it a smart, future-proof investment for homeowners who value quality and longevity.
The Verdict
If you're building a sauna to last—one that enhances your outdoor space, adds value to your home, and delivers an authentic, restorative experience every time—Canadian Western Red Cedar is the clear winner.
At Elevate Saunas, we never compromise on quality. That’s why every traditional outdoor sauna we offer uses 100% sustainably sourced Canadian Western Red Cedar—crafted to thrive in Australian backyards.
📞 Ready to Elevate Your Outdoor Wellness?
Contact us today to explore our handcrafted cedar saunas or book a free sauna consultation. Your backyard escape starts here.