What Is the Most Popular Outdoor Sauna Type in Ontario? Barrel Sauna!

What Is the Most Popular Outdoor Sauna Type in Ontario? Barrel Sauna!

Imagine a giant wooden barrel turned on its side – that’s a barrel sauna! The most popular type of outdoor sauna in Ontario! Its unique shape not only looks cool but also ensures even heat distribution. Plus, it’s compact and fits snugly into outdoor spaces. Barrel saunas can vary significantly in design and offer lots of customization options to suit different tastes and needs. 

Reasons for the Popularity of Barrel Saunas in Ontario

The popularity of barrel saunas in Ontario can be attributed to their efficient heating, compact design, aesthetic appeal, durability, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness. Their ability to quickly heat up and maintain high temperatures makes them particularly suited for Ontario’s cold climate. Additionally, their rustic charm and space-saving design make them a versatile and attractive addition to any outdoor space. Whether in a suburban backyard or a lakeside cottage, barrel saunas offer a perfect blend of functionality and visual appeal, making them the top choice for many Ontarians seeking a cozy and effective outdoor sauna experience.

Efficient Heating and Energy Use
  • Design Efficiency: The unique cylindrical shape of barrel saunas allows for efficient air circulation and even heat distribution. This design minimizes the volume of air that needs to be heated, making it more energy-efficient compared to other types of saunas.
  • Quick Heating: Barrel saunas tend to heat up faster than other designs, which is particularly advantageous in Ontario’s cold climate.
Compact and Space-Saving
  • Footprint: Barrel saunas have a smaller footprint compared to traditional cabin saunas. This makes them ideal for smaller backyards or properties where space is a premium.
  • Versatility: Their compact size allows them to fit into a variety of outdoor settings, from cozy backyards in urban areas to spacious cottage properties.
Aesthetic Appeal
  • Rustic Charm: The rustic, natural look of a wooden barrel sauna complements Ontario’s picturesque landscapes, blending seamlessly with both modern and traditional property styles.
  • Visual Appeal: The distinctive barrel shape adds a unique and attractive element to outdoor spaces, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking to enhance their backyard aesthetics.
Durability and Weather Resistance
  • Quality Materials: Barrel saunas are typically made from durable woods like cedar or redwood, which are resistant to rot, decay, and the harsh weather conditions of Ontario.
  • Longevity: The natural properties of these woods ensure that barrel saunas can withstand the varying climate of Ontario, from hot summers to freezing winters.
Ease of Installation
  • DIY-Friendly: Many barrel saunas come in easy-to-assemble kits, making them accessible for those who prefer DIY projects.
  • Minimal Foundation Requirements: Unlike larger cabin saunas, barrel saunas often require minimal foundation work, simplifying the installation process.
Cost-Effectiveness
  • Affordable Option: Barrel saunas are generally more affordable than larger, more elaborate sauna designs. Their cost-effectiveness makes them an attractive option for a wide range of budgets.
  • Low Operating Costs: Their energy efficiency translates into lower operating costs over time, providing ongoing savings.
Barrel Sauna Design Variations 
Shape and Configuration
  • Standard Barrel: The traditional cylindrical shape.
  • Oval or Elliptical Barrels: Offer more headroom and seating space.
  • Hybrid Designs: Some designs incorporate elements of both barrel and cabin saunas.
Size and Capacity

The compact models are suitable for one or two people, perfect for small backyards or limited spaces. The larger models: can accommodate up to eight people, ideal for social gatherings or family use.

Material Choices

Common wood type options include spruce, cedar, and redwood. Each type of wood has its own aesthetic and durability properties. You can opt for natural finishes or stained in various colors to match outdoor decor.

People Often Ask: 
Do I need a building permit to place a barrel sauna on my backyard?

Sauna is an accessory building, like a shed. If a barrel sauna you want to install in your backyard has a “footprint” (the space on the ground that the building will take up) less than 10 metre2, a building permit is not required. A larger barrel sauna will require a building permit.

Where can I buy a barrel sauna in Ontario?

There are a variety of barrel saunas for sale at Sauna Depot – the sauna building business located in Cookstown: 3791 ON-89, Cookstown, ON, L0L 1L0

Can I visit a showroom (if any) to see barrel saunas close up?

Absolutely! We welcome you to visit our showrooms to see the saunas we build close up and discuss your options with our knowledgeable staff. There are two locations (but please contact us beforehand to schedule a visit):

  1. 3791 Hwy. 89, Cookstown, ON, L0L 1L0, CANADA
  2. 2921 ON-11, ORO STATION, ON, CANADA
Who can I contact if I need an expert advice, or have a question, or just want more information about saunas?

You are very welcome to contact Sauna Depot. Our experts will be happy to give you an advice or answer your questions about saunas. You can reach us via phone, email, or through the contact form on our website:

Enjoy your barrel sauna all year round!