| Pam Senior, director of Wigan-based Viking Saunas, Lancashire, explains: “We are finding that as the popularity of saunas at gyms and leisure centres has grown, so has the number of people asking us if it is possible to have their own at home to use as and when they want, and whether they have enough space available.
“Using bespoke manufacturing methods, saunas can be designed and built to fit into even the smallest of spaces such as spare rooms, lofts, cellars, garages and even garden sheds. By building onsite, rather than installing a standard model, our saunas can fit areas of practically any shape or size, and even incorporate alcoves or sloping ceilings, avoiding the need for major structural changes.
“There is no plumbing required – you are dealing with pure heat, thus taking away any need for drainage or an extractor. The cost to run a sauna starts from as little as 30-35 pence an hour, making it a most affordable touch of luxury. The only requirement is a level floor and electricity supply.”
One customer who has had a sauna built into the spare room of his 4-bedroom semi-detached Greater Manchester home is Steve Ball.
Predominantly an unused area of the house, he investigated the practicality of having a sauna installed. The sauna had to fit into the limited space available, with a maximum budget of £3500.
Viking Saunas completed the installation of the sauna cabin in the space of just a few days, with very little disruption to Steve’s home. Manufactured from kiln-dried Spruce and Obeche timber from sustainable sources, it comfortably seats up to 4 people. The area already had a flat and stable floor, so the only action required by Steve was the provision of an adjacent electrical supply.
Steve says: “Maintenance and cleaning of the sauna has proved extremely easy, and the running of it very economical. The price of the sauna included having a dual-action heater fitted, which gives me the option of either pure dry heat, or the moisture of a wet-room.
“Having my own sauna is something I had often considered, but didn’t realise it would be so affordable and straight-forward. It is not just a luxury for me to enjoy at any time, but an investment that adds to the value of my home.
“Along with making good use of a room that was previously empty, it also makes an interesting start to dinner conversation!”
Prices for an average family-sized sauna (to seat up to 4 people) start at £2650 + VAT (excluding fitting). |