When building your own sauna benches, you will want seats that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Using the proper materials, planning before you build and having some basic construction knowledge will help ensure quality benches. Choose dimensions specific to your sauna and take measurements before committing to a particular design.
Things You'll Need:
- Knot-Free Cedar Planks, 1 Inch By 4 Inches
- Electric Drill
- Random-Orbit Sander
- Corrosion-Resistant Screws
- Wood Filler
- Fine Sandpaper
- Level
- Knot-Free Cedar Planks, 2 Inches By 4 Inches
Measure the space in your sauna where you will install benches and plan a design with two levels of benches.
Cut the thicker planks for the bench framework with several pieces cut to act as cross members for increased strength. Cut the thinner planks to fit above the frames.
Cut wall supports from the thicker planks. Fit the supports to the sauna walls for the benches to rest upon. Line up the wall supports at exactly the same level so the benches do not angle to one side or another.
Construct the frames using corrosion-resistant screws. Countersink the screws into the planks and the holes, then fill in with a solvent-based wood filler to prevent water from collecting. Screw the thinner planks to the frame leaving between 1/2 inch to 1 inch between each plank for ventilation.
Sand the benches to a smooth finish.
Place your benches above the permanently secured wall supports.
Tip
Make your plans based on commonly used dimensions. For example, generally the first level of the benches will be placed between 16 and 18 inches above the floor. The next level will be placed above the lower bench between 16 and 18 inches as well, leaving at least 42 inches above the upper level for headroom.
Cut all the timber prior to construction to ensure uniformity.
Warnings:
- Sanding is important to prevent splintering.
Writer Bio
Bryan Schatz began writing in 2009. His articles appear on eHow and LIVESTRONG.COM, where he specializes in travel, wood and metal craft and fitness topics. Schatz holds a Master of Arts in education and a Bachelor of Arts in community studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
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