Why Timber Choice Matters in Wellness Builds
The timber used in saunas, hot tubs, and ice baths must endure extreme conditions—high heat, constant humidity, and, in some cases, exposure to cold water. Unlike standard construction timber, sauna timber and hot tub timber need to resist warping, cracking, and decay while remaining comfortable to the touch. Our range is curated for exactly these purposes, offering unmatched visual appeal, aromatic properties, and long-term structural stability.
Top Timber Selections for Saunas and Hot Tubs
- Western Red Cedar – Prized for its natural resistance to rot, insects, and moisture, Western Red Cedar is a go-to choice for both sauna interiors and hot tub surrounds. It remains cool in high heat, has excellent dimensional stability, and emits a calming, earthy aroma—making it perfect for sauna benches, wall linings, and hot tub exteriors.
- Sugi – Also known as Japanese Cedar, Sugi is a lightweight, aromatic softwood with a beautiful straight grain and warm golden-red tones. Its ability to resist moisture and insulate heat makes it ideal for traditional Japanese ofuro tubs, ceiling cladding, and decorative sauna detailing. It offers a soft, refined atmosphere without compromising durability.
- Hinoki – A luxury timber used in traditional Japanese bathhouses, Hinoki is celebrated for its smooth texture, delicate citrus scent, and resistance to mould and decay. Often chosen for high-end hot tubs, ice baths, and feature elements within saunas, Hinoki brings a serene, spa-like quality to any wellness setting. Its antibacterial properties and slow aging make it an elite option for premium builds.
Applications of Sauna and Hot Tub Timber
Each timber we offer brings its own strengths to a range of wellness-focused applications:
- Sauna Interiors
Timbers like Western Red Cedar and Sugi are perfect for lining the interior of saunas—used on walls, ceilings, benches, and floors. Their low heat conductivity means surfaces remain gentle on the skin, even when temperatures rise. Hinoki is often used for accent walls or feature pieces in luxury saunas, offering a sensory experience through scent and texture.
- Hot Tub Construction
Sugi and Hinoki are traditionally used in Japanese soaking tubs, or ofuro. Their ability to retain heat while resisting swelling and decay makes them ideal for full-timber tub construction. Western Red Cedar is often used for exterior cladding and seating areas around hot tubs, providing a warm visual aesthetic and high performance in humid environments.
- Ice Baths and Cold Plunge Tubs
When exposed to cold water and rapid temperature shifts, timber must remain stable and resistant to cracking. Hinoki excels in these conditions due to its fine grain and natural water resistance. It is widely used for cold plunge tubs and ice bath interiors. Western Red Cedar also performs well for external panelling and structural framing around plunge pools and recovery zones.
Why Choose Our Sauna and Hot Tub Timber?
We work closely with trusted mills and suppliers to bring you sustainably sourced, performance-graded timber ideal for high-end wellness projects. Whether you're building a personal retreat or a commercial spa, our sauna and hot tub timber range is selected to meet the highest expectations of durability, comfort, and style. Each species is kiln-dried for maximum stability and carefully prepared for ease of installation and finishing.
Explore our curated collection of Western Red Cedar, Sugi, Hinoki, and more—timbers chosen for their ability to perform in the most demanding environments. For sauna timber, hot tub timber, or premium ice bath timber that brings natural beauty and proven longevity to your wellness space, get in touch with our team today.