Why choose Thermowood? Hot tubs and Saunas.
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Why Thermowood Is the Ultimate Material for Saunas and Hot Tubs
When it comes to building a high-performance sauna or a durable wooden hot tub, the choice of material is everything. Among the many options available, thermally modified wood, also known as thermowood, stands out as the superior choice—not just for its stunning appearance but also for its unmatched resilience in high-moisture environments.
Whether you're designing a luxurious outdoor wellness space or a premium steam room, thermowood delivers on all fronts: durability, beauty, comfort, and long-term stability.
What Makes Thermowood Different?
To understand why thermowood is a preferred material in the wellness industry, it’s important to look at how it’s made. Thermowood is produced by treating ordinary wood at extremely high temperatures—ranging between 185°C and 205°C—in an airless environment. This process completely transforms the wood's cellular structure, making it:
- Significantly more moisture-resistant
- Less prone to warping, cracking, or rot
- Geometrically stable even in high humidity and heat
- Naturally antiseptic and low in resin content
In fact, thermowood absorbs 3–5 times less water than untreated wood and “moves” up to 60% less—meaning fewer issues with expansion, contraction, or deformation over time.
Is Thermowood Still Natural?
Yes. Thermowood retains all the core characteristics of natural wood—it still breathes and responds to changes in temperature and humidity. However, these movements are significantly reduced, resulting in far less maintenance and a longer lifespan.
That said, it's important to note that thermowood still requires regular upkeep. After delivery or assembly, we recommend treating your sauna or hot tub with a protective glaze or paint to preserve its natural beauty and function.
Why Thermowood is Ideal for Saunas
The interior environment of a sauna is intense—high heat, fluctuating humidity, and direct skin contact all play a role. That’s why thermowood is especially well-suited for sauna construction:
- Safe to the touch: It stays cooler than ordinary wood, even at high temperatures, reducing the risk of burns.
- More comfortable: The smooth finish and texture make it pleasant to sit or lie on, even without a towel.
- Durable in heat and humidity: Unlike untreated spruce or pine, thermowood doesn’t easily warp, swell, or degrade in steamy conditions.
- Insulative: It retains heat efficiently, enhancing energy use and user comfort.
Design Possibilities: A Visual Masterpiece
Thermowood isn't just functional—it’s visually striking. The high-temperature treatment gives the wood a rich, dark tone, and each type of wood develops its own unique texture and color variation. From light caramel hues to deep chocolate shades, thermowood adds depth and elegance to any sauna interior.
Mixing wood types or alternating board colors can create stunning visual contrasts. And unlike conventional wood, thermowood retains its color and finish over time—even in demanding sauna conditions.
Key Advantages of Thermowood in Sauna & Hot Tub Manufacturing
- ✅ Eco-Friendly – 100% natural with no chemical additives
- ✅ Highly Durable – Long-lasting and structurally stable
- ✅ Rot & Mold Resistant – Ideal for wet environments
- ✅ Minimal Deformation – Withstands heat and moisture better than standard spruce
- ✅ Thermal Insulation – Efficient heat retention
- ✅ Design Flexibility – Wide range of textures and tones
- ✅ Safe to Use – Comfortable surface temperature
The Only Downside? Cost.
The only significant drawback of thermowood is its higher price point. The production process is more complex and resource-intensive than traditional wood treatments, which adds to the cost. However, when you consider the long-term benefits—reduced maintenance, better performance, and aesthetic appeal—it’s a wise investment for any premium sauna or hot tub setup.
Final Thoughts
If you're investing in a sauna or hot tub built to last, thermowood is the smart choice. With its blend of durability, natural beauty, and high performance under pressure, thermowood takes your at-home wellness experience to the next level.
Whether you're after modern elegance, rustic charm, or Scandinavian minimalism, thermowood offers the perfect foundation for creating your personal sanctuary of heat, steam, and relaxation.
Visit our Thermowood Sauna range here
Visit our Thermowood Hot Tub range here