Hekla saunas are built with Thermowood which is 100% natural. The heat treatment process is chemical-free and the improved performance is achieved simply by the controlled application of heat and steam.
Our wood material is certified Nordic Spruce which is sourced from Northern European forests and grown with sustainable practices. Thermally modified Nordic Spruce is aesthetically pleasing wood material that is significantly more durable and stable than conventional timber.
Roof shingles are also provided on the roof to protect the sauna and increase the insulation.
What are the advantages of using Thermowood to build a sauna?
Thermowood is wood that has been subjected to a heat treatment process that involves heating the wood to high temperatures (usually between 200-220°C) in the absence of oxygen. This process changes the chemical and physical properties of the wood, making it more durable and resistant to decay. Some potential advantages of using Thermowood in a sauna include:
- Increased durability: The heat treatment process makes Thermowood more resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage, so it may last longer than untreated wood in a damp, humid environment like a sauna.
- Improved stability: The heat treatment process also changes the wood’s cellular structure, making it less prone to swelling and shrinking, which can improve its stability and reduce the risk of warping or cracking.
- Enhanced appearance: The heat treatment process can also change the colour and texture of the wood, giving it a more uniform and attractive appearance.
- Increased resistance to fire: Thermowood has a higher ignition temperature and a lower rate of flame spread than untreated wood, which makes it safer to use in a sauna.
- Sustainability: Depending on the source of the wood and the production process, Thermowood may be a more sustainable choice than untreated wood, as it uses less energy and generates fewer emissions during the production process