Almost Heaven Sauna Installation and Owner's Manual

Important Safety Instructions

DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE: Indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related.

Read all instructions before installation and use to avoid injury or damage to the sauna. Follow safety information in this document to avoid serious injury or death. Refer to your local building codes for any specific installation requirements. All electrical work needs to be completed by a licensed electrician. Failure to do so could cause injury or damage to the heater.

Keep these instructions for future reference.

• This sauna is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the sauna by a person responsible for their safety.
• Consult your doctor about any health-related limitations related to sauna use. Ignoring advice from your medical provider could cause serious injury or death.
• Do not let people with pre-existing health conditions bathe in the sauna on their own. Using the sauna could cause these users to lose consciousness.
• Parents should consult your pediatrician before allowing children to use the sauna. Ignoring advice from your medical provider could cause serious injury or death.
• Do not smoke, use alcohol, or exercise in the sauna. These tasks could cause users to lose consciousness.
• Do not exceed 30 minutes in the sauna at one time, as excessive exposure may be harmful to health. The sauna should not be used as an endurance test.
• Do not place any combustible material over the sauna heater (towels, bathing suits, wooden bucket or ladle)! This will cause the sauna to catch fire.
• Hyperthermia occurs when the internal temperature of the body reaches a level several degrees above the normal body temperature of 98.6 °F. The symptoms of hyperthermia include an increase in the internal temperature of the body, dizziness, lethargy, drowsiness, and fainting.
• Only use stones approved for sauna heater use. Inadequate stones may crack or explode leading to serious injury.
• Do not sleep in a sauna when the heater is operating. Sleeping in a heated sauna may lead to injury or death.
• Keep all occupants away from the heater and when it is hot. The stones and outer surface of the heater may burn your skin.
• Do not throw excessive amounts of water on the stones. The evaporating water is boiling hot and could cause burns.
• Do not throw water directly onto the elements. This could cause burns and damage to the heater.
• Be very careful when moving in the sauna, as the benches and floors may be slippery. This could cause the user to slip and fall.
• Do not alter the sauna in any way, unless explicitly instructed in this manual. Altering the sauna could lead to structural damage, increasing the risk to bodily harm.
• When moving and lifting heavy pieces, use two or more people. Moving pieces without adequate manpower will lead to injury.

A Word About Our Saunas

Almost Heaven sauna kits are designed for ease of assembly by the customer. If you have questions, contact Almost Heaven at 888-355-3050 or sales@almostheaven.com.

Saunas are designed for outdoor use but can be used indoors. The lumber is naturally resistant to the elements; rain and sun will not damage the wood, though natural weathering will occur. To preserve the initial look, an exterior stain with UV inhibitors can be applied. Do not paint or varnish the interior. Properly assembled, water should not drip inside.

Locating the Sauna

Plan ahead for the heating-cooling-resting regimen. Saunas can be placed in various settings. Ensure the surface is firm, level, and can support over 1,000 lbs. A deck or concrete slab is ideal. If placed directly on the ground, use paver stones under base boards to prevent settling.

Basic Tools

Helpful tools for assembly include:

• Cordless Drill
• Drill Bit Set
• Bit Set
• Rubber Mallet
• Hammer
• Framing square
• 1/4" Hex Bit
• Socket Wrench
• Utility knife
• Level
• Tape Measure
• Ladder
• Table or Skill Saw

First Considerations

Ensure the installation surface is level. Sloped floors may require shimming. An uneven surface can lead to poor-fitting staves and function. If heavy winds are a concern, take precautions to secure the door.

Electrical Requirements

Consult licensed electricians for quotes on electrical work, considering distance from the service box and local costs. Use copper wire with 90°C insulation; do not use aluminum wire for connections. All wiring must comply with national, state, and local codes. Refer to the provided heater manual for specific installation and operation instructions.

Parts List

Overall Dimensions

The sauna has overall dimensions of approximately 8' 2-5/8" (width) x 8' 2-5/8" (depth) x 8' 2-5/8" (height), with variations noted in the plans.

Floor/Foundation Plan

The document shows floor plans for both right-hand and left-hand door configurations, indicating the placement of walls W1, W2, W3, and W4 with specific dimensions. It also details a foundation plan showing the minimum requirements for the base frame to rest upon, noting that a solid rectangular foundation is also acceptable. Dimensions like 6' 2-100-91/04" and 72-07/80" are indicated for the foundation layout.

Base Assembly

Diagram Description: Image 1 depicts the placement of the four main base frames (W1, W2, W3, W4) which form the perimeter of the sauna. These are glued at the corners and screwed together using eight 5 x 80 screws. The dimensions of these base frames are provided in the parts list.

Diagram Description: Image 2 shows the placement of the eight floor base frames inside the outer base frames. The drain is positioned in the middle to align with a hole in the side of the W3 wall. Each floor frame end is toe-screwed to the outer base frames using 4 x 60 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 3 & 4 illustrate hammering eight iron pins into the pre-drilled holes in the base frame, securing the structure.

Note: Assembly instructions are shown for a right-hand door. For a left-hand door, mirror all steps. Ensure the sauna foundation is sturdy, level, and can support the sauna's weight to prevent injury. A moisture barrier between the base wood and foundation is recommended, as is anchoring the sauna to the foundation for wind protection.

Wall Assembly

Important: Predrill all screws to prevent breakage. Use a wooden strip/block when hammering planks to avoid direct impact on the groove. Check corners for right angles before fastening.

Diagram Description: Image 5 shows the installation of wall planks layer by layer, starting with the back wall (W2). Joints are glued, and ends are toe-nailed and screwed using 5 x 80 screws. Iron pins are hammered into the wall plank after each layer. The second row on the W3 wall should include the ventilation hole plank.

Diagram Description: Image 6 illustrates continuing the wall plank installation for seven rows. The seventh row plank on the W4 wall (by the door) needs to have a notch at the top.

Diagram Description: Image 7-8 details placing the plank with the notch in the bottom on W4 for the 8th row, repeating this for rows 12 and 13. The ventilation plank is placed on W2 in the 14th row (Image 8), and the over-window plank on W4 (Image 9).

Diagram Description: Image 9 shows placing the over-door cutout plank on W1 in the 15th row. A full plank is then placed on W1, toe-screwed to the plank below, and also fastened through the front face.

Window & Door Installation

Diagram Description: Image 10 shows installing the two main window units from the outside into the opening in the W1 wall.

Diagram Description: Image 11 illustrates attaching the exterior window panel using five 3.2 x 40 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 12 & 13 depict installing the interior window panel pieces from inside the sauna, securing them into the window panel frame with 3.2 x 40 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 14 shows pushing the exterior door into place from outside and fastening it by screwing through the wall plank notches into the door frame using 5 x 80 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 15 illustrates covering the door/wall plank seam from the inside using the interior door panel pieces and fastening them with 3.2 x 40 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 16 shows fastening the door handle by installing screws through the handle hardware.

Upper Wall Installation

Diagram Description: Image 17 shows placing the ventilation plank in the 16th row on the back W2 wall and toe-screwing it. Stainless steel ventilation grilles are then installed in the holes.

Diagram Description: Image 18 illustrates placing the upper triangle planks on the W1 and W3 side walls.

Diagram Description: Image 19 shows gluing and fastening these upper triangle planks on the W2 wall, similar to previous steps.

Diagram Description: Image 20 & 21 detail installing planks in rows 16-17 on the front W4 wall, followed by the ventilation plank in row 18. These are toe-screwed, and stainless steel ventilation grilles are installed.

Inner Roof Installation

Diagram Description: Image 22 shows installing roof support strips approximately 8-1/4 inches below the top of the walls, using four 4 x 70 screws per support. Note the 82° cuts on the roof supports for correct placement.

Diagram Description: Image 23 & 24 illustrate placing the roof panels onto the installed roof support strips. If installing a wood-burning heater, it is recommended to cut the through hole in the ceiling panels at this stage.

Flooring & Floor Cover Strip Installation

Diagram Description: Image 25 shows installing floor boards from the front wall towards the drain, and then from the drain to the back wall, starting on the wall opposite the door. The first board is installed 3/16" away from the walls for expansion, screwed into each base frame with 3.5 x 50 screws. Every third board is screwed down on both ends into the base frame. The last board at the door is fastened similarly to the first.

Diagram Description: Image 26 illustrates repeating the floorboard installation for the other side of the drain.

Diagram Description: Image 27 & 28 show installing the floor cover strips using 3.5 x 50 screws, ensuring they are fastened into the walls, not the floor boards.

Bench & Backrest Installation

Diagram Description: Image 29 shows installing bench support slats onto walls W1 & W3. The upper support slats (19-1/2 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/8) are placed 35-7/8" off the floor, and the lower support slats (35-3/8 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/8) are placed 20-1/8" off the floor. Each support is fastened with three 5 x 60 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 30 & 31 illustrate installing the ventilation slide over the vent holes in the W2 and W3 walls using four 3.2 x 40 screws per slide.

Diagram Description: Image 32 shows placing the benches onto the support braces and fastening the backrest 8-10" above the top bench, or at a comfortable height, using three 3.5 x 50 screws.

Heater Protection Installation

Diagram Description: Image 33 shows fastening a 19-1/4 x 2-3/4 x 1-1/8 heater protection piece to the wall opposite the door using two 4 x 60 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 34 illustrates fastening a 26-1/2 x 2-3/4 x 1-1/8 heater protection piece to the front face of the lower bench, approximately 34" from the wall, using two 4 x 60 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 35 & 36 show fastening the two 39-3/8 x 3-1/2 x 1-1/8 heater protection pieces to the top and face of vertical pieces using 3.5 x 50 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 37 details connecting the strut from the long support to the underside of the lower bench using two 4 x 60 screws at each connection.

Foot Step Assembly

Diagram Description: Image 38 & 39 show connecting the four feet to the foot step using three 3.5 x 50 screws in each leg.

Outer Roof Installation

Diagram Description: Image 40 illustrates placing the roof rafters into the notches at the top of the W1 and W3 walls and fastening them using 6 x 150 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 41 shows fastening the tongue and groove roofing boards, starting from the left with the groove facing out, and working across the roof to the right. Boards are fastened into each roof rafter using 3.5 x 50 screws, leaving an 11" overhang on the back side. Boards should remain parallel.

Diagram Description: Image 42 indicates that the last board will need to be cut in width to avoid overhanging the rafters.

Diagram Description: Image 43 shows the installation of wind battens and wind batten support strips.

Diagram Description: Image 44 illustrates fastening the side wind batten strips to both sides of the sauna into the roof rafter ends using 5 x 100 screws.

Diagram Description: Image 45 shows attaching the 100-3/8 x 5-1/8 x 1-5/8 front wind batten support strip below the tongue and groove, noting the 82° cut on one edge. It is fastened using 3.5 x 50 screws through the tongue and groove.

Diagram Description: Image 46 shows attaching the 100-3/8 x 1-5/8 x 1-5/8 back wind batten support strip below the tongue and groove, also with an 82° cut, fastened using 3.5 x 35 screws through the tongue and groove.

Diagram Description: Image 47-49 detail installing the wind battens for the front and back, fastening them into the wind batten support strips using 3.5 x 35 screws.

Recommendation: Purchase shingles, metal roofing, or another suitable roof covering from a local hardware store to finish the roof for a waterproof seal and extended life.

Corner Cover & Outer Ventilation Installation

Diagram Description: Image 50-52, 54 show the installation of corner covers using 3.5 x 50 screws. The ends of the corner covers at the roof have 82° cuts where required.

Diagram Description: Image 53 & 54 illustrate installing the outside ventilation grilles over both ventilation holes, using four 3.5 x 50 screws in each grille.

Heater

Please refer to the separate heater manual for installation and operation instructions. Ensure power is turned off at the breaker before working on the heater. Improper installation can lead to falls, burns, or other injuries. Allow the heater to cool to room temperature before adjusting stones to prevent burns.

Final Steps

After assembly, sweep and vacuum the interior. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. If the sauna absorbed moisture during storage, staves may shrink as moisture evaporates, potentially requiring band tightening. Exposure to rain can cause staves to expand, creating a tighter seal.

The exterior wood is untreated. To increase durability, treat the outside only with an exterior-grade stain or sealant with a UV inhibitor. Never treat the interior unless specifically approved for sauna use, and never use varnish or paint on the exterior.

Traditional Sauna Use

Saunas can be used in a wet or dry fashion. Dry use involves not sprinkling water on stones; wet use increases humidity by sprinkling water on stones. Start with small amounts of water for a wet experience.

The traditional Finnish sauna experience involves:

• Set the heater to the desired temperature, typically 160-185+ °F. Novices should start lower.
• Take a quick shower or dip in a hot tub/pool.
• Enter the sauna for 5-15 minutes, using a towel, until perspiring freely.
• Cool down with a plunge in a pool, shower, snowbank, or lake, followed by 10-20 minutes of relaxation.
• Re-enter the sauna. Sprinkle small amounts of water on stones for steam. Avoid excessive water that drains to the floor.
• Repeat the process. After the final visit, relax for at least 20 minutes. Shower with warm water, finishing with cool water.

Crucially, stay hydrated throughout the process.

Care & Maintenance

Treating Lumber: Lumber is naturally resistant. Left untreated, the exterior will weather naturally. Pressure washing (low pressure) can restore color. For natural color retention, use an exterior stain with a UV inhibitor. Follow manufacturer instructions for application.

Cleaning Lumber: Vacuum or brush out loose dirt periodically. Discoloration on floors and seats from perspiration or dirt can be cleaned with a baking soda and water solution, followed by rinsing. Heavier stains can be sanded with fine-grit sandpaper. Low-pressure pressure washing is also effective.

Location and Geography: Climate affects lumber due to swelling, contraction, and fading. These effects do not impact quality but may require more frequent band tightening or re-staining. Check band tension and fading every few months, especially early on.

Replacement of Sauna Stones: Stones may crack over time. Use only stones designed for your sauna heater. Replacement stones are available from Almost Heaven Saunas.

Replacement Parts: Exterior parts like staves, doors, and components can be purchased from Almost Heaven Saunas.

Accessories: Almost Heaven Saunas offers accessories like leg rests, back rests, drink holders, robe hooks, and fragrances. Visit www.almostheaven.com for details.