Architect Specs

When specifying a sauna for your commercial or residential project it is important to know the difference between the two types of saunas offered, Precut and Prefabricated. One package may be perfect for your project and the other may not work at all. Below we have described the differences between these two packages and some instances where one would be preferable to another.

Precut (FPC) or Custom Cut Sauna Packages

These packages require that the contractor frame and insulate the space prior to installing the kit. The contractor must frame the room with either wood studs or metal studs. Drywall must be installed over the metal studs and wood nailers installed over the drywall. After the room is framed it must be insulated and a vapor barrier installed. 1″ x 4″ wood paneling is then installed horizontally over the studs or nailers using standard blind nailing procedures.

This kit includes materials only for the interior of the sauna. The exterior of the room can be drywalled, tiled, paneled or any other type of material can be used. The room layouts shown on this site are our standard room sizes. These standard rooms utilize the space most effectively and allow for safe bathing.

Reasons (Circumstances in which you would) to use a Precut Sauna Package:

• Precut rooms can be almost any size or shape and can be worked into plans for bathrooms, master bedrooms, home and commercial gyms, recreation rooms, pool houses, basements, garages and virtually anywhere.
• The precut or custom cut sauna must be used in saunas that have custom shapes, custom dimensions or have varying ceiling heights.
• Precut should be used if handicap accessibility is required

Reasons not to use a Precut Sauna Package:

• Precut saunas are more labor intensive than the Prefabricated Packages. If the home owner or the contractor do not have the knowledge or time to frame, insulate and install the tongue and groove paneling one board at a time then the prefabricated room would be the better choice
• If the location of the sauna is temporary, Precut Saunas are not portable

Prefabricated Sauna Packages

These packages are pre-manufactured in our factory for quick and easy installation. This sauna only requires that the contractor provide adequate space for the sauna, a solid, level, waterproof surface, and appropriate power for the heater and light.

This kit includes interior and exterior materials for the sauna. The prefabricated sauna room is a complete room. It is framed, insulated, and paneled inside and out. The room is built in sections approximately 7 feet long and 2 feet wide. These paneled sections sit on a 2″ by 4″ base supplied by the manufacturer. The panels lock together using Finlandia’s exclusive concealed locking system. Competitors use wood screws, that are not as strong, and require additional battens inside the sauna, or require that the paneling be face nailed. These methods do not give the sauna the same custom look or strength of the locking system. The rooms are pre-plumbed for electrical wiring. The electrical wiring enters the sauna from the top and runs through the conduit to the heater or controls. This type of room requires a minimum of 3″ of clearance for the sides and the ceiling panels to be installed.

Reasons to use a Prefabricated Sauna Package:

• The Prefabricated Sauna is an excellent option when minimal labor is desired. This type of sauna can be assembled in only a few hours saving valuable labor time.
• If the sauna is to be placed outdoors.

Comparison Chart
	Precuts	Prefabs
Framing (Provided By)	2" x 4" or 2" x 6" wood studs or metal studs with drywall and wood nailers applied. (Contractor)	2" x 2" framing built inside wall/ceiling panels (Manufacturer)
Insulation	R13 or R19 fiberglass (Contractor)	R11 fiberglass (Manufacturer)
Vapor Barrier	Type C Building Foil (Contractor or Manufacturer)	Type C Building Foil (Manufacturer)
Interior Paneling	1" x 4" Tongue & Groove (Supplied by Manuf. Installed by Contr.)	1" x 4" T. and G. (Supplied and installed by Manufacturer)
Exterior	Drywall, Tile, Paneling, etc. (Contractor)	Rough sawn Mahogany or 1/2" x 4" Cedar (Manufacturer)
Vents	4" x 10" Set of Registers and Grills (Supplied by Manuf. installed by Contractor)	4" x 10" set of Reg. and Grills (Supplied and installed by Manuf.)
Electrical	All wiring must be provided by the electrician. Including water tight flex to the heater.	Conduit is installed in the wall panels. Electrician supplies wires to run through the conduits to the heater and light.
In both Precut and Prefab packages the Sauna Door is pre-hung and ready to install, the benches are pre-built to the appropriate length and width by the manufacturer, the contractor only has to install bench supports provided by manufacturer to set benches on. The Heater, Controls, and Accessories are provided in the same fashion for both packages and the contractor installs these items in accordance with the instructions.