How to Build a Steam Room: Beginner's Guide

The benefits of a steam room are numerous and comparable to those offered by Japan's onsen and Iceland's geothermal pools. From aiding muscle recovery to detoxifying your body after an intense workout, having a personal steam room is certainly appealing.

This comprehensive guide will teach you how to build a steam room, focusing on essential components such as lighting, doors, and more. Read on for detailed instructions.

Things to Consider Before Building a Steam Room

Before proceeding to the discussion on steam room construction, you must know what to consider before you build your wellness haven.

Size and Space

More often than not, an at-home steam room will serve as an additional feature in your space. Therefore, it is essential to measure the area where you plan to build and install the steam room. The design of the steam room should complement the overall aesthetics of your interiors, ensuring it doesn't look out of place. For example, the steam room door should be designed to open in a way that does not obstruct or collide with any elements inside the house.

Location

Are you planning to install your steam room indoors or outdoors? If you choose an indoor steam room, look for a spot where you can easily access plumbing and electrical connections, like a bathroom or basement. 

For an outdoor steam room, place it near water and electrical sources. Also, protect it from weather elements and ensure it matches your outdoor landscape design.

Price

Last is the price. Ask yourself how much of your budget you have for the steam room installation. Steam room costs vary according to the number of features present or the steam room design. 

How to Build a Steam Room: Ultimate Guide

Similar to do-it-yourself traveling, investing your time in DIY steam room building is the ultimate cost-saver, as the concept of DIY in various other applications shows, such as low-income individuals crafting DIY products, according to this study published in ReseachGate. But what are the steps to keep in mind when building your steam room?

Step 1: Determine The Size, Location, and Budget for Your Steam Room 

Remember these pointers, which are also to elaborate on the previous section in this guide:

• Space and location: Usually, it requires only at least three-by-three feet of space with a minimum ceiling height of seven feet to a maximum of eight feet to build a fully functional steam room. If you have high ceilings, you can even have a steam shower, but for this, you’ll need to increase the size of your steam generator to allow steam to rise. Also, sometimes, you’ll need to make adjustments to the design, such as replacing existing glass windows with double-paned glass.
  
• Budget: Consider costs for materials, labor, and permits when determining your steam room’s size and location to stay within budget.
  
• Type of Steam Room: Steam rooms vary by humidity and construction. Wet steam rooms use high humidity while dry ones rely on heated air. Prefabricated models offer convenience, whereas custom-built options provide flexibility in size, materials, and design to fit specific needs.
  
• Consulting professionals: To ensure you are constructing it right without wasting resources, you may speak with architects, contractors, and steam room specialists for professional guidance.
  

Step 2:  Design Your Steam Room

Call it too fast, but the second step is where you’ll unleash your inner designer. Ask yourself what color palettes to choose, what materials fit your style, and whether there will be music, scents, or mood lighting. Don’t hesitate to show off your tastes.

• Size and Dimensions: A comfortable steam room should be at least four by five inches with a ceiling height of seven feet to retain steam efficiently.
  
• Seating Options: Choose benches or stools made from heat-resistant materials like cedar, teak, or moisture-resistant tile for durability and comfort.
• Lighting and Ventilation: Soft, waterproof lighting enhances relaxation, while proper ventilation prevents mold and maintains air quality.
  
• Aesthetics: Use moisture-resistant tiles, ambient lighting, and sleek fixtures for a spa-like feel.
  
• Materials: Select water-resistant, non-porous materials like ceramic tiles, tempered glass, and treated wood for longevity.

In this step, you will need to also prepare the following as part of your steam room kit: 

• Moisture-resistant drywall or cement board
  Steam generator
• Insulation (preferably foam board)
• Vapor barrier (such as polyethylene sheeting)
• Tile or non-porous material for walls and floor
• Waterproof lighting fixtures
• Sealed door with an airtight gasket
• Silicone caulk
• Basic tools, such as hammers, nails, screws, saw, drills, and the like
  

Step 3: Install Plumbing, Electrical, and Steam Generator

This is, perhaps, the most complicated process so far. DIY steam room builders should learn the intricacies first before taking on this step. Here is what to remember: 

• Prepare your place: Clear the area, ensure proper drainage, level the floor, and establish a moisture-resistant foundation.
• Build your steam room structure: Construct insulated, vapor-sealed walls, floors, and ceilings using water-resistant materials.
• Install plumbing and electrical wiring: Connect water lines to the steam generator and install electrical wiring for lighting and controls.
• Install the steam generator and components: Mount the steam generator, position the steam head strategically, and set up the control panel for optimal functionality.
  

Essential Components for Building a Steam Room

Aside from the tools from earlier, you’ll also need the following essential components:

• Steam generator: Available in electric or gas
• Control panel: Ensures precise temperature and humidity control for comfort.
• Steam nozzle: Distributes steam evenly to enhance relaxation.
• Seating: Heat-resistant benches or stools provide comfort.
• Ventilation: Prevents excess moisture buildup, reduces mold, and maintains air quality.
  

Step 4: Install the Enclosure

Once those components are in place, you are almost ready for your new at-home steam room. But wait a minute, have you installed the enclosure? The shower area should be completely enclosed by an insulated, vapor- and water-tight door that all stand for the enclosure. Be sure to explore its design, as the possibilities are endless.

Step 5: Add Tile and Finishing Touches

Even if you have a gorgeous-looking steam room so far with a nice enclosure, without beautiful tiles and without adding finishing touches, you are creating a sub-par wellness room. Choose tiles and finishing touches that will impress your family and friends. Some popular finishing touches are aromatherapy systems, mood lighting, and even a built-in sound system. Talk about dramatic.

Looking for a Pre-built Steam Room to Save You Time?

Now, you know every vital information on how to make a steam room at home. However, while constructing a steam room DIY edges the others by letting you save money, investing in a pre-built steam room will provide you with considerable time savings, such as what GeyserSteam offers. 

Every steam room in its catalog is incredibly easy to install. Sometimes, you don’t need to hire a contractor to do it for you. The moment you get it at your doorstep, you can install it in one go. Learn about their steam rooms’ features by browsing the website. 

How Much Does a Steam Cost?

Costs range from $2,000 to $10,000+, depending on size, materials, and installation.

Can I Build My Steam Room?

Yes, with proper planning, materials, and knowledge of plumbing, electrical, and waterproofing techniques.

What Is the Best Size for a Steam Room?

A four-by-five-inch room with a seven-foot ceiling provides optimal steam retention and comfort.