Thermowood in Sauna Projects

Sauna projects are among the most challenging environments for construction materials due to extreme heat, high humidity, intense steam, and constant hot–cold transitions. Therefore, the wood used in saunas must be durable, stable, and safe for user health. Thanks to the thermal modification process, Thermowood has become an indispensable material for sauna projects as a natural, long-lasting, and aesthetically appealing solution that meets all these requirements.

Why Is Thermowood the Ideal Material for Sauna Projects?

Through a special thermal modification process applied at 180–215°C, Thermowood gains natural resistance against the extreme conditions found in sauna environments. With both its interior aesthetics and technical performance, it is one of the most recommended materials for sauna design.

Exceptional resistance to high temperatures

  • Thermowood maintains its form under high heat.
     

  • Since it contains no resin, there is no leaking, melting, or odor under heat.
     

  • Stabilized fiber structure reduces cracking and deformation.
     

  • Provides a comfortable experience even under sauna conditions above 100°C.
     

For this reason, Thermowood offers reliable and long-lasting performance in sauna interiors.

How Does the Thermowood Thermal Modification Process Provide Advantages in Saunas?

The thermal modification process, the foundation of Thermowood production, is the most critical stage that maximizes wood durability against sauna environments.

Reduction of resin and moisture content

  • During thermal modification, resins evaporate and are removed from the wood.
     

  • Moisture content is reduced to 4–6%.
     

  • A resin-free structure prevents stickiness and unpleasant odor even at high temperatures.
     

These features ensure safe and comfortable use, especially in sauna seating areas.

Reduced risk of cracking and deformation

  • With the breakdown of hemicelluloses in the cell walls, hygroscopic behavior is minimized.
     

  • The wood becomes more stable and reacts less to moisture changes.
     

  • Deformation caused by hot–cold cycles is significantly reduced.
     

This provides long-term stability across all sauna surfaces.

Why Use Thermowood Instead of Traditional Wood in Sauna Interiors?

Traditional wood cannot show sufficient resistance to the sharp temperature and humidity changes in saunas. Thermowood, however, is a natural material specially enhanced for such environments.

Stability in high humidity and steam

  • Moisture absorption release rate is low.
     

  • Material does not “work” or move under intense steam cycles.
     

  • No loss of form in seating surfaces or ceiling claddings.
     

For this reason, Thermowood claddings offer a safer structure in sauna applications.

Structural flexibility that adapts to temperature changes

  • After thermal modification, the wood becomes more rigid yet controllably flexible.
     

  • Sudden temperature changes cause minimal unexpected cracking.
     

  • Surface smoothness and structural integrity are preserved for many years.

How Does Thermowood Enhance Sauna Aesthetics?

Thermowood creates a modern and natural atmosphere in sauna designs, not just through its technical performance but also through its aesthetic integrity.

Natural texture, warm tones, and modern appearance

  • After thermal modification, wood gains a homogeneous and warm tone.
     

  • The natural texture harmonizes with modern and minimalist sauna architecture.
     

  • Supports the premium appearance sought in luxury hotels and wellness centers.
     

Thermowood trends in luxury spa and wellness areas

  • Seamless, homogeneous appearance on large surface claddings
     

  • Warm color transitions that interact beautifully with lighting
     

  • Natural texture pairing well with materials like stone, glass, and metal
     

  • A sustainable luxury approach in modern wellness concepts
     

Thermowood is one of the key aesthetic components in spa and wellness architecture.

Is Thermowood Safe for Health in Sauna Environments?

The material used in saunas must be fully safe for user health. Thermowood fulfills this requirement with its natural composition and eco-friendly production process.

Eco-friendly production without the use of chemicals

  • No chemicals are used in Thermowood production.
     

  • Wood is treated only with steam and controlled heat.
     

  • Eliminates the risk of chemical emissions.
     

This makes Thermowood one of the safest sauna materials in terms of health.

 Natural formulation that does not emit harmful gases under heat

  • Removal of resin and volatile compounds prevents harmful gas release when heated.
     

  • Maintains air quality in enclosed, hot environments like saunas.
     

  • Creates no risk for users in terms of skin or respiratory health.
     

How Should Thermowood Be Maintained in Sauna Projects?

Maintenance of Thermowood sauna surfaces is quite easy. With regular cleaning and proper protection methods, it preserves its performance for many years.

Surface protection and regular cleaning recommendations

  • After sauna use, the surface can be wiped with a dry cloth.
     

  • When needed, the surface can be refreshed with light sanding.
     

  • Regular cleaning is recommended to prevent sweat, oil, and moisture buildup.
     

  • Special sauna care oils help preserve the wood’s natural color.
     

Key considerations for long-lasting use

  • Excessive water accumulation should be avoided.
     

  • Sauna ventilation should be done regularly.
     

  • Excessive contact with metal surfaces should be avoided.
     

  • Periodic checks are recommended for areas directly exposed to high heat.
     

How Are Novawood’s Thermowood Products Optimized for Sauna Projects?

Novawood offers Thermowood products specially selected and meticulously processed for sauna projects.

  • Low moisture response thanks to uniform thermal modification
     

  • Complete removal of resins
     

  • High stability and minimal deformation
     

  • Warm and aesthetic interior appearance
     

  • Chemical-free, eco-friendly production model
     

  • Special product options with profiles ideal for sauna use
     

Novawood Thermowood products provide top-level performance in durability, health, and aesthetics for both luxury spa concepts and boutique sauna projects.