Is a Steam Shower or Sauna Worth It? Ask the Professionals

Once considered luxuries exclusive to spas and upscale health clubs, steam showers and saunas are therapeutic amenities that have now found their way into the modern home, offering a private oasis of relaxation and wellness. As more homeowners seek to transform their bathrooms into sanctuaries of health and relaxation, the debate between installing a steam shower or a sauna has become increasingly relevant.

At LaBonte Construction, we specialize in installing both steam showers and saunas, and we pride ourselves on our deep understanding of each option’s nuances, benefits, and potential impact on your home’s comfort and value. 

What’s the Difference Between a Steam Shower and Sauna?

A steam shower is essentially an enclosed, moisture-sealed shower stall equipped with a steam generator. This generator heats water to a boil, releasing steam into the stall, creating a warm and humid environment. Steam showers typically operate at lower temperatures than saunas, usually around 110-120°F, but with 100% humidity. This results in a warm, misty environment that envelops the body, providing a gentle and moist heat experience. The modern steam shower can be customized with various features such as digital controls, mood lighting, and even aromatherapy options, making it a versatile addition to any bathroom.

In contrast, a sauna provides dry heat. Traditionally, saunas are usually wood-lined rooms fitted with a heater (electric, wood-burning, or gas) that heats the air, which in turn heats your body. Temperatures in a sauna are much higher than in a steam shower, usually ranging from 150-200°F, but with very low humidity (around 10-20%). This creates a dry and intense heat experience that encourages deep sweating. Saunas often feature wooden benches for sitting or lying down and can be found in various styles, including traditional Finnish saunas, infrared saunas, and more.

Health Benefits

The steam shower is known for its circulation-boosting properties. The heat causes blood vessels to expand, improving blood flow and, consequently, enhancing overall circulation. This can lead to faster muscle recovery and a feeling of rejuvenation. Furthermore, steam is highly beneficial for skin health. The humid environment opens up pores, aiding in the removal of impurities and promoting a clear, toned complexion. Additionally, steam showers offer significant respiratory benefits. The warm, moist air is effective in clearing nasal passages and lungs, providing relief for those with respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, or common colds. 

Meanwhile, the dry heat of a sauna is a powerful tool for muscle relaxation and stress reduction. The high temperatures help to relax body muscles, easing tension and stiffness. This makes saunas particularly beneficial for those with chronic pain conditions or after a strenuous workout session. The stress-reducing benefits of sauna use are also well-documented. The quiet, warm environment of a sauna provides a space for mental relaxation and mindfulness, contributing to reduced stress levels and improved overall mental health. 

What are the Pros and Cons of Saunas?

Pros of Saunas:

• Deep Tissue Relaxation: The high heat helps to alleviate muscle tension and stiffness, providing relief to those with muscular aches or pains. It’s a natural way to soothe and relax the body after physical exertion.
• Potential Weight Loss Benefits: While the weight lost in a sauna session is mostly water weight, the process of sweating and the increased heart rate similar to that experienced during moderate exercise can aid in burning calories. It’s a supplementary approach to a well-rounded fitness routine.

Cons of Saunas:

• Space Requirements: Installing a sauna often requires a significant amount of space, which can be a limitation for those with smaller homes or areas. Traditional saunas need enough room for the heat unit and seating, making them less feasible for compact spaces.
• Energy Consumption: Saunas, especially traditional ones, can consume a considerable amount of energy to maintain high temperatures. This can lead to increased electricity bills and a larger carbon footprint.

What are the Pros and Cons of Steam Showers?

Pros of Steam Showers:

• Space Efficiency: Unlike saunas, which require a dedicated room or large space, steam showers can be installed in the existing footprint of a standard shower. This makes them an ideal choice for homes where space is at a premium.
• Versatility in Design: Steam showers can be custom-built to fit any bathroom layout and style, from classic to contemporary. This allows homeowners to seamlessly integrate a steam shower into their bathroom without disrupting the existing aesthetic.
• Therapeutic Steam: The therapeutic benefits of steam showers can help open up airways, improve circulation, and relax muscles. It’s particularly beneficial for respiratory health, offering relief from symptoms of allergies and colds.

Cons of Steam Showers:

• Initial Installation Cost: The installation of a steam shower can be more costly than a standard shower due to the need for a steam generator and additional waterproofing measures. The overall cost will depend on the size, design, and features included in the steam shower.
• Maintenance Needs: Steam showers require regular maintenance to prevent mold and mildew buildup due to the high humidity environment. This includes frequent cleaning and ensuring proper ventilation in the bathroom.
  
• Water Usage: Steam showers can consume a significant amount of water. While they use less water per minute than a traditional shower, longer sessions can lead to higher overall water usage.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home Remodel

The choice between installing either a steam shower or a sauna in your home remodel is a significant one, offering not just a touch of luxury, but a commitment to your overall wellness. All of us at LaBonte Construction are dedicated to helping you make the best choice for your lifestyle and home. We invite you to contact us for a personalized consultation, where we can discuss your vision and how we can bring it to life. Let us help you transform your home into a haven of wellness and relaxation, tailored just for you.

Contact our team today to learn more about adding a sauna or steam shower to your home remodel.

Check out pictures of our home remodels on Facebook and Houzz.