🚚 Relocating a Barrel Sauna: What You Need to Know Before You Move

Thinking about moving your barrel sauna to a new home—or just a new spot in the yard?

Barrel saunas are beautiful, hand-crafted, and designed to last. But when it’s time to move, the process can feel intimidating. Don’t worry—we’ll walk you through it.

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🧠 Should You Relocate Your Barrel Sauna or Wait?

"Should I wait until I move into my new home before I buy a sauna?"

We get it—moving is already stressful. Here’s the honest truth:

• Barrel saunas are larger, heavier, and more complex to move than indoor saunas.
• Moving a sauna can take 3–5 hours, depending on size and setup.
• You may need tools, 2–4 people, or even a flatbed trailer.
• If hired out, relocation can cost $400–$1,200+.

That said, many customers decide it’s still worth it to buy now and relocate later—especially if you want the health benefits immediately.

Pro tip: Some people disassemble their sauna before the move-in process, while others sell and upgrade later. Either way, you have flexible options.

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🧰 What Makes a Barrel Sauna Different to Relocate?

Barrel saunas use curved staves (wood slats), tension bands, and thick cedar walls. Unlike flat-panel indoor saunas, they don’t just come apart in 4–5 panels. Disassembly must be done carefully to avoid cracking or warping.

 

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🔧 Step-by-Step: How to Relocate Your Barrel Sauna

1. Choose Your New Location Wisely

• Flat, level surface like a deck, gravel pad, or patio.
• Avoid areas prone to water runoff or standing puddles.
• If indoors, double-check doorway clearance and ceiling height.

2. Gather the Right Tools

• Impact driver or screwdriver
• Rubber mallet
• Socket wrench
• Moving blankets / bubble wrap
• Ziplock bags to store bolts
• Heavy-duty straps

3. Disconnect Power

ALWAYS have a licensed electrician disconnect the heater before you move anything. Turn off the breaker and safely wrap wires.

4. Disassemble Your Barrel Sauna

1. Remove tension bands with a socket wrench.
2. Gently tap staves free with a rubber mallet (not a hammer).
3. Remove front/back caps and glass carefully.
4. Store wood flat and dry to prevent warping.

Note: For short moves, 4–6 people can sometimes lift the entire barrel onto a trailer. This doesn’t work for every model.

5. Transport Safely

• Use tarps, blankets, or plastic to shield the cedar from sun or rain.
• Secure components tightly during transit.
• Clean parts now—it’s easier when disassembled.

6. Reassemble with Care

Follow your brand’s original instructions. Tighten bands evenly. Wait 24–48 hours after reassembly before use so the wood can settle properly.

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😅 What to Expect: Barrel vs. Indoor Sauna

Factor	Barrel Sauna	Indoor Panel Sauna
Weight	300–900+ lbs	150–600 lbs
Disassembly Difficulty	Medium to High	Low to Medium
Transportation	Flatbed or trailer	Van or moving truck
Assembly Time	2–5 hours	1–2 hours
Extra Tools Needed	Yes	Sometimes

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🛠 When to Hire a Pro

You may want professional help if:

• The sauna is on a rooftop or balcony
• You’re moving across state lines
• You want to protect your warranty
• You don’t feel confident reassembling the tension bands

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❤️ Final Thoughts

Moving a barrel sauna takes time and care—but it’s absolutely possible. If you’re unsure, reach out to our team and we’ll walk you through it.

Still deciding? Some people wait until they move, while others get the health benefits now and move it later. There’s no wrong answer—just make sure you have the plan, people, and tools you need.

Need help?
📞 Call us 7 days a week: (737) 377-2909
💬 Live Chat available on our homepage
📧 Or email us anytime at support@elitesaunasupply.com

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📌 FAQ: Should I Wait or Move My Sauna Later?

Q: I'm moving in a few months. Should I wait to buy a sauna?
A: If you’re moving very soon, it might be easier to wait. But if you’re already dreaming of daily sauna therapy, it’s 100% possible to buy now and move it later. Just plan ahead or call us when the time comes.