Redwood Outdoors Sauna Review (2025)
Updated January 2025 — Backyard Sauna Pro
Quick Verdict
Redwood Outdoors makes well-built outdoor saunas using Thermowood — heat-treated Scandinavian wood that genuinely outperforms standard cedar for long-term outdoor use. Their models are priced at the premium end ($3,500-$6,600+) but the material quality justifies it for buyers who want a sauna that holds up in all four seasons without regular maintenance. Not the choice for budget-first buyers. The right choice for buyers who want a permanent, high-quality installation and are willing to pay for it.
Pros
- Thermowood outperforms cedar outdoors
- Serious build quality
- US-based support
- $250 buyer coupon available
- Nationwide shipping
Cons
- Premium price point
- 1-year warranty only
- Less established than Almost Heaven
- Fewer Amazon reviews vs AH
What Is Thermowood and Why Does It Matter?
Most barrel saunas in North America use western red cedar. Cedar is a fine choice and what Almost Heaven, Dundalk, and most competitors use. Redwood Outdoors differentiates on their Thermowood models — Scandinavian spruce or pine that has been heat-treated in steam kilns at 185-215°C.
The heat treatment drives out resins, reduces the wood's equilibrium moisture content, and restructures the cell walls so the wood absorbs and releases moisture more slowly. The result: significantly better rot resistance, less warping from seasonal temperature swings, and better long-term stability in wet climates.
In practice, a Thermowood barrel sauna requires less maintenance than cedar in climates with heavy rain or freeze-thaw cycles. If you're in the Pacific Northwest, upper Midwest, or Northeast where a cedar barrel sauna needs annual treatment to avoid greying and weathering, Thermowood's advantage compounds over time.
Redwood Outdoors Model Lineup
Thermowood Extra-Wide Barrel Sauna
Their flagship barrel. Wider than a standard barrel profile — more comfortable for 2-3 adults. Compatible with wood-burning stove or electric heater. Thermowood construction throughout. This is the model that most Redwood Outdoors buyers choose. Runs approximately $6,600 before shipping.
View on Redwood OutdoorsThermowood Panorama Sauna
Their premium barrel with a large panoramic window. For buyers who want a view from the sauna — backyard, woods, or waterfront. Same Thermowood quality. Starts around $6,599. The window is a genuine differentiator if your site has a view worth preserving.
View on Redwood OutdoorsThermowood Cabin Sauna (4-Person)
Their cabin-style (square) option. 4-person capacity with electric heater. More floor space than a barrel, better for groups. Thermowood exterior, proper insulated walls. Starts around $6,599. Requires 240V. See our outdoor sauna ideas guide for cabin vs barrel comparison.
View on Redwood OutdoorsCedar Barrel Saunas (Entry Level)
Redwood Outdoors also sells standard western red cedar barrels starting around $3,500. These are in the same tier as Almost Heaven. The Thermowood models are the reason to choose Redwood Outdoors over competitors — the cedar lineup is solid but not a strong differentiator.
Redwood Outdoors vs Almost Heaven
| Factor | Redwood Outdoors | Almost Heaven |
|---|---|---|
| Wood type | Thermowood (heat-treated) | Western red cedar |
| Entry price | ~$3,500 (cedar), $6,600+ (Thermowood) | ~$1,599 (2-person barrel) |
| Outdoor durability | Excellent (Thermowood) | Good (cedar needs maintenance) |
| Brand history | Newer, growing fast | 30+ years, established |
| Warranty | 1 year | 5 years (structural) |
| Best for | Wet climates, premium buyers | Value-focused, any climate |
Who Should Buy Redwood Outdoors
Redwood Outdoors makes sense for buyers who:
- Live in a wet or cold climate where outdoor wood is exposed to heavy moisture, freeze-thaw cycles, or high humidity year-round
- Want the best long-term outdoor durability and are willing to pay for it
- Value the panoramic window option or want a cabin-style sauna
- Have a budget above $5,000 for the full installation
Buyers who should look at Almost Heaven instead: anyone budget-limited, anyone in a dry climate where cedar performs well, and buyers who want a longer warranty.
Redwood Outdoors Affiliate Coupon
When you purchase through our affiliate link, you receive $250 off your Redwood Outdoors order automatically. That makes the Thermowood models meaningfully more competitive vs list price.
Shop Redwood Outdoors ($250 Off)FAQ
Is Redwood Outdoors a good sauna brand?
Yes — quality build, Thermowood differentiator, US support. Main limitation is the 1-year warranty and premium price.
How much does a Redwood Outdoors sauna cost?
Cedar barrels from ~$3,500. Thermowood models from ~$6,600. Add $800-$2,000 for shipping and electrical.
What is Thermowood?
Heat-treated Scandinavian wood that is more rot-resistant and dimensionally stable than standard cedar. Better for outdoor installations in wet climates.