In Canada, temperatures swing wildly. From blistering summer heat to bone-chilling winters, we experience it all. And if you’re investing in a barrel sauna, those extremes matter more than you think.

Traditional cedar saunas might seem like the obvious choice. Cedar smells fantastic, it’s widely used, and it’s got that classic rustic look. But here’s the problem—cedar shrinks. It warps. It cracks.

The result? Leaky sauna barrels, heat loss, and a sauna that needs constant maintenance.

Why Cedar Fails in Harsh Climates

Wood naturally expands and contracts with temperature and humidity shifts. That’s fine in mild climates, but in Canada—where we can go from -30°C to +30°C within a few months—it’s a real problem.

Cedar, in particular, has a high moisture content when freshly cut. Over time, as it dries out, it shrinks. And when it shrinks, gaps form between the staves of your barrel sauna. That means:

• Heat loss – Your sauna struggles to maintain temperature.
• Water leakage – Moisture seeps in, leading to potential mold and rot.
• Frequent repairs – You’re stuck tightening straps, replacing staves, or dealing with unwanted gaps.

Now, let’s talk about a better solution.

The ThermoWood Advantage: Stability, Durability, and Efficiency

ThermoWood isn’t just wood. It’s wood that has been heat-treated at over 190°C, a process that dramatically enhances its properties.

Through this thermal modification, the wood loses excess moisture, eliminating the natural tendency to shrink and expand. The result? A sauna that stays airtight, structurally sound, and efficient—even through brutal Canadian winters.

Here’s why ThermoWood is the superior choice:

✅ Minimal Shrinkage & Warping – The thermal treatment locks in dimensional stability. Unlike cedar, ThermoWood won’t shrink over time. Your sauna stays tight, warm, and leak-free.

✅ Greater Resistance to Rot & Decay – Heat treatment removes organic compounds that attract fungi and bacteria. This means no mold, no rotting, and a longer lifespan—even in humid conditions.

✅ Better Insulation = More Heat Retention – ThermoWood saunas hold heat better. Instead of constantly feeding your heater to maintain temperature, you enjoy a consistent, relaxing experience.

✅ Sustainable & Chemical-Free – No synthetic treatments, no chemicals—just pure heat-modified wood. ThermoWood is one of the most environmentally friendly sauna materials available.

A Smarter Investment

A sauna isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in your health, relaxation, and home. And while cedar saunas may look great on the surface, their long-term performance in Canadian climates leaves much to be desired.

ThermoWood saunas stay sealed, last longer, and require less maintenance. They’re the smart choice for anyone serious about getting the most out of their sauna experience.

The question isn’t why you should choose ThermoWood over cedar. The real question is: Why would you settle for anything less?