6 reasons why not buy a Barrel Sauna – What to buy instead!

Barrel saunas look great—but are they really worth it?

Introduction

If you’ve been dreaming of adding a cozy sauna to your backyard, or if you recently watched Good Fortune!, you’ve probably come across the popular barrel sauna. Their rounded wooden shape looks charming in photos, and they promise a “rustic” spa experience. However, not every backyard or climate is ideal for this design.

But before you click buy, it’s important to understand what you’re really getting. At Pioneer Family Pools, we’ve seen countless homeowners excited about barrel saunas, only to discover later that they don’t perform as well as expected in Canadian conditions. Therefore, it’s worth breaking down the key trade-offs.

Let’s break down the major drawbacks of a barrel sauna and what to consider instead.

Drawbacks of Barrel Saunas

1. Poor Heat Retention in Canadian Weather

To begin with, barrel saunas aren’t insulated. Their curved walls may look beautiful, but that rounded design actually makes it harder to seal heat properly compared with rectangular or fully insulated models.

Consequently, in a climate where temperatures drop well below freezing, your heater will work harder and your hydro bill will increase — a common problem owners report with many barrel sauna designs.

Better Option:

Built in Canada for Canadian weather, Pioneer Family Pools offers a premium range of saunas with proper insulation and precise seals. As a result, you’ll enjoy a consistent and comfortable experience all year — unlike many barrel saunas.

2. Limited Space and Comfort

Additionally, because of the curved walls, barrel saunas have less usable interior space. You lose headroom and bench width, which can make it uncomfortable for multiple people or even for stretching out solo. For example, a barrel shape may look roomy from the outside but feel cramped once you’re inside.

Better Option:

Select from our range of rectangular, ergonomic sauna models that provide more usable space, improved airflow, and comfortable seating — all advantages over a typical barrel sauna.

3. Maintenance Can Be a Hassle

Furthermore, barrel saunas are often made from untreated cedar or spruce that’s constantly exposed to moisture and sunlight. Over time, without regular upkeep like sanding, re-sealing, and oiling, the wood can crack or warp — which is far from relaxing.

Better Option:

All our outdoor sauna models are crafted with durable, weather-resistant materials and solid workmanship. Consequently, you’ll spend more time relaxing and far less time maintaining a unit compared with many barrel saunas.

4. Shorter Lifespan

In addition, because of their shape and lack of insulation, barrel saunas tend to age faster than square or indoor units. Over time, expansion and contraction from heat cycles can loosen staves and create gaps or leaks.

Better Option:

Our infrared and traditional saunas are engineered for longevity, efficiency, and comfort — ultimately delivering more years of reliable use than a typical barrel sauna.

5. Limited Features

Moreover, most barrel saunas come in fixed designs, meaning limited room for upgrades such as windows, lighting, or upgraded heaters. In fact, many homeowners quickly outgrow the design.

Better Option:

Our range of saunas come with features such as multi-colour lighting, Bluetooth connectivity, smart controls, and efficient heating technology — features rarely found in a standard barrel sauna.

6. Poor Heat Distribution — Benches Are Too Low

Here’s a lesser-known issue: heat rises, and in many barrel saunas the benches are positioned below the heater’s hottest zone. Therefore, most of the heat ends up trapped near the roof — not where you’re sitting.

As a result, users often experience cooler, uneven temperatures, especially in larger barrel sauna designs. In some cases, the temperature difference between top and bottom can be surprisingly large, which reduces both comfort and efficiency.

Better Option:

Our sauna models are engineered for optimal heat distribution, positioning the benches above the heater line where the air is warmest — a practical improvement over typical barrel sauna layouts.

The Bottom Line: Invest Smart, Relax Better

Ultimately, a barrel sauna might seem like a quick, stylish choice, but for true comfort, durability, and performance in Canadian weather, you deserve better. At Pioneer Family Pools, we don’t just sell saunas — we help homeowners design relaxation spaces that fit their home, budget, and lifestyle.

Get a Free Design Consultation or Quote Today

Our experts will help you choose the best sauna style, size, and features for your space — no obligation, no pressure. Whether you’re comparing a traditional model to a barrel sauna or exploring infrared options, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Or visit your nearest Pioneer Family Pools location to see our most popular models in person and talk to a backyard wellness specialist.