Cart is empty Outdoor saunas in Canada can turn a freezing day into something warm and peaceful. They’re one of the few things that help winter feel a little more relaxing. But when a strong winter storm rolls through, bringing wind, snow, and ice, it can leave more than just a pretty white blanket behind. Outdoor saunas can take a hit during storms, especially if they’re not fully protected or checked afterward.
Once the storm clears, it’s a good idea to look around and see how your sauna held up. Even small things, like a sticky latch or slight draft, can point to something bigger. Let’s take a look at what winter storms can do, how to spot trouble early, and which signs tell you it’s time to get a professional involved.
What Winter Storms Can Do to Outdoor Saunas
Most outdoor saunas in Canada are built to handle cold temperatures, but a harsh storm can still take a toll. The combination of snow, ice, wind, and freezing temperatures may cause issues you won’t notice right away.
• Ice and snow can build up on the roof and add extra weight. That puts stress on the structure and hardware.
• Doors, frames, and vents may freeze shut or lose their seal, letting warm air out and cold air in.
• Quick temperature drops can affect the wiring and heater, especially if moisture got into the wrong spot.
• Strong winds might drive snow or rain into tiny gaps around vents, walls, or under the door. That water can freeze and expand, causing new cracks or warping wood.
Even one tough storm can push a sauna beyond its regular wear and tear. That’s why keeping an eye on a few signs after the storm can make winter use much smoother.
Signs Your Sauna Needs Attention After a Storm
Not all damage is easy to spot, especially from the outside. That’s why walking through your sauna slowly after a snowstorm matters. Small issues caught early can be a lot easier to fix than letting them grow worse over time.
Here are a few signs that your sauna might need a closer look:
• The door doesn’t close straight or feels loose around the frame
• You notice new cracks in the wood or gaps near seams or joints
• Any new smell, especially musty or damp ones, may mean water got inside
• The control panel flickers, turns off suddenly, or responds slower than it used to
• The heater works but doesn’t reach your usual temperature
If anything looks bent, broken, or just not quite right, take photos and stop using the heater until you know it’s safe.
Safe First Steps Once the Snow Clears
When the weather settles, it’s tempting to head straight for the sauna and warm up. But hold on, some damage happens when you try to force doors open or crank up a heater that’s been through ice and wind. Start slow and keep safety in mind.
1. Wait for ice and snow to melt naturally instead of chipping it off doors or panels
2. Do a visual check, especially for sagging roofs, soft spots in the floor, or exposed wires
3. Clear the path to the sauna so you’re not stepping over snowbanks or slipping on ice
4. Test the door seal, heater control, and lights before firing up the full heat session
Pay attention to anything that seems different from how the sauna worked the week before. Even something mild, like extra time to warm up, could point to damage.
When to Call a Sauna Specialist
Some issues aren’t a quick fix, and trying to force things can make them worse. That’s where calling a professional makes more sense. They’ll know how to check everything without causing more harm during repair.
Think about calling in help if you notice:
• The heater turns on but never gets hot, or smells odd while running
• The inside feels damp no matter how long you leave the door open
• Any part of the wiring is exposed, wet, or looks darkened from heat
• The walls, floors, or benches no longer feel steady under pressure
If you’re not sure what you’re looking at, it’s better to pause and find someone who fixes outdoor setups in cold weather. A good check-up now beats having to rebuild later.
Keep It Storm-Ready Going Forward
Since snow and wind are a sure part of winter here, it’s a smart move to prepare your sauna ahead of time. That way, it’s better protected when the next storm rolls in.
• Use a tight-fitting cover or roof cap to keep snow from soaking into the panels
• Make sure the sauna sits slightly above the ground so meltwater drains away, not under
• Clear snow off the roof after big storms using a soft tool, don’t scrape or chip it
• Schedule a seasonal check before the snow hits and another once spring starts
Even just keeping the surrounding space clean can help. Less snow piled up means less risk of water seeping into the floor or heating system.
Why Cold-Weather Sauna Care Matters
For outdoor saunas in Canada, it helps to choose a build that can hold up to major snowfall, ice, and days of below-zero temperatures. Dundalk Leisure Products, offered by Backyard Canada, feature thick, insulated walls and durable roof lines made for harsh Canadian weather. Looking after your sauna with the right care, especially during winter, lets you enjoy steady heat and fewer surprises, even after a big snowstorm.
Taking care of outdoor saunas in Canada through the freeze and thaw cycles means better use, longer life, and fewer surprises along the way. Whether it’s your first winter with a sauna or your fifth, paying attention to how storms affect it makes the season a little smoother.
If you’ve noticed any trouble after a storm or just want to make sure your sauna stays in good shape through the rest of winter, we’re here to help. Caring for outdoor saunas in Canada takes a bit of attention, especially after heavy snow and cold snaps. We’ve handled the ups and downs that come with long winters and know what to look for when something’s off. At Backyard Canada, we’re happy to help answer questions or point you in the right direction. Give us a call if something doesn’t seem right.
