The seating surfaces are made from an amazing darkwood called "Ulin," or "Iron wood," which is the hardest of all woods, rated to last 50 years submerged in saltwater untreated. If you do select this material for your project be aware that it cannot be hand nailed, and it will most definately break your smaller drill bits. A pneumatic nailer is the best choice for application, but nailing too close to the ends will produce splits, just like Oak. This wood is extremely heavy and feels like recycled plastic decking material.
The heater is an Amerec Designer "S" series in the 8.0kW model, suitable for installations up to 425 cu. ft. This model comes with olivine stones for steaming and separate wall mounted controls. While building this project I visited the Amerec dealer in Woodinville. They went way above and beyond in helping me with their product and giving professional advice. I highly recommend them. Thanks Guys!
The sauna is capable of temperatures hovering around 185 Fahrenheit, while the lower benches are kept somewhat cooler due to strategically placed and sized convection vents which are a requirement.
One major drawback to building it in the wrong place means having to move it later on.
