The best vacation is a vacation at the dacha or in a country house. Especially if this vacation includes such a pleasure for the body as a bath. When designing a bathhouse project, it is important to take into account many points. This is the choice of the location of the bathhouse, building materials, the question of how to carry out interior finishing work, how to install a stove, and other nuances. In this article, we have collected useful information for you that will be useful at the decision-making stage. With its help, you will decide how to arrange your best place for relaxation.
Types of baths
The diversity of baths arises from the difference in cultures and traditions. Thanks to this abundance of options, we can choose the microclimate in the bath that is optimal for us in terms of temperature, humidity and steam production.
The microclimate is also important for well-being, and according to it, baths are divided into the following types.
Steam sauna: Russian bath (ours is ours:)
45-70° in temperature and low humidity - 40-65%. The steam condenses on the skin, forming a kind of film, and the body heats up much more due to the thermal conductivity of the water.
Dry air (Finnish) sauna
Low humidity, 8-20%, is combined with high temperatures of 70-110°. The lack of steam and high temperature contribute to maximum warming of the body;
Steam bath: Turkish hammam
In such a bath, the temperature reaches 40-45°, humidity 90-100%. Due to such a low temperature, a soft microclimate is created. In the bathhouse you can not only have a good rest, but also take care of yourself, pleasing your body with cosmetic procedures.
Water bath: Japanese ofuro bath
A traditional bath with a temperature of 40-60° and a humidity of 100% is an exotic type of bath. This is usually a wooden barrel that is heated. Warming the skin under water promotes sweating and washing away toxins and sweat.
Wet sauna: sports
Temperature 75-95° with 100% humidity. It is one of the subtypes of the Finnish sauna. The temperature is deliberately increased by watering the stones with water. Such a sauna becomes a place for endurance competitions and poses harm and even danger to the body.
The method of heating and steam injection also differs in the baths. Knowing these features, you will choose a bathhouse with characteristics that will suit you and your family as much as possible.
From cinder blocks
Such baths began to be built not so long ago. They are very affordable, easy to build and last longer than wooden ones. Such structures require good insulation and mandatory vapor barrier. It is especially important to approach this issue if your latitude experiences constant temperature changes and cold winters.
Cinder block does not require additional protection against mold or mildew, which allows you to save on treating walls with an antiseptic. Also, cinder blocks do not burn, which eliminates the need to use fire retardants. There are several types of cinder blocks.
Expert opinion
Lovkachev Boris Petrovich
Bath master who knows everything about steaming
Attention! Cinder blocks can have different compositions; you should definitely familiarize yourself with them before purchasing. The best composition is shell rock, sand, expanded clay, sawdust and crushed stone, which are fixed with cement.
For supporting structures, it is advisable to choose monolithic blocks. They are strong and will enhance the load-bearing properties of the walls. For external walls, it is recommended to choose blocks with voids occupying 30% of the block volume. Internal partitions are erected from small blocks weighing 10-13 kg with a minimum thickness. This is necessary to save space indoors.
In addition, the internal walls rarely act as load-bearing walls, which eliminates the need for their significant strengthening. The same materials can be used as insulation and vapor barrier as for a frame bath.
To build baths from cinder blocks, you also do not need an expensive foundation, which allows you to save up to 50% of the budget. Usually a columnar or strip base is chosen.
The main thing is that it is perfectly aligned horizontally to avoid movement and deformation of the walls. If you violate the foundation laying technology, large cracks will appear on the cinder blocks.
Attention! Cinder block baths are not suitable for everyone. They are characterized by increased sound permeability. To eliminate this drawback, additional sound insulation will be required. It is worth calculating what is more profitable in this case: to build a bathhouse of a different type or to build a structure made of cinder blocks.
Dressing room (locker room)
Here visitors leave their clothes, brooms and firewood are stored here. The dressing room performs a number of functions:
- is a zone with a buffer function that equalizes the temperature transition from the climate outside to the temperature inside the bathhouse;
- serves as a place for drying firewood;
- often also serves as a room in which to rest.
- The dressing room door should open outward.
Steam room
This room is the main room of the building. This is where the temperature is maintained high and the oven is placed. In the corner of the steam room there are stones that create steam. There should be a heat-resistant coating underneath.
There are also benches arranged on steps. Two, as a rule, are intended for sitting, one or two for lying. When arranging a steam room, you need to think through the following nuances:
- The materials with which the ceiling and walls are sheathed, the nature of the thermal insulation properties - taking them into account, the depth of thermal insulation of the rooms is calculated, and constructive techniques are used;
- efficient operation of the ventilation system is ensured by a special box or swinging window with double glazing. The location of the window is opposite the stove;
- the doorway is designed with a higher threshold: this way, cool air does not pass under the door and thermal efficiency is not reduced. The door itself swings outward;
- steam room and washing room are separated, otherwise the quality of steam and temperature decreases and fuel consumption increases.
From aerated concrete
In its characteristics, this material is similar to foam blocks. Aerated concrete blocks are made from a mixture of cement, sand, aluminum mixture and special gas-forming substances. During a chemical reaction, the mixture hardens, and pouring into special molds allows the block to be given the correct shape.
Aerated concrete baths are prefabricated, lightweight, and do not require the construction of a solid foundation. In terms of ease of processing, the material is comparable to wood; it is easy to cut and assemble.
In terms of thermal insulation properties, aerated concrete blocks are not inferior to timber, which allows you to build a very warm and strong bathhouse. The special composition of the material allows you to avoid the appearance of mold and mildew, but you should understand that this requires proper ventilation.
The blocks do not burn, and when exposed to high temperatures they do not emit any harmful substances or toxins.
The only drawback of aerated concrete is its high ability to absorb water. This is due to the porous structure of the material. To prevent a reduction in the service life of the bathhouse and destruction of the concrete structure, good waterproofing is required. Particular attention should be paid to this work in the steam room and washing room. The floor in such baths should always be left wet and not insulated with anything.
Attention! Aerated concrete does not shrink significantly; it does not exceed 1-2%. This moment allows you to immediately begin decorating the steam room and dressing room.
Wash room
The washing room is a shower stall located near the steam room. If the size of the building allows, these zones are separate from each other; in small buildings they are combined. In large buildings, a swimming pool or plunge pool is also equipped here.
The average area of the washing room is 2000x2000mm, then there is a place to take water procedures and place containers with water, hot and cold.
The window is built one and a half times larger than the window in the steam room. The doorway has also been enlarged – 1800x800mm to provide greater comfort. The requirements for heat conservation are lower than in a steam room. The threshold is made high, and the floor is laid with special tiles to prevent slipping and related injuries.
We are developing the foundation
Based on the general design of the future bathhouse laid down in the technical specifications, a foundation is designed, which, among other things, must take into account the bearing capacity of the soil at the construction site. The most commonly used types are:
- Strip foundation - has a good load-bearing capacity even on soft soils; it distributes the load quite rationally even under buildings with two floors. However, it requires a decent amount of excavation work with the disposal of excavated soil and the laying of a concrete, often reinforced mass, with subsequent maturation within 30 calendar days. Expensive, but durable and reliable;
- Columnar foundation - under certain conditions, is an affordable alternative to strip foundation, but requires excavation of soil and laying of monolithic or prefabricated reinforced concrete in much smaller volumes. At key points, metal or asbestos-cement pipes are laid to a sufficient depth, which are subsequently concreted and tied around the perimeter with lightweight concrete structures. Reliably performs its functions under small buildings. A structure based on such a foundation should have a fairly lightweight structure;
- Screw foundation - characterized by quick installation, which can be carried out almost year-round. Does not require excavation work. There is no need for maturation time, as is the case with monolithic concrete.
If the technical specifications specify the construction of a brick kiln, then it is necessary to calculate the arrangement of the foundation for it. To do this, the volume of the future furnace must be multiplied by the specific gravity of a cubic meter of finished brickwork; as a rule, this figure is in the range of 1430-1970 kg. If the resulting figure exceeds 800 kg, then a full-fledged foundation for the furnace must be designed. Its depth should not be less than the depth of the main foundation, and the stove foundation itself should not be tied to the foundation of the bathhouse. Thus, when separated, they are less susceptible to dependent deformation.
The technical specifications, as a rule, provide for the organization of a simple rubble concrete foundation. Sand is poured onto the base of the pit, spilled with water and compacted, then crushed stone of a fraction of 20-60 mm is laid and compacted in the same way. Sand acts as a damper cushion.
After this, monolithic concrete is poured onto the cushion with the exit through the formwork of the head of the base to approximately a height of 100-120 mm. The construction project necessarily provides for the treatment of the furnace foundation and the main foundation with waterproofing materials in accordance with generally accepted standards.
Attention! The distance between the finished floor level and the foundation level should be 60-80 mm. To gain nominal strength, freshly laid concrete must mature for 21 days.
Restroom
Designs of bathhouses with a relaxation room give room for imagination. When there is only one recreation room, it needs to be made multifunctional. Eating, drinking tea, watching TV, billiards - all this happens in this room. Zoning is done using partitions, windows, furniture, and finishing materials. Additional comfort will be created by a fireplace in the corner and a couple of armchairs in front of it.
Choosing a place to build a bathhouse
It is worth considering some nuances:
- The correct place for a bath should be at some distance from other objects;
- between the bathhouse and the fence of the neighboring area - 1 m or more;
- from any wooden building - from 15 m;
- be away from the garage, wells, swimming pools, children's areas;
- the optimal place to build a bathhouse is the backyard;
- you should decide in advance: the bathhouse is a separate building or an extension to the house;
- when designing, it is necessary to provide for ventilation and wastewater disposal;
- It is necessary to take into account climatic conditions and soil. The surface for construction is chosen to be flat;
- in general, the place must comply with the requirements of regulations and legislation.
We decide on the technical specifications
Projects require preliminary development of technical specifications.
That is, it is necessary to immediately determine the approximate area of all the premises of the bathhouse, within its perimeter in a one-story configuration or floor-by-floor if the structure of the bathhouse is made on several levels. At the level of technical assignments, water supply sources, wastewater disposal and disposal systems, the presence of swimming pools, basic materials for the construction of walls and roofing and other fundamental points are determined. After the technical specifications have been formed in a more detailed format, at the level determined by the adopted design, we can proceed to more detailed applied design.
Bath dimensions
The layout of the bathhouse is designed primarily taking into account the parameters of the site. There are several options for baths, differing in their sizes. Let's see what dimensions of the building exist and what is typical in such projects.
Bathhouse 2x2 m
This unassuming compact building consists of the most important things: a dressing room and a steam room. Sometimes there is a place for a rest room. Therefore, the stove must be placed so that it fits into both rooms. It is preferable to use a steel electric furnace. If desired, a washing room is located in the steam room.
This construction has its advantages:
- compactness;
- efficiency;
- ease of construction;
- little time for construction;
- The steam room heats up very quickly.
- Such a bathhouse saves space and budget. The correct layout of the structure will make it comfortable and perform many functions.
Bathhouse 3x4 m
The interior space is divided into three parts. You can add a shower room or washing room to the building. Typically, such baths have a relaxation room occupying 4.5 m2. The stove firebox is located in the dressing room - this makes it easier to maintain the temperature in the steam room. The boiler for heating water is located at the maximum distance from the entrance door.
The design assumes the presence of a locker room. The terrace will increase the area of the building.
How to arrange the interior
Finishing materials are presented on the market in such a wide palette that their choice will allow you to realize any idea in any style. The main thing is to combine the originality of the interior with ease of use and not clutter the space with unnecessary details .
Wooden objects, ladles, brooms as decor, and hand-woven rugs on the floor are suitable for a Russian bath. The style of the chalet will be recreated by bouquets of fragrant herbs, tablecloths, tea sets, and hunter’s attributes. High ceilings and accent lighting deepen the contemporary style.
Furniture is chosen depending on the size of the bathhouse . The dressing room can be marked with a wooden hanger, and a small cabinet is sufficient to store cleaning supplies. Don't forget about a bench for easy changing.
A wooden table, sofa or soft chairs will be placed in the relaxation room. You can equip the walls with shelves for storing dishes and accessories for the bath.
The walls are wooden or painted in light colors. All items perform specific functions, nothing superfluous. The furniture and interior are in harmony with each other .
Which project you should choose depends on the type of bathhouse, since each requires its own conditions and materials . The traditional project includes a dressing room, washing room, and steam room. The remaining rooms and areas are planned based on the size of the site. The bath complex may include a swimming pool, an attic, and a veranda. The premises can perform combined functions. Popular wood projects require additional treatment and protection, and foam block buildings represent the most budget-friendly option. The style of the bathhouse is created using materials, furniture, and decorative items. The interior should be practical, environmentally friendly and safe.
Bathhouse 4x4 m
The 4 by 4 bath design allows the steam room and washing room to occupy a larger area than in previous compact versions. Such buildings are usually built from logs, which reduces the space inside. Therefore, one room performs several tasks, for example, the dressing room also becomes a locker room and steam room. In such a room two or three shelves 0.5-0.6 m wide will fit. The corner is reserved for a wood-burning or electric stove.
You can create more comfortable conditions, for example, equip a rest room and an additional washing room. By installing a stove in the steam room, you can use it to heat the adjacent room, so it’s easy to set up a relaxation room there, combined with a locker room.
The attic, which can easily accommodate a recreation room or a place to play billiards, will help increase the usable area.
Bathhouse 4 by 4 layout inside photo
A good article if you are interested in this particular bath size.
Options for interior design and layout
Previously, a bathhouse could consist of one room. Nowadays, a classic bathhouse consists of several rooms, each of which performs its own task .
Thanks to the zoning of the premises, the steam room warms up faster, while the rest room has a normal temperature. It should be easy to enter all rooms from the dressing room.
The interior arrangement of a bathhouse depends primarily on its type . The washing room and steam room can be equipped in the same room if it is a Russian bathhouse, and must be separated if it is a Finnish version. If the building has a swimming pool, then a steam room, a relaxation room and a washing room should open into the room with it - this option will be optimal.
The bathhouse, equipped with a veranda with barbecue, will become a favorite place for the family and its guests. The recreation room can accommodate not only a billiard room, but also a hookah room.
A successful design would be bathhouse projects with a relaxation room and a terrace . Here you can relax inside during the cold season or enjoy nature on the terrace in summer. We offer a mini review of bathhouse projects with a terrace.
The selected project for a bathhouse with a swimming pool will be a wonderful place to relax.
An interesting option would be a bathhouse with an attic and a balcony in it. A gable or sloping roof is suitable for such a project. It can be coated with ondulin, which will ensure the strength of the roof and the durability of the entire building.
When designing a bathhouse, you should consider some important points:
- room layout;
- water supply system;
- wiring of the electricity network;
- sewerage and drainage system.
A convenient option would be a bathhouse, in which there will be an exit from the dressing room or rest room to the terrace, and the stove can be located in the rest room and serve as a fireplace
Bathhouse 5x4 m
This option allows you to set up a separate washing room and steam room. The rest room becomes more comfortable and spacious, and can be combined with a locker room or dressing room. Due to the direct absence of a dressing room, this design cannot be used on cold days. The rest room is located just outside the entrance door. Its spaciousness allows you to install a sofa, armchair, and TV. The washing room is equipped with a shower, toilet, and sink for washing hands.
Convenient and free access is provided to any room.
Application of laminated timber
The technology of laminated veneer lumber is often called Scandinavian, although it is most widespread in Finland, which is not related to Scandinavia. The use of such, frankly speaking, expensive material has a number of undeniable advantages:
- All traditional qualities of wood are preserved.
- All elements have excellent geometric and linear characteristics.
- This material is not prone to deformation in adverse weather conditions.
- Glued laminated timber is perfectly processed with protective materials to a great depth of solid wood, which ensures its long-term use in open atmosphere conditions.
Bathhouse 5x5 m
Such dimensions of the building make the premises comfortable. These parameters are very popular for a bath. You can combine a bathhouse with a terrace under one roof.
Often 10-12 square meters are allocated for the dressing room. m, which is half of the total space. The rest of the room houses a sink and a steam room. This design allows you to comfortably take bath procedures and relax. The relaxation area is decorated with a sofa and an armchair.
In the attic attached to the bathhouse there is a bedroom or a children's room. Now the building is ready to receive guests.
Bathhouse 5x8 m
The building effectively uses the first floor and allows for the addition of an attic. It can be divided into several zones, for example, a bedroom and a billiard room. You can add a balcony. However, the larger the premises and the total area, the more acute the questions arise about how to provide the premises with heat and how to waterproof them. The issue of fire safety is important. When installing a steam room, it is important to carry out all the work correctly, which will require expert advice.
Foam block
This material also began to be in demand for the construction of baths not so long ago, but has already earned its respect among consumers. Foam block structures are lightweight and do not require the construction of a serious foundation.
Despite the fact that foam blocks retain heat well, you should definitely take care of good thermal insulation. It is especially important to think about it in case of severe winters. Foam block baths are not afraid of fire, which allows you to save on fire retardants, while the material does not crumble even at very high temperatures.
The strengths of foam block baths are their rapid erection, naturalness of the material and ease of cladding. The environmental friendliness of the materials eliminates the release of toxins and harmful substances when heated. And the low cost makes it possible to compete with other materials, gradually displacing even wood.
Attention! When using wooden slats or any wood elements as cladding for foam blocks, they should still be carefully processed for fire safety and protection from rotting.
Bathhouse 6x6 m
A 6 by 6 bathhouse design is considered optimal in size. The bathhouse will provide comfort in all functional rooms. It becomes possible to install all the necessary heating equipment and furniture without much space saving. There is an opportunity to arrange an attic, veranda, terrace, further increasing the usable space. A brick stove in a steam room will ensure longer heat retention.
The bathhouse can be used by 8-10 people at once. Each visitor accounts for approximately 1.1 m. The steam room is designed larger than the washing room, and the sewer pipe is located next to the drainage pit.
There is room here to place a dressing room, a steam room, a wash room, a bathroom and several rest rooms.
What is it needed for
According to the norms of the current domestic legislation, the bathhouse is classified as an auxiliary outbuilding, the construction of which, to meet personal needs, does not require a separate permit. If the construction of a bathhouse is for commercial purposes, then the situation there is radically different, but we will consider the option of individual construction for personal needs.
If permission is not required, then there is no direct need to develop the project. This is in theory. In practice, the project is needed, and there are several reasons for this:
- It allows you to make a preliminary visual assessment of the future construction and find its strengths and weaknesses;
- The preliminary plan of the bathhouse will help to rationally place all the necessary elements in the internal volume, lay them out at the design stage, coordinate them and link them into a single system;
- It will help you pre-calculate the required amount of building materials for its construction, and draw up an estimate for future construction;
- A correctly reproduced drawing of the premises will make it possible to accurately estimate the labor costs during construction, evaluate your own strengths and calculate those involved.
With the current level of technology development and the availability of information, ready-made bathhouse projects can either be ordered from specialized design organizations, or spied on the vast expanses of the World Wide Web. However, anyone can develop it on their own. Why not try it.
