Steam Room Design Considerations:

The following information is presented as an aid to those installing a steam generator or constructing a steam room. Due to construction variables, climate variances and changes in the manufacturing specifications, this information represents suggestions only. It is recommended that you consult your architect, material manufacturer and/or specification engineer regarding your particular installation.

When planning a steam room project the objectives of comfort and relaxation should be kept in mind. A room properly designed and constructed should maintain a temperature range of 115° (45°C) to 120°F(50°C), heat to this temperature in 15 to 20 minutes and have a comfortable and relaxing seating arrangement. If space permits, seating which allows the bather to recline or even to lie down greatly enhances the steam bath experience.

   1. A steam room, unlike a sauna, is a moist environment. Avoid using construction materials, which are subject to corrosion or decay.
   2. All inside surfaces of the steam room must be completely sealed and covered with a waterproof finish such as tile. Sheet-rock surfaces are not recommended. However, fiberglass re-enforced cement Sheet-rock such as 'DURA Rock' or 'Wonder Board' may be used if properly sealed against moisture with a commercial waterproof paint. All joints or cracks including the shower head, handle escutcheon and steam head escutcheon should be sealed with silicone. Acrylic or fiberglass enclosures recommended for steam by the manufacturer also make excellent steam rooms.
   3. Ceiling and seats inside the steam enclosure should be sloped to allow condensation to run off the interior surfaces and prevent dripping on the bather. A ceiling slope of 2" per foot should be adequate. In some installations, sloping the ceiling from the center may be required to minimize the ceiling height.
   4. A floor drain should be provided for cleaning and allowing water drainage. A nonskid floor surface should be used for safety.
   5. Ceiling height should be limited to 8' with 7' preferable. Heights in excess of 8' may result in hot or adequate temperatures near the ceiling but uncomfortably cool floor temperatures.
   6. An area for mounting the steam generator must be selected to provide the following:

      Allow access for servicing and provide sufficient space to remove elements should they ever need replacing.
      Protect steam generator from freezing, moisture and areas that might exceed 140°F.(60°C) (do not mount generator in the steam room or in an outdoor location)
      The all copper line from the steam generator to the steam room should not exceed 20 feet, should always slope toward the steam generator or steam head, should not form traps or gullies allowing condensation to accumulate and should be insulated to prevent heat loss and prevent burns from accidental contact.
      The steam head should be located in accordance with the generator installation instructions and minimize potential user contact.
      When installing the generator, plumbing unions should be used to allow removal of generator should service be required.

   7. When selecting a construction material for lining the inside of your steam room, make sure to contact the material manufacturer to determine that the material is warranted for the hot, moist conditions of a steam room.
   8. The steam room must be totally enclosed.
   9. Ceiling vents in the steam room are not recommended. If used, they must form a vapor-tight seal and positive closing. Ducts must be waterproof.
  10. Skylights and exterior windows are not recommended. If used, they must be double pane. Caution must be used to insure that the height and size of a window or skylight in a steam room does not prevent the room from maintaining comfortable temperatures in reasonable length of time.

When sizing the generator, determine the cubic footage of the space being heated (Width x Length x Height) then add the following:

     Each glass block wall or exterior wall (if freezing is possible)+10%
     Ceramic tile mortar bed or cement board backing +20%
     Cast iron tub +20%
     Natural stone (marble, granite, slate, etc.) +100%