FAQs
Do you have questions about our saunas and cabins?
Find answers to all your burning questions below.
Configurable means that components of a product can be customized to meet different needs and preferences. For ELMNTL Shelter, this includes changing the size, floor plans, finishes, and fixtures that can be selected to create a unique layout.
Our Turnkey Services cover all the necessary steps to ensure a smooth delivery and installation of your ELMNTL Shelter. The specific services depend on the foundation type and layout choice. These mandatory services provide a hassle-free experience and include:
- Personalization of design and configuration from available options
- Feasibility and access assessment
- Architectural services for custom layouts
- Final quote preparation
- Building permit package and fees*
- Foundation design*
- Project planning and tracking
- Soils, MEP, and structural engineering management*
- Energy modeling and glazing performance optimization
- Site work coordination with general contractor
- Clerical work*
- In-factory inspections*
- Project Manager for 1 day of on-site installation
*Services not required or included for temporary foundation.
We also offer these additional services to support your project:
- Site Planning and Zoning. Quote based on project location and details
- Complete Site Work Management - ELMNTL hires and manages local GC on your behalf. Quote based on project location and details.
The all-in cost of your project includes the unit price, Turnkey Services, add-on features or services, and site work. Sitework costs can vary significantly due to site conditions, local general contractor fees, and labor expenses. We provide a rough estimate for site work early on to give you a clear picture of the total project cost from the start.
A site plan is a detailed drawing that shows the layout and features of your property, including the placement of structures, utilities, road access, land features, and property lines. It helps ensure proper planning and zoning for your project.
ELMNTL Shelter is delivered as a fully finished module on the back of a semi-truck. Depending on your site, you may qualify for a simple trailer drop delivery. Otherwise, a crane is used to lift the structure into place. Modular delivery means your new space is installed in 1-2 days with minimal on-site disruption.
ELMNTL Shelter installation is completed within 1-2 days. After being trailer dropped or lifted onto the foundation, utilities are connected, and final touches and inspections are performed. An ELMNTL project manager will be on-site alongside your local general contractor to oversee the installation.
For an additional service fee, ELMNTL can project manage the entire off-grid research, outfitting, and installation for you. More details and an estimate will be provided based on your specific zoning, climate, and site information.
ELMNTL Shelter is backed by a 10 year structural warranty and a 2 year systems warranty. Individual components carry additional manufacturer warranties. For example, an EPDM roof is warrantied for 30 years, and an appliance can be warrantied for a lifetime.
From the time of signing, it takes about 8-16 weeks to build and deliver your ELMNTL Sauna. Lead times depend on availability in our production queue.
Size: Choose your hot room size (6 ft or 10ft) and cool down room size (4 ft or 6ft). Add on a 9ft stargazing deck for a hot tub and/or cold plunge area.
Interiors: Select wood types for walls and ceiling, bench design, electric or wood-fired stove, lighting options, sound system, and skylight.
Exterior: Choose your siding, entry type, rooftop or stargazing decking, and outdoor shower.
Take some of the following factors into consideration when choosing your stove:
Heat Experience: Wood-fired stoves offer a traditional sauna experience with intense heat and aroma; electric stoves provide consistent, adjustable heat.
Maintenance: Wood-fired stoves need regular cleaning and wood storage; electric stoves are more low-maintenance.
Environmental Impact: Wood-fired stoves use renewable resources but emit smoke; electric stoves are cleaner burning.
Convenience: Electric stoves start quickly and have precise temperature control; wood-fired stoves require more time and effort to manage.
ELMNTL Sauna features mineral wool or hemp insulation with a continuous foil-backed radiant barrier, ensuring robust insulation and energy efficiency.
We have taken a science-driven approach for ventilation. Our system provides fresh air intake and passive air circulation vents, which optimize stove performance while keeping the heat in.
Site work is only necessary if you do not have leveled ground or access for a truck to deliver the ELMNTL Sauna. If you already have a leveled ground and access, no additional site work is required.
In many cases, we deliver your ELMNTL Sauna using trailer drop delivery. The sauna is lifted off the trailer with hydraulic jacks or a forklift with 6-foot forks and placed directly on the site.
Installing a sauna takes just a few hours. Once your ELMNTL Sauna is delivered and secured, all checks are completed, and the stove is plugged in, you can fire it up right away.
ELMNTL Sauna is backed by a 10 year structural warranty and a 2 year systems warranty. Individual components carry additional manufacturer warranties. For example, an EPDM roof is warrantied for 30 years, and exterior siding is often warrantied for 50 years.
Ancient traditions from countries like Finland, Turkey, and Japan have long incorporated heat therapies into their health routines. Both steam saunas and dry saunas have rich histories around the world. Recently, the benefits of regular sauna use have gained attention in North America, with studies highlighting potential natural health benefits, including:
- Reduced Stress: High heat environments induce a calming effect, releasing endorphins and reducing cortisol levels over a period of regular sauna use. (2)
- Cardiovascular Health: By enhancing blood circulation and lowering blood pressure, sauna exposure can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall heart function. Using the sauna post work-out is particularly beneficial. (2)
- Muscle Soreness & Joint Pain: Heat relieves muscle soreness and joint pain by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation. Regular sauna use is beneficial for athletes and individuals with chronic pain. (2)
- Skin Health: Using a sauna for skin related issues can be beneficial. Sauna steam helps open pores and gets you sweating, which can detoxify and improve skin health. (2)
- Respiratory Health: The warm, humid environment of a sauna can help relax bronchial muscles and reduce stress, making it easier to breath. Regularly using a sauna for asthma, can help improve respiratory function. (2)
- Immune System: Sauna therapy can boost your immune system, by promoting better circulation. Links between regularly using a sauna and flu prevention have been studied. (2)
- Migraine Relief: Using a sauna for migraine and headache issues may help improve severity and frequency of episodes. (2)
- Weight Loss: Increased heart rate and metabolic rate from sauna sessions can contribute to a calorie burn similar to moderate exercise. Regular use of a steam sauna for weight loss, can be effective. (1)
- GC Estimate: Obtain an estimate from a local general contractor (GC) for an on-site assembly, or have ELMNTL manage a GC on your behalf.
- Local Engineering and Permitting: ELMNTL performs soils analysis, designs foundation to match local soils report, refreshes architectural set and structural engineering to match local soils, wind, fire, and snow load requirements, files for permits in coordination with your local GC (8 weeks).
- Procurement and Fabrication: ELMNTL procures all materials for the kit of parts, and begins panelized system fabrication (16 weeks).
- Delivery and Assembly: ELMNTL arranges flat-packed delivery of the panels and the kit of parts. Your GC and their local carpenters then assemble the dwelling (4 weeks).
Interiors: Bathroom theme, kitchen appliances, fireplace, and add-ons.
Exterior: Siding material, siding color, decking.
We cover all the steps needed to ensure a smooth delivery with our Turnkey Services. These are mandatory set of services that come with every The Mountain Refuge. Comprehensive turnkey services include:
- Personalization of design and configuration from available options
- Feasibility and access assessment
- Architectural services for custom layouts
- Final quote preparation
- Building permit package and fees
- Foundation design
- Project planning and tracking
- Soils, MEP, and structural engineering management*
- Energy modeling and glazing performance optimization
- Site work coordination with general contractor
- Clerical work
- In-factory inspections
We also offer these additional services to support your project:
- Site Planning and Zoning. Quote based on project location and details.
- Complete Site Work Management - ELMNTL hires and manages local GC on your behalf. Quote based on project location and details.
The all-in cost of your project includes the unit price, Turnkey Services, add-on features or services, and site work. Site work costs can vary significantly due to site conditions, local general contractor fees, and labor expenses. We provide a rough estimate for site work early on to give you a clear picture of the total project cost from the start.
A site plan is a detailed drawing that shows the layout and features of your property, including the placement of structures, utilities, road access, land features, and property lines. It helps ensure proper planning and zoning for your project.
Flat-packed panels and a kit of parts are delivered by truck to your site. Equipment mobilization for unloading may include a forklift, telehandler, or a crane.
To assemble The Mountain Refuge, you will need a local general contractor (GC) and 2-3 carpenters for a period of 3-4 weeks. ELMNTL pre-fabricates the panels and provides a kit of parts for easy on-site assembly. Your GC can follow our detailed assembly guides, with ongoing support and communication from an ELMNTL project manager.
Yes, The Mountain Refuge can be outfitted for off-grid living. While configuring your structure, specify the level of off-grid capability you are looking for, and we will outfit it accordingly.
For an additional service fee, ELMNTL can project manage the entire off-grid research, outfitting, and installation for you. More details and an estimate will be provided based on your specific zoning, climate, and site information.
As a kit of parts and panels which is assembled by your local general contractor (GC), the warranty on the quality of their work is assumed by the local GC. Please confirm with your GC about warranty limitations. All components within our kit are backed by 2-50 year warranty, depending on the manufacturer of the component. For example, a metal roof is warrantied for 50 years, and an appliance can be warrantied for a lifetime.
We prefabricate wall, floor, and ceiling panels that are quick to snap into place around custom structural steel bents. The Mountain Refuge comes to your site as flat-packed panels with all interior and exterior finishes, fixtures, and appliances in a kit of parts.
ADU stands for either an accessory dwelling unit or additional dwelling unit. In most cases, an ADU house or ADU unit means a structure that provides additional living space on a property that already has an existing home. However, ADU’s meaning goes beyond providing extra space; it offers an easy way to expand for your family or generate a new stream of income.
Our Zero-to-Launch services cover everything needed to bring your business idea to life. We eliminate the guesswork and red tape from designing, building, and launching your dream getaway. ELMNTL is a partner in the launch journey with you and provides tailored solutions for your unique idea.
- Business & Investment Consultation - We provide market research, ROI consultation, fundraising consultation, and strategic business planning for your project.
- Master Planning - A visual master plan for your project is essential in approaching and winning investors and local support. We visually place structures into a master plan for your retreat, while tending to landscaping, outdoor areas, orientation towards the views, legal setback requirements, and considering potential future developments.
- Bespoke Design & Architecture - We can customize our existent cabin design to fit your goals, or design and architect completely new concepts in bespoke architecture for your hospitality getaway.
- Interior Design - We work with you to create spaces with your brand’s signature ethos. We help you curate the kind of experience, style, and memories you want to offer your guests.
- Marketing - We support you in creating a unique brand identity with comprehensive branding, digital design, email and media marketing, photography, and other marketing services.
- Tooling & Software - From creating a website with an integrated reservation portal to streamlining property management and customer relationships, we’ll provide you with a suite of software tools to ensure the best user experience for your guests, and seamless backend management for your operations.
Post launch, we’ll set you up with our partners for on-going support and resources.
Cohesion Under One Roof
By providing all the services needed to launch, ELMNTL streamlines processes and centers your vision in achievable reality. Integrating your ideas into each step, from site planning to website design, brings warmth and personal touch to your business. ELMNTL helps you navigate all the elements needed to launch successfully and on your terms.
Both ELMNTL Shelter and ELMNTL Sauna are designed with hospitality in mind.
Our Shelter S1 is the perfect short term cabin, while our Shelter S3 is suited for longer stays with a bit more space. Our fixtures for the bathrooms, kitchen, and living spaces are all easy to clean and maintain for high use.
For ELMNTL Sauna, we kept high-use environments top of mind when designing. Our insulation helps regulate temperature control. Our waterproofing makes it possible to throw water around the sauna and use it however your guests like. Our standard benches are floating and unskirted, which makes floor cleaning a breeze
- Obtaining Building Permits: Each jurisdiction has different lead times for permitting. ELMNTL is equipped to address all state, county, and city permitting requirements, and to file building permits for your project. See more about permitting here.
- Material Procurement: Material availability from our suppliers might affect the timeline if there are unforeseen supply delays or if a material substitution is necessary.
- Site Work: During our feasibility analysis, we identify the scope of site work needed and update your timeline accordingly. New conditions discovered during the work or the availability of your local general contractor (GC) can also affect the timeline.
Size: Go up to 45 feet long and 12 ft or 14 ft wide. You can expand the size further by adding more modules through joining, stacking, or creating portal walkways between each module
Interiors: Floor plan layout, interior paneling, flooring options, kitchen layouts, appliances, bath layouts, bath colors, glazing layouts (windows, skylights, portal windows, foldable glass doors).
Exterior: Siding material, siding color, door placement, decking, and addition of gear capsule and firepit.
Yes, we offer site planning and zoning approval services. We guarantee zoning approval or your money back. After a zoning approval, your build enters our production queue.
A zoning approval ensures your ELMNTL Shelter is properly placed, and is compliant with local zoning laws. In short, it ensures the proposed project can be legally built, which de-risks your investment. Zoning and permitting is not required if you choose a Temporary foundation option.
No. Your local general contractor (GC) will handle the site work needed. If you would like ELMNTL to hire and manage a local GC on your behalf, we offer that as an additional service.
The access requirements will depend greatly on your site location. Typically we’ll need sufficiently wide roads for equipment to make turns, no low-hanging branches or obstructions, stable ground for heavy vehicles, and a clear path to the installation site. ELMNTL performs evaluation of access conditions as part of our initial feasibility study, so you don’t have to.
We aim to eliminate as much disruption to your life and site as possible - that’s the beauty of modular delivery. For trucks and equipment to access the site, we may need to temporarily block the road on the day of delivery. We’ll give you and the community ample notice for anticipated disruptions.
Starting Estimate: The initial cost for an off-grid system is around $15,000, which includes solar panels, an inverter, and a composting toilet. Additional costs apply for battery storage and grey water treatment systems. Full off-grid capability, including storage, starts at $28,000, depending on dwelling size and location. Final estimate provided after consultation and design.
We’ve designed, engineered, and built ELMNTL Shelter with longevity in mind. Until you choose to dismantle it, our structure will stand solid through the elements for generations to come.
Structure
- Framing - Engineered wood: LVLs, LSLs, TGIs, timber framing
- Insulation - Mineral wool or hemp insulation.
- Wall: R-29 / Floor: R-40 / Ceiling: R-49. If higher R value is required, we have an add-on insulation option that meets all codes.
- Roof - Class A or WUI fire-rated assembly: EPDM / TPO over insulation with an integrated gutter system.
- Walls - R-6 continuous exterior insulation and waterproofing membrane
- Floors - Wide-plank engineered hardwood oak flooring
- TGI joists for minimal thermal bridging with insulation
- Waterproofing membrane + underlayment + insect/rodent screen
Systems
- Air quality - Energy recovery ventilation with MERV-13 level filtration.
- Comfort - Split-system AC + heating, with energy efficient heat pump. Optional in-floor electrical radiant heating with a smart control unit.
- Windows - Double or triple glazed high performance European windows, wood or aluminum interior, aluminum clad exterior. Optimized U-factor and Heat Gain Coefficient for passive cooling or heating.
- Doors - Solid wood door with cladding, Marvin glass door, or La Cantina glass wall system.
- Water - On-demand instant electrical water heater.
- Lights - Spotlights, sconce lights, and/or concealed dimmable LED strip lighting system. Designer switches and outlets. Exterior spot lighting and exterior under-the-floor light strip.
- More - Smoke and carbon monoxide alarm. AC enclosure grille. And much more.
Material Procurement: Material availability from our suppliers might affect the timeline if there are unforeseen supply delays or if a material substitution is necessary.
Production Queue: Contact us ahead of your desired delivery date to ensure a space in our production queue.
Wood-Fired Stoves: With a readily available and inexpensive supply of wood, this is the more cost friendly option. However, costs can increase if you need to purchase and transport firewood.
Electric Stoves: Operating costs depend on local electricity rates. While typically more expensive than wood, electric offers greater efficiency and control, potentially leading to savings over time through precise temperature regulation.
Unlike barrel saunas, which are not insulated, ELMNTL Sauna offers significant long-term cost benefits due to its energy efficiency. Our robust insulation also allows for more even temperature distribution while operating the sauna, resulting in a more relaxing experience.
ELMNTL Sauna is constructed without plastic, foam insulation, formaldehyde, or any toxic off-gassing chemicals. You'll only be breathing in the natural, wood-malted air.
ELMNTL Sauna is fully waterproof inside and out, offering superior protection for humid and wet conditions. It is built to withstand interior shower use and cold plunges.
No. Your local general contractor (GC) will handle the site work if needed.
Delivery requires a truck and trailer to have enough space to either back into the site, or make a turnaround. We will plan the delivery details based on your specific site conditions.
No, the truck drop-off ensures minimal disruption to your day. Fire it up and invite your neighbors (well, depends on the neighbors).
We’ve designed, engineered, and built ELMNTL Sauna with longevity in mind. Until you choose to dismantle it, our structure will stand solid through the elements for generations to come.
Yes. Choose our rover base, trailer add-on to take your sauna on the road!
Yes, sauna bathing is safe. However, to avoid any health issues, it's important to:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your sauna sessions to prevent dehydration and replenish fluids.
- Track Session Time: Try to keep your sauna sessions at 20 minutes at first before taking a break. You can gradually increase the duration once you know your limits.
- Avoid Excessive Alcohol: Too much alcohol before or during sauna sessions increases the risk of dehydration.
- General Contractor: The availability of your local GC and carpenters can affect the timeline. ELMNTL provides all necessary components and detailed instructions for smooth assembly.
- Obtaining Building Permits: Each jurisdiction has different lead times for permitting. ELMNTL is equipped to address all state, county, and city permitting requirements, and to file building permits for your project. See more about permitting here.
- Material Procurement: Material availability from our suppliers might affect the timeline if there are unforeseen supply delays or if a material substitution is necessary.
- Site Work: During our feasibility analysis, we identify the scope of site work needed and update your timeline accordingly. New conditions discovered during the work or the availability of your local general contractor (GC) can also affect the timeline.
You can attach another Refuge by walkway and a common deck. Check out The Satellite for an office, studio, or rental cabin solution.
Yes, we offer site planning and zoning approval services. We guarantee zoning approval or your money back. After a zoning approval, your build enters our production queue.
The Mountain Refuge comes to your site as flat-packed panels with all interior and exterior finishes, fixtures, and appliances in a kit of parts. Nearly all components of the build are provided for easy on-site assembly. Please refer to the Mountain Refuge.
A zoning approval ensures The Mountain Refuge is properly placed, and is compliant with local zoning laws. In short, it ensures the proposed project can be legally built, which de-risks your investment.
No. Your local general contractor (GC) will handle the site work needed. If you would like ELMNTL to hire and manage a local GC on your behalf, we offer that as an additional service.
Access requirements may include sufficient space for the delivery truck, crane, and telehandler to mobilize and operate onsite.
Assembly time depends on the availability and estimate of your local general contractor and labor. We estimate that it takes about 3-4 weeks to assemble The Mountain Refuge with a crew of 2-3 carpenters working full-time (40 hours per week).
Starting Estimate: The initial cost for an off-grid system is around $15,000, which includes solar panels, an inverter, and a composting toilet. Additional costs apply for battery storage and grey water treatment systems. Full off-grid capability, including storage, starts at $28,000, depending on dwelling size and location. Final estimate provided after consultation and design.
We’ve designed and engineered The Mountain Refuge with longevity in mind. Our structure will stand solid through the elements for generations to come.
No. The meanings of ADU home, ADU unit, and ADU house are all the same. An ADU can be attached to a house or detached as an independent structure. It provides a separate living space from a main home, often with its own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom.
You can expect a high ROI for wellness products. In addition to having both luxury and rustic appeal, wellness products provide a unique selling point, higher room booking rates, longer stays on the average, and opportunities to attract new client segments.
Yes, building in the controlled setting of our workshop by builders deeply experienced in the product expedites the construction by as much as 2x when compared to building on-site or assembling a flat-packed prefab kit. Additionally, workshop fabrication eliminates the unknown factors of on-site construction, such as material and labor shortages, weather or inspection delays. Our modular designs allow us to build the structure efficiently and in tandem with other projects, saving time, reducing material costs, and minimizing waste.
Yes. We can hire and manage a local General Contractor (GC) on your behalf. We'll oversee the entire process to ensure efficient site work and proper preparation for your ELMNTL Shelter installation. The GC will provide an estimate which will be added to the final quote with a service fee from ELMNTL.
The service cost includes a list of Turnkey Services based on:
- Your choice of pre-set or custom floor plan
- The type of foundation you select
Turnkey Services are mandatory and ensure a smooth and efficient installation process. Additional services can be added as needed.
Zoning dictates what you can build and where, while building permitting is the process of getting approval to construct or alter a particular structure. ELMNTL Shelter complies with 99% of US building codes.
Yes, an ELMNTL Shelter requires either a permanent or temporary foundation. This choice affects permitting needs, service costs, and site work scope.
Permanent Foundation: Choose this option for a fully permitted structure that complies with all local codes.
Temporary Foundation: Opt for this if you prefer an unpermitted, removable, and relocatable structure, or if your area doesn’t require permits. Note that all liability, including potential fines and insurance issues, falls on the customer.
If your site is in an inaccessible remote area, helicopter delivery is an option.
Your local contractor will facilitate utility hook-ups. An ELMNTL project manager will be onsite to ensure everything goes smoothly.
If you decide to hire ELMNTL to manage your off-grid design, we’ll start with a one-hour consultation ($250) to discuss your options. Then, we design an off-grid system for you and provide an estimate. We handle zoning approval and permits if needed. We coordinate installation with your local GC and solar installer, fit any special appliances, and finalize load details. Once complete, your ELMNTL Shelter will be fully operational off-grid to start your adventure in nature.
Make a personal sanctuary with a sauna for one, or a gathering place for family and friends. If you intend on using ELMNTL Sauna for hospitality purposes, we’re happy to help you design a space that considers easy movement and is outfitted for community gatherings
For high-use or hospitality settings, electric stoves offer ease of use, reliability, and lower maintenance, while wood-fired stoves provide a unique, authentic experience that may require more upkeep. We recommend electric if you don’t have a dedicated person operating the sauna.
No, ELMNTL Sauna does not require a foundation. It comes either with integrated, pressure-treated beams that can be set on leveled ground, or a movable trailer foundation (rover base). However, we encourage you to check if you have specific local zoning and permitting requirements for saunas.
We are committed to finding a delivery solution for even the most challenging sites. The modular design of ELMNTL Sauna allows for flexible placement. Share your location with us, and we’ll do our best to accommodate it.
There are no rules about when you can use a sauna! Enjoying a session in the sauna in the morning can help with alertness and productivity. Ending your day with a session can help you wind down. It’s all about your intention.
Yes, flat-packed assembly is faster than traditional on-site construction. The components are organized, tested, cut to length, and panelized in our workshop for a quick on-site assembly, significantly reducing on-site construction time down to an average of 1 month. For a fully pre-fabricated modular cabin option, see ELMNTL Shelter.
Yes. We can hire and manage a local General Contractor (GC) on your behalf. We'll oversee the entire process to ensure efficient site work and proper preparation for your Mountain Refuge installation. The GC will provide an estimate which will be added to the final quote with a service fee from ELMNTL.
A list of Turnkey Services applies to your base price. Turnkey Services are mandatory. Additional services can be added on.
Zoning dictates what you can build and where, while building permitting is the process of getting approval to construct or alter a particular structure.
Yes, The Refuge requires a fully permitted foundation that complies with all local codes and engineering requirements. ELMNTL designs the best foundation for your site based on soil reports and elevations from our feasibility assessment. We collaborate with your local GC to pour the foundation before delivery. Our floor systems are compatible with helical piles, drilled piers, or micropiles, with an option to add a perimeter foundation.
