By Garrett Ruhmann, Wood-Mizer
April 27, 2026
Todd has been thinking hard about health lately. What can he do to improve not only his health and wellness, but that of his family’s as well? A realization comes upon him: owning a sauna would be beneficial for everyone.
He puts in the research time. Saunas help increase blood circulation, they reduce stress, and they soothe muscles. They can improve lung function and skin health. This is it, he decides. It’s the perfect choice.
The idea of purchasing one never really enters the equation. He turns the idea over to his son Caleb. For someone like Caleb, who owns a Wood-Mizer LT40 Hydraulic Portable Sawmill, this isn’t a purchase, it’s a project.
He begins sourcing wood for the project. Much of it comes from his own woods, with some supplementing from local loggers. It takes three days of sawing. White oak is the choice, though a bit of white cedar, a dash of white pine, and some basswood is thrown in the mix as well.
After some time drying in the kiln, the pine is removed and run through Caleb’s Wood-Mizer MP260 Planer/Moulder. All that remains is assembly.
When it’s all said and done, around 200 hours of labor are put into it. 200 hours of sweat, of detail-oriented care, of discerning eyes and tireless work. But it’s worth it. Caleb estimates that his family saves $15,000 by building the sauna themselves rather than purchasing a new one.
When the 2025 Wood-Mizer My Project Contest came around, Caleb knew his sauna deserved to be an entry. He was right. Not only did he enter, but he won a $1,250 credit in the Speciality Category.
The sauna itself is beautiful. Basswood walls and ceiling, white cedar flooring. Large windows that allow the sunlight to generously flood the space. It shines in the backwoods, a beacon of human creation and creativity; a monument to love and labor.
And now? Peace.
Heated by a wood fire stove up to 170 degrees, the sauna comfortably fits six people. It’s one of Caleb’s favorite places to be: sitting in the warm room, watching the snow gently fall outside as deer plod by, sniffing the ground without a care in the world.
And though it all started with a dream and a Wood-Mizer, it ends here. With a family, spending time together, enjoying health benefits amidst the beauty of nature. For the Hodnefields, this is the wood life.
Author's Note: The 2026 My Wood-Mizer Project Contest will be launching again soon! Keep an eye on https://woodmizer.com/us/contest for details.
