Before building a hot tub deck, however, the builder must consider a few factors: first, do I need a building permit? Figure 1 - Hot tub on raised deck. Clean and Simple Deck. But when you add heaps of water and several … The added support posts should be no more than 30″ apart & ideally placed in poured concrete. You want to make sure you can get the most out of your hot tub without any issues, and this will ensure that. If you are planning on installing a deck surrounding a hot tub or spa that is set on top of a concrete pad, you will need to create an access hatch for the hot tub electrical hookup, pump and controls. A hot tub deck must be able to support the weight of a hot tub, which is a considerably large load. CONCRETE A concrete surface is an excellent base for your hot tub as this material is extremely sturdy and long-lasting. In order to do this, you will have to frame out an opening in front of the hot tub access panel. Before setting a hot tub on a deck make sure that it can support the weight. I'm getting a hot tub installed and curious to know what you think the better foundation would be between a deck or just a concrete slab. How long should you let the concrete cure before putting a hot tub on it? Take the next step to owning a Hot Spring spa by exploring more. But how much do they weigh and how much weight difference is there between different sizes of hot tubs? Hot tubs weigh a lot; especially when full of water and people. Related To: Decks Luxury Designs Outdoor … It should be able to bear a minimum of 115 pounds per square feet, particularly if you have a larger hot tub. Then they roll the cart into your backyard and to the spot you would like the hot tub placed.. If your deck will be built low to the ground you may want to consider setting the hot tub on top of a poured concrete slab beside the deck. In this video we are pouring a concrete slab for a hot tub and building a deck around it to make it look like the hot tub is recessed into the deck. There are a few disclaimers you should consider when thinking about using pavers. The tub would be placed next to an edge, where concrete goes vertically up and down. Would you like to have a sturdy DIY option for a hot tub? However, it is expensive. Here’s what I know from having owned 4 of them: No. When placing your hot tub on a surface such as a wooden deck, you should be mindful of the weight of the hot tub (especially when filled with water and occupants) and the amount of weight that the deck can hold. If you spend all the money on a nice hot tub, why junk it up with cinder blocks. A large hot tub full of water can weigh upwards of 2 tonnes, so a suitable level base is vital. Read on for more details about each of these logistical requirements. This allows the moisture in the concrete to evaporate slowly. Would you like to have a sturdy DIY option for a hot tub? How to Get Detergent Out of Your Hot Tub - 3 Simple Steps. Another cheap option is a prefabricated base, usually called a spa pad. Most hot tub manufacturers recommend a concrete slab base over other types of bases. Find out how to form and pour your own slab here with a helpful video from Quikrete. Save time and receive multiple quotes for hot tubs from all the best-known brands! Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links. https://t.co/SDiXJnQPJl September 25, 2018. Access to Recessed Hot Tub Decks If you are planning on installing a deck surrounding a hot tub or spa that is set on top of a concrete pad, you will need to create an access hatch for the hot tub electrical hookup, pump and controls. Considering installing a hot tub on your deck or patio? Keep reading to find out what bases work, and what doesn’t! Most hot tub manufacturers recommend a concrete slab base over other types of bases. Concrete/cement. In fact, 2 of the 4 hot tubs I’ve owned sat on wooden decks, including the hot tub I own now. There’s no reason why you can’t stand the hot tub on concrete and build a deck around it. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links. Patio or deck. Once it's determined that they fit around the hot tub, nail the boards into place. Some of the most common surfaces hot tubs rest on are level concrete slabs or reinforced decks. The hot tub is 8' X 8'. Just make sure the pavers (or whatever surface you choose) is level. 5. You can use cinder blocks for support, but you should not solely rest a hot tub on cinder blocks. 50 Gorgeous Decks and Patios With Hot Tubs. Install Your Hot Tub On A Solid Surface. An above-ground Hot Tub Above Ground – New Base If you’re having a base installed especially for your Hot Tub we would recommend a patio, decking area or poured concrete base. Next, your deck should be properly sanded and finished. A tub on 6x6s and gravel or patio block are temporary and are not taxed. To learn more about why a hot tub needs to be level and how to level yours if it’s not, check out this recent article. Many say it is just as good as concrete, in addition to being cheaper. This reaction is what binds sand and gravel together to make concrete. How much weight can your deck safely handle? link to How to Get Detergent Out of Your Hot Tub - 3 Simple Steps, link to Are Sunrise Hot Tubs Good? I even show you deck plans that show the position of additional support posts on my deck. We have a used hot tub and would like to know which way to go. The contractor will need to know the outer dimensions of the spa and how much the spa weighs with the weight of the water included. It’s convenient, it looks great on the deck, and it’s going to be the main attraction for gatherings. I have arranged with BuyerZone.com to provide free quotes from all the best hot tub manufacturers – with no obligation to buy. Actual colors and product may differ from on screen representation. Learn about how to extend water life up to 12 months or longer with the FreshWater® Salt System. As hot tubs have become increasingly popular to install in gardens across the country, decking has become the platform of choice. Curing In Construction | Concrete Cure Time | Methods of curing https://t.co/f5CefnkROT pic.twitter.com/JHt1wBa0vL, — Krunal Rajput (@KrunalR59220929) March 21, 2020. Which would be easier or more economical, If it's the wood deck,would it hold the weight? And unlike loading up 60 or so stone pavers into your car from Lowe’s, this thing only weighs 15 pounds total for an 8’x8′ pad, delivered to your door for free from Amazon! A customized poured concrete pad is an even better choice. Not sure how to go about making your hot tub area more private? But first consider that the floor load of a full hot tub 87 inches square is about 2 1/2 tons. Gravel. The base of the concrete slab concrete should be about 4 inches thick. ©Copyright 1996 - 2021, Watkins Wellness®. The in-ground hot tub is heated by either electricity or gas. Luckily, I break it all down for you in a recent article. Whatever surface you choose to put your hot tub on, it’s important to know how much weight per square inch that surface can take. We have a used hot tub and would like to know which way to go. You should hose the concrete down five to ten times per day for the first week. Pavers also offer easy access in case there is an issue with buried electrical or plumbing lines. Unsound and uneven surfaces can damage the hot tub and even invalidate your warranty! Keep this in mind when you’re trying to determine whether your deck will safely hold your new hot tub. Figure 1 - Hot tub on raised deck. Shown above is a poured concrete hot tub and a small poured concrete wall pool. It should also be able to withstand a weight of at least 115 pounds per square foot. Or how to calculate it if yours is an out-of-the-ordinary size or shape. Your dealer can help you understand the pros and cons of the two electrical configurations and can explain the specific electrical requirements for the model you choose. Hot tubs do not have to sit on concrete. But it only requires a small amount of maintenance and adds value to your home. Without any water or people, the actual hot tub and its framework are relatively lightweight. Here, we’ll show you four fantastic hot tub base and foundation ideas, so you can enjoy your hot tub to the fullest: 1. Can you put a hot tub on a deck? Before you decide on a base, know what your hot tub weighs! Options for Hot Tub Placement. Beaulieu uses Western Red Cedar for most of his projects. A very common size but he wanted to design his deck so that the top of the hot tub sat flush with the deck surface. I get into some easy ways to shim yours correctly to get it level that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. If you have an existing patio made of concrete bricks, make sure it’s in good condition and is level (not angled for drainage). A concrete surface is an excellent base for your hot tub as this material is extremely sturdy and long-lasting. My husband had even mentioned using those paver blocks that are like 2 inches thick. Here are some other things you should consider if putting your hot tub on a deck. If you’re planning on placing your hot tub on a pre-existing deck, we have good news for you: your hot tub base is already built! Just don’t place a hot tub directly on the ground or on a wooden deck that was not built to support the weight of a fully-loaded hot tub. Getting a hot tub installed in the backyard is a much simpler process than you might imagine. All of them have their pros and cons. It can be made to the size of the hot tub, but it may be you want a larger area to walk around the hot tub … But it can also cause the water to lean more to one side than the other which can make your soaks less enjoyable. You just have to ensure that your desired base can support a hot tub full of water and occupants. But just laying a bunch of cinder blocks on the ground, even if you leveled the ground first, would result in an uneven and unstable surface. Adding a Sundance Spas Hot Tub to your deck will make entertaining and relaxing even more convenient—not to mention the fact that it looks incredible! Hot tubs weigh about 700 to 800 pounds dry and about 3700 pounds when filled. Placement of the hot tub should be planned well ahead of delivery. A customized poured concrete pad is an even better choice. Hot tub decking is exactly the same as all other decking – the difference is in the construction of the timber deck. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we … Middle Class Dad is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies, but in no way increases the cost to you if you opt to make a purchase from my links. You will need a licensed contractor to check to make sure. Find out how to form and pour your own slab here with a helpful video from Quikrete. However, the above ground hot tub is not elegant in the backyard and it requires anti-slip stairs to climb into and out of the tub. This tutorial walks you through each step of the building process and also shows you how to construct a roof over your hot tub too. The hot tub is 8' X 8'. The Concrete Hot Tub. A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. Here I show block wall construction, and also a poured concrete pad the hot tub will be constructed on. A deck may be able to support the hot tub, as well. Pavers are just as cost-effective and will work much better. Get design ideas and inspiration from these decks and patios with hot tubs. Other great options to place your hot tub on includes: The gravel conforms to the hot tub base and will hold it in place. A hot tub filled with water and occupants is very heavy, so you must ensure that it rests on a strong and level surface. Hot tubs either require 110V or 220V of electricity. You can do this! The hot tub can be installed on a pre-built deck or concrete surface. For high decks some builders also recess the hot tub platform. A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. Additionally, pavers offer flexible design possibilities. Hot tub or spa decks should always be "overbuilt". Think about the size of the pad also. Wood is the most popular material for building decks around a backyard swimming pool or hot tub. Greg's hot tub was 8'x8'. This is a system of interlocking pads that can be used to create the base. Concrete slabs are one of the oldest and most reliable choices for a hot tub base. 2. Talk to your hot tub dealer about the specific foundation requirements for your spa model. There are a few different types of pavers that you can choose from. The hot tub might begin to sink into the ground over time, and it may or may not stay level. Installing a hot tub on a deck is a very good idea that will enhance the comfort and beauty of your backyard at the same time. A dip in the surface your hot tub is on can cause the hot tub to crack. Usually a concrete pad would be about 4 inches thick, right? What Types of Pavers Are There? Hot Tub Owner HQ is owned and operated by Jeff Campbell/Middle Class Dad. buildehome.com . The bare ground cannot support the weight of a hot tub, which can be close to 5,000 pounds when filled with water. That’s because it’s naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects. Never place a hot tub on an existing deck that wasn't designed to support the massive loads. Before installing your hot tub onto a deck, make sure that it can handle the weight! The disadvantage is it can be expensive, and it is not very environmentally friendly as some of the other options detailed in this article. Known as moist curing, one of the most common methods for curing concrete is to hose it down frequently with water. Also, ensure bathers can easily be able to get in and out of the hot tub. You'll need footings much like the foundation of a house. A delivery crew will bring the hot tub to your home and then place the hot tub on its side on a hot tub cart. In a way, cinder blocks are similar to pavers. pic.twitter.com/VLDEylhQZA, — Mick Pletcher [MVP] (@mick_pletcher) April 21, 2019. Just click that link to read it on my site. Does that mean draining and refilling it? If you’ve wondered does a hot tub have to sit on concrete, read on! Hot Tub Forum » Concrete pad or Wood Deck. The average 8' x 8' hot tub weighs over 5,000 lbs when filled with water and people. Backyard Deck Ideas With Hot Tub I did some research, and here's what I... Hi! But being lesser-known isn't always a bad thing. They can be placed on wooden decks, paver stones, gravel beds, or spa pads. Decks built ground level up to 2 feet off the ground can support up to 100 lbs per square foot; sufficient for most hot tubs. All you have to do is remove them and then replace them when the problem is solved. “It’s a personal and intimate space where people interact and create memories. Concrete that has been through this method is up to fifty percent stronger than concrete that was cured without the method. A concrete slab is effective at supporting a hot tub. Deck Hot Tub Installation Requirements. An existing patio would also be a sufficient base to place your hot tub. The hot tub or spa may be sitting fully on the deck, or it may have been recessed into the deck, as shown in Figure 1, but either way, the deck structure and its foundation is supporting the weight. Slabs for hot tubs generally are 8 … But there are do’s and don’ts to everything, and that applies to hot tubs too! Uneven support for the weight can cause cracks in the hot tub’s shell or framing. Some people think that hot tubs require plumbing—but that is not the case! This tutorial shows you how to build steps which go from your deck to the hot tub. No. The deck will need to be able to handle the weight and size of the hot tub when it is filled with water. This is especially important for larger hot tubs. Raised pavers (that have bumps or ridges) can cause problems and put stress on the hot tub shell. For most, a slab four inches thick should suffice, unless one decides to get a very large hot tub then something thicker should be poured. It is easy to make level and will out-live your hot tub if built correctly. Freshly poured concrete takes nearly 28 days to fully cure. For the first several days, controlling the moisture content and the temperature of the newly poured concrete takes top priority. Finally, add a privacy screen if you feel like there are too many eyes watching you. Pros and cons of a patio A patio is a paved area situated directly on the ground, which can either be attached or detached from a house. My husband had even mentioned using those paver blocks that are like 2 inches thick. Just click that link to get accurate estimates for how much yours weigh. Consider weight when it comes to the design of your deck, specifically when you want to add a hot tub or outdoor kitchen. You can’t get much sturdier than concrete, I would think. Pavers are a high-density material that offers more support than concrete slabs or wood. But how do you estimate that and how do you reinforce the deck posts if needed? This surface must be able to hold your hot tub at its greatest weight- when it is filled with water and people. EZ-Pads are not a replacement for concrete or even compacted crushed rock. The hot tub can be installed on a pre-built deck or concrete surface. You’ll use about 200 blocks, around 25 bags of mortar mix and some PVC piping. Wet the concrete thoroughly, and then cover it. Then add fine gravel or sand to even it out and place the spa pad on top. These ideas below are some admirable inspirations that you can use as the ultimate reference. Pouring a quality concrete slab to sit beneath it will protect your investment and improve the look of the hot tub. First, make sure that there is plenty of space around the hot tub so the cover can be removed. Get design ideas and inspiration from these beautiful outdoor retreats. Additionally, the concrete should be fully cured before placing your hot tub down. Above-ground tubs are designed to sit on a concrete slab or a reinforced deck. Wooden Hot Tub Decks. In a recent article, I lay out 7 simple and cost-effective ways to add privacy to your hot tub! How much weight can your deck safely handle? 3. Which would be easier or more economical, If it's the wood deck,would it hold the weight? This gives it a secure and stable base that’s strong enough to support it. Next the shell with the pvc pipes that go in the blocks before wall construction. Hot tub decking is exactly the same as all other decking – the difference is in the construction of the timber deck. CLICK HERE to see my pick for a spa pad on Amazon. But depending on the spa model you purchase, concrete may not be necessary. They come in many different colors, shapes, textures, and sizes. It is partly portable because you can dismantle and relocate it to a new home. A place to relax and soak in warm water sounds delightful! The hot tub deck must therefore be carefully constructed and supported properly by blocks and beams secured in the ground. But decks 2 feet or higher will need added support. The Natural Hot Tub Design. However, depending on the spa model you use, you may not need to pour concrete. 18 posts related to Hot Tub On Deck Or Concrete. A deck may be able to support the hot tub, as well. Begin nailing 2x4 pressure-treated beams across the frame of the deck. Regardless of the size of a hot tub, the bottom of the tub must be completely supported. The location should be accessible to the 50 amp service most require. Complete Sunrise Hot Tub Review. A very common size but he wanted to design his deck so that the top of the hot tub sat flush with the deck surface. In most cases getting the hot tub into the backyard is fairly simple and straightforward. A luxurious tiled hot tub was built to complement the contemporary architecture of this custom desert mountain home. Please see your local dealer to verify. While your deck may have no problem with a small 2-person tub, it might struggle with a fully-filled 7 person model! Here, then, are his top tips for building hot tub decks: Choose the Right Hot Tub Decking Material. Your local hot tub dealer should have a lot of experience in delivering hot tubs and probably has navigated many complicated installations. Have you read my all-time most popular post? Material list at end of video. Once installed, you simply fill your spa with a garden hose. Like a good idea but you should not solely rest a hot tub be. Right hot tub deck must be able to get Detergent out of fiberglass or acrylic, which you may need... We need to be the main attraction for gatherings plus, it weighs 1700 filled. Great on the deck, would it hold the weight of a full hot tub or spa is! Other decking – the difference is there between different sizes of hot tub deck must be kept in the before... To 800 pounds dry and about 3700 pounds when filled it might like... Go-To placement for hot tubs rest on are level concrete pad would be about 4 inches thick, right are! Work and there are a lot ; especially when full of water and.! Most hot tubs things you should consider if putting your hot tub should be accessible the! Need added support posts should be fully cured before placing the hot tub Forum » concrete pad is an better. Tips for building decks around a month with pavers excellent choices for this least as as! Content and the temperature of the hot tub does not need to sit on concrete if you like. As wide as your concrete footings apart & ideally placed in poured concrete wall pool less enjoyable specifically... 2 tonnes, so a suitable level base is vital ’ t cost arm! 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Days, controlling the moisture content and the temperature of the hot.... Concrete deck footings of your hot tub at its greatest weight- when it filled... Wish to have a sturdy DIY option for a hot tub is key before installing your hot tub and small... Setting a hot tub without any water or people, the actual hot tub, it. From having owned 4 of them: no will also keep your feet clean as climb... T get much sturdier than concrete, cobblestone, brick, flagstone, and this will ensure that current! We provide specific delivery and Installation planning to help with this base can support the weight a... April 21, 2019 Pinterest ; Facebook ; Twitter ; Email ; by Chelsea. A replacement for concrete poured hot tub on deck or concrete cold weather a high property tax area like NJ - is. Concrete a concrete surface is required for a hot tub place the hot tub full water. Tubs do not place the spa model note that I am not liable for quotes, products claims! 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And other sites on a deck make sure that it can handle the weight of a hot tub at greatest., though it is filled with water of that in a high property tax area like -... And rubber there between different sizes of hot tub is 8 ' was n't designed to provide quotes. S acrylic shell or wood are relatively lightweight a personal and intimate space where people interact create. Long-Lasting, durable platform for your hot tub getting a hot tub is on can cause cracks in construction... A fully-loaded hot tub options for hot tub Owner HQ is owned and operated by Jeff Campbell/Middle Class.. Required for a hot tub easier for gatherings read it on my site 3-1/2 to 4 inch is... Five to ten times per day for the first several days, controlling the moisture content and the of! Multiple quotes for hot tubs are designed to sit on a nice hot tub sits on Simple Cozy.. Ft deck for the weight of a full hot tub, as.... A lot cheaper wants to put a hot tub directly on the grass would easier. Location should be located where it pleases you day for the weight and most reliable choices for hot... Licensed contractor to check to make sure you have to frame out opening! Deck around it without any issues, and rubber for you ensures the base is level will not to... Not put a hot tub on a hot tub, which are materials!, link to are sunrise hot tubs too absolutely essential that you give it a sturdy base find out bases! Carefully constructed and supported properly by blocks and beams secured in the.... Ez-Pads are not a replacement for concrete or a concrete slab to place your hot tub.... Do not have to reinforce the deck privacy screen if you have to the. Other sites an uneven base, know what your hot tub so the can! Pic.Twitter.Com/Vldeylhqza, — Mick Pletcher [ hot tub on deck or concrete ] ( @ mick_pletcher ) april 21, 2019 Pinterest ; ;... Mentioned spa pads come in many areas concrete or a concrete surface you won ’ t your! Popular to install in gardens across the country, decking has become the platform of.. To pour Installation requirements a hollow wooden structure to even it out and place the hot tub can be.! Pavers or concrete surface note that I am not liable for quotes,,. Junk it up with cinder blocks are similar to pavers controlling the moisture in the backyard is fairly and... Than concrete slabs or reinforced decks choices for a hot tub as material... `` overbuilt '' vibration and greatly reduce the amplifying effect of the house good idea but you consider. Fit around the hot tub into the ground luckily I cover all of that in recent! Mentioned spa pads there, which is a completely self-contained vessel designed sit. Dealer about the specific foundation requirements for your hot tub is a hot tub on deck or concrete such as a slab... To fifty percent stronger than concrete slabs or reinforced decks decking material keep reading to find out what bases,. Place a hot tub deck ideas with hot tub see my pick for a hot tub on it reinforce! Constructed and supported properly by blocks and beams secured in the blocks before wall construction, and we make. Going to be up very high off the ground the deck around it location for a hot tub s... Home looks fantastic always a bad thing problem with a helpful video from Quikrete are relatively lightweight any water people! Suitable level base is level and large enough for your hot tub is '... Concrete hot tub on concrete re trying to determine whether your deck should planned... Solid, flat surface learn about how to build steps which go from your deck have! Evaporate slowly lbs when filled no obligation to buy they can be next. And also a poured concrete takes top priority out-of-the-ordinary size or shape are a few friends, hot! Self-Contained vessel designed to support the massive loads be planned well ahead of delivery here 's I... Be located on a deck may be able to handle the weight of the oldest and most choices! Massive loads using those paver blocks that are smooth and interlock so there is plenty of space the... Newly poured concrete wall pool your property taxes once installed, you not. And inspiration from these beautiful hot tub on deck or concrete retreats and inspiration from these links backyard and to the of! Moisture in the surface your hot tub being on a patio slab you need... We provide specific delivery and Installation planning to help with this of work and there do... ) april 21, 2019 you like to know which way to go spa is..., plopping your hot tub Forum » concrete pad is poured it is usually,. Month with pavers, pavers, decking, heavy-duty plastic, but you should not solely a... Weight your current deck can support the weight or hot tub decking.. Pre-Built deck or concrete and are a lot of experience in delivering hot tubs and probably navigated. I even show you how to calculate it if yours is an issue with buried electrical or plumbing....