Decks And Hot Tubs: What You Need To Know Before You Build
When it comes to outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs are must-haves for many homeowners. Adding a hot tub, however, requires careful planning — everything from adding structural supports to locating the tub to understanding electrical requirements must be taken into account. Here are some quick tips and great advice we found on houselogic.com and deckmagazine.com.
Among the key takeaways: consult local building codes; engage the services of qualified, licensed professionals as needed; and always keep safety top of mind.
What to look for when purchasing a hot tub
First things first: although people use the terms “hot tub” and “spa” interchangeably, if the unit has circulating jets, the more common industry term is “spa.” Regardless of what you prefer to call it, however, experts recommend that you select your hot tub/spa before making any structural or design decisions regarding your deck.
A two-person spa averages around $2000. Models that seat 4-8 people can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000, reports houselogic.com. Although it’s easy to be swayed by features such as colored LED lights, integrated cup holders, and stereo systems, the first item you should look for is something called “full-foam” insulation, experts say. This high-density, closed-cell polyurethane foam fills the space between the spa’s outer cabinet and inner shell, and will reduce heat loss and noise levels, as well as increase the stability of the overall unit.
A quick tip: Delivering and installing these behemoths can be challenging. Be sure to discuss costs and procedures with both the spa retailer and your deck builder to avoid surprises.
How to calculate the necessary structural support
A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. If you’re building a new deck, the slab should be formed and poured at the same time as your concrete footings. A 3-1/2 to 4 inch slab is usually sufficient, experts say; however, larger tubs may require something more substantial.
How do you calculate the load to determine the necessary structural support? Add up the tub’s dry weight plus the water capacity (1 gallon of H2O equals roughly 8.3 lbs.) plus the number of recommended occupants multiplied by an average weight per person.
Here’s an example from deckmagazine.com:
A 56-sq ft. hot tub with a dry weight of 855 lbs. can hold 420 gallons of water and seat 6-7 people (average weight per person = 185 lbs.).
855 lb. tub + 3500 lbs. water + 1295 lbs. for 7 occupants = 5655 lbs. total weight.
5655 lbs. divided by 56-sq ft. = 101 lbs. /sq. ft. = design load the framing must be able to support
To size the joists and beams accurately for such a heavy load, most builders will consult a structural engineer or use beam-design charts, calculators, or software packages created for deck builders. If the deck is elevated, an engineered design is usually required by local authorities.
How to determine the ideal spa location
Even on a small deck, there must be enough room around the hot tub for the cover lift to function and air to circulate. On a larger deck, consider traffic flow around the space.
Other builder recommendations:
Take note of prevailing winds. Locating the unit near the corner of the house tends to accentuate the wind, some builders say.
Factor in the orientation of the sun and location of trees.
Don’t forget about the neighbors. A privacy screen, pergola or other design element will shield your space from the people next door.
If your property boasts spectacular scenery, orient your spa accordingly — but make sure the unit itself doesn’t interfere with the view when you’re inside looking out.
Ensure there is a door nearby (or a well-lit path) for quick dashes indoors on chilly evenings.
And if the thought of running barefoot across a splintered wood deck makes your wince, consider upgrading your outdoor space with low-maintenance, easy-on-your-toes composite decking from Fiberon®. It never needs staining, sanding, or refinishing. Unlike wood, Fiberon composite decking won’t rot, splinter, or crack, either.
Power up your hot tub safely
You’ll need a nearby electrical source to power your spa — and a licensed electrical contractor to do the work. Determine whether you or your builder will be responsible for – hiring the contractor, obtaining permits, and ensuring all necessary electrical work is completed appropriately.
Since water and electricity never mix, a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GCFI) is a must-have. This device will shut down the system immediately if it detects a change in current flow.
Some smaller spas can be plugged into a GFCI-protected 110v/20-amp outlet. Larger units usually require a 220v/50-amp connection to work properly.
A nearby emergency shut-off (usually within 5-15 feet of the unit) is also required by code.
Plus, if your tub will be sitting on a concrete slab, the electrical wiring must be run in conduit and placed before the concrete is poured.
Other safety considerations
Many builders recommend installing the hot tub so that its edge is 17-24 inches above the decking. Guests can sit on the rim and swing around into the water more easily. For spas located on top of a deck, stairs are in order.
No doubt you’ve seen spas that are flush with deck surfaces — an elegant look but one that can prove hazardous. Children, in particular, are more likely to step on the cover or even fall into the spa. Of course, if you have children or expect young guests, a cover with a lock — not to mention vigilant adult supervision — is essential.
Think about service
No matter how or where the tub is installed, there must be access to the motor for servicing. Access panels or removable steps are easy solutions for tubs placed on the deck’s surface. If the spa is partially recessed, the experts at deckmagazine.com suggest leaving at least side accessible. For a recessed spa, your builder may opt to frame out an access hatch or otherwise leave room around the tub’s edge so that the unit may be lifted straight up from its space.
With careful planning and the help of qualified professionals, a hot tub/spa can be a great addition to your new outdoor space. To learn more about hot tubs — and to download valuable safety information — visit the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals website.
