How To Determine If A Deck Can
Support A Hot Tub
Adding a hot tub to a deck without preparation can be dangerous. The last thing you'd like to deal with is a deck collapsing under the weight of a 1,000-lb spa.
Luckily, we'll provide you with expert tips for careful planning, allowing you to safely build the backyard of your dreams.
Continue reading to find out more!
What Kind Of Hot Tub Should I Install On My Deck?
When it comes to deciding what type of hot tub you want to install on your deck, you have two main choices:
In-ground hot tubs are very popular choices for those who have decks, as these hot tubs don't get in the way of the view or act as much as an obstruction as an above-ground model. Plus, in-ground hot tubs are much easier to get into, which can be great for senior citizens or for those with physical limitations.
However, above-ground hot tubs are much easier to install, as you simply place these hot tubs atop your deck. Of course, you will need to consider the capacity of your deck before placing these kinds of hot tubs on your decking.
Click below to check out pricing of in-ground hot tubs:
Installation Requirements for Hot Tub Deck Installation
Regardless of what kind of deck you have, you'll need it to be a flat surface to install your hot tub. This is why most hot tub users resort to concrete slabs. Most of the time, these concrete slabs are four inches thick at the least. If you have an existing deck, you need to make sure that it can handle the weight of your hot tub like a concrete slab would be able to.
How To Calculate Deck Load Capacity
It is imperative to make sure that your deck can handle the weight of your hot tub, which is why some calculations will need to be made to ensure it is sound.
Here are the numbers to keep in mind when calculating whether or not your deck can handle your hot tub:
You'll also need to determine how many gallons of water in a hot tub.
To calculate whether or not you can put a hot tub on your deck, use this formula below:
Hot tub weight + (gallons of water x 8.34) + (seating capacity x 180) / # of square feet = pounds per square foot.
On average, a wood deck should be able to handle at least 100 pounds per square foot. If you do your calculations and your hot tub comes in under that particular weight, then you should be able to put your hot tub on deck. Most spa models come under 100 pounds per square foot, so you should be okay. However, take caution, especially if you have a five-person hot tub or greater.
The last thing you want to do is guess, however, which is why we recommend consulting with a professional before you try anything.
Remember, your spa will be much heavier when it is filled with hundreds of gallons of water.
How To Place Your Hot Tub On A Deck
One of the major things to consider is how and where you will place your hot tub on the deck. Trust us when we say this, trying to move your hot tub around later down the line will be a major pain.
The following considerations are meant to help you get your hot tub placed correctly the first time around.
Distance From Home
Placing your hot tub against a wall is one of the best hot tub privacy ideas. This is also the optimal solution for wind blockage. If you live in an area with cold weather, especially at nights, then you can stay much warmer.
If you live in the snow, you might want to consider how close your unit is to the door so that you can run inside once your get out.
You may also want to consider placing your spa in an area that is safe to access. If it is far away from your home, slip-resistant mats can help.
Privacy
When you're relaxing in your hot tub, the last thing you want is your neighbors peeping over at you. You might also consider adding some sort of covering, such as foliage or fencing to give yourself some additional privacy. Of course, you will also need to add the weight of these items to your deck support calculations to see whether or not your deck is able to handle the additional features.
Hot Tub
When picking a spa that your deck can handle, you need to be cautious when making your decision. We highly recommend that you pick out your hot tub prior to making any structural or support changes to your deck. When trying to find the right spa for your deck needs, there are many things to consider:
You also need to make sure that you can get your hot tub onto your deck. The last thing you want is to purchase a hot tub that is too large to maneuver up and on top of your deck. Make sure to perform the correct measurements after you weigh your hot tub so that you can see whether or not you'll be able to move it up to your deck. If not, going with a traditional concrete pad might be a better idea.
Final Thoughts - Installing Your Hot Tub Model On Your Deck
So, can you put a hot tub on a deck?
Yes, a hot tub model is a serious investment. If you don't ensure the structural integrity of your deck when your filled hot tub is on it, then you risk putting yourself, your family, and your friends in danger, not to mention wasting potentially thousands of dollars on damage repair.
Finding the right space for your spa doesn't have to be a challenge. Simply follow the steps above to see if your decking is able to support your spa in the location you want to put it in. If you don't already have a deck built in your backyard and you want some inspiration for your build, all it takes is a quick Google search to find thousands of high-quality decks with hot tubs.
