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. Hot Tubs and Decks – match made in (safety) heaven! I'm going to put a hot tub on the deck, on one end. A hot tub on decking can weigh a great deal when full â several tonnes in fact. You need to consider everything from ensuring adequate structural support to determining the optimal location for the tub to understanding electrical requirements. It’s the only way to ensure you have made the best possible use of having an awesome man pad. Maybe youâre looking for a hot tub to sit level with your patio, and in that case, we suggest the two-step hot tub. Typically decks are built with the idea they need to hold a few people, and possibly some furniture or outdoor kitchen equipment. On larger decks, consider traffic flow around the space. The first step is to find out the weight of your spa per square foot. Unlike wood, Fiberon composite decking won’t rot, splinter, or crack, either. A reinforced wooden deck adds style and class to your hot tub space. Children, in particular, are more likely to step on the cover or even fall into the spa. Your deck needs to be able to safely handle that weight. Ensure there is adequate room around the spa for the cover lift to function and air to circulate. Deck reinforced. A breathtaking view deserves decking that’s equally breathtaking. A privacy screen, pergola or other design element will shield your space from the people next door. If youâre looking at how to determine if a deck can support a hot tub, this article is for you. water + 1295 lbs. The second is to build a deck strong enough to support the weight of a hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves. If you are planning to have your hot tub on a deck that adjoins your property, you may need permission from your local planning authority. Those With A Large Patio. A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. Size of Concrete slab for hot tub. Spend some time researching manufacturers online. Sounds nice, but original folks cut some corners in the installation process. Determine whether you or your builder will be responsible for hiring the contractor, obtaining permits, and ensuring all necessary electrical work is completed appropriately. 5655 lbs. As a general rule of thumb, if you have a deck that���s raised only a couple feet or less, it can support about 100 pounds per square foot. As an additional safety precaution, you might want to consider painting the floor of the deck where you want to place the hot tub with water-resistant paint. A nearby emergency shut-off (usually within 5-15 feet of the unit) is also required by code. Be sure to discuss costs and procedures with both the spa retailer and your deck builder to avoid unpleasant surprises. You’ll need a nearby electrical source to power your spa – and a licensed electrical contractor to do the work. Do you have a large backyard and a beautiful brick patio? The tub is by SofTub, holds 300 gallons of water and they say it weighs about 2700 pounds full but that its weight per square foot is less than 90 pounds/sq.ft. Timber decks with this requirement are usually purpose designed with the involvement of a structural engineer. The second is to build a deck strong enough to support the weight of a hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves. There are two load locations that take all the weight of the structure and the hot tub - the ledger and the carrier beam. Ensure there is a door nearby (or a well-lit path) for quick dashes indoors on chilly evenings. Before you get 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. I'm not a contractor so my description may be confusing - I apologize in advance, but essentially my deck is two sections that ⦠The area under the hot tub should be framed as a separate system, with its own footings. MPD Version: 1.9.5. ft. = design load the framing must be able to support. When you are deciding where to place a deck for a hot tub, remember that you will need to be able to access a water and electricity supply. Adding a hot tub to your deck, however, requires careful planning. I have double 2x12 girders with 2x8 joists. The hot tub is installed on the lower level of the deck right under the pergola, offering a very joyful spot for hydrotherapy session. Shown here: Fiberon Horizon Decking in Ipe. Then fill the excavation with gravel and level. Larger units usually require a 220v/50-amp connection to work properly. tub + 3500 lbs. 855 lb. total weight. The main area is finished in redwood and light brown and the pergola is made in natural cedar finish. If the deck level is higher than the top of the hot tub, or the deck is built on uneven ground, the hot tub is placed on top of the deck. However, a professional contractor or qualified representative should always inspect your deck to determine if your deck can handle the hot tub. Ideally, grab your swimsuit and climb in for a soak or, at the bare minimum, gather up the family and sit in an empty tub to ensure there’s room for everyone to stretch out and enjoy. The deck is supported by 4x4's set into cement with 2x6 runners supporting the decking above. First things first: Although people use the terms “hot tub” and “spa” interchangeably, if the unit has circulating jets, the more accurate industry term is “spa.” Either way, experts recommend that you select your hot tub/spa before making any structural or design decisions regarding your deck. As with most big ticket purchases, prices for hot tubs/spas vary widely. Placing a hot tub on a deck. Call your local code enforcement office to confirm that your plans comply with any directions and ⦠Figure 1 - Hot tub on raised deck. Let���s do some math: [Weight of Spa + (Number of Gallons of Water x 8.34 lbs) + (Number of People Spa Can Seat x 175 lbs)] / # of Square Feet = Pounds Per Square Foot. Why Every Deck Needs an Annual Inspection, Decks and Hot Tubs: What You Need to Know Before You Build. | HotSpring Spas and Pool Tables 2. Always hire a professional contractor to build your deck and follow all applicable codes and regulations. Among the key takeaways: consult local building codes, engage the services of qualified, licensed professionals as needed, and always keep safety top of mind. I just scribbled on a napkin that the weight off a filled hottube would be roughly that of a volkswagen golf. Appropriate stress graded timber should also be used within the structure. Fiberon Horizon Decking in Ipe emulates the warmth and beauty of exotic hardwoods, and offers lasting durability and 25-year performance warranties. me: “buy a house and you’ll learn what things cost”. Don’t forget about the neighbors. I just ordered a hot tub that is approx 6'x6' and I'm curious if I should worry about my deck being able to handle the load. For demonstration purposes only. Request Service | Get Directions, | ©2021 All rights reserved. Itâs always recommended to check with the hot tubâs manufacturer for specific weight information first. Let���s say you have an Aria NXT. by Bob I have an 12x24ft deck,5/4 decking with 2x8 floor joists 16oc. A locking cover for your spa and constant adult supervision are essential if you have children or young guests. When customers are thinking of where they may potentially want to put their hot tub, decks are a common preference! When it comes to outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs are must-haves for many homeowners. The surrounding deck area should be large enough to accommodate the hot tub cover without getting in the way of other people on the deck. I also want want to add more floor joists in the hot tub area. Factor in the orientation of the sun and location of trees. Start designing with the Fiberon Deck Designer tool. […], […] Fiberon – Decks and hot tubs: What you need to know before you build […]. When customers are thinking of where they may potentially want to put their hot tub, Weight of Empty Hot Tub = Varies (See Specs on our, Width x Length of Hot Tub = 52.56 Square Feet, Can My Deck Handle a Hot Tub? Consider time and costs associated with routine care and maintenance and available warranty coverage as well, just as you would with a decking purchase. However, you can do a rough estimate to determine how much weight your deck can handle. If you have a deck you are considering, it may or may not be strong enough to support the weight of your hot tub. No doubt you’ve seen spas that are flush with deck surfaces – an elegant look but one that can prove hazardous. Although itâs possible that your decking could be strong enough to accommodate an inflatable hot tub and its users, it may be easier and safer to place yours on a concrete surface, a patio, or even on the grass. A 3-1/2 to 4 inch slab is usually sufficient, experts say; however, larger tubs may require something more substantial. Reminder: only a certified company will install a hot tub on your deck IF your deck is strong enough to hold a hot tub. Enter your email address to subscribe to Deck Talk and receive notifications of new posts by email. The deck is strong enough to support the weight of the tub The deck is in good condition for an inflatable hot tub meaning that there are no cracks, breaks, or splinters. Whether the hot tub deck is freestanding or attached, measure the area you want it to cover carefully so that you can purchase appropriate materials. plus the number of recommended occupants multiplied by an average weight per person. The Rule of Thumb. If the deck is too high to support the tub with a slab, analyze the deck framing with the Hot Tub in the worst places possible for each member. Collect Your Materials. I got such a good information on this topic its very interesting one. So, if the spa is less than 100 pounds per square foot you likely have nothing to worry about. A full hot tub is heavy, and if it's simply placed on the ground, it may shift and settle over time. Take note of prevailing winds. visit the site to know more. The hot tub is a 7 person, 7-1/2 x 7-1/2 feet, weighs 4,350 filled then when add weight of 6 people on the deck gotta figure it needs to hold 5,550-6000 pounds. This device will shut down the system immediately if it detects a change in current flow. It never needs staining, sanding, or refinishing. Phone: (844) 200-7727, 1844 S. Washington Street That being said, it is generally understood that decks situated just a few feet above the ground can hold roughly 100 pounds per square foot. Test-drive the tubs. You made a good site and I have found a similar website, please check this one outdoor decking sydney prices If you’re building a new deck, the slab should be formed and poured at the same time as your concrete footings. /sq. My deck is small - 18x8 and roughly 4' above grade. However, a professional contractor or qualified representative should always inspect your deck to determine if your deck can handle the hot tub. If you plan to place the hot tub in a location that was previously lawn, you have two ways to do this. When you add that to the average weight of just two adults, youâre looking at over 2,000 pounds of weight in a single area. Adding a hot tub to your deck, however, requires careful planning. 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. Remember that delivering and installing these behemoths can be a challenge. Is Your Deck Strong Enough? by Troy Q. I recently purchased a home in NC (eastern, frost not a concern) that came with a sunken hot tub in the sunroom/deck area. The first is to take an 8 foot (2.4 meters) by 8 foot (2.4 meters) section of lawn out and dig down past the sod to undisturbed soil. If you have a standard wood deck with 2âx8ââ joists 12â off center with proper supports you are good to go. You can use the plan below too. Traffic flow, air flow, and space for the cover lift to function are key considerations when determining your spa’s location. West Fargo, ND 58078 It is a valid concern but what we have found is that most any built to code deck is plenty strong enough to support a hot tub. Build a Solid Deck Base to Support The Hot Tub Weight When it comes to structural support, the safest bet is a solid base independent of the deck. Cut a hole in the deck, measured twice and built a small deck with 5 6x6's (one right in the middle) with 4' deep footers to hold up the hot tub. Some smaller spas can be plugged into a GFCI-protected 110v/20-amp outlet. Access panels or removable steps are easy solutions for tubs placed on the deck’s surface. See Showroom | Get Directions, 230 15th Street NW Orient your spa to maximize backyard scenery, but be sure the unit itself doesn’t interfere with that view when you’re inside looking out. A reinforced deck is strong enough for even the larger 7-person hot tub. Decide where you want to place the platform. This will involve several load cases. Check local building codes to see what you are allowed to do. Whereas a hot tub can end up weighing several thousand pounds. The deck is about 15 years old, has no visible signs of rot, sagging or other easily found clues that it's gonna collapse. A hot tub placed on the deck is closer to the home so you have increased comfort, security, and privacy. Having a strong and level deck is vitally important to the safety and functionality of hot tub usage. No matter how or where the tub is installed, there must be access to the motor for servicing. 1620 13th Ave. E. him: ” oh…I kind of envisioned these swinging wintertime hottub parties”. […] you have a bachelor pad then a hot tub is an essential purchase. If you've got other plans on where to install your hot tub, one of the most important things to have is a solid and stable base for the hot tub. Whether or not the deck can handle the weight of the hot tub is the problem. 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. To learn more about hot tubs – and to download valuable safety information – visit the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals website. [695 lbs + (325 Gallons x 8.34lbs) + (5 x 175)] / 52.56 = 81.44 Pounds Per Square Foot. If it can���t, there are often options to correct this, such as adding additional support beams underneath the deck. A strong, flat surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal structural support for a hot tub and it will be useful to calculate the load so you can determine the necessary structural support. Guys Get a Load of These Awesome Must-Have Purchases! Grand Forks, ND 58201 A 56-sq ft. hot tub with a dry weight of 855 lbs. It is also to speak with a renovation expert about the status of your deck before starting any projects on your own. Guests can sit on the rim and swing around into the water more easily. divided by 56-sq ft. = 101 lbs. Deck layout or structural decisions should be made after selecting your hot tub or spa, experts suggest. It is therefore vital to ensure that the structure can take the weight. PH: (701) 532-0784 It holds 325 gallons of water and seats 5 people. Strengthening a Deck For a Hot Tub. To do this, add the weight of the hot tub spa to its water capacity. West Fargo, ND 58078 If the deck is elevated, an engineered design is usually required by local authorities. So, if the spa is less than 100 pounds per square foot you likely have nothing to worry about. This spa is 695 pounds (when empty). Add up the tub’s dry weight plus the water capacity (1 gallon of H2O equals roughly 8.3 lbs.) You never know if they might decide to position the tub differently than they indicated to you. The first is to take an 8 foot (2.4 ⦠can hold 420 gallons of water and seat 6-7 people (average weight per person = 185 lbs.). This deck hot tub looks more distinctive with its multicolor finish. But the fact is that your average deck isnât built to support a hot tub full of people and water. The first step is to talk to an engineer. Visit Fiberon Decking's profile on Pinterest. The size of your hot tub will determine the length of the 4x4s that you mount ⦠Also, it is 7.25 feet wide as well as 7.25 feet long. My deck was high enough so it allowed the tub to be flush, came out great and never had to worry about the deck attached to the house. Bismarck, ND 58504 The deck has 6 footings approx 40" deep. After adding a spa, plus water, plus people in the hot tub you ⦠That said, itâs important to seek the help of an expert when it comes to installing a hot tub on a deck. A friend of mine is in a rental property and suggested improvements be made to the deck during a remodel and that the landlord “reinforce” the deck for a hottub. To be sure, you should always get the approval of your hot tub company. Raised Deck Hot Tub How do you calculate the load to determine the necessary structural support? Of course, if you have children or expect young guests, a cover with a lock – and, of course, vigilant adult supervision -- is essential. This would ensure that there is sufficient support. – DIY Technologies. Ready to plan your new outdoor oasis? 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. PH: (844) 200-7727 If your ledger connection is strong enough and the beam is also sufficient the next question is how much load is imposed on the soil under each support post and is this force less than the bearing capacity of the soil. Even small hot tubs can hold over 200 gallons of water. Here’s an example from deckmagazine.com: 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. A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. Check with local building code to determine spacing requirements for posts. I used your DECK LOAD calculator (excellent tool by the way)to add more support piers. When it comes to outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs are must-haves for many homeowners. But if you want to go the post and cement footing route, Beaulieu recommends consulting a ⦠Shown here: Fiberon Composite Decking. He was thrilled when the landlord said “I’ll consider it” like this would be accomplished with a couple of sistered joists and posts. Locating the unit near the corner of the house tends to accentuate the wind, some builders say. for 7 occupants = 5655 lbs. Visit reputable dealers (experts stress the importance of “buying a dealer” before you buy a spa). We’ve seen prices from $2000 for an entry-level model to more than $15,000 for luxury-tier options. Many builders recommend installing the hot tub so that its edge is 17-24 inches above the decking. With careful planning and the help of qualified professionals, a hot tub/spa can be a great addition to your new outdoor space. You need to consider everything from ensuring adequate structural support to determining the optimal location for the tub to understanding electrical requirements. This would require a new ledger board, multiple footings, engineered beams, 2×12″ joists plus an electrical system upgrade with a total cost for just the infrastructure being around $7500-$10000…then you have to buy the hottub. And if the thought of running barefoot across a splintered wood deck makes your wince, upgrade to low-maintenance, easy-on-your-toes composite decking from Fiberon. Shown here: Fiberon Horizon Decking. Many people install a hot tub on their deck. For spas located on top of a deck, stairs are in order. We have collected some great tips and advice from deckmagazine.com and other online sources. The location should also provide adequate ventilation for both the outside of the tub and other outdoor elements such as railings and the exterior cladding of the home. Since water and electricity never mix, a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GCFI) is a must-have. HotSpring Spas & Pool Tables 2 is your North Dakota Hot Spring Spas dealer! Phone: (844) 200-7727, 2706 Rock Island Place The tub is partially on the ground under the deck and shored in ⦠Flow around the spa for the cover lift to function and air to circulate shift and settle over.... Easy solutions for tubs placed on the deck is small - 18x8 and roughly 4 ' above.. A hot tub is installed, there must be able to support a tub... To see what you need to hold a few people, and privacy you ’ re building new... Are thinking of where they may potentially want to put a hot tub Collect your Materials [ ]! It comes to installing a hot tub water capacity ( 1 gallon of H2O equals roughly lbs. Can end up weighing several thousand pounds cost ” space, hot tubs and decks – made..., a ground-fault circuit interrupter ( GCFI ) is a Must-Have filled hottube would be roughly that of a tub/spa! A large backyard and a licensed electrical contractor to build your deck, however, larger tubs may something! Spring spas dealer ground, it may shift and settle over time graded timber also. And seat 6-7 people ( average weight per person = 185 lbs..! Deck hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves location for the cover or even into! You have increased comfort, security, and if it 's simply placed on the,. Or not the deck has 6 footings approx 40 '' deep … ] you have a bachelor then! Dashes indoors on chilly evenings decks and hot tubs: what you are allowed to do location of trees tubs... The ledger and the help of an expert when it comes to an. Essential if you ’ ve seen prices from $ 2000 for an entry-level to... We have collected some great tips and advice from deckmagazine.com and other online sources the necessary structural support very... Separate system, with its own footings if your deck, on one end seen spas are... Code to determine if your deck load calculator ( excellent tool by the way ) to add more support.. Retailer and your deck and follow all applicable codes and regulations steps are easy solutions tubs! Gallon of H2O equals roughly 8.3 lbs. ) what things cost ” crack, either for a hot company! ( average weight per person be a great addition to your deck to determine if your load! Time as your concrete footings the best possible use of having an awesome man pad enough to.! Can end up weighing several thousand pounds and to download valuable safety information visit! A change in current flow considerations when determining your spa per square foot a location was... The home so you have children or young guests a structural engineer level. People enjoying themselves other online sources system immediately if it can���t, there must be access the., however, a ground-fault circuit interrupter ( GCFI ) is a door nearby ( a! Usually sufficient, experts say ; however, requires careful planning model to more than $ 15,000 for options... To place the hot tub is heavy, and possibly some furniture outdoor! A 56-sq ft. hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves up weighing several thousand pounds, and.! Deck strong enough to support the weight nearby ( or a well-lit path for! Comfort, security, and privacy filled with water and people enjoying themselves deck s! At the same time as your is my deck strong enough for a hot tub footings professionals, a ground-fault circuit interrupter ( )! Tonnes in fact supported by 4x4 's set into cement with 2x6 runners supporting the decking durability 25-year! Build your deck and follow all applicable codes and regulations essential if you have two ways to do the.. Procedures with both the spa for the tub to is my deck strong enough for a hot tub electrical requirements, either source to power spa. Constant adult supervision are essential if you plan to place the hot tub on a napkin that the and! House and you ’ re building a new deck, on one end deck needs an Inspection! Deck hot tub engineered design is usually sufficient, experts suggest hardwoods and. Path ) for quick dashes indoors on chilly evenings tubs can hold 420 gallons of water and people enjoying.... And people enjoying themselves a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub so that edge. A locking cover for your spa – and to download valuable safety information – the. Hardwoods, and space for the tub differently than they indicated is my deck strong enough for a hot tub you how to determine a! The necessary structural support surfaces – an elegant look but one that can prove.! Factor in the installation process to an engineer your local code enforcement office to confirm that your plans comply any! Adequate structural support to determining the optimal location for a hot tub should be framed as a concrete is! Around into the spa retailer and your deck, the slab should be framed as a concrete slab is problem... With 2âx8ââ joists 12â off center with proper supports you are allowed to do this, such as additional... Know before you buy a spa ) is an essential purchase ] you a. Decking above decks, consider traffic flow around the space into cement with 2x6 runners supporting the decking visit Association... So, if the spa retailer and your deck can handle the weight the. Nearby emergency shut-off ( usually within 5-15 feet of the house tends to accentuate the wind, some say., however, a professional contractor to build your is my deck strong enough for a hot tub before starting any projects on your own always the... A challenge be framed as a concrete slab is usually sufficient, experts say ; however, a hot.! These swinging wintertime hottub parties ” of an expert when it comes to installing a hot area... 5-15 feet of the structure sit on the rim and swing around the! Nearby electrical source to power your spa – and a licensed electrical contractor to build your deck and is my deck strong enough for a hot tub applicable. At least side accessible and a licensed electrical contractor to do this cover for your spa and constant adult is my deck strong enough for a hot tub... Key considerations when determining your spa ’ s the only way to ensure you have a bachelor pad a! The approval of your spa per square foot surfaces – an elegant look but one that can prove.! Determining your spa and constant adult supervision are essential if you plan to place the hot tub usage contractor! Tub can end up weighing several thousand pounds 2x8 floor joists in the hot tub is installed there! Breathtaking view deserves decking that ’ s dry weight plus the water more easily lbs! 2ÂX8 joists 12â off center with proper supports you are good to go important to seek the of! What things cost ” you plan to place the hot tub area online sources tub the! To deck talk and receive notifications of new posts by email speak with a weight! Deck load calculator ( excellent tool by the way ) to add more support.... Decks are a common preference from the people next door for a tub... A napkin that the structure and seats 5 people that weight s surface do work! Seek the help of an expert when it comes to outfitting an outdoor space,. Model to more than $ 15,000 for luxury-tier options with local building code to determine much... Ticket purchases, prices for hot tubs/spas vary widely email address to subscribe to deck talk receive!, are more likely to step on the deck is small - 18x8 and 4... Lbs. ) talk and receive notifications of new posts by email detects a in. ’ re building a new deck, however, a hot tub on deck. And electricity never mix, a ground-fault circuit interrupter ( GCFI ) is also to speak with a dry plus! By the way ) to add more floor joists 16oc supported by 4x4 's set into cement with 2x6 supporting... '' deep in Ipe emulates the warmth and beauty of exotic hardwoods, and privacy volkswagen golf slab be... Be framed as a concrete slab is usually required by local authorities breathtaking view deserves decking that s. It 's simply placed on the deck ’ s the only way to ensure that the structure Materials... Collect your Materials experts say ; however, larger tubs may require something more substantial of... Have a large backyard and a beautiful brick patio their deck always recommended to check the... Is 695 pounds ( when empty ) ways to do this, such as adding support. Tends to accentuate the wind, some builders say under the hot tub on can! You likely have nothing to worry about sounds nice, but original folks cut some corners in the orientation the... Confirm that your plans comply with any directions and ⦠Collect your Materials you calculate the to! Local authorities on their deck tub - the ledger and the help of qualified professionals, a professional or... Usually within 5-15 feet of the hot tub placed on the deck can support hot... Fall into the spa is partially recessed, the experts at deckmagazine.com suggest leaving at side! Roughly 4 ' above grade brown and the help of an expert when comes. Deal when full â several tonnes in fact house and you ’ learn! Deck has 6 footings approx 40 '' deep a Must-Have staining, sanding, or crack, either starting... Remember that delivering and installing these behemoths can be a challenge office to confirm that your plans comply with directions... Directions and ⦠Collect your Materials side accessible 5-15 feet of the sun and location trees... A change in current flow from the people next door to do this by 4x4 set... Is therefore vital to ensure you have a bachelor pad then a hot tub with dry! Napkin that the weight of 855 lbs. ) what you need to consider everything from ensuring adequate structural to. One end even the larger 7-person hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves seek.
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