Ensuring Your Deck Is Strong Enough For Your Hot Tub
Before you dive in and start shelling out your hard-earned cash to build the perfect hot tub deck, you need to make sure that your deck will be strong enough to hold your hot tub.
This is where getting an expert opinion can come in handy. Of course, you can also use standard estimates for your deck project.
Hot tub deck designs that only stand a few feet off the ground can typically handle around 100 pounds per square foot.
So, how do you determine if a deck can support a hot tub? If you have a hot tub that is less than 100 pounds per square foot, you shouldn’t have to worry. If you have an existing deck, you may be able to place it atop that deck without making any adjustments.
On the other hand, if you have an elevated deck, you’ll have to be a bit more cautious. Elevated deck designs can typically hold about 50 pounds per square foot. The same thing goes for composite deck designs.
To get an idea of how much your hot tub weighs, you need to look at a few variables:
- Your hot tub weight when it’s empty
- The length and width of your hot tub
- The weight of a gallon of water
- Average adult weight
Once you have these numbers, you can add the dry weight plus the water capacity in pounds x 8.34. Once you have that number, you can add 170 x the maximum number of hot tub occupants.
This equation will let you know how much your hot tub will weigh when in use, allowing you to determine how much your deck will need to support.
Large Space Hot Tub Decks
If you have a large space available, you should go for multilevel hot tub decks or install stairs however, you can always go with ground-level ones if you wish. With a large space, you have ideas that you can use to make it more attractive. Add several elements instead of installing a large deck. You can integrate the hot tub into the deck, while the remaining surrounding space can be used for other activities for those who do not feel like lying in the spa.
Large And Expensive Stone Designed Hot Tub On A Deck
A large hot tub like this can be ideal for most homeowners especially that it can accommodate a group of people where you can spend time and talk about anything while having to relax your bodies on hot waters, while enjoying the open view.
This hot tub space could be very expensive given the stone material used in the bottom as the foundation and an added decorative factor to the whole area.
Going for the big and grand would entail a long and thorough cleaning also so when planning to have one, go with the idea that matches your budget and your capability and effort to clean and maintain.
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Include A Flowing Fountain Feature To Amplify Peace And Relaxation
Photo via Madison Planting & Design Group
Water features are a wonderful focal point to include in your outdoor design. Plus, by incorporating the four elements into your space, youre involving all your senses and adding value to your property.
Key insights:
- Add a foot path in your backyard design , install a fire pit of tiki lamps , hang wind chimes , and include a fountain, pool, or hot tub to enhance your outdoor space and reconnect with your senses.
Swim Spa Landscaping Ideas: How To Spruce Up Your Spa Area
When it comes to swim spas landscaping may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it can be a great way to enhance your swim spa experience. There are many different ways you can landscape around your swim spa.
You can create a patio area with comfortable seating, or add a deck for more space. If you have a pool, you can use plants and other features to create a natural border between the two spaces. You can also use landscaping to create privacy around your swim spa.
There are many different types of plants and trees that can be used in swim spa landscaping. If you want to create a tropical look, consider using palm trees and other tropical plants. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can use trees and plants that are native to your area.
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Create A Zen Space Or Backyard Oasis With Plants
Photo via Landscaping Network
Construct a zen garden by incorporating more of mother nature into your hot tub deck design. Design your space for a more organic, feng shui feel that will boost inner peace and allow you to meditate after a hectic day.
Key insights:
- Enhance your zen by finding inspiration in Japanese gardening traditions. A rock garden or dry landscape garden is a fun way to reconnect with nature.
Gray Deck With Red Soaking Tub
Here, its the color choices that really make the hot tub stand out. The deck, which features a beautiful curved staircase, is a medium-toned gray. As a result, the bright red of the soaking tubs interior really catches the eye.
With where the spa is positioned, it remains functionally unobtrusive. It is off to the side, leaving as much open space for seating or entertaining as possible.
Additionally, since it butts up against the staircase, you have choices for getting in or out. This may be ideal for anyone with mobility concerns, as you can simply select the stair height that feels most comfortable.
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Simple Curved Ground Level Spa Deck
The deck on the side of this round hot tub is more about form than function. While it does serve as a creative way to hide the hot tubs cover, which is nestled below the decks surface, the hot tub is accessible without it.
What it does offer is a unique visual element thanks to the steel edging and warm wood. Plus, it creates a usable surface along one side of the spa, giving you a place to rest towels, drinks, and more.
Build A Bench Surrounding Your Hot Tub
Photo via Archadeck of Central GA
If the sunken hot tub is too much work , another option is to build a bench around the spa for a nice clean, modern look. For most people, composite materials are more functional to use when constructing an area outdoors or around a hot tub. If you decide to use wood instead, make sure the wood is properly sealed . Your local home improvement store or contractor can assist you in what options fit best for your areas climate.
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Covered Hot Tub Decks
A covered hot tub deck is a perfect option when it comes to privacy. This idea will help you feel safe and prevent unwanted views. It also protects your skin from being exposed to UV rays. You can also build a wooden fence around the deck for aesthetic purposes and ease of use, depending on the style you want.
Hot Tub In The Middle Of Nature
We bring you yet another example of a hot tub deck that allows you to enjoy a breathtaking view. With plenty of beautiful details, this hot tub features a retractable cover, while the deck is surrounded by wooden railing to create a sense of protection as you breathe in the fresh air.
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Modern Jacuzzi And Deck
Technically, the hot tub and deck in this design are separate. While the jacuzzi butts up next to the deck, its set on a concrete pad below. However, with its proximity to the deck and nearby stairs, it creates a simple way to get in and out.
The deck itself is modern. There are no ornate railings. Instead, you find a simple platform and staircases. As a result, the design of the home and surrounding landscape can be the stars of the show.
Tip #5 Dont Overlook Your Subframe
We see this one time and time again Customers opt for a NeoTimber® deck but often neglect their . This is seen ever more so when installing decks around hot-tubs, where they are exposed to moisture almost constantly. The wet environment will naturally encourage water build-up around your joists and base.
For that reason, we often suggest customers consider a plastic subframe solution . If this isnt an option, why not consider protecting your timber joists with our ? This adhesive tape provides additional protection from moisture and is certain to prolong the life and effectiveness of your joists in the long run.
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Choose The Perfect Outdoor Landscape Design
When it comes to outdoor hot tub landscaping ideas, the first thing you need to do is choose the perfect landscape design. If you dont have an idea of what you want your backyard or yard to look like, then this can be a process. You should start by looking at pictures of other peoples yards that have built spas.
For more about Swim Spa Landscaping
This will help give you an idea of what kind of yard landscaping you might like for your home. Once you have found some pictures that stand out to you, then find someone local who is able to do the same type of work for you. They can show you how they built the outdoor spa and help you decide if it is something you want to do.
When looking for a landscaper, be sure to ask them about the type of materials that they use for their outdoor hot tubs. There are many different materials used for building these spas, so it is important that you find out what kind of materials are used. If your landscaper does not use the best materials, then your spa will not last as long as it should.
If you are thinking about building a landscaping ideas, then make sure that you choose the right type of landscape design to go with it. You dont want to choose a design that isnt going to match your home and backyard exactly because this could be very expensive if done incorrectly.
Fill in the space with your favorite plants and vegetation
utdoor Landscape Design.
Traditional Japanese Hot Tub With Steps
In Japan, hot tubs are the most popular form of tourism. If you like this concept, consider installing this item in your house as shown in this picture.
The hot tub is relatively minimalist, so you do not need more space. The rounded one is perfect to place in the corner of the area.
Then, install wooden steps for accessing the hot tub.
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Grand Deck With A Hot Tub
Looking so elegant and expensive, this grand deck with a hot tub is just warm, intimate and cozy, all at once.
It is looking complete with all the deck must-haves like the couch, proper lighting, enough space to move, fire pit deck, plants, stairs plus the hot tub that seems to be the focal point of the area.
Though the stairs serve as a separation between the fireplace and the hot tub area, they are still looking one and are looking good together though they do not have the same function for a homeowner or guest. Having this kind of a deck area is very much ideal for a large group of people.
Hot Tub Made Of Cedar
Cedar is a popular material used for a hot tub and this proves just why. While it has the natural walls and all the greens, it looks adorable because of the compact space.
It evokes intimacy since the entire area is just enough for two to three people to stay, relax and soak in.
Choosing this hot tub deck idea would be a wise idea since it is enclosed with a natural wall so you can stay and enjoy the hot water without worrying about an open area. Small areas are most preferred especially when it is looking cozy and refreshing.
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Hot Tub Deck With Ample Space
Sinking a hot tub right into a elevates both, turning what could be a tacky eyesore into a classy chill zone. This recessed hot tub is spacious, but theres still lots of room on the deck for lounging and mingling. Built-in mood lighting ups the ambience for a romantic evening or a fun get-together.
Incorporate An Outdoor Rug Into Your Deck Design
Photo by CoCo Cozy via Worthing Court
A decorative carpet can accent your outdoor design and infuse some of your personality into the space. Choose an indoor/outdoor carpet that complements your style and adds warmth to the space.Key insights:
- Give your outdoor environment a fresh look by adding a new coat of paint to the wicker and metal furniture. Choose a rug color that complements your home and furnishings. Replace seat cushions or recover the old ones with a new, stylish design.
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Here Are Some Bullet Points On The 9 Most Important Features To Look For When Buying:
SMART LIGHTS
SMART LIGHTSdesignsbackyard
Tip #4 Opt For The Right Type Of Composite Decking For Your Space
A key trait of composite decking is its ability to outperform timber in wet areas. The lower water absorption rate of composite materials means that the boards are less likely to rot with regular exposure to water. While our traditional WPC boards and capped composite boards will offer this protection, the latter offers the most protection from the elements.
The protective shell of our capped composite decking products offers superior protection from moisture build up and will in turn provide you with more reassurance and protection from not only moisture but also the additional cleaning chemicals that are added to the water in hot tubs.
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Transform Your Backyard Deck Into The Hottest Spa In Your Home
It doesnt take much to turn your deck into a spa-friendly place for the ultimate luxury and leisure. However, its important to speak with a professional before moving on to any of the steps in your backyard plan. There are lot of factors that need to be taken into consideration before a hot tub can be safely elevated onto a deck or built into one.
Depending on the shape, size, and weight per square foot of the hot tub, you will have a number of options to build it into your deck. And if you can only place it on top, you can build extra accommodations to make it look like the tub has existed there all along.
Its easy to do this in an affordable and reliable way with Sebring Design Build. If you are looking to get started, but you still have more questions about the backyard deck and spa building process, you can start with our free eBook: Remodeling 101: A Free Homeowners Guide. It will set you up with everything you need to know about your backyard, kitchen, or bathroom remodeling project before you get your hands dirty. Reach out to one of our professional staff members with additional questions or concerns!
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Other Great Articles to Read:
Can You Put A Hot Tub On A Deck
Yes, you can put a hot tub on a deck! Decks and hot tubs are a great pairing, but can your deck support as much as 100 lbs. per square foot? Thats twice what a typical deck can handle, so before you begin planning your hot tub deck project, examine your decks structure or, better yet, have a professional do it.
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Sink Your Spa On A Lower Level
Pale decking brightens this outdoor living area
Pale decking, either in a soft gray or natural timber hue, is useful for brightening a space and adding to a contemporary vibe. It looks wonderful in this small patio area, and complements the exterior of the home, too.
Decking is great for adding levels, which is particularly useful for sloping plots. Here, the spa has been placed on a lower level, meaning the view of the garden from the outdoor seating isn’t interrupted.
