The purchase of a hot tub for your home also requires that the appropriate amount of space is present, and a popular format here is the design of a deck specifically for your hot tub. For those who have the financial ability to do so, designing a deck will not only give you a robust space for your spa and its accessories, but will also create improved property value and help increase the overall ambiance of your space.
At Dolphin Pools & Spas, we’re happy to serve not only as direct providers of Bullfrog Spas and other high-quality hot tubs, but also to offer expertise on numerous related areas that speak to the installation or maintenance of our tubs. We’ve advised many clients who are building a deck for their new spa, helping them with everything from weight and dimensional factors through aesthetics and more. What are some important concepts to consider as you’re planning and building your hot tub deck? This two-part blog series will go over several.
Choosing Ideal Material
First and foremost, just like any other deck or major home improvement project, you need to select the materials for your hot tub deck with care. The best material will be able to withstand the weight of all your accessories, including the heater and pump, without issue.
If you’re considering an alternative material like wood or composite, be sure they are in line with your overall project budget. Finally, ensure that the material you select can be properly sealed to withstand exposure to water.
A concrete deck is the most commonly selected for hot tubs. It’s strong, long-lasting and versatile, able to support numerous accessories with ease. And if you need color options or custom designs visible in your concrete surface, this is easily achievable. However, many prefer wood materials instead, and cedar or pressure-treated lumber are two options that present themselves as popular choices.
Location Factors
It’s also vital to consider the location of your spa deck and how this places the tub. In particular, the most common goal here for tub owners is placing the spa as close to their home as possible, while also avoiding any areas where water can seep into the foundation of your home.
The position and slope of your backyard will be important factors to consider here, as well. If you have a slope, consider building a flattened deck area with a slight downward angle to allow water to run off. Also remember that your spa will need access from the side or from behind to get electrical power and plumbing supplies where needed.
Height
You should also consider the height of the deck, not just overall but in the specific area where the hot tub will go. For many, 20 inches is a standard height from the floor of the deck to the top of the tub, allowing you to have a comfortable seating area without obstructing your view of the tub.
For more on which factors to consider while building a hot tub deck, or to learn about any of our Bullfrog Spas or other hot tub services, speak to the staff at Dolphin Pools & Spas today.