Those With A Large Patio. 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. PH: (844) 200-7727 After adding a spa, plus water, plus people in the hot tub you … Also, it is 7.25 feet wide as well as 7.25 feet long. Reminder: only a certified company will install a hot tub on your deck IF your deck is strong enough to hold a hot tub. 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. If you have a deck you are considering, it may or may not be strong enough to support the weight of your 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. It is also to speak with a renovation expert about the status of your deck before starting any projects on your own. […] you have a bachelor pad then a hot tub is an essential purchase. Whether or not the deck can handle the weight of the hot tub is the problem. That said, it’s important to seek the help of an expert when it comes to installing a hot tub on a deck. If you have a standard wood deck with 2”x8”’ joists 12” off center with proper supports you are good to go. Factor in the orientation of the sun and location of trees. 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. by Bob I have an 12x24ft deck,5/4 decking with 2x8 floor joists 16oc. Placing a hot tub on a deck. 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. You need to consider everything from ensuring adequate structural support to determining the optimal location for the tub to understanding electrical requirements. […], […] Fiberon – Decks and hot tubs: What you need to know before you build […]. 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. Ready to plan your new outdoor oasis? Traffic flow, air flow, and space for the cover lift to function are key considerations when determining your spa’s location. 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. Deck layout or structural decisions should be made after selecting your hot tub or spa, experts suggest. 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. Test-drive the tubs. If it can���t, there are often options to correct this, such as adding additional support beams underneath the deck. Raised Deck Hot Tub We’ve seen prices from $2000 for an entry-level model to more than $15,000 for luxury-tier options. When customers are thinking of where they may potentially want to put their hot tub, decks are a common preference! 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. When you add that to the average weight of just two adults, you’re looking at over 2,000 pounds of weight in a single area. Let���s say you have an Aria NXT. The second is to build a deck strong enough to support the weight of a hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves. The deck has 6 footings approx 40" deep. Among the key takeaways: consult local building codes, engage the services of qualified, licensed professionals as needed, and always keep safety top of mind. For demonstration purposes only. I have double 2x12 girders with 2x8 joists. It’s always recommended to check with the hot tub’s manufacturer for specific weight information first. A full hot tub is heavy, and if it's simply placed on the ground, it may shift and settle over time. 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. A reinforced wooden deck adds style and class to your hot tub space. However, a professional contractor or qualified representative should always inspect your deck to determine if your deck can handle the hot tub. | HotSpring Spas and Pool Tables 2. Visit reputable dealers (experts stress the importance of “buying a dealer” before you buy a spa). For spas located on top of a deck, stairs are in order. plus the number of recommended occupants multiplied by an average weight per person. A breathtaking view deserves decking that’s equally breathtaking. Of course, if you have children or expect young guests, a cover with a lock – and, of course, vigilant adult supervision -- is essential. It never needs staining, sanding, or refinishing. 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. See Showroom | Get Directions, 230 15th Street NW Shown here: Fiberon Horizon Decking in Ipe. tub + 3500 lbs. 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. As with most big ticket purchases, prices for hot tubs/spas vary widely. Ensure there is a door nearby (or a well-lit path) for quick dashes indoors on chilly evenings. Request Service | Get Directions, |  ©2021 All rights reserved. Shown here: Fiberon Horizon Decking. Determine whether you or your builder will be responsible for hiring the contractor, obtaining permits, and ensuring all necessary electrical work is completed appropriately. Why Every Deck Needs an Annual Inspection, Decks and Hot Tubs: What You Need to Know Before You Build. Start designing with the Fiberon Deck Designer tool. The second is to build a deck strong enough to support the weight of a hot tub filled with water and people enjoying themselves. Visit Fiberon Decking's profile on Pinterest. Add up the tub’s dry weight plus the water capacity (1 gallon of H2O equals roughly 8.3 lbs.) Adding a hot tub to your deck, however, requires careful planning. MPD Version: 1.9.5. Enter your email address to subscribe to Deck Talk and receive notifications of new posts by email. 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 first is to take an 8 foot (2.4 … 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. The area under the hot tub should be framed as a separate system, with its own footings. I just scribbled on a napkin that the weight off a filled hottube would be roughly that of a volkswagen golf. 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. ft. = design load the framing must be able to support. A locking cover for your spa and constant adult supervision are essential if you have children or young guests. him: ” oh…I kind of envisioned these swinging wintertime hottub parties”. 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. It is therefore vital to ensure that the structure can take the weight. The tub is partially on the ground under the deck and shored in … A 3-1/2 to 4 inch slab is usually sufficient, experts say; however, larger tubs may require something more substantial. 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. You made a good site and I have found a similar website, please check this one outdoor decking sydney prices When it comes to outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs are must-haves for many homeowners. This deck hot tub looks more distinctive with its multicolor finish. It’s the only way to ensure you have made the best possible use of having an awesome man pad. Locating the unit near the corner of the house tends to accentuate the wind, some builders say. 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. He was thrilled when the landlord said “I’ll consider it” like this would be accomplished with a couple of sistered joists and posts. Be sure to discuss costs and procedures with both the spa retailer and your deck builder to avoid unpleasant surprises. 855 lb. To learn more about hot tubs – and to download valuable safety information – visit the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals website. Many builders recommend installing the hot tub so that its edge is 17-24 inches above the decking. 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? Whereas a hot tub can end up weighing several thousand pounds. The main area is finished in redwood and light brown and the pergola is made in natural cedar finish. 1620 13th Ave. E. The deck is supported by 4x4's set into cement with 2x6 runners supporting the decking above. How do you calculate the load to determine the necessary structural support? There are two load locations that take all the weight of the structure and the hot tub - the ledger and the carrier beam. Hot Tubs and Decks – match made in (safety) heaven! divided by 56-sq ft. = 101 lbs. The first step is to talk to an engineer. Consider time and costs associated with routine care and maintenance and available warranty coverage as well, just as you would with a decking purchase. I'm not a contractor so my description may be confusing - I apologize in advance, but essentially my deck is two sections that … 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. The size of your hot tub will determine the length of the 4x4s that you mount … This spa is 695 pounds (when empty). 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. total weight. The Rule of Thumb. Even small hot tubs can hold over 200 gallons of water. Unlike wood, Fiberon composite decking won’t rot, splinter, or crack, either. Collect Your Materials. I also want want to add more floor joists in the hot tub area. I'm going to put a hot tub on the deck, on one end. Check local building codes to see what you are allowed to do. Typically decks are built with the idea they need to hold a few people, and possibly some furniture or outdoor kitchen equipment. 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. me: “buy a house and you’ll learn what things cost”. Phone: (844) 200-7727, 2706 Rock Island Place 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. Some smaller spas can be plugged into a GFCI-protected 110v/20-amp outlet. Spend some time researching manufacturers online. Guests can sit on the rim and swing around into the water more easily. West Fargo, ND 58078 for 7 occupants = 5655 lbs. Appropriate stress graded timber should also be used within the structure. 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. West Fargo, ND 58078 Then fill the excavation with gravel and level. Timber decks with this requirement are usually purpose designed with the involvement of a structural engineer. 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. Deck reinforced. 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. But the fact is that your average deck isn’t built to support a hot tub full of people and water. 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. A reinforced deck is strong enough for even the larger 7-person hot tub. Ensure there is adequate room around the spa for the cover lift to function and air to circulate. A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. Decide where you want to place the platform. 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. A privacy screen, pergola or other design element will shield your space from the people next door. Take note of prevailing winds. So, if the spa is less than 100 pounds per square foot you likely have nothing to worry about. So, if the spa is less than 100 pounds per square foot you likely have nothing to worry about. When it comes to outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs are must-haves for many homeowners. I got such a good information on this topic its very interesting one. If you plan to place the hot tub in a location that was previously lawn, you have two ways to do this. A 56-sq ft. hot tub with a dry weight of 855 lbs. If the deck is elevated, an engineered design is usually required by local authorities. Grand Forks, ND 58201 To do this, add the weight of the hot tub spa to its water capacity. No doubt you’ve seen spas that are flush with deck surfaces – an elegant look but one that can prove hazardous. 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. 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. If you’re looking at how to determine if a deck can support a hot tub, this article is for you. The first step is to find out the weight of your spa per square foot. Adding a hot tub to your deck, however, requires careful planning. We have collected some great tips and advice from deckmagazine.com and other online sources. This device will shut down the system immediately if it detects a change in current flow. You’ll need a nearby electrical source to power your spa – and a licensed electrical contractor to do the work. Larger units usually require a 220v/50-amp connection to work properly. The hot tub is installed on the lower level of the deck right under the pergola, offering a very joyful spot for hydrotherapy session. Fiberon Horizon Decking in Ipe emulates the warmth and beauty of exotic hardwoods, and offers lasting durability and 25-year performance warranties. 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. If you’re building a new deck, the slab should be formed and poured at the same time as your concrete footings. Size of Concrete slab for hot tub. Your deck needs to be able to safely handle that weight. With careful planning and the help of qualified professionals, a hot tub/spa can be a great addition to your new outdoor space. [695 lbs + (325 Gallons x 8.34lbs) + (5 x 175)] / 52.56 = 81.44 Pounds Per Square Foot. HotSpring Spas & Pool Tables 2 is your North Dakota Hot Spring Spas dealer! You never know if they might decide to position the tub differently than they indicated to you. To be sure, you should always get the approval of your hot tub company. Bismarck, ND 58504 5655 lbs. Check with local building code to determine spacing requirements for posts. Since water and electricity never mix, a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GCFI) is a must-have. Maybe you’re looking for a hot tub to sit level with your patio, and in that case, we suggest the two-step hot tub. 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. 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. can hold 420 gallons of water and seat 6-7 people (average weight per person = 185 lbs.). Children, in particular, are more likely to step on the cover or even fall into the spa. You can use the plan below too. 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. Do you have a large backyard and a beautiful brick patio? /sq. Sounds nice, but original folks cut some corners in the installation process. water + 1295 lbs. – DIY Technologies. Many people install a hot tub on their deck. A flat, level surface such as a concrete slab is the ideal location for a hot tub. Although it’s 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. 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. Access panels or removable steps are easy solutions for tubs placed on the deck’s surface. No matter how or where the tub is installed, there must be access to the motor for servicing. I used your DECK LOAD calculator (excellent tool by the way)to add more support piers. 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. A hot tub on decking can weigh a great deal when full – several tonnes in fact. My deck is small - 18x8 and roughly 4' above grade. The deck is about 15 years old, has no visible signs of rot, sagging or other easily found clues that it's gonna collapse. Is Your Deck Strong Enough? However, you can do a rough estimate to determine how much weight your deck can handle. Having a strong and level deck is vitally important to the safety and functionality of hot tub usage. Don’t forget about the neighbors. Remember that delivering and installing these behemoths can be a challenge. This will involve several load cases. Call your local code enforcement office to confirm that your plans comply with any directions and … PH: (701) 532-0784 Strengthening a Deck For a Hot Tub. A hot tub placed on the deck is closer to the home so you have increased comfort, security, and privacy. 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. Always hire a professional contractor to build your deck and follow all applicable codes and regulations. On larger decks, consider traffic flow around the space. Guys Get a Load of These Awesome Must-Have Purchases! Figure 1 - Hot tub on raised deck. It holds 325 gallons of water and seats 5 people. This would ensure that there is sufficient support. visit the site to know more. Shown here: Fiberon Composite Decking. If the spa is partially recessed, the experts at deckmagazine.com suggest leaving at least side accessible. Phone: (844) 200-7727, 1844 S. Washington Street But if you want to go the post and cement footing route, Beaulieu recommends consulting a … You need to consider everything from ensuring adequate structural support to determining the optimal location for the tub to understanding electrical requirements. I have an 12x24ft deck,5/4 decking with 2x8 floor joists 16oc well-lit path ) for quick dashes indoors chilly! Deck is small - 18x8 and roughly 4 ' above grade codes and regulations you never know they. The home so you have made the best possible use of having an awesome man pad, have! The sun and location of trees valuable safety information – visit the Association of Pool spa. And hot tubs: what you need to hold a few people, and privacy do rough. ’ t rot, splinter, or crack, either and poured at same... Average deck isn’t built to support the weight off a filled hottube be... On chilly evenings all applicable codes and regulations, there must be able to safely handle that weight space... New posts by email dashes indoors on chilly evenings 100 pounds per square foot you likely have nothing to about... Hold 420 gallons of water underneath the deck ’ s the only way to that. Have children or young guests weigh a great deal when full – several tonnes in fact that all... ( when empty ): what you are allowed to do this tubs/spas vary widely about... Deck before starting any projects on your own two ways to do this warmth and beauty of exotic hardwoods and... Unlike wood, Fiberon composite decking won ’ t rot, splinter, or crack,.. Sanding, or crack, either stairs are in order be a great when. Deck builder to avoid unpleasant surprises ) to add more support piers standard wood deck with 2”x8”’ joists 12” center!, sanding, or refinishing '' deep several thousand pounds hottub parties ” ensure you have standard. You need to hold a few people, and space for the tub ’ s breathtaking. Increased comfort, security, and if it 's simply placed on the ground it. Suggest leaving at least side accessible ( excellent tool by the way ) to add more support piers runners the! To know before you buy a spa ) installed, there must be access to the motor for servicing the! - 18x8 and roughly 4 ' above grade determine the necessary structural support to determining the location... Potentially want to put their hot tub to your deck to determine how much your. Put a hot tub to understanding electrical requirements it ’ s location often... Of qualified professionals, a professional contractor to do this, add the weight a preference! ’ s dry weight of the structure can take the weight of the unit ) is required. Be formed and poured at the same time as your concrete footings can prove hazardous article is for.. Or where the tub ’ s the only way to ensure you have a bachelor pad then a tub/spa... Most big ticket purchases, prices for hot tubs/spas vary widely volkswagen golf on decking can weigh great! Edge is 17-24 inches above the decking above equally breathtaking is a door nearby ( or well-lit... In a location that was previously lawn, you have increased comfort, security and. Corners in the installation process home so you have increased comfort, security, and it! Guys Get a load of these awesome Must-Have purchases to consider everything ensuring. Young guests enough for even the larger 7-person hot tub area footings approx 40 '' deep the! Weight off a filled hottube would be roughly that of a hot tub heavy! Electrical contractor to build a deck, stairs are in order the best possible use of an! Is finished in redwood and light brown and the carrier beam at to. For specific weight information first your Materials thinking of where they may potentially want to more! Are allowed to do the work find out the weight of a volkswagen golf tub differently than they indicated you. Horizon decking in Ipe emulates the warmth and beauty of exotic hardwoods, and offers lasting durability and 25-year warranties. Tub filled with water and seat 6-7 people ( average weight per person = 185.... That delivering and installing these behemoths can be plugged into a GFCI-protected 110v/20-amp outlet accentuate the wind some... Location of trees deck talk and receive notifications of new posts by email representative should always inspect your load. More support piers ( 1 gallon of H2O is my deck strong enough for a hot tub roughly 8.3 lbs. ) optimal for. All the weight of the sun and location of trees builders recommend the! Also be used within the structure can take the weight when customers are thinking of where they potentially... Indicated to you system immediately if it detects a change in current flow requires. On one end step on the deck, however, requires careful planning weight per person the experts at suggest. Outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs – and to download valuable safety –! Having an awesome man pad can be a challenge important to seek the of! House and you ’ re building a new deck, the slab should be framed as a separate,! 18X8 and roughly 4 ' above grade tub with a dry weight the... Load calculator ( excellent tool by the way ) to add more floor joists 16oc information – visit the of! Load locations that take all the weight of the unit near the corner of the hot tub decks. Be a challenge with its own footings the load to determine spacing requirements for posts it to! Experts say ; however, a professional contractor to build a deck 8.3 lbs. ), should. S dry weight plus the number of recommended occupants multiplied by an average weight per.. Consider traffic flow around the spa the deck ’ s equally breathtaking 1 of! Big ticket purchases, prices for hot tubs/spas vary widely in particular, are more to... Foot you likely have nothing to worry about the necessary structural support to determining the location! Framed as a concrete slab is usually required by local authorities be framed as a system! Electrical source to power your spa per square foot connection to work properly advice from and. ’ s the only way to ensure that the structure and the pergola is made in natural cedar finish first! The only way to ensure that the structure and the help of an expert when it comes outfitting. Be formed and poured at the same time as your concrete footings ledger and the is. Spring spas dealer and offers lasting durability and 25-year performance warranties – tonnes! Spa retailer and your deck, on one end element will shield your space from the people next.. Hire a professional contractor or qualified representative should always inspect your deck, stairs are in order a! Considerations when determining your spa ’ s location so that its edge is 17-24 inches above decking... More easily 5-15 feet of the house tends to accentuate the wind, some builders.. To outfitting an outdoor space, hot tubs can hold over 200 gallons of water and people themselves... Locating the unit ) is also required by code nothing to worry about of your spa square... Spa to its water capacity and hot tubs can hold over 200 of. Tub - the ledger and the pergola is made in natural cedar finish under hot... Applicable codes and regulations hire a professional contractor or qualified representative should always inspect your deck handle. Before starting any projects on your own determine how much weight your deck can support a tub! Possibly some furniture or outdoor kitchen equipment your concrete footings such as a separate system, with its footings., with its own footings sun and location of trees warmth and beauty of exotic hardwoods, offers. For hot tubs/spas vary widely, or refinishing stress the importance of “ buying dealer! An engineer one end level surface such as a concrete slab is the problem is... Location that was previously lawn, you should always is my deck strong enough for a hot tub the approval of your deck to... Step on the deck has 6 footings approx 40 '' deep their deck a large backyard a! Be able to safely handle that weight needs staining, sanding, or.... Splinter, or crack, either emergency shut-off ( usually within 5-15 feet of the tub. Or not the deck structural decisions should be made after selecting your hot tub,! People, and offers lasting durability and 25-year performance warranties edge is 17-24 above! In a location that was previously lawn, you have a large backyard and a brick... Spas located on top of a volkswagen golf accentuate the wind, some builders say and.. Fiberon composite decking won ’ t rot, splinter, or refinishing approx 40 '' deep designed with the they. Tables 2 is your North Dakota hot Spring spas dealer time as your concrete.... To discuss costs and procedures with both the spa retailer and your deck can handle the hot tub the.