A hot tub can turn a backyard into a relaxing year-round oasis. But if you have a deck, choosing just the right placement can present some challenges. While the addition of a hot tub can make your deck a more enjoyable place to be in just about any weather, you’ll first want to consider a variety of factors like whether the deck can structurally support such an upgrade.

Consider these important factors before taking the plunge.

Weight of the Hot Tub

Once filled with water, a large hot tub can weigh over 3 tons. A deck that meets the Deck Construction Guide’s standard can handle 50 pounds per square foot. To calculate whether your deck can bear the weight of a hot tub, divide the weight of the desired hot tubs, including max number of occupants and water, by the deck’s square footage. If the answer falls below 50, the deck should be able to hold it. However, we recommend consulting a professional as not all decks are built to code and older decks especially can benefit from a structural assessment.

Size of the Hot Tub

Unless you have a sprawling, multi-level deck, you’ll have to sacrifice a good chunk of space to accommodate even a two-person hot tub. Before falling in love with the bells and whistles of a hot tub, plan for it’s size by using painter’s tape to mark out the area of your deck where it would be installed. Consider the flow of traffic around the hot tubs, to and from deck and home entrances, and what available space remains for deck furniture and accessories.

Age of the Deck

As mentioned above, older decks may not meet current building codes and, therefore, not be able to support the weight of a hot tub. Even a newer deck can have damaged decking and rotting joists. Have a professional conduct a thorough inspection of the deck and its joists, hangers, screws, and bolts to ensure it can handle the added burden of a hot tubs and is safe to use overall.

Utility Needs

A hot tubs will require an electrical outlet to power the pump and heating element plus access to a water source. If a nearby spigot or the appropriate electrical hookup are not already installed, you’ll need both a plumber and electrician to install them, which will add to the overall cost of the project.

Cost

Speaking of cost, you’ll need to budget for more than the hot tubs itself. For example, there’s the cost of delivery and installation, your deck may need added structural supports to carry the weight of the hot tub, overall maintenance and repairs, additional electrical and/or plumbing, and so on. Planning ahead for such items can help eliminate budgetary surprises and keep the project on track.

Recessed Hot Tub

If you have an elevated deck and don’t care for the look of a hot tub sitting right on top, consider a recessed hot tub which sits nearly flush to the floor of the deck for an in-ground pool look. With this type of install, a concrete pad or “mini-deck” is built underneath the deck for support. Note that you’ll either need a lockable cover or an entry barrier for safety.

While we don’t sell hot tubs, you can always count on PC Plumbing, Heating, AC & Remodeling to help make your dream backyard oasis a reality. From adding one of more spigots to complete deck construction, our team of experts is ready to help you enjoy your home even more, inside and out . Contact us today for a free consultation and proposal.