A GUIDE TO INSTALLING A HOT TUB ON A RAISED DECK

SUPPORT POSTS

One of the main concerns when it comes to placing a hot tub on a raised deck is ensuring the deck can handle all of the weight. When filled with water and people, the hot tub can weigh anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 pounds.

The typical support posts on a deck may not support the extra weight, so you would need some reinforcements installed before the hot tub is delivered. Once you select the area where you want to place the hot tub, you can hire a contractor to install support posts.

Ideally, the posts will have cement bases and drive deep into the ground for the most support. A contractor will have the skills and tools to calculate how much support is needed to hold the hot tub and ensure the deck can handle the weight for years to come.

COMPOSITE DECKING

When you add a hot tub over a wooden surface, you have to be aware of the potential moisture created by the hot tub. There will be a natural rise in moisture that escapes along with a loss of water when people enter and exit the hot tub.

While you can lay down a protective layer over a wooden deck or use a waterproof primer, you still have to worry about the cracks between the wood and the potential growth of mold or wood rotting. One of the best solutions for a deck is composite boards. Composite deck boards are more durable than wood and resist water.

When you install a hot tub on the deck, you do not need to worry about rotting or decks becoming soaked with water. If you already have a composite deck, then you can move forward with the installation. You can also order a hot tub and have the composite decking installed before the hot tub arrives.

RAIL REMOVAL

Delivering a hot tub to a high location requires a lot of planning and analysis. If you have an overhang on your deck, you cannot just lift the hot tub up and over. One of the easiest ways for a hot tub company to deliver is by removing the rails on one side of the deck. With the open side of the deck, the hot tub can slide right into place. 

If you are building a new deck or replacing boards with composite decking, then you should leave the rail are wide open. Once the hot tub is in position you can add the rails back to the side of the deck.

OUTLET OPTIONS

When you install a hot tub outdoors, you have to consider the power sources for the hot tub. If the hot tub is located next to the side of a house, then you can have the hot tub wired directly to a power panel and connected to the home’s electricity.

If your deck has outdoor outlets, then you have the option to shop plug and play hot tubs. A plug and play hot tub does not need special outlets or plugs to operate. You can plug the hot tub directly into an outdoor outlet. The plug and play option is typically the fastest and easiest option for a deck installation.

For more information on our hot tubs, contact us at Anchor Pools & Spas. We will help you plan out all the details of your hot tub deck installation.