Hot tubs come in all shapes and sizes and with varying features. But what about the materials used to make them? Which one is best for your home and climate? Here’s what you need to know about purchasing a hot tub for your home based on what it’s made of.
Comparing Materials Commonly Used To Make Hot Tub Shells
First, let’s take a look at the most common materials used to make hot tubs. These include rotomolded plastic, vinyl and acrylic.
Hot tubs that are made of rotomolded plastic are created by evenly melting plastic powder over a mould. Such hot tubs are, of course, more lightweight and a lot less expensive than other options. However, plastic isn’t the best material for retaining heat. If you choose this option, you might end up spending more on running costs since it won’t be able to maintain the optimal temperature for your spa as effectively. Hot tubs can also be made of vinyl. They’re built through a process of placing a vinyl liner over a frame made from cement. These hot tubs are relatively cheap. On the downside, a vinyl hot tub shell is more likely to crack or tear over time compared to a shell made from more durable materials.
Acrylic hot tubs are also made by melting the material over a mould. But, there’s an extra step in the process that strengthens their structure. Manufacturers add other materials such as resin and fibreglass after letting the moulded material cool down, making the shell much stronger. As you may have guessed, this option will initially cost more than others because of the additional procedure and materials. But because acrylic hot tubs are heavier and can retain heat more efficiently, the running costs are much lower in the long run, and they will be able to withstand even the harshest winters.
Hot Tub Insulation Is Important
Year-round use is one of the best advantages of owning a hot tub. But when winter comes around, keeping your hot tub’s water at the ideal temperature would take more work than in warmer seasons. This is why insulation is so important. Not only will it significantly reduce the running costs, but your hot tub’s heater will also last longer because it doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain the temperature you desire.
Some hot tubs even take it to the next level with an advanced heat redistribution system. An example of this is Hydropool’s Thermal Shield Technology. It efficiently redistributes heat produced from other components like the jets and the pump to provide more heat for your hot tub. Because of this innovative and eco-friendly feature, your spa can reach your desired temperature in less time and keep it there for longer. Imagine the savings you can get! In fact, a Hydropool hot tub runs at 100 degrees for only pennies a day. This is made possible by the materials used in its structure as well as its advanced insulation technology.
Adding a thick layer of expanding foam either throughout the shell or just in certain parts like the floor or underside is also another way manufacturers ensure proper insulation for their hot tubs. If you’ve done your research and still have some questions about the materials used for a hot tub, the best step is to contact a hot tub dealer near you.
The Way Your Hot Tub Looks Matters Too
Of course, when choosing the best material for a hot tub, you should also consider how it would fit with the overall aesthetic of your home. Your hot tub should provide an atmosphere that relaxes and delights you, and having it look the way you want can help make that happen. In addition, you have the option to customize your hot tub’s exterior by choosing models that have a side panelling feature. The side panelling can easily be taken off or replaced, so you can choose to do so once your hot tub starts to look weathered or if you simply want a different look.
Because there are so many types of hot tubs available today, knowing what they’re made of can help you decide whether its durability will suit your preferences and lifestyle. To learn more about selecting the right one for your home, download our free buyer’s guide.