Planning to have a hot tub installed in your home? Choosing the right base structure for the foundation is an important step in this process, as the structural support your hot tub has will play a big role in how long it lasts and how well it performs. Below, we’ll explore what the options are and what you need to know so you can decide which base structure is best for your needs.
How the Base Structure Affects the Installation Process
If you want to make sure the structural integrity of your hot tub is sound, you need to start from the bottom up. That means having a firm foundation in place before anything else. The type of base you choose will affect how easy or difficult it is to install your hot tub. It’s important to factor in the installation process when making your decision so you can be sure everything goes smoothly. Many homeowners opt for a concrete pad that’s at least 4-6 inches thick, as concrete is strong, durable, and can be easily customized to fit the space you have available. You can also have a concrete pad poured to any thickness you need, which gives you a lot of flexibility.
Other options include a reinforced deck, stone pavers, or patio, and the space you have, your budget, your personal preferences, etc., will all play a role in which one you ultimately choose. You can also reach out to a spa dealer near you for more guidance on the installation process as well as the materials available.
Other Considerations for Your Hot Tub’s Base Structure
In addition to being strong enough to support your hot tub, the base structure should also be level. This is important for two reasons. First, having a level surface will help ensure your hot tub doesn’t shift at all. Second, it will make sure the water drains properly so you don’t have to deal with any pooled water around the perimeter of your hot tub. If you’re not sure how level your ground is, you can always have a professional come out and take a look.
It’s also important to make sure the ground around your hot tub is well-draining. This is especially true if you live in an area with high rainfall or snowfall. Poor drainage can lead to water pooling around your hot tub, which can damage the structure and lead to costly repairs down the road.
Paver Stones as a Support Platform
Paver stones are small, interlocking pieces of stone or concrete that can be used to create a stable, level surface. Here’s why a lot of homeowners go with this option when it comes to their hot tub foundation:
- They provide more support than concrete slabs or wood because of their high density
- There are endless design possibilities to choose from (different colors, shapes, etc,)
- Installation can be completed in just a few hours
If you’re interested in using paver stones for your hot tub foundation, you’ll need to make sure they’re perfectly flat without any ridges. You would also need to dig about 4 to 6 inches, level the ground, and put sand or gravel down to place the stone pavers on.
Going With Reinforced Decking
If you have a deck already and want to use that as the foundation for your hot tub, you can certainly do so. Just keep in mind that it will need to be reinforced first, as most decks aren’t designed to support the weight of a full hot tub. You’ll also need to make sure there’s enough space around the deck so you can easily access the hot tub for maintenance. Alternatively, if you plan on installing a surface-level deck, they can support the weight of a hot tub and will give you plenty of space to access it for maintenance.
No matter which option you choose for your hot tub foundation, the most important thing is that it is level, well-draining, and can support the weight of your spa. A solid base structure will ensure years of hot tub enjoyment for you and your family.
You can download our free buyer’s guide if you need help choosing the right hot tub for you and your home.