How deep should a concrete slab be for a hot tub?
A solid cement slab that can safely support a fully-loaded hot tub must be no less than four inches thick. For maximum strength, I recommend a depth of six inches. Do not excavate the ground deeper than six inches as the concrete slab requires the soil beneath to be solid enough to ensure stability.
How much weight can a hot tub weigh on concrete?
The larger the hot tub, the more inches you should add to the foundation. You should also make sure that the concrete has the ability to withstand 115 pounds of weight per square foot. When it comes to smaller hot tubs, such as two-person models, you may be able to get away with less.
What is the best base for a hot tub?
My complete guide will explain: A concrete pad is one of the best and most popular choices for a hot tub base. Most hot tub manufacturers and stores recommend a concrete slab for its strength, durability, low maintenance, and long lifespan. However, some people dislike concrete for its poor aesthetics and its ability to crack in certain conditions.
What size of hot tub do I Need?
Large hot tubs are ideal for those who enjoy entertaining. These hot tubs range from 84 by 84 inches to 108 by 110 inches. A large hot tub can accommodate 7 or more people and can be 38 inches deep. The large hot tub is best for those who are tall. The footwell of a large hot tub is deeper than those of a small or medium-size hot tub.
How big should my hot tub slab be?
The spa pad should be at least the size of the spa. If you are going to pour cement pad put a slight slope in it so that water won't pool under the spa. A 3/4″ slope in a 10 foot wide cement pad is adequate. If you use bricks or patio blocks, they should set on at least a 3″ base of sand, pea gravel or crushed stone.
How big should a concrete pad be for a hot tub?
The minimum thickness safety requirement for a basic hot tub pad is 4″ thick reinforced concrete with a diameter of 6″ less than the diameter of the bottom of the tub. Therefore, a 5′ round straight sided wood hot tub would require a 4′ 6″ square pad.
How Big Should a platform be for a hot tub?
Then divide that sum (pounds) by the size of the tub's footprint (square feet). For example, an 8- x 8-foot tub (area of 64 ft2) that weighs 5,120 pounds—water and people included—would require a structure capable of supporting 80 lb/ft2. Many experts recommend a minimum of 100 lb/ft2.
Can a concrete slab hold a hot tub?
Although a slab made of multiple blocks is acceptable, a single slab is preferred because it is more durable. Usually a concrete slab made to building code is suitable to hold a hot tub. However, many patios and other concrete slabs are pitched for drainage, which may make an unsuitable base for your hot tub.
How thick should a concrete slab be for a spa?
100mmA reinforced concrete slab of at least 100mm (4”) thick is a suitable foundation for your spa; this must be increased to a minimum of 125mm (5”) thick when installing swim spas. You must ensure this base is an even, level surface free from cracks or hollows.
What is the best base to put a hot tub on?
A concrete surface is an excellent base for your hot tub as this material is extremely sturdy and long-lasting. If you have an existing patio made of concrete bricks, make sure it's in good condition and is level (not angled for drainage). A customized poured concrete pad is an even better choice.
What kind of platform is needed for a hot tub?
A concrete pad is one of the most common types of hot tub base. This is what most manufacturers or hot tub stores will recommend. Concrete is a strong and durable choice for a hot tub base, but it is permanent.
What does a hot tub need to sit on?
A hot tub requires a stable surface — whether it's a concrete slab, reinforced deck, or firmly compacted soil with crushed gravel. There's also the option to have the hot tub installed in the ground but that still requires a concrete vault.
What should I put under my hot tub?
If you're having a base installed especially for your Hot Tub we would recommend a patio, decking area or poured concrete base. Whatever you choose make sure whoever installs it for you ensures the base is level and large enough for your Hot Tub and steps.
Will 4 inch concrete hold a hot tub?
Concrete Slab The base of reinforced concrete should be about 4 inches thick and be able to withstand a weight of at least 115 pounds per square foot, especially for larger spas. The concrete should be fully cured prior to placing the tub.
How much does it cost to pour a concrete slab for a hot tub?
Hot Tub Concrete Pad Cost A concrete slab costs $5 to $10 per square foot or between $500 and $2,500 for a hot tub. Other options for a hot tub foundation pad are an existing patio, gravel base, pavers, reinforced deck, or plastic spa pad.
Does a hot tub slab need rebar?
On top of the foam board or ground if you don't put down foam board, put down a wire mesh layer. Install stand offs, the orange thingies, (center picture-right), then ½” steel rebar, crisscrossed and spaced 12” apart. You will also need to connect a bond wire to the rebar grid that will connect to electrical grounding.
Does a hot tub slab need rebar?
On top of the foam board or ground if you don't put down foam board, put down a wire mesh layer. Install stand offs, the orange thingies, (center picture-right), then ½” steel rebar, crisscrossed and spaced 12” apart. You will also need to connect a bond wire to the rebar grid that will connect to electrical grounding.
What does a hot tub need to sit on?
A hot tub requires a stable surface — whether it's a concrete slab, reinforced deck, or firmly compacted soil with crushed gravel. There's also the option to have the hot tub installed in the ground but that still requires a concrete vault.
How do you make a concrete pad for a hot tub?
0:194:29How to Pour an Easy Jacuzzi Concrete Slab DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCouple little kickers on it just so it doesn't twist over when the concrete hits. It. I came aroundMoreCouple little kickers on it just so it doesn't twist over when the concrete hits. It. I came around here with my little skid steer to move some of this dirt out of here.
How soon can you put a hot tub on new concrete?
When pouring a concrete slab for a hot tub, allow it to cure for 28 days minimally before placing a hot tub on it. This allows the moisture to be kept in the concrete, and putting weight on it prematurely will weaken the finished product with stresses and cracking.
How deep is a large hot tub?
A large hot tub can accommodate 7 or more people and can be 38 inches deep. The large hot tub is best for those who are tall. The footwell of a large hot tub is deeper than those of a small or medium-size hot tub. Source: Dimensions.com.
How many sizes are there in a hot tub?
On average, hot tubs are available in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Each size can fit a different amount of people, but there are also differences in length, width, and height.
How tall is a hot tub?
The height ranges from 33 inches to 38.5 inches. A large-size hot tub has a length of 84 to 108 inches and can fit 7 or more people. The width ranges from 84 to 110 inches, and the height ranges from 36 to 38 inches.
What is a portable hot tub?
Portable Hot Tub. If you want to have the most options for size, color, features, and seating, a portable hot tub is for you. This is the traditional hot tub you think of when picturing one in your mind. The portable hot tub was developed shortly after wooden hot tubs and is very durable.
What are the downsides of a rotationally molded hot tub?
The downside of the rotationally molded hot tub is that they are not as efficient as traditional models. They also tend to be less attractive because they are plastic. A benefit of this model is that they are durable and less likely to be damaged.
Why are swim spas so expensive?
Because swim spas are larger than traditional hot tubs, they are easy to swim or exercise in. Due to their size, these are more expensive than other hot tubs and require a dedicated space. They also have high operating costs due to the amount of water needed and the electricity used to keep the temperature.
What is a wooden hot tub?
A wooden hot tub is the first type of hot tub –made six decades ago. It was originally designed for soaking but soon became more similar to the hot tub use of today. If you are considering a wooden hot tub, keep in mind the heating source. The heat source will determine how quickly your water will heat.
How close to your house should you place a hot tub?
The steam and moisture from the tub may seep into the windows, and the walls promoting mildew and rot. You should also be sure to place it at least 12 feet away from any overhead cable and telephone lines or light fixtures.
What is the best foundation for a hot tub?
A concrete slab is an excellent foundation for your hot tub. A slab can easily support the weight of your jacuzzi and guests, is waterproof, and can be built to the exact size that you desire. Pouring a slab is also cheap and straightforward if you know what you are doing.
How much does a hot tub weigh in 2021?
July 9, 2021 By Christina. One of the hardest steps in buying a hot tub is choosing where to install it in your yard. Weighing up to 6,000 pounds when filled, a hot tub requires a strong and reliable foundation to support it. Luckily, concrete slabs are the perfect base for your hot tub and are straightforward enough to pour yourself.
Why is it important to have a stable foundation for a hot tub?
Having a stable foundation for your hot tub ensures that you can safely entertain. When placed on an unstable surface, like grass, your hot tub may sink or shift, therefore compromising its security and making it unsafe to use. A concrete slab is a great option because they are custom made to fit your hot tub’s size and can support heavyweight.
Can you pour a concrete slab for a hot tub?
Pouring a concrete slab for your hot tub will be much easier if you’re familiar with using concrete and power tools or know someone who can help you. Though any novice can have a go at it all by themselves, pouring a slab can get tricky and is better done as a two-person job.
Can you put a hot tub too far away from your house?
Keep in mind that placing it too far has its disadvantages too, most obviously that if you live in a colder environment, it may deter you from using your hot tub at all. You should also consider where your hot tub will get its power from; placing it too far from your house may limit your options and make it complicated to power.
Can you put a hot tub on concrete?
Choosing where to place your hot tub and concrete slab can be more difficult than actually pouring the concrete. It’s important to keep in mind that placing the hot tub too close or too far from your house can be problematic.
How much does a hot tub weigh?
Hot tubs are heavy objects. When you combine the weight of the tub itself, the water, and the people in it, you can be looking at upwards of 6,000 lbs.
What is the best base for a hot tub?
Gravel is an excellent choice for a hot tub base. It's relatively cost-effective and easy to install, plus it's very good for drainage. This is important because you need to make sure any rain water or overspill from your hot tub is able to drain away from the base. And unlike concrete, gravel won't crack over time.
What is a spa pad?
Synthetic spa pads are a very cost-effective type of hot tub base. They're also pretty hard wearing, and won't crack like concrete can.
What is a less permanent spa pad?
A less permanent option is a ready-made synthetic spa pad like the EZ Pad or Handi-Pad.
Why is it important to have a hot tub installed flat?
This is because you need to ensure the weight of the spa is distributed evenly, so that the frame doesn’t shift or bow once it’s filled, or when it’s being used. If this happens, you risk damaging the spa and voiding the warranty.
What is the easiest spa base to install?
When it comes to the easiest spa base to install, ready-made spa pads win, hands down.
What is the best concrete for slabs?
For most DIY concrete slabs, the best material to use is a ready-mix crack-resistant concrete mix like QUIKRETE.
How big is a hot tub slab?
Stake out the perimeter of the slab you want to pour. Slabs for hot tubs generally are 8 feet by 8 feet. Run twine between the stakes.
How much does a hot tub weigh?
Hot tubs are a popular addition to any home, especially for people who entertain regularly. Most people put hot tubs outside. They weigh around 4,000 lbs. fully loaded, so it's important that the structure you place the hot tub on can handle heavy loads. Grass or bare dirt just won't do.
How long does it take for a hot tub to dry?
Allow to dry and cure for 20 days before placing the weight of the filled hot tub onto the pad.
Can you put a hot tub on a concrete slab?
If you choose to place your hot tub on a concrete slab, you''ll have to build something more substantial than a normal 4-inch concrete pad, due to the weight. You'll need footings much like the foundation of a house. Advertisement.
