QA

Question: How To Build A Hot Tub Base

What’s 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.

How thick should a base for a hot tub be?

The concrete base needs to be a minimum of 4 inches thick (ideally 6 inches) so it is able to withstand the weight of the hot tub. It is also a good idea to place rubble to the foundation for maximum support or reinforce the concrete base with rebar.

Can a hot tub sit on pavers?

A hot tub can be placed on pavers, but ensure that they can bear the weight of the hot tub, including water and persons. Ensure that the floor is level and solid. Most pavers are laid at an angle to improve rainwater removal. Such a slope is not suited for a hot tub.

What do you put under a spa?

A cement slab is a common base for spa baths and is perfect for both inside and outside hot tubs. The cement should be poured by someone with experience in spa slabs. This ensures it has been levelled and the surface underneath is sufficient for weight distribution.

How do you build a base gravel for a hot tub?

Gravel Base Remove the sod from a section of lawn that is large enough to hold your tub. Dig out an area several inches deep and make sure the ground at the bottom is pressed flat. Fill the hole with gravel and press it down to make sure it will not shift or sink once it has weight on it.

Can you put hot tub on gravel base?

An alternative to a prefab concrete pad is to use a layer of gravel for the hot tub base. Gravel has two main advantages, it is good for drainage and easy to install. So yes, a hot tub can sit on gravel! To find out more about hot tub installation requirements, download a hot tub buyer’s guide.

Do you have to put a hot tub on concrete?

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 can you use for a hot tub base?

4 Best Hot Tub Foundation Ideas Gravel. Hot Tub Foundation For Gravel. Gravel is a popular choice due to its constant drainage and affordability. Concrete. Concrete Base For Hot Tub. Concrete bases are a little more expensive than gravel but are incredibly durable. Decking. Hot Tub on Deck.

Can a concrete patio hold a hot tub?

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. Second, your existing concrete slab must be in good condition.

Can you put a hot tub on slabs?

Most patios, block paving and other surfaces are already reinforced and will be able to take the weight of a hot tub placement. If you are unsure then you may need to consult a specialist in this area.

Can I put my hot tub on patio stones?

Hot tubs require a level base that is able to support the weight of the hot tub when it is filled with water and bathers. You can use a concrete slab, gravel, a deck or patio pavers as options to support your hot tub.

Can you put a hot tub on dirt?

A hot tub should not be placed on soil or on a lawn. Instead, it will need a solid platform to support all of the weight. Exposure to wet soil and grass will reduce the life of your hot tub and expose it to insects and moisture. A hot tub should never be installed in soil or on a lawn.

What base does a spa need?

A 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.

How do you level the ground for a hot tub?

Place a layer of gravel on the leveled spot. The thickness of the layer will depend on the size and weight of your hot tub, but a layer four to six inches thick should be adequate for most hot tubs. Extend the gravel out around the tub in all directions, to avoid having a muddy area around your hot tub.

Does a spa need a slab?

Concrete Slabs For portable spas up to 3.5m they will need a minimum 100mm reinforced concrete slab. For swim spas and spas larger than 3.5m we recommend a 150mm slab with 2 layers of reinforcing mesh.