Deciding on a location for your new hot tub can be as difficult as choosing the type of hot tub you want to buy. Finding a location that affords privacy, a pleasant view and an appropriate distance from your house can create somewhat of a predicament. However, one factor that should be kept in mind and may help with deciding on a location for the hot tub is the type of base that your hot tub will sit on. Hot tubs need a strong, stable and level base to prevent subsidence or sinking as well as warping or buckling of the tub itself. This article will go over some of the more popular bases for hot tubs including discussing suitability of placing your hot tub on gravel.
Gravel Bases
The short answer to the question of whether your hot tub can sit on grave is that yes, it can. Preparations do need to be made to the area to make sure it’s level and stable. However, gravel is a good choice for a hot tub base because it distributes the weight of the tub quite well and allows for easy drainage of water. Once you’ve found an appropriate piece of ground on which to set your hot tub, excavate to about 6 inches below ground level and fill the resulting hole about two thirds full of construction gravel. For the top third, you can apply a more decorative pebble-type gravel that will also be more forgiving on bare feet.
Concrete Bases
When placing your hot tub on the ground, using a concrete base can be an alternative to using gravel. You can create your own concrete base or buy prefabricated pads that have been specifically designed to act as a base for a hot tub. These prefab hot tub pads are typically interlocking and can be placed directly onto a level part of your lawn. Just ensure that the area is stable and it will be able to bear the weight of a full hot tub without any ground subsidence or shifting.
Decks And Patios
Installing a hot tub on a deck or patio is the classic approach for those wishing to have their tub fittings hidden away while still having easy access in case of any maintenance issues. It also typically means that the hot tub is close to the house, is surrounded by water resistant wood or decking and afforded a certain level of insulation. As long as one is sure of the sturdiness and evenness of the deck or patio, it can be an excellent choice for a hot tub location. That said, it’s important to ensure the deck or patio is in good repair and will be able to withstand the weight of the hot tub for years to come. The last thing you need to deal with is hot tub removal and deck repairs shortly after installation. Inspect the stability of your deck or patio carefully before moving forward.
To find out more about hot tub installation, download a hot tub buyer’s guide below, or visit us at our hot tub store.