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If you’re looking for something to make your composite deck really special, how about considering our fabulous hot tub decking ideas? Whether you have an existing deck and want to add a hot tub, or you are thinking of building new decking that incorporates a hot tub, you can bring a touch of glamour and make your own uniquely relaxing space.
Installing a hot tub on your decking is certainly possible, but there are some considerations that need to be made beforehand regarding the practicalities. Hot tubs are heavy and you also need to account for their water and power requirements, but the end result can be worth all the effort.
In this article, we’ll cover:
So, can you put a hot tub on decking? Yes, you certainly can, but it’s crucial that it is installed correctly and appropriately. A deck might need to be reinforced to hold the weight of a hot tub, but it all depends on the design you’re going for. Sunken hot tubs, for example, can sit on a base underneath with the decking around a hot tub rather than underneath it.
Inflatable hot tubs might offer a less permanent solution as they can be deflated and put away when not in use. They can also be considerably lighter, but the weight of the water when full should still be considered before using an inflatable hot tub on decking.
Deciding on the design and location of your hot tub is very important as this will determine the way that the deck needs to be installed or any alterations and strengthening that may need to be done. There are a number of options, but sunken and raised hot tubs are the most popular.
When it comes to choosing the location, a number of factors may come into play. There has to be enough space around the hot tub for ease of access. You may want to locate it close to the house so that you don’t have to walk far when getting in or out, or you might even have a particular scenic view in mind.
Composite decking can be a better choice than traditional timber decking for a number of reasons. Composite decking is tougher and more durable. It is also more resistant to water and mould, which can be an important factor when you consider the amount of water that is likely to be splashed about.
It’s recommended that you choose composite decking that is strong and has slip-resistant properties, such as Dino Decking’s composite decking range. You might also consider installing capped composite decking boards for longer-lasting protection.
So, can a hot tub go on decking? The answer is that it can, but it’s important to consider the subframe. The subframe needs to be reinforced to provide enough strength for the hot tub to sit comfortably and safely. The subframe material will also need to be water resistant, so composite joists or aluminium joists will be ideal.
While composite decking is generally easy to install, professional help may be needed if you want to incorporate a hot tub, as this project is slightly more complex. Outdoor hot tubs will not generally require plumbing, as they tend to be self-contained units and can be filled with a hosepipe. You are likely to need an electrician though as this part of the job can be dangerous to someone with limited knowledge.
A qualified electrician will also know how to set up the electrics without them coming into contact with water, which is essential for the safety of the hot tub and deck.
Access underneath the hot tub is essential for repairs if anything were to happen with the electrical system or subframe. It is important to choose an accessible location for this purpose.
A sunken hot tub is simply a hot tub that is partially or fully installed below ground level, or, in this case, below the level of the decking. Sunken hot tubs are generally easier to get in and out of as they are lower down, and using composite decking around hot tub areas can be a great solution as it is both water-resistant and slip-resistant.
If the hot tub is sunken into a raised deck rather than the ground, you could consider checking out some decking steps ideas and adding a few stairs leading up to the hot tub for aesthetics and ease of access. You might also want to place the hot tub in a corner or near the edge of a deck, as this will make it easier to get to when it comes to performing maintenance.
A popular alternative to a sunken hot tub is a raised hot tub, which sits above the surrounding area. These are slightly trickier to get in and off of, but this can generally be solved by adding steps.
You can use steps to create different tiered areas of your decking. One tier could include furniture, for example, while the next tier up could contain your hot tub. It is possible to sit a hot tub on the deck itself, so it doesn’t necessarily need to be built into the deck from the start. The foundations and subframe must be strong enough to bear the weight.
Privacy screens will block out unwanted attention from neighbours, but Dino Decking’s decorative composite garden screens can also add extra style to your deck design. Planters can also be used to enhance privacy and block the views from neighbouring properties.
Placing a covering structure such as a gazebo or pergola over your hot tub not only adds style but can also provide shade and protection from the weather all year round. It may also be a good idea to consider the sun’s path when siting your hot tub, depending on whether you would prefer to have shade or sunlight.
A sliding deck cover is perfect for sunken hot tubs. It is a retractable piece of decking that covers up the hot tub when not in use and can be walked on as normal. It should be the same colour as the rest of your decking and is useful for creating a multipurpose deck space.
Making the best use of lighting and steps can add a lot to your hot tub decking design. Deck lighting is great for cosy summer evenings spent relaxing in the hot tub, but it can also be a safety consideration when using the hot tub at night. Consider adding additional stair lighting and lighting on the pergola, if you have one. For sunken hot tubs, lights can be placed around the tub in the decking itself. Any lights used in the immediate vicinity should obviously be waterproof.
Steps are useful to create different levels of decking and for providing access to the hot tub or the level in which a sunken tub sits.
An outdoor bar can be a great addition to any decking area, if it’s within your budget. When combined with a hot tub, it can add a touch of glamour and fun. The bar can even be installed right next to the hot tub for easier access.
If you are installing a hot tub on your decking or subframe rather than a sunken tub that is on the floor and surrounded by decking, you will need to determine if the deck can support the hot tub. To do so, you need to work out how much the hot tub weighs, including water and a full capacity of users.
You then need to compare this to the weight-bearing load of the decking. You can check our guide to working out how much weight your chosen decking can hold for more detailed information.
Planning permission is not generally required for a hot tub. There may be exceptions if your property is in a conservation area or is a listed building, and in such cases you should check with your local authority.
You may need to reinforce an existing deck by adding additional heavy-duty joists and frame elements to the subframe underneath. If you are incorporating a hot tub into a deck from scratch, make sure that you know the load-bearing capacities of your components, such as Dino Decking’s pedestal supports that can hold up to 1,000kg of weight.
So, can you put a hot tub on composite decking? Yes, you can, but it’s important to think carefully about where and how you are going to install it. A hot tub can really make your outdoor spaces fizz, as long as it is safe and suitable. All Dino Decking’s composite decking is completely slip-resistant, while our Premium range is capped with our water-resistant Dino Shield™ polymer sleeve. This provides superior resistance to water, staining and mould, making it ideal for sitting around or under a hot tub.
Our sample pack contains a sample piece of each colour currently available. Order your free sample pack today to compare the colours and get a true feeling of the Dino Decking range!
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