Hot Tub on a Deck: Pro Tips and 20 Ideas

Hanging out on your deck and relaxing in a hot tub or spa is an ideal way to end your day. Both seem like they’re made for one another. Hot tubs are great on decks, but let’s look at some aspects of installing one. Besides the obvious fact that they will provide you with hours of recreation and relaxation, they can be expensive and are a commitment to maintain.

We’ll address structural integrity (of the deck), hot tub maintenance, electrical and wiring needs, and, of course, the cost. Furthermore, there is the process of obtaining building permits, and you may want to consider how best to protect your deck when adding a hot tub or spa. It’s not that we want to discourage you from investing in a hot tub, but it’s best to know the pros and cons.

Things to Consider Before Installing a Hot Tub on Your Deck

I have seen many homeowners with decks who are happy with adding in a hot tub or spa, but I want to make you aware of a few conditions of installation that need to be sorted out. Long-term planning must be an element of your decision. Questions that pertain to water capacity, size and weight of the hot tub, appropriate fit, and whether a cover is included are all important considerations.

Deck Structural Integrity

First and foremost, your deck’s strength will determine whether a hot tub can be on your deck. Decks, on average, support 50 pounds per square foot. Therefore, a deck that is 100 square feet (or 10′ x 10′) could hold 5,000 pounds. You may want a more extensive deck for a hot tub, as most hot tubs occupy about 60 to 70 square feet of space.

An important note is that an empty hot tub weighs usually around 400 to 500 pounds. When filled with water, it increases to roughly 10 times that amount, or 4000 plus pounds. Add in people, and it can quickly rise to 5000 to 6000 pounds. So, this is the time to consider your joists, braces, and any support your deck would need for the additional weight. If necessary, you can add more support through piers, joists, or deck footings.

Location and Accessibility

Another critical component of your hot tub install would be where you want to place the hot tub. It must be in a safe spot, with secure ingress and egress. It is best to be placed partially in the shade and in an area that’s easy to maintain. Also, think about how close it will be to an electrical box. This is for powering the heat and water jets. You want the safest setup possible for hot tub use and enjoyment!

For optimum clearance, a hot tub should have at least 2 to 3 feet of passage on two sides. You will also want to make sure you install safety railings on your hot tub. Be certain you can easily run a hose to your hot tub for filling and draining.

Electrical Requirements

One very significant factor in planning out your hot tub is where the electrical source will be in relation to the hot tub. Hot tubs require electricity to power them to achieve the right temperature and the water jets work. Also, the filtration system relies on electricity, so it must be fairly close. The best way to determine this is to have a pro contractor assess it. When dealing with electric power and/or a breaker box, it’s wise to have a professional consult to check building permits.

Permits and Regulations

It is imperative to check with your local planning board about any necessary permits. When it comes to electrical work, fencing, digging, and any structure needed to erect due to the hot tub, you would need the permits in place before you start the project.

Water and Drainage

Hot tubs must be near a water source – or at the very least, accessibility to a hose or water spigot must be enabled. Hot tubs must be cleaned regularly, and the water changed at least twice a year.

Along the same lines, take care to ensure there is plenty of ventilation around a hot tub. Mold and bacteria will grow in areas where water cannot fully dry. So take measures to safeguard your hot tub in an area where splashed water and moisture don’t linger on surfaces.

Maintenance and Cleaning

I touched upon this before, but your hot tub needs to be in a place where you have easy access to clean and properly maintain it. To ensure your hot tub lasts a long time, as well as your deck, you want to keep it clean and ensure it is well-maintained (i.e., address any potential leaks, check for structural issues, etc.) and clean the area around it.

Safety Features

You can do several things to ensure your hot tub is safe and enjoyable for you, your family, and your guests. Installing no-slip treads and handrails and regularly monitoring the quality and pH of the water; these tasks will help you keep your hot tub in good working order.

Creative Ideas for Deck Hot Tub Designs

After performing due diligence about positioning a hot tub and how to prepare for it, let’s have a bit of fun. There are many ways to plan for a hot tub. We’ll check out some imaginative ideas on incorporating it into your outdoor oasis!

Idea 1: Pairing with Plants

Plants bring a new dimension and breathe life into everything they surround. Place some plants by your hot tub and they will do two things: oxygenate the area and generate some privacy. Go all out with some landscaping ideas to complement your hot tub/spa space.

Idea 2: Let There Be Light!

Illuminating your deck and hot tub is paramount, not only for safety, but to create ambience. Use string lights, landscaping lights, or soffit lights so you and your guests can have an enhanced experience while relaxing in the hot tub and conversing. If you don’t want direct lighting, you could uplight all around your deck and hot tub.

Idea 3: A Rounded Approach

Is your deck on the more modest side? No worries – if you have a smaller deck, perhaps a round hot tub might fit the space better. Although it will accommodate fewer people, it’s more intimate, and round hot tubs are an attractive feature of your patio or deck.

Idea 4: Keep it Simple

Have you heard of K.I.S.S.? We call it “Keep it Simply Sensational!” Have your hot tub be the focal point by just doing minimal decorations around it. You could add a chair, a table, or a beautiful plant, but having your hot tub take centerstage is artistic all on its own.

Idea 5: The Glorious Gazebo

Consider adding a gazebo if your deck can hold the weight. This will not only give you privacy but also shield hot-tubbers from the sun.

Idea 6: Partnering with a Pergola

Speaking of structures, a pergola, which is less weight than a gazebo, can provide much-needed privacy. Also, a pergola offers the perfect place for climbing vines to grow.

Idea 7: Privacy Possibilities

As a hot tub enthusiast, you have probably pondered privacy. You don’t want neighbors’ prying eyes to be able to see into your outdoor space. You could utilize many possible combinations of privacy screens, latticework, and privacy walls to keep your deck or patio audience-free!

Idea 8: Terrific Tiers

Change up the level of your hot tub. Add depth by including steps or a short staircase to reach your hot tub. You could elevate your hot tub or do the reverse and have it sunken. A recessed hot tub is not only gorgeous, but it saves on deck space.

Idea 9: Sunken Treasure

While we’re on the sunken subject, if you have a deck that simply cannot accommodate a hot tub, think about having your decking encircle it. Having a deck just above your hot tub so you and your guests can step down into it is a pleasing possibility. Make sure to install safety treads as well.

Idea 10: A Concrete Under-Deck Patio with a Hot Tub

If you have a raised deck, this one’s for you! So your deck may need help to hold the weight of a hot tub, and it’s a second-story deck; this could be a great place for a hot tub – on the concrete patio. Your deck will shelter you from the sun and give you some privacy. Position a creative barrier on the sides, too.

Idea 11: Try Different Textures

Whether you have a deck hot tub or a hot tub that sits on your patio, you could utilize different textures to complement your hot tub or spa. Like pressure-treated lumber, sandstone, brick, or wood are all suggestions to adorn your outdoor living space. Make sure it’s slip-resistant.

Idea 12: Poolside Hot Tub

There is nothing better than going for a dip in the pool, and then sinking into a warming and relaxing hot tub. After a workout of swimming laps, a hot tub can be therapeutic to help heal those sore muscles. Plus, some people love the contrast of cold to hot!

Idea 13: The Way of the Waterfall

If you have the space and desire, working in a beautiful waterfall near your hot tub is a stunning way to elevate your outdoor experience. The sound of a burbling waterfall and the aesthetic alone will attract you and your guests into your hot tubing heaven.

Idea 14: Sweet Serenity

Who doesn’t love the idea of the convenience of a hot tub spa treatment? You could do it in your very own backyard with the help of your hot tub. Placing candles, a few waterproof speakers, and using aromatherapy (like an aromatic air diffuser) will help complete this utopian spa experience.

Idea 15: Exercise your Option

Are you more of an active person? Do you want your exercise time? No problem – bring out the weight set and the yoga mat to get the blood flowing before you enjoy time in your hot tub. This is a perfect way to end your workout by chillaxing in a hot tub.

Idea 16: Fire Up the Jets

This is a great idea if you live in a cooler climate. You may have a fire pit or a chiminea that you would like to involve in this scenario. Imagine enjoying your hot tub against the backdrop of snow and in close (but safe) proximity to a stone fire pit or clay chiminea. Brisk weather would not bother you if you float in a warm well of soothing water.

Idea 17: Bar-based Amusement

Of course, I couldn’t leave this one out. Hot tubs and bars go hand-in-hand. There’s no better way to entertain your guests than to have a hot tub party with a few cocktails or beers. We find it best to use plastic tumblers and glasses for this option. Please drink – and soak – responsibly.

Idea 18: Outdoor Kitchen

Besides beer and wine, let’s talk about food! If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor kitchen set up, you’ll find that this is highly compatible with a hot tub. Because chillaxin’ might make you hungry, the convenience of an outdoor kitchen makes a superb pairing with a hot tub.

Idea 19: Entertainment Enclave

The quest for never-ending entertainment is a wonderful thing. You can easily use an outdoor TV and extra speakers and watch a game or a movie while relaxing in your hot tub. Please make sure you waterproof any electrical equipment.

Idea 20: Mix it up! Combine the Elements

This one speaks for itself. Pick and choose what you like about the above ideas, and construct your own paradise to enjoy. A few exercise mats, a snack, and a good book might be all you desire for a perfect afternoon before sitting in your hot tub.

Pros and Cons of Having a Hot Tub Under Your Deck

Depending on your personal preference, consider placing a hot tub underneath your deck. This way, you won’t have to worry about the material of your deck having water damage and the weight of the hot tub affecting your deck.

There are a few more pros to this idea, but one of the cons is the simple fact that you would get a different panoramic view than you would from a hot tub on top of the deck. Never fear because you can easily beautify the view below your deck. Additionally, you would not need to protect yourself from ultraviolet rays, as the deck would do that for you! Also, a hot tub or spa under a deck would definitely give you some more privacy.

What Are the Requirements to Install a Hot Tub Under a Deck?

As we stated before, the primary considerations are electrical, safety, and easy access to a water source. A hose or spigot needs to be close by to fill up the hot tub. With an under-deck hot tub, you would not need to worry about its weight on your deck. You would, however, need to waterproof the underside of your deck.

How Much Does it Cost to Install?

This primarily depends on your hot tub model. A lot of the price variation depends on the size. Around $3,000 to $6,000 is a solid estimate for a standard-size hot tub that can fit four or five people. One with a few more features will cost about $9,000 to $10,000, with some models going as much as $16,000. Before diving into a hot tub or spa purchase, make sure this is something you’ll want for the long term.

How to Protect a Deck from a Hot Tub?

The water retention and damage like mold, rot, and staining will mostly affect your deck. Prepare your deck properly before adding a hot tub to the mix. You can waterproof it with special paints, seal it, and make sure your deck and underside are structurally sound.

A hot tub will last you for many years if cared for correctly, and your deck will, too! With careful consideration and preparation, you’ll have a long time to enjoy your hot tub or spa throughout various seasons.