Hot tubs and composite decking are a match made in heaven. Not only do they look great together, but composite decking is water resistant, slip and splinter-free, durable and low maintenance – ideal for use around pools and spas.
In this blog we provide advice and guidance on what you need to consider before you choose and fit your new hot tub and decking.
Why choose composite decking for your hot tub?
Composite decking is perfectly suited to wet areas. Unlike timber, it will not rot or splinter from regular exposure to moisture, and it does not require lengthy treatments to keep it looking like new.
Can you put a hot tub on composite decking?
The short answer is yes, you can! However, if you’re sitting your hot tub on top of your decking, we’d recommend choosing a solid deck board, such as Ecodek’s Evolution, Heritage, and Signature AT collections. Having a solid core makes the board much stronger and therefore more capable of holding the weight of a hot tub.
Tips for installing a hot tub with composite decking
1. Decide whether to place your spa above or below the decking
You first need to decide whether you’d like your hot tub to sit on top of your decking, or if you’d prefer a sunken tub that is then surrounded by the boards.
As discussed above, if you tub is going to sit on top of your decking you should consider a solid deck board for maximum strength. We would also recommend reducing the width between your subframe joists and posts to hold the additional weight. Your decking should be installed on a concrete base or slabs to prevent the deck sinking.
A sunken hot tub will also require a concrete base beneath it and don’t forget you’ll need access to controls.
2. Chose the perfect location
The location of your new hot tub is extremely important and there are several factors you should consider when choosing a site:
- You need enough room to lift the lid off the hot tub safely – and adequate storage space if the lid comes off completely.
- The location of trees.
- What privacy does the location offer?
- Distance from your home – be sure your spa is easily accessible from your home but not so close that you can hear the pump.
- Do you have power?
3. Design your deck to enhance slip resistance
Composite decking is slip resistant, making it ideal for use around hot tubs and pools, where excess water can create potential slip hazards. However, there are a couple of things you can do to increase this slip resistance.
Firstly, choose a board that has a grooved surface, which will provide further grip.
Secondly, lay your boards at right angles to the general flow of traffic. This again will help to increase the slip resistance of the boards.
4. Ensure access to your hot tub controls and plant
Hot tub maintenance is essential for ensuring a clean, healthy hot tub. As such, being able to access electrics and other hot tub components is vital.
A way to do this, is to incorporate a ‘deck hatch’ that will provide you with easy access to the underneath of the deck.
Alternatively, you can install your decking with easy-to-remove deck boards, which will enable you to remove a run of deck boards without damaging any of the surrounding area.
5. Remember your subframe
Whilst your new composite decking may be built to last, if you have a timber subframe that is consistently exposed to moisture and damp conditions, you may start to experience problems. Water can rot a wooden base and over time this could make it unstable and even unsafe.
In contrast, a composite wood subframe will not rot and is much more durable than timber, meaning your base is more likely to last as long as your deck boards.
6. Consider safety aspects
Where there’s water, there’s always potential for accidents, so be mindful of safety when designing your hot tub and decking.
As well as safety underfoot, consider additional safety features, such as balustrades. These are particularly useful if you’re building a raised deck with a hot tub, providing both a barrier to falls and a handrail.
If you’re worried about ruining a beautiful view, why not opt for a frameless glass option.
7. Consult an electrician
We would always recommend employing the services of a professional electrician when installing your hot tub. This will ensure the safety of you and your family and friends when using and maintaining the tub.
Discover our composite decking range today
Ecodek’s collection of composite decking boards are the perfect partner for your new hot tub project. Contact our friendly, expert team today on 01978 667 840 for more information and guidance.