Innovative Hot Tub Decking Ideas Shape Your Backyard Retreat
As people cancel vacation plans, more consumers are converting their backyards into private retreats. One of the hottest trends in backyard amenities is the hot tub. For full enjoyment of your hot tub, you want it easily accessible. Thus, many homeowners locate their hot tub on their deck. When looking for innovative hot tub decking ideas, turn to Structurally Speaking.
Your Hot Tub’s Base Is Critical
When you’re deciding on buying a hot tub, you need to think about where you’ll put it. Hot tubs are very heavy and need a solid foundation to sit upon.
Simply placing your hot tub on your grass is inadvisable. Without a strong, stable base, your hot tub can start to sink into the ground. Moreover, the moisture in the soil may damage the exterior of your tub.
Typically, spa manufacturers recommend several surfaces:
- Gravel
- Concrete
- Spa pad
- Deck
Undoubtedly, gravel provides a low-cost solution. However, you must make sure the gravel is deep, level, and well compacted.
Another good choice for a foundation for your hot tub is concrete. Not only does concrete provide a level surface, but it’s also durable and long-lasting.
If you’re unsure about the permanent location of your hot tub, you may want to consider a spa pad. This accessory is portable and movable, yet provides the necessary foundation.
Finally, the most popular choice is decking. With its proximity to your home, it makes taking a soak very convenient.
Imaginative Hot Tub Decking Ideas
Ultimately, your budget and the size of your yard will help shape your hot tub decking ideas. You can choose large or small, single or multi-level, simple or complex designs.
Often, a hot tub is the main focal point of your deck. Yet, you may want to use your deck for other purposes too. Thus, you may want a multi-level deck. Not only will you create visual interest, but you’ll also create separate zones. For example, you can use one level for dining and the other as a relaxing spa.
If you have a small space, consider wrapping your deck entirely around your hot tub. Another idea to create the illusion of more space is to recess the hot tub partially into the deck.
Moreover, you can add a pergola for shade. Or, you can install plant boxes for a more natural-looking setting. Whatever you dream, we can help you build it.
Can I Put A Hot Tub On My Existing Deck?
Locating a hot tub where it’s easily accessible means you’ll use it more often. Surprisingly, the most popular time for using a hot tub is right before bedtime.
Additionally, installation costs rise as you move the hot tub away from your home. Plus, it’s easier to maintain if it’s closer to your house.
Often, one of the most desired locations for a hot tub is the deck. It provides a flat surface and is close to the house. However, before you go installing a hot tub on your existing deck, you need to consider some important details.
Primarily, your deck should be in good condition. Sometimes older decks suffer from weathering and aren’t strong enough to support a hot tub. Even newer decks may not be able to support the additional weight.
Before you buy a hot tub, we recommend having a professional, like Structurally Speaking, look at your existing deck. Sometimes, an existing deck only needs reinforcement to support the extra weight of a hot tub.
FAQs About Building A Deck
If you’re thinking about building a deck for your hot tub, here is some general information about the process.
Do I Need A Permit?
Many homeowners view building permits as an inconvenience. Yet, municipalities enact these regulations to ensure safety and structural standards.
Generally, in North Carolina, you need a building permit whenever you make structural changes to your home. Often, adding on a deck is a structural change that requires a permit. Moreover, each municipality may have different requirements and processes for obtaining a permit.
However, when you hire Structurally Speaking to design and build your deck, we take care of the permit for you. Plus, as a local contractor with years of experience, we know exactly what’s needed so there are no delays.
How Long Will It Take To Build My Deck?
Often, once you’ve decided to build a deck, you can’t wait to begin the project. Yet, we have a specific process to ensure your complete satisfaction.
First, we’ll schedule you a free initial consultation with Jim Brennan, our owner. During this consultation, Jim will talk about your ideas and budget.
Next, Jim works on designs based on your consultation. Jim will present at least 2 design recommendations.
After you agree to a design, Jim will give you a starting date and schedule for completion. Of course, your schedule may change based on the weather.
What Will My Hot Tub Deck Cost?
Of course, we understand how important it is to work within your budget. When Jim sits down with you at your initial consultation, it’s one of the first things he’ll discuss with you.
Many different factors affect the price of your deck and every deck Jim designs is unique. When Jim presents your design options, you’ll also receive a detailed estimate of your cost.
What Do I Need To Do To Start The Process?
It’s simple! Just call us at 919-786-4825 to set up your free initial consultation. When you’re looking for an imaginative outdoor structure, you want Structurally Speaking to handle the job.