Can My Deck Handle a Hot Tub?

Did you know that an average size spa weighs 5,000-6,000 pounds? That’s the weight of a mid-size car!

When our customers are thinking about where to put their hot tubs, one of the most common places is the deck. But, not all decks can handle the weight of a hot tub. To ensure the safety of your hot tub and your deck, it’s always good to talk to us first in lieu of use.

In the meantime, we answer the question, “Can my hot tub handle a deck?” This way you can get a rough idea of how much weight your deck can handle. (Please note: consult a professional before deciding if your deck can support a hot tub.)

What is the Weight of Your Spa?

We’re going to look at this per square foot. So, get out your math brain and let’s go. You need the following numbers:

• Weight of your hot tub when filled
• The average weight of one person is 170 pounds
• The width x length of your hot tub – again this varies

Now we get to the algebra formula – yes, we’re going back to high school! Here’s the formula:

Weight of Spa When Filled + Number of People Spa Can Seat x 170 lbs

DIVIDED BY # of Square Feet = Pounds Per Square Foot

As an example, let’s use the Hot Spring Spa Vanguard. It weighs 4,540 lbs pounds when full and seats six people.  It is 7.3 feet long and also wide.

4540 + (6×170) = 5560

5620 divided by 53.29 =  104 pounds per square foot

Can My Deck Handle It?

Generally speaking, if your deck is only up off the ground a few feet or less, it can support about 100 pounds per square foot. However, it’s imperative that you speak with us as well as a professional contractor before putting a spa on your deck.

You always want someone to inspect it to determine if your deck can handle the spa. If it can’t, there are quite often many things we can do to correct this such as adding additional support beams under your deck.

Final Thoughts

Before you decide to put a spa on your deck, talk to us. We can help you reinforce your deck so the spa area is properly supported! At Fiesta Pools and Spas, we are here for you! Stop by and talk to use today!