hot tub on uneven pavers

In fact, hot tubs can be placed on any uniform, solid, level surface. I was a leader for Whole Foods Market for over 2 decades and currently help run a large martial arts school (primarily) for kids. The hot tub was set upon a concrete pad that was cut into the slope. Just click that link to learn more on their website. Getting a hot tub installed in the backyard is a much simpler process than you might imagine. In general, it should never be placed on the bare ground at all. I think you should call a hot tub dealer and ask them. Many people love the look of pavers because of how many options are available, which makes it easy to find the perfect style to match your home decor style. It should also tell you how to do it. For ensuring the drainage, drain tile was placed around the pad and covered with granular stone before the cement was poured. Request a Quote. Purchase the shims and follow the instructions from your owner’s manual or the hot tub manufacturer. There are a few different types of pavers that you can choose from. And there is some level of risk. Pavers are a great choice for a hot tub base as they provide ample support. I get into all the options, including one I did for almost no money. If you have your heart set on uneven pavers, know they can still be used. If you do not want to install a concrete slab underneath the pavers, sand or gravel will be needed to properly support the weight of the hot tub. The thing that supports the pavers is the base in the ground, and if your base isn’t prepared properly, the whole thing will shift and you risk breaking your hot tub. Middle Class Dad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Pack the stone down and level it as much as possible. The majority of hot tubs come with shim points. If it is not level, then this is not possible, and the hot tub will break. A hot tub on a paver patio stands the test of time. Or, to learn how to select the perfect hot tub or swim spa, contact us for your free hot tub and swim spa buyer’s guides now! I love the touch screen controls and the LED lighting. Hot tubs weigh about 700 to 800 pounds dry and about 3700 pounds when filled. If your slope is greater than 1 inch though, I don’t think shimming it the best option. It should not be placed on grass or the earth. Raised pavers with ridges can cause problems and put stress on the hot tub shell. Concrete – a very common type of paver which is durable, versatile and weatherproof. But just laying a bunch of cinder blocks on the ground, even if you leveled the ground first, would result in an uneven and unstable surface. I have arranged with BuyerZone.com to provide free quotes from all the best hot tub manufacturers – with no obligation to buy. Most hot tub manufacturers recommend a concrete slab base over other types of bases. This can lead to cracks, stretching and structural damage of the hot tub shell. If you wish to place a hot tub on a porch, as with a wooden deck, check to make sure that it can adequately support the weight. Plus, when you buy a hot tub that uses quality materials and the latest technology, you’ll save on maintenance, energy costs, and the expense of replacing costly salt water hot tub … I actually thought I could do the whole walkway in a few weekends (I’m unrealistically optimistic sometimes) but after taking out about a 4′ x … BUT (big but), the real strength lies beneath the pavers. In that case, I would probably move the hot tub, do something to level the sloped concrete (framed sand and gravel could work well), and then place it back on. If your hot tub is already installed on pavers, but you need to level your hot tub, the best thing to do is use shims. Basically that’s where salt rises to the surface of the concrete causing it to flake. If the foundation for your hot tub is inadequate, it may shift or settle after the hot tub has been placed. Step 1: Plan Your Area & Start Small Pick an area to work on but don’t bite off more than you can chew. They also have their costs.Other than the material, the Just click that link to read it on my site. In a way, cinder blocks are similar to pavers. To save up to $8600 on hot tubs, swim spas, and accessories, request a quote by clicking below! Can a hot tub sit on pavers? Using the proper materials for your hot tub base as well as using a professional contractor to ensure the design is up to proper safety standards is a must. If you are set on the look of a type of paver that is uneven – don’t worry, these can still be used. You can now fill the area with 4” of crushed stone, make sure the area is about 4-6” bigger than the spa itself. Hot Tub Slab is in Good Condition Second, your existing concrete slab must be in good condition. Key Takeaway: Just like adding a hot tub to a larger remodel project, you can make your new outdoor hot tub part of a larger design scheme to really add a great aesthetic to your yard. When placing your hot tub on a surface such as a wooden deck, you should be mindful of the weight of the hot tub (especially when filled with water and occupants) and the amount of weight that the deck can hold. The Beauty Of A Hot Tub On A Paver Patio . As some pavers are raised in height, this can impact how level the base is and cause problems down the road for your hot tub frame and shell. Hot tub costs can differ based on climate, model, and usage, but typical monthly electrical costs are in the $10 to $20 range. One of the more popular hot tub bases is of course a concrete base. Has the ground below your hot tub shifted over time and your hot tub not level anymore? Then mark these pavers with a piece of chalk or another marker. Catalina Hot Tub Spas with Travertine Pavers Surroundingshttp://t.co/n4Q9c8c3rf pic.twitter.com/GBLD65VsT5, — Gappsi Giuseppe Abbrancati (@GappsiGroup) September 4, 2014. A poured concrete slab is an ideal permanent base for hot tubs. The best way to fix a hot tub that is already installed is to use shims. Avoid fine sand and combination mixes cut with limestone or stone dust. You want your hot tub to be as level as possible. But it may void your warranty, so proceed with caution. Look at the route from the delivery point to the spas final location. See more ideas about hot tub, hot tub patio, hot tub outdoor. If you are dead set on using the sloped slab, then it’s really simple. All rights reserved. Look for loose, broken pavers, or even faded pavers. In that case, a new foundation or a bed of framed sand that is compacted & level can be a good solution. Mar 6, 2017 - Explore Linda Barlow-Lockard's board "Hot Tub Pads" on Pinterest. In this case, planks are used to create a level surface at an affordable cost. Flagstone – is cut from stone quarry and incredibly durable. Deciding where to install your hot tub is an important decision. My wife is worried it will put a bump in the patio that would be a problem if we ever decided to ditch the spa. Visually inspect it for large cracks and uneven surfaces. But more importantly, the stress and strain of the thousands of pounds of the tub itself, water, and people, will be evenly distributed across the frame and shell of the hot tub. If not, the shell will eventually stretch and warp, which can cause serious damage to the hot tub. Once your pavers are set into place, sand needs to be swept into the ‘joints’ between each paver to secure and lock into place. That does not mean you can’t do it, or that it won’t work. Another consideration for a hot tub shopper is shape or profile. A dip in the ground will most likely cause your hot tub to crack. Site Access. Remember to always read the owner’s manual of the hot tub. My first hot tub was an inflatable, and I placed it on some existing paving, which was on a very slight incline to allow for rainwater … Pavers are a high-density material that offers more support than concrete slabs or wood. The best way to form this base is to use a 2 x 4 or 2 x 6 wood frame that is about 6″ – 12″ larger than the size of your hot tub. Comfort while working on the hot tub is important. We still have enough base material to pull the pavers, compact a new (level) base) and set the pavers again. That should mitigate the issues. A dip in the surface your hot tub is on can cause the hot tub to crack. Over time, the fact that the hot tub is unleveled will cause stress on the shell or cabinet. Other than that requirement, it should be located where it pleases you. That’s exactly why The Hot Tub Handbook and Video Course is so valuable! The hot tub adds a modern touch to the decor of the patio which makes it look uniquely wonderful. Their low absorption rate makes concrete pavers resistant to common problems that happen with poured concrete, like efflorescence or salt scaling. For many people, tearing up what their hot tub lies on and replacing it with a level foundation is not a financial option. The easiest and most common method of leveling is installing hot tub shims to the base of the hot tub to create balance and support. Rather than putting your hot tub on top of the pavers, place it on level concrete then … If you have questions, you can always call the manufacturer and ask them. Just know that any time you do it, there are some good guidelines to follow. Simply put, you need a solid, level foundation for your hot tub! Does that mean draining and refilling it? Inflatable hot tubs should be installed on flat surfaces like solid hot tubs. Pouring new concrete, laying gravel, or installing hot tub shims are all viable options to level uneven ground in preparation for a hot tub. Ultimately, you’ll want to start on the low side, tapping the shims in place so they provide even support across the frame and shell. Having pavers around the hot tub and a path through your garden leading to your home looks fantastic. However, you may want to consider an even larger pad to accommodate steps or a … If using pavers, select ones that are smooth and can be interlocked at a level height to create a solid, flat layer on top of a concrete base. So let’s get into all the details! Complete Sunrise Hot Tub Review. As some pavers are raised in height, this can impact how level the base is and cause problems down the road for your hot tub frame and shell. If using pavers, select ones that are smooth and can be interlocked at a level height to create a solid, flat layer on top of a concrete base. Got a nice new hot tub yesterday...it is truly heaven. Too much of that can ruin your hot tub. A paver patio can handle this weight. If you were to go the DIY route you risk damaging the structural integrity of your hot tub. Remember, shims can rot over time, so it’s more ideal to ensure that whatever surface you are placing your hot tub on is level, to begin with. Wait! Yes, you can use shims to make a hot tub level. Often, a concrete slab approximately 6” thick is recommended. It will be easier for you and less risky due to the reduced weight. There are many different types of paving stones that are suitable for use as a hot tub base including those made from cobblestone, concrete, rubber, flagstone or brick. My favorite shim is these heavy-duty plastic shims from EZ-Shim (click to see them on Amazon). Put a fire pit in your yard or patio. But there’s a lot more to know about leveling a hot tub, especially if you don’t want the frame or shell to crack! Installing your hot tub on a paver patio brings your whole outdoor living space together in perfect harmony. So for that reason, I recommend NOT using wood shims. My favorite shim is these heavy-duty plastic shims from EZ-Shim (click to see them on Amazon). Copyright 2021 © Zorra. But, do not place your hot tub on the grass. Preparing for Delivery . Luckily, I break it all down for you in this recent article. yep - I'm leaning towards having the pavers reset. Complete Sunrise Hot Tub Review. Believe it or not, they are about 10 bucks on Amazon for a set of 20, qualify for free shipping, and can take the weight of a hot tub. However, given its size and weight, you can't just place the tub anywhere in your yard. Just click that link to read it on my site. If you are suffering from foam in your hot tub water, you probably used too much soap when you cleaned it or didn’t rinse it off properly. Our collection includes explaining and showing the different types of fire pits you can build or buy. With almost any other base solution, you … Sunrise Spas aren't the best-known brand of hot tub out there. I would definitely do this with the hot tub empty. Save time and receive multiple quotes for hot tubs from all the best-known brands! Have you read my all-time most popular post? Make sure that you take the time to compact the ground beneath the … If your hot tub doesn’t support shims, and you want to avoid possibly voiding the warranty, then you will have to pour a new concrete slab. When your pavers are set, sand or gravel need to be placed as a buffer between the pavers. How to Fix Sunken Pavers. Instead of sitting your hot tub on top of the pavers, place it on a level concrete slab and install the pavers surrounding the hot tub to complete the look you want to achieve. Some of the most common surfaces hot tubs rest on are level concrete slabs or reinforced decks. Pavers work best to support a hot tub when you first create a bed of sand and then compact it down and level it out. There are a few disclaimers you should consider when thinking about using pavers. The weight of the water places a lot of force on the hot tub shell, and it is critical that the base for your hot tub is 100% level. The location should be accessible to the 50 amp service most require. But what about using pavers instead? Basement concrete floors that are level will also work. Building the deck with the same height of the tub can be an easy idea to create an inground hot tub that you can try. If using pavers, select ones that are smooth and can be interlocked at a level height to create a solid, flat layer on top of a concrete base. For outdoor hot tubs, it’s common to place hot tubs on surfaces such as decks and patios made out of both concrete or brick. Hot tub height is another consideration which is usually 36” although they can be found as short as 30” and as tall as 40”. Well as soon as I filled the tub it was obvious that water is self leveling and the deck was pitched. Have you asked how can I level my hot tub? Contact Us If your hot tub is already installed on pavers, but you need to level your hot tub, the best thing to do is use shims. But being lesser-known isn't always a bad thing. After that, it was on to the beautification process. This is where shims come in handy. This secures the pavers and allows them to lock into place. They also do not absorb heat, which makes them ideal for walking on barefoot. If you have any other questions or concerns about sitting your hot tub on pavers, just ask your local dealer. Hear from Scott Cook, Hot Tub Expert at American Sale, about the best foundation types for your hot tub. Hot tubs are available in footprints that can be as small as a 4’ x 6’ (2 person) and as large as 8’ x 22’ (swim spa). Do not use shims if the hot tub is greater than 1″ uneven from one side to the other. Simple Raised Patio. Wooden landscape timbers work great for framing that to keep the sand contained. As I mentioned at the top, hot tubs are built to distribute thousands of pounds (water and people) throughout the acrylic shell. Unfortunately, if your hot tub is not level, it could break. DIY Hot Tub Foundation https://t.co/odNY1Z0J0R pic.twitter.com/TVEcTmcuxT, — Shauna Leva (@ShaunaLeva) August 31, 2018. Always ensure the surface you are placing the hot tub on can hold the weight of a hot tub filled with water and people. link to How to Get Detergent Out of Your Hot Tub - 3 Simple Steps, link to Are Sunrise Hot Tubs Good? They could be simply tilted, higher or even lower than the other pavers. For most hot tubs measuring 80 inches square, a base with an area of 10 feet by 10 feet is sufficient. Let’s face it. It is important to recognize that most hot tubs don’t have a perfectly flat bottom, so when pavers are used they will still need to have a layer of cement over them to hold them in place and take up the shape of the base. Pavers are attractive and can be used as a hot tub base, with a few precautions. All you have to do is use shims to level your hot tub. Adding a hot tub to your back yard provides an ideal way to unwind at the end of a long day or soothe muscle aches and joint pain. The Best Hot Tub Cover Lifters by Type and Price. If the area is very large, you may … Here are some of the most common types of pavers that are used in landscaping, driveways and around the home. *Please note that I am not liable for quotes, products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers. Balancing the water, cleaning filters, dealing with rashes, and trying to figure out which chemicals to buy and add can make you feel more like a chemist than someone who just wants to relax after a long hard day! Personally I think we could set the pavers a third time if it came to that. However, a slight incline 1-2 degrees is not a problem. So if you’re looking for great alternatives, especially inexpensive ones, check out this recent article. Hot Tub Owner HQ is owned and operated by Jeff Campbell/Middle Class Dad. If you aren’t sure how much a hot tub weighs or how to calculate yours, check out this recent article. I did some research, and here's what I... Hi! As you can see, the hot tub was a bit faded, so I decided to stain the exterior cabinet. Give 18” – 24” of space for a full grown adult to access the inside of the tub. Here’s the hot tub on its new patio base. Want to dive deeper into why a hot tub leads to be level and what can happen if it isn’t? Keep reading below to find out if pavers can be used with hot tubs. I break it down simply and show you the easy way to figure out how much your hot tub weighs. You don't have to go camping to enjoy an evening fire. Middle Class Dad is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies, but in no way increases the cost to you if you opt to make a purchase from my links. If it does, it should tell you where they are. Pavers are attractive and can be used as a hot tub base, with a few precautions. On the low side the water is up to the headrests and on the high side if you don't have 2 people in it the top jets splash all over on high. The sand will help the pavers lock together, making sure they set properly. They can provide all the details you need to ensure that you have a safe location selected to install your hot tub. , link to read your owner ’ s get into all the best-known brand of hot tub costing... Read the owner ’ s exactly why the hot tub is inadequate, it should also tell you where are. How to get Detergent out of your hot tub this can lead to cracking and stress fractures tub.. Click that link to read your owner ’ s manual of the most common surfaces hot tubs come with points! The four most common surfaces hot tubs think shimming it the best way to figure out how much hot... Timbers work great for framing that to keep the sand contained be at least 4 inches and... To one side of the hot tub manufacturers recommend a concrete slab is an ideal base... To provide free quotes from all the options, including one I did for almost no.! Around the hot tub is unleveled will cause you to spend more money on fixing the issues that with... Any time you do it hot tub on uneven pavers or without official shim points or not about... Real strength lies beneath the pavers, hot tub on uneven pavers they can provide all the best hot tub save to! The area where the base will be easier for you and less risky due to the 50 amp service require! With limestone or stone dust sunrise hot tubs, Swim Spas, and.! Much as possible tub anywhere in your hot tub is important shim points or the earth raised pavers with can! //T.Co/N4Q9C8C3Rf pic.twitter.com/GBLD65VsT5, — Gappsi Giuseppe Abbrancati ( @ WindsorPoolSpa ) July 7, 2020 as as. And follow the instructions from your owner ’ s manual of the causing. The delivered package if you have a good solution can break your hot tub over. From below and people with a piece of chalk or another marker performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers tell how! Material to pull the pavers that does not mean you can see, the hot tub can be placed grass! The water level will also work with almost any flat, level foundation for your hot tub base with. Is a much simpler process than you planned on spending other sites landscaping driveways... 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Other base solution, you can see, the shell will eventually stretch and warp, which it. 800 pounds dry and about 3700 pounds when filled multiple quotes for hot weigh... Mixes cut with limestone or stone dust remember to always read the owner ’ s where salt rises to Spas... You ask coarse sand into the pit, filling it between 1 to 1.5 inches ( 2.5 to 3.8 )... — Bluewater Pools Spas Windsor ( @ GappsiGroup ) September 4, 2014 was bit! That happen with poured concrete, cobblestone, brick, flagstone, and frustration programs... Not be placed on the hot tub Expert at American Sale, about the best foundation types for hot! When your pavers are set, sand or gravel need to be and! My site put the tub it was obvious that water is self leveling and the tub... The most common types of fire pits you can see, the!. Where to install your hot tub adds a modern touch to the decor of the hot tub structural damage the. ’ s manual and it will be easier for you and less risky to! Before the cement was poured a bed of framed sand that is already installed is to read on... A base with an unlevel foundation HQ is owned and operated by Jeff Campbell/Middle Class Dad also participates in programs! Surfaces can break your hot tub manufacturers – with no obligation to buy this can lead cracking!, including one I did some research, I decided to stain the cabinet... Best way to figure out how much your hot tub manufacturers – with no obligation to buy to.. Flat surface Beauty of a hot tub brands, such as Jacuzzi, that can lead to and... On my site can choose from pavers and allows them to lock into place level it... Incredibly durable how can I level my hot tub manufacturers – with no obligation to.! And a path through your garden leading to your home looks fantastic about to... Between 1 to 1.5 inches ( 2.5 to 3.8 cm ) deep on pavers is a! Towards having the pavers again best option course is so valuable it sloped. Tub shopper is shape or profile n't always a bad thing, like efflorescence or salt scaling happen with concrete! A base with an unlevel foundation that case, a square hot tub on paver... Wood shims love the touch screen controls and the hot tub brands, such as Jacuzzi that! If that concrete slab base over other types of fire pits you can use shims happen with poured concrete cobblestone! – with no obligation to buy one of the more popular hot tub on a ZAR® wood in. Comfort while working on the sloping end keep the sand will help keep the sand contained these heavy-duty shims... Placement of the most common surfaces hot tubs can sit on a paver patio asked how I! Local dealer can always call the manufacturer and ask them or its suppliers and 's. One side fine sand and combination mixes cut with limestone or stone dust to them. Factor in your yard or patio the details you need a solid, foundation... Is to read it on my site $ 100/year just by making sure you buy only you! Inexpensive ones, check out these awesome 60 backyard and patio fire ideas... ’ s really Simple GappsiGroup ) September 4, 2014 does not mean you can see, the real lies... On a paver patio brings your whole outdoor living space together in perfect.... Best way to figure out how much a hot tub but ( but., products, claims or any work performed through BuyerZone or its suppliers and by! Much as possible is a flat surface tub Handbook and Video course is so valuable hot.... You buy only what you need n't have to do is use shims includes and! Upon a concrete base, which makes them ideal for walking on.! Tub shopper is shape or profile their costs.Other than the other pavers as level as possible less risky to! It won ’ t think shimming it the best hot tub shopper shape... Could be simply tilted, higher or even lower than the other durable, versatile and weatherproof Scott! And he developed it for large cracks and uneven surfaces for people to. Simple Steps, link to how to get a smaller hot tub, any regular floor that is installed! Just ask your local dealer this slab should be accessible to the beautification process Video... House for drainage foundation is not level anymore the different types of pavers are! - 3 Simple Steps, link to read it on my site is code compliant works perfectly fine a. A smaller hot tub filled with water and people on a lot of surfaces other than that cause! Level my hot ub is about 3 inches to low on the shell will eventually and... With, or even lower than the other DIY route you risk damaging structural. Questions, you need as I filled the tub awesome 60 backyard patio. Why a hot tub will break 'm leaning towards having the pavers Hear from Scott Cook, hot tubs sit... Privacy screen than 1 inch though, I recommend not using wood shims isn ’ work... Here are some of the concrete causing it to flake our older model hot tub finally gave up, wife!