Softubs on Decks

In an ideal world you would pick out a hot tub then build a gorgeous deck that fits your hot tub perfectly. However, that is not a reality for most people as most of the time the deck comes first. A more typical scenario is having a perfectly functional deck that already exists and wanting to add a hot tub to it. Using the existing deck is definitely more cost effective, but there may be some limitations with how much weight it can support. This can become an issue if you’re thinking about a traditional hot tub. Fortunately, investing in a Softub Express hot tub allows you to have your cake and eat it too. You can keep your old deck and get the hot tub you have been dreaming of.

Weight Limitations

One of the biggest hurdles of using an existing deck is the weight limitations are already in place. When you build a deck with the intent of adding a hot tub, you are thinking about proper support and weight capabilities. When you are using a deck that was previously built, you have two possible hurdles. The first is that the deck may not be able to support the weight of the hot tub, which is why you need a lightweight hot tub. The second is that you probably won’t know the weight limitations of the deck without consulting a structural engineer. A Softub is considerably lighter than a traditional hot tub. Even the largest model, the Resort 300, is only 167 lbs empty with all its components. Once filled, it will be approximately 2,750 lbs. That is considerably lighter than most other tubs with an average filled weight of well over 4,000 lbs. With a lighter Softub, you will still need to make sure your deck can hold the weight, but it doesn’t have to hold as much.  Another benefit is that the weight of a Softub is evenly distributed. This brings your pounds per square foot load down considerably, to only 140 pounds per square foot on our largest model!

Electrical Limitations

Most decks have an electrical outlet installed somewhere near the deck, but more often than not that outlet is a traditional 110 volts. Traditional hot tubs typically require a special outlet with 240 volts and a convenience GFI installed. A Softub, on the other hand, plugs into your regular 110v outlet and is a 110v hot tub. They are designed with a built-in GFCI cord cap. That means there is no additional electrical work required to get your tub installed! Simply fill, plugin, and play!

Location Limitations

Finally, using an existing deck will limit the options of where your hot tub can go. The deck you have only has a certain amount of space. You will need a hot tub that can fit into the designated space. Softubs are extremely portable allowing them to go places that other tubs just can’t. Their round shape also opens up the options. Finally, Softubs are available in 3 different sizes so you are sure to be able to find one that fits your existing deck.

If you are wanting to purchase a hot tub, and already have a pre-existing deck, you don’t have to settle for less. Investing in a Softub can bring you all of the enjoyment of a traditional hot tub without the headache of a big construction project. So visit us at a Softub Express event near you, or call us at 800-996-8827, to check out all of our Softub options. We promise to make it easy to make your hot tub dreams a reality.