Selecting the location: Setting the Mood

Choosing a site for your spa is a personal decision based on your intended use and the existing features of your home and property. When choosing an outdoor location, consider that the closer to the home the spa is located, the easier it will be to go back and forth when it's used. Also, think about how you plan to use your spa. Is it strictly an adults-only relaxation environment, or will you also use it for family gatherings and social entertainment?

You'll want to consider things like accessibility-is it convenient to get to? Privacy-will you have to screen your neighbors? And general aesthetics-will the spa look good in the location you are considering? Also, where will users change? How is the location of your spa in relation to the entertainment area of your home? If your home has a scenic view or a secluded grove of trees, you many want to create a special area so that your spa makes the most of this environment.

When choosing a location for your spa you don't have to place it on a concrete surface, although this is highly recommended to keep it solid and level for proper filtering and use. If a concrete slab isn't available or not appropriate for your needs, verify that the floor structure beneath the spa is strong enough to support the full weight of your spa when it is filled along with the maximum number of adults inside the tub. The number of gallons the spa can hold can be multiplied by 8.3 pounds (weight of one gallon of water) plus 175 pounds per adult. (If you have a question on this weight, pleas call us and we'll be glad to help) Your local contractor or building inspector can help you with this determination for your placement.

You will need to have a level surface firm enough to support your spa when full. It is recommended that a concrete slab be used for both support and to keep the spa from excess moisture on the ground. This will maintain the wood and other components for a longer period of time. You will also find that if you place your spa on dirt, grass or small gravel, you will track in excess debris into your spa causing more frequent cleaning. Make sure if you do place your spa in these types of areas that you provide pavers or a brick or other type of walkway to reduce this problem.

Inside Location?

If you choose to place the spa inside some special considerations need to be taken into account. Because spas are heated, more water will emanate from the tub requiring ventilation especially in smaller rooms. The room should contain a ventilation fan or vent to allow the spas extra heat and moisture to escape. A bathroom fan is often used for this purpose.

Getting your location ready

Unless you are placing your spa on a patio or other concrete surface, it is time to prepare your location. Here are a few tips on preparation that should make life a little easier for you.

We will discuss several foundations that you can choose from to place your spa on. There are no "best" ways of doing this . . . just preferences and how much you want to spend will most likely determine your choice.

First you will need a firm level surface. It does not have to be perfectly level, but get it as close as possible. If you are laying the spa on a grassy surface, you will need to first remove the sod to get down to the soil. Check the dimensions of your spa and call us if you have any questions. Remember measure twice, dig once.

Here are some viable options you can choose from

Gravel Gravel is commonly used as a foundation because it is cheap, easy to find, effective, and good for keeping water away from the outside of your spa. The easiest way to prepare a gravel surface is to shovel the gravel into place and use a 2x4 and a level to obtain a good surface.

Pressure Treated Wood This is another method of preparing your foundation. This provides a nice clean installation with very little effort. Pressure treated wood is rot-resistant and extremely durable. Cutting the wood to the right size and making sure it's level is about all you will need to do. It is not important what kind of lumber or wood you use for this (2x4, 4x4, or railroad ties) as long as it's pressure treated. Your local Home Depot or equivalent store can help you with this.

Concrete Stepping Stones or Bricks Another foundation choice is pre-cast concrete stepping stones. Available inexpensively at any home center, they are simple to set up. Depending on the size of your spa and the stones, two rows of four (8) or three rows of three (9) is usually enough, if evenly spaced. Make sure they are well seated and level.

Cement Foundation Although more expensive, a poured concrete slab is good choice for a permanent installation, and can be made a little wider than the spa to provide for a clean walkway and storage area.

Other points to consider

• If installing your spa below grade, ensure that there is sufficient drainage for rainwater runoff.

• Check the location and setup of your spa for conformity to local building and electrical codes.

• If planned location is to be on a deck, consult your local building department, licensed contractor, or structural engineer for advice or assistance on load requirements.