When it comes to hot tubs, a variety of woods are suitable for the job. Cedar is the most common and sought-after type of wood for hot tubs, as its natural oils help resist decay and resist insect infestations.
Western Red Cedar is particularly popular, renowned for its beauty, durability, and natural weather and water resistance. Other suitable wood types include Redwood (which retains its vibrant color longer than Western Red Cedar), Mahogany, Australian Cypress, and Red Balau (which is both strong and very resistant to warping).
The choice of wood is important, as the hot tub shell needs to be made of a wood that will resist decay and moisture while withstanding the weight of the water, bathers, and the hot tub’s insulating foam beneath it.
Pressure-treated wood is available, but it needs to be treated with a non-toxic preservative to prevent bacteria, mold, and mildew growth. Some of the unsuitable woods for hot tub construction include softer woods like pine, poplar, and fir.
What kind of wood should I use for a hot tub?
When selecting wood for a hot tub, it is important to choose a species that is decay resistant, as well as one that is able to withstand the extreme moisture and heat that a hot tub is exposed to. Some of the most popular and durable are Redwood, Cedar and Teak.
Redwood and Cedar are both known for their ability to thrive with higher heat and moisture levels, and their lack of decay if properly sealed and maintained. Teak is also very popular, but because it is so dense, it can be more difficult to work with and expensive.
All three species are strong and can stand up to the extreme temperatures, so it is ultimately a matter of personal choice. To increase the longevity of the wood, all three species should be properly sealed to prevent decay and water damage.
Hot tubs made with any of these three species will last for years with regular maintenance and proper care.
Why use cedar for hot tub?
Using cedar for a hot tub is a great choice for a variety of reasons. Cedar is naturally durable and long-lasting, so it holds up well against the elements. It is also resistant to rotting and pests, so it can withstand high moisture levels.
Additionally, cedar is also stylish and attractive, so it adds a luxurious look to any hot tub area. Cedar can also help to insulate the tub, so it can maintain a consistent temperature. Cedar also has a natural scent that can act as an insect repellent to discourage unwanted bugs.
Cedar is also a sustainable material, making it an eco-friendly choice. For all of these reasons, cedar is an ideal choice for hot tub construction.
Can you build a hot tub with wood?
Yes, it is possible to build a hot tub with wood. You will need to have a good understanding of carpentry skills to construct and assemble the hot tub. You will also need to select the right type and grade of wood that can resist rot and insect damage and provide structural support.
Cedar is often used due to its structural strength and low maintenance, but other types of wood such as redwood, teak, and mahogany may also be used. You will need to build a frame to support the walls of the tub as well as the seats and benches.
The way the wood is treated is important for the structure of the hot tub, so be sure to use pressure-treated wood and apply a protective finish such as a sealant, epoxy, or marine-grade paint. Once the hot tub is constructed, you will need to create a waterproof membrane liner and all the plumbing to allow for the circulation and heating of water and the filtration system.
In addition, you will need to install the hot tub jets, pump, and heater. Building a hot tub requires a great deal of time and effort, so it is definitely not a task to be taken lightly.
How do you build a wood deck to support a hot tub?
When building a wood deck to support a hot tub it is important to take numerous factors into consideration. Begin by establishing the intended size and location of the deck. Measure the size of the hot tub to ensure that there is enough room for both the hot tub and the decking.
After measuring the area, draw up a simple plan for the deck. To ensure the deck is sturdy and will safely support the weight of the hot tub, you’ll need to build the deck on joists. Joists should be spaced 16 to 24 inches apart, and be strong enough to support the weight of the tub as well as guests.
Choose appropriate lumber for the decking. Pressure-treated wood is a popular option for decks, as it is resistant to rot, wear and insect damage. To extend the life of your deck, it is recommended you choose lumber that is rated for ground contact.
Use joist hangers to secure the joists to the deck frame. Make sure each joist is securely attached and that the frame is level.
Once the frame is in place, lay down the decking. When laying down the decking, plan to leave a gap of 1/8 to 1/4 of an inch between each board, as this will help allow for drainage and prevent warping and buckling.
Make sure each board is securely attached and use stainless steel screws or nails to avoid corrosion. Finally, to protect your deck, you may want to consider staining or sealing the wood. This will help to prevent the wood from weathering and extend its lifespan.
When adding a hot tub, make sure to use a rubber membrane or another type of protection to avoid contact between the bottom of the tub and the wood. This will help prevent water from soaking into the wood, which can lead to rotting and weakening.
Once the deck and the hot tub are in place, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor oasis.
Can a wood fired hot tub get too hot?
Yes, a wood fired hot tub can get too hot. Hot tubs that use wood as a heat source are usually significantly hotter than a hot tub heated with an electric heater, and should be monitored carefully to provide a safe and comfortable experience.
Generally it is recommended to keep the temperature in a wood fired hot tub between 98-102°F. Beyond this range, water can become dangerously hot and cause burns if left unchecked. If a hot tub is getting too hot, it may be possible to reduce the temperature by adjusting the flow of air to the fire, adding more water, or adding more cold water to the tub.
It is important to monitor the temperature periodically and to adjust the fire if necessary.
Do you need chemicals in a wood fired hot tub?
No, you do not need chemicals in a wood fired hot tub. Wood fired hot tubs naturally produce their own form of chlorine, called “penicilin”, as a result of burning wood. This is what keeps the water in a wood fired hot tub clean.
It is not necessary to add any additional chemicals, such as chlorine or bromine, in order to keep the water clean and safe. However, if you would like to add additional chemicals to the hot tub, it is important to consult with a qualified technician to discuss the best chemical balance for the tub.
Can a hot tub go on a wooden deck?
Yes, a hot tub can go on a wooden deck, as long as the structure of the deck is built to handle the weight safely. Hot tubs can be quite heavy when filled with water and it is important to consider how much weight your wooden deck can handle before installing it.
Additionally, you will need to make sure there is proper clearance to your hot tub, including the space to provide proper ventilation. That way, the steam and moment coming off your hot tub won’t be a danger to your outdoor living space.
Finally, it is recommended that a hot tub mat is installed on the deck or a non-skid surface material is used around the hot tub so that people entering and leaving the hot tub will have secure footing.
Can I make a hot tub out of pine?
No, it is not recommended to make a hot tub out of pine. Pine is a softer wood than other types of wood, such as redwood or cedar, and it is more susceptible to warping and cracking due to its increased exposure to moisture.
It is possible to line the inside of an existing tub with pine to make a more aesthetically pleasing tub, but it is not recommended to build a tub completely out of pine. Furthermore, pine will be prone to deterioation and will require more frequent maintenance and repairing when faced with extreme temperatures and constant contact with water.
All in all, it is not recommended to make a hot tub out of pine.
How do wood fired hot tubs stay clean?
Wood fired hot tubs are actually quite low maintenance and easy to keep clean. The circulating water system helps the hot tub filter out particles and debris and the heat generated by the wood fire kills bacteria and helps to keep the water clean.
If a wood-fired hot tub is not used regularly, it is recommended to do a complete drain and refill once a month as a preventative measure. It is also often helpful to shock the water with chlorine and an algaecide to help reduce bacteria and algae growth and keep the water sparkling clean.
Additionally, it’s recommended to clean the sides and bottom surfaces of the hot tub with a sponge and a mild detergent such as soap, baking soda, and vinegar, to prevent unsightly scum and mineral buildup.
Leaving the hot tub lid open to allow for sunlight and air circulation can also help prevent unsightly algae from forming. Lastly, if all these steps are taken, then the only thing left to do is to enjoy a good soak in your wood-fired hot tub!.
Are wooden hot tubs any good?
Yes, wooden hot tubs are definitely a great option when it comes to soaking in some nice hot water. They bring a certain level of class and relaxation that is typically not found in other forms of hot tubs.
Wooden hot tubs have their own unique charm and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as hydrotherapy, relaxation, and simply for entertaining. While wooden hot tubs can cost a little more upfront, they are usually very sturdy and built to last.
Additionally, they require less maintenance than other kinds of hot tubs and can be easily cleaned with just a bit of pressure washing. With the proper care, they can last for years and still look brand new.
How long does a wooden hot tub last?
The life expectancy of a wooden hot tub can vary significantly depending on the type of wood used, the quality of the wood, and how well it is maintained. Generally, a high-quality wooden hot tub can last up to 10 years or longer with proper maintenance, while a lower-quality tub may only last a couple of years.
With regular maintenance such as regularly cleaning and sealing the wood, checking and re-treating any areas of the wood that have become exposed, and ensuring that the water is tested and kept at safe levels, a wooden hot tub can have a much longer lifespan.
Additionally, it is important to make sure that the wood is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent the wood from rotting or fading. If a wooden hot tub is properly cared for, it can be a long-lasting and enjoyable feature in any backyard for many years.
Do wood hot tubs rot?
Wood hot tubs can rot depending on what type of wood is used and the environment the hot tub is kept in. For example, cedar, teak and redwood are the most commonly used types of wood for hot tubs, due to their high natural resistance to rot.
However, if the wood is not treated properly or not kept clean and dry, it can be susceptible to rot. In addition, if the wood hot tub is kept in an area that is constantly wet or humid, then the wood is more likely to deteriorate over time.
It is important to keep the wood hot tub properly maintained and in a dry environment to prevent rot.