by Shelia West

Created on: January 24, 2010   Last Updated: January 27, 2010

     Building a deck for your hot tub is not as daunting a task as you might think.  With a little planning, and an extra set of hands or two, you can accomplish this in a weekend, or maybe two.  The key is planning the project before you start.

     That said, grab some paper and a pencil.  Graph paper is good to draw out your design, letting each block represent a foot.  The first issue to building the deck is deciding the location.  If the deck will be built around an existing hot tub, this decision is already made.  If the deck is for a new hot tub, keep in mind that you will need an electrical hookup, so placing the tub too far away could result in more work and expense.

     Next, decide the shape and size of your deck.  Do you want the deck to go completely around the hot tub or just around part of it?  Do you want it the same shape as the hot tub or square or round?  What about the height of the deck?  Do you want the hot tub to sit on top of the deck or do you want to step down into the hot tub?

     Once you have made all the decisions, draw out the design on the graph paper.  Figure what material you will need to build the frame, platform, and the steps.  Keep in mind that if you plan on having a rail around the deck, it will make it strong if you simply let the post extend up to the height of the rail.  If you need help figure out how much you need, take your drawing to your local home improvement center or lumber company.  They have trained people to help you figure out the amount needed.  It is a good idea to use pressure treated lumber for a longer lasting deck.  One other tip is since the deck is going to be holding a hot tub, which is pretty heavy what with the water and the people who will be using it, it is a good idea to use six by sixes for the posts.  And don't forget to get enough concrete mix to set the posts for the frame.

     Now you're ready to tackle the project.  The first step is to dig the holes for the posts.  Dig the holes one and one-half to two feet deep.  Set the post in the hole and pour in concrete mix.  Add water.  You may have to use a rod or prybar to poke holes down in the concrete to help is soak up the water faster.  Fill the hole completely to the top.  Use a level to ensure the post is straight. 

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