When it comes to choosing the best wood for a hot tub, cedar is typically the best option for both structural and aesthetic reasons. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and mildew, so it is highly durable and can stand up to constant exposure to moisture.
It is also strong and lightweight, meaning it will support the weight of the water and spa equipment without being too bulky. Additionally, cedar has a natural beauty that can be enhanced with a range of wood treatments and stain options, making it perfect for creating a spa area with a nice, aesthetic look.
You may also want to consider pressure-treated lumber, as this material has been designed to resist rotting and will last longer than untreated wood. However, it is important to note that pressure-treated lumber may contain toxic chemicals that could potentially leach into the water or vaporize into the air.
If you choose this type of wood, you should use a vapor barrier to ensure no moisture seeps through.
How long will a cedar hot tub last?
A cedar hot tub can last for many years depending on the quality of materials used and how it is maintained. If constructed properly, a cedar hot tub can last from 15 to 25 years, or even longer. When building your cedar hot tub, it is important to use cedar boards of the highest quality, as well as other high-quality parts and materials.
It is also important to maintain your cedar hot tub properly by regularly cleaning and inspecting it, and following up with proper treatments, such as applying a sealer or stain. With regular maintenance, your cedar hot tub can last even longer than the standard 15 to 25 years.
Why is cedar used for hot tubs?
Cedar has long been used in hot tubs due to its natural properties. Cedar is naturally rot and insect resistant, water-resistant, and lightweight, making it an ideal material for hot tubs. Cedar’s natural oils mean that it can easily resist damage from moisture, making it the perfect material for a hot tub.
The insulation properties of the wood help keep the water in the hot tub at an even temperature, while the texture of the wood is pleasant to the touch and easy to clean. Moreover, its natural beauty adds to the aesthetic of a hot tub.
Scholars say that cedar has been used to construct hot tubs for centuries, dating back to the Ancient Romans, who built large soaking barrel-shaped tubs made of cedar. The modern hot tubs stay true to this classic look and feel, taking advantage of the natural qualities that solid cedar provides.
Who makes the cedar hot tub?
Cedar hot tubs are typically made by high-end hot tub and spa manufacturers. Cedar is a popular choice for hot tubs, as it is naturally resistant to moisture and provides a long-lasting, attractive finish.
The type of wood used for the hot tub can range from western red cedar to Alaskan cedar, or a mix of both. These woods are known for their natural beauty and resistance to harsh weather conditions. When purchasing a cedar hot tub, it is important to pay attention to quality and target a reputable manufacturer to ensure that the wood and materials used are of the highest quality.
Additionally, customers should take time to research the best hot tub manufacturers in their area, as this can have an influence on product features and customer service.
How do you maintain a cedar hot tub?
Maintaining a cedar hot tub is fairly simple. First, it’s important to ensure you keep the water clean and sanitized at all times. Testing the water and maintaining a proper pH balance are essential for keeping your tub safe and enjoyable.
Once a week, it is important to use an appropriate cleaner and shock the water to keep it in good condition. Additionally, the cedar should be cleaned with a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner, and it’s also important to use a soft brush and never scrub the wood.
You should also rinse the wood down with a hose after each time you use the tub to clean away any residues.
In order to keep the wood in good condition, you should treat it with a cedar protectant every couple of months. This will help maintain the wood’s natural luster and prevent fading. You should also avoid storing any objects in or near the tub which could potentially damage the cedar.
Lastly, it’s important to keep the area around the hot tub free of debris and wood chips, which can accumulate on the apex of the tub and interfere with the water’s circulation.
Are cedar hot tubs worth it?
In general, cedar hot tubs can be worth it depending on your preferences and needs. Cedar hot tubs are made of red cedar wood, which is prized for its beautiful reddish tones and resistance to rot and moisture.
Cedar hot tubs tend to be more expensive than typical acrylic or plastic hot tubs available on the market, but they also come with several distinct advantages that make them worthwhile investments.
Cedar hot tubs boast excellent insulation properties. This helps to keep the water in your hot tub piping hot throughout the day, meaning you don’t have to add as much hot water or need to continually reheat it.
This can reduce your energy costs over time, making the higher upfront cost of the tub a much more desirable investment. Cedar hot tubs can also offer superior comfort and relaxation, with their natural wooden contours providing superior support and cushioning for added luxury.
Additionally, cedar hot tubs offer aesthetic beauty unmatched by your typical plastic or acrylic hot tubs. They boast a classic, beautiful look that adds a touch of class to your outdoor area and also serves as a focal point for relaxation.
This is a huge benefit for those wanting to transform their backyard into a relaxing oasis.
Thus, cedar hot tubs offer a considerable number of advantages that make them worth considering when investing in a hot tub. It is important, however, to evaluate your budget and needs to ensure that the investment is worth it for you.
Are wooden hot tubs any good?
Yes, wooden hot tubs are definitely worth considering. They are aesthetically pleasing, durable, and great for outdoor spaces. Wooden hot tubs provide a unique look and style compared to more traditional acrylic and fiberglass hot tubs.
They are also more stable and tend to hold in heat better, so you can save on energy costs. Additionally, wooden hot tubs are made from natural materials, making them more environmentally friendly than fiberglass or acrylic tubs.
They require minimal maintenance and will last for many years if well cared for. However, they are more expensive than other types of hot tubs, so you may have to consider your budget before making your decision.
Are salt water hot tubs more expensive?
Salt water hot tubs are more expensive than traditional hot tubs. Many factors contribute to the cost difference, such as the complexity of the salt water system and the costs associated with maintaining the water chemistry and sanitizing the water.
Salt water hot tubs also use more electricity than traditional tubs and are more expensive to install. Salt water hot tubs require a digital salt chlorination system which must be purchased separately and can add significant cost to the overall price of the tub.
Because the salt used in these tubs must be replenished over time, the additional cost of refilling the salt can be expensive. Furthermore, the system requires additional maintenance and upkeep, such as cleaning and testing the water chemistry, which should be taken into consideration when budgeting for a salt water hot tub.
How much should I spend on a hot tub?
It depends on a few key factors. When it comes to hot tubs, you get what you pay for. You want to make sure you purchase one that will work well and last for years to come. The amount you should spend on a hot tub will depend on the size, features and the material.
The size of the hot tub is important. Larger hot tubs can have more features and are more suited for larger families and social settings. The type of material used can also affect the cost. Hot tubs made of acrylic, fiberglass, and plastic tend to be less expensive and are often more durable.
On the other hand, more expensive hot tubs are made of wood, which like all wooden products require more ongoing maintenance.
In terms of features, the more bells and whistles a hot tub has the more expensive it will be. Features like a stereo system, underwater lighting and digital controls can all add up quickly. You should also factor in installation costs, which depend on the type of hot tub and how difficult the installation is.
Overall, it’s difficult to put a price tag on how much you should spend on a hot tub since there are so many variables to consider. Do your research and select a hot tub that will best fit your needs.
Also, make sure that you purchase quality components to ensure its durability.
What wood can you use to build a hot tub?
When it comes to building a hot tub, you will want to use a wood that is both durable and water resistant. A few good options include cedar, redwood, cypress, and teak. Cedar is an affordable option that is naturally resistant to rot and insects.
Redwood is a higher-quality wood that is very durable and naturally resistant to rot and water damage. Cypress is another affordable option that is very resistant to decay. Teak is a good option if cost is not an issue, as it is the most water-resistant option and also one of the most expensive.
Furthermore, it is naturally resistant to warping, shrinking, and swelling, so it will last for decades. When selecting a wood for a hot tub, be sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure it is suitable for that specific model.
Can I make a hot tub from pine?
Yes, you can create a hot tub from pine, however it is not a particularly ideal material for this purpose, especially for a wood-fired hot tub. Typically, a wood-fired hot tub is made out of cedar due to the fact that it is durable and resists decay, rot, and mildew.
Pines have a tendency to warp or shrink when exposed to the heat and moisture of a hot tub, making it less ideal. Additionally, pine is more likely to rot and be susceptible to water damage compared to other woods such as cedar, so you may need to replace your hot tub sooner than later.
You can make a hot tub out of pine if you choose, but it may require more maintenance and upkeep than other materials.
How much does it cost to build a wood hot tub?
The cost of building a wood hot tub can depend on several factors, such as the type of wood used, the complexity of the design, and the size of the tub. For example, using a soaker tub kit, which includes all of the required hardware, can make it easier for do-it-yourselfers and cost around $3000-$4000.
Choosing a more complex design, using higher-end materials, or building a custom hot tub from scratch can easily drive this cost up.
Additional costs associated with building a wood hot tub include purchasing or renting all of the necessary tools and supplies. Depending on the design, this could include screws, glue, caulk, as well as insulation and a waterproofing/filler to seal the wood.
It’s also common to use wood sealants and water resistance coatings to help protect the wood from the elements.
It’s important to consider that the wood hot tub construction process can be very detailed and labor intensive, so taking on the project yourself could require significant effort, even when working with a kit.
In this case, it’s recommended that you factor in the cost of labor if you plan to hire a professional builder. Doing so could easily add another $500-$2000 or more to the cost.
Overall, building a wood hot tub could cost as little as $3000 for a basic soaker tub and around $5000-$7000 or more for a custom built hot tub.