{"id":12364,"date":"2022-04-14T15:28:01","date_gmt":"2022-04-14T14:28:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/businessfinancenews.com\/?p=12364"},"modified":"2022-04-14T15:56:32","modified_gmt":"2022-04-14T14:56:32","slug":"hot-tub-on-pea-gravel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/businessfinancenews.com\/hot-tub\/hot-tub-on-pea-gravel\/","title":{"rendered":"hot tub on pea gravel"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Although gravel is a common base for hot tubs, you should not<\/em> put an inflatable hot tub on gravel directly\u2014especially not on loose gravel. You must construct a frame around it to keep the gravel flat and even, and will need an extra layer of protection to achieve a smooth surface like pavers, or a spa pad.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Let’s take a look at why you might choose to put your inflatable spa on gravel, how to do it safely, and then consider some potentially better options.<\/p>\n

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What are the requirements for an inflatable hot tub base?<\/h2>\n

Here’s what Lay-Z-Spa, one of the leading inflatable spa manufacturers, have to say:<\/p>\n

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A smooth, flat, even surface that is capable of uniformly supporting the entire filled weight of your Lay-Z-Spa plus the weight of the users.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

So, if you’re thinking of putting an inflatable hot tub in your backyard, don’t just head out and place it on gravel.<\/p>\n

Gravel won’t provide a smooth surface on its own: a sharp piece of gravel will likely be uncomfortable once you’re using your spa, and could even puncture its soft vinyl base.<\/p>\n

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What are the benefits of a gravel pad for a hot tub?<\/h2>\n

In general, gravel serves as a good option for an outdoor hot tub base due to its ability to provide proper drainage for any rainwater or overflow from the tub itself.<\/p>\n

Plus, unlike concrete, gravel forms a solid foundation that won’t crack over time.<\/p>\n

It’s also relatively easy to install, and generally a pretty affordable option when compared to concrete.<\/p>\n

How to use an inflatable spa on gravel safely<\/h2>\n

1. Build a gravel pad<\/h3>\n

If you’re planning to use gravel, the following steps will give you a rough idea of what’s required to build a level and secure gravel pad:<\/p>\n

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  • Choose a site the same size or larger than your hot tub, ideally at the highest point in your yard, and not on too much of a slope<\/li>\n
  • Dig up the topsoil in the area where you want your hot tub to go<\/li>\n
  • Build a frame around the perimeter using pressure-treated lumber<\/li>\n
  • Calculate how many cubic yards of gravel you’ll need, accounting for at least 4 inches of gravel<\/li>\n
  • Pour the gravel into the frame, then level the surface and tamp the gravel to compact it (this will stop it shifting around)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Site Preparations produced a very detailed guide on how to build a gravel base. It’s for a shed, but the basic idea is the same:<\/p>\n