Hot tubs have been a deck favorite for years. Now more of our clients also want a cold plunge, a sauna, or all three for a contrast-therapy setup at home. These are heavy, wet, year-round features, so the deck has to be designed around them from the start. Here’s how we approach it.
Plan for the weight
A filled hot tub with people in it is one of the heaviest things you can put on a deck. A cold plunge is smaller but still holds a lot of water, and a barrel sauna adds its own weight. The framing and footings under those spots have to be designed for that load. That often means extra footings, closer joist spacing, or a steel frame built for the job. If the tub sits on a ground-level slab, the deck can be built around it instead.
Recessed or surround?
- Recessed. The deck is built up to the rim of the hot tub, so you step down into the water. It looks built-in and makes the tub feel like part of the deck.
- Surround. The tub sits on the deck or a pad, and composite steps and a surround wrap around it. This is easier to service and works well on existing patios.
Read more in our post on composite decking as a hot tub surround.
Materials that handle water
Water, chemicals and wet feet are hard on decking. TimberTech composite and Advanced PVC boards don’t rot, resist stains, and stay slip-resistant when wet. We leave access panels where needed so the tub’s equipment can be serviced.
Privacy
Most people want to soak without the neighbors watching. HideAway privacy screens, privacy walls and planters can block sight lines while keeping the deck open to the sky. On a Sundance cabin deck we built with TimberTech English Walnut, a black privacy screen shields the sauna and hot tub area while keeping the mountain view.
Lighting and steps
You’ll be getting in and out at night, often with wet feet. Step lights, riser lights and recessed deck lights keep the path safe and set the mood. See our deck lighting ideas.
Built for Utah winters
Hot tubs and saunas get the most use when it’s cold. A waterfall bench gives you a place to sit between rounds, and a short, well-lit path from the back door makes winter use practical. Composite decking sheds snow well, and we plan the layout so snow can be cleared without blocking the tub.
Plan it with the deck
The easiest and best-looking hot tub, plunge or sauna decks are planned from day one. See more ideas on our add-ons design page, then call for a free estimate and tell us what you’d like to include.