Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - Deck for Hot Tub

Hi,

I am looking to build a new deck to support a Hot Tub. The Tub is very big and I want to be sure that I build it strong enough, so I am looking for suggestions on how to beef it up enough.

The deck needs to be 8x8. I plan to put this very low to the ground almost on it in fact. The Hot Tub is around 5,000 lbs when fully loaded.

It has been suggested that I just put it on a concrete slab with re-rod but it is very hard to get anyone to bring that little concrete in my area. I would guess it is around 2 yards. So, I wanted to make it out of wood.

Do you think 6x6 posts as beams, with standard decking is ok or should I just breakdown and do the concrete? Also, which would be cheeper if I need to build it up this strong?

Any thoughts would be great.

What part of Massachusetts are you in? I think you might be able to get a partial load and pay a little extra. An 8x8 pad isn't that much concrete. At 6" thick you're talking a little over a yard, 1.19 to be exact. Maybe you could put a call in and set something up where they bring you what you need at the end of a larger delivery. There are times where delivery trucks end up with too much and they'd rather sell it to you than wash it out. Remember, money is king and almost everything can be bought for a price. Also conisder your time in building it out of wood vs. pouring a slab.

Hi, Thanks for your suggestion. I believe that is what I am going to do. I have compared the priced for building this out of wood and concrete and the concrete should be cheeper. As well as I cannot guarentee that the wood deck would not slip if the ground underneath started to wash away, unless I put posts in too. I am in the Worcester area of Massachuetts, Charlton to be exact.

we were told it would be best to pour a pad. We have the site prepared w/ rebar and are hoping to pour own own pad this w/e here in Missisisippi~ I hope ~

well here it is a year later and I read back over this post!

Just for anyone's info I wanted the share the following:

We got an pad for the hot tub, and did not pour concrete.
the pad came from this site>>>www.ezpads.com

The company is in California, had to pay to have it shipped b/c the stores here would not get it done fast enuff for me! But it is well worth the money to have it under our tub. The best way to describe the material is like the bedliner products. We've built a complete wood deck around it and whooo hooooo need a I say more! :)

And IF we ever move it can go w/ us if the tub goes..

MsEarp99

For those who want to support their spa on a wooden platform... go to xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

One word of caution: Be SURE you submit this plan or any other to your local Plan Review before building. You pay their salaries. Use them. We will not be responsible for errors or omissions... or failure to follow plans.

Good luck!