Can You Put a Hot Tub on a Rooftop Deck?

Can you put a hot tub on a rooftop deck? In some cases, you can put a hot tub on rooftop decks, especially on large buildings like multifamily dwellings and hotels. This being said, you can only add a hot tub to your rooftop deck if the structure is sturdy enough to handle it.

Before you dive into such a project, we always recommend consulting with a structural engineer. This expert can help you determine whether or not your building's roof is suitable for the weight and other requirements. Here's a good example of a successful project in Colorado featuring a rooftop hot tub.

To help you better understand what’s involved, let’s break down what you should know about placing a hot tub on a roof deck.

What do you need to keep in mind when installing a hot tub on a rooftop deck?

There are a few important elements to keep in mind when deciding how, when, and where to put a hot tub on your rooftop deck. Let’s cover each element and discuss why it matters.

1. Hot Tub Base

The hot tub must have a sturdy foundation. Remember that the tub will be filled with water and people, making it quite heavy. You must have the kind of roofing that will support the weight of the hot tub you purchase.

For tubs installed on ground level on a concrete base, a minimum of 4" thick concrete is recommended. However, this is partly to protect the tub against shifting soil conditions. For a rooftop tub, there may be a variety of base types that work (for example, an inflatable hot tub would have different requirements than one made of stainless steel or fiberglass). The base should be level and made of a material that won't damage the tub. A structural engineer can offer guidance on how to best support a hot tub without placing undue pressure on the roof material.

2. Access to the Site

You will need to get the hot tub to the top of the building. Be sure to check the dimensions of your hot tub and compare them to the dimensions of the doors, gates, and other access points that run through your delivery route.

Stairs can be a problem if the tub is too heavy. In some instances, it may be necessary to hire a crane or winch to lift the tub into place. This can add to the expense of the project and should be considered as part of the overall cost when you prepare your budget.

3. Electrical Supply

You should hire a qualified electrician to install the power supply. The tub should be wired through a circuit breaker a safe distance away from the hot tub. The hot tub should also be located a safe distance away from overhead power lines. It should be positioned in a way that does not block access to the equipment compartment and side panels.

4. Water Supply and Drainage

You must ensure that a non-softened water supply is available to fill the tub. Roof top hot tubs are best drained using a submersible pump and flat hose. There are a variety of experts that can help you better understand water supply and drainage required for particular types of hot tubs. Make sure you get all the information up front before purchasing and attempting to install a hot tub on your deck. No matter where you install a hot tub, it WILL require regular maintenance to remain in good condition.

Need help getting started?

Bison Innovative Products is a world leader in the design and manufacture of beautiful rooftop environments. We have extensive experience helping clients all around the country select the right deck products to create a rooftop oasis. Our clients create amazing rooftop deck spaces including amenities like hot tubs, pools, and more.

Looking for help with product selection? Contact us today.