Tampa may have stunning beaches, picturesque sceneries, and thrilling outdoor activities, but the most enjoyable part happens in residential backyards. It’s where most of us hold family gatherings, have neighborhood cookouts, and make memories. But most of all, this is our piece of heaven. This is where we go to relax, unwind, and remove all the stresses of the day. What better way to upgrade your area for relaxation than to add a hot tub? With this, you can meditate and unwind after a hectic day at work or an exciting day at the Busch Gardens.
Great idea, right? But now that you are considering getting one, can you simply put it on the grass? Of course not! Whirlpools should be on solid and stable ground for support.
How about poured concrete? It could do the job. But why stop there when you can have a more stylish and suitable option? Pavers!
From patios to pool decks, Paver Company Tampa has you covered!
Tampa's Perfect Match: Pavers and Hot Tubs
In Tampa, we enjoy 246 sunny days and a mild subtropical climate. This makes outdoor spaces fun to have. You can enjoy the beauty of Tampa without having to worry about the season. With hot tubs, rain or shine, hot days or cold nights, you could take a dip at home and bask in the relaxing heat.
Here's where pavers shine through. Though this material could do a good job of supporting the heavy tub, it does not offer the same visual appeal as pavers can. Because of the myriad styles and colors, you could customize your tub area and turn it into something worth gazing into for hours. What’s more, pavers can provide a sturdy and stable foundation for your tub when installed properly.
Can You Put a Hot Tub on Pavers? Absolutely!
So, can a hottub spa be placed on patio pavers? The short answer is Yes! It is absolutely safe to put a heavy whirlpool spa on a properly installed paver. For more stability, use a high-density interlocking type that can easily carry heavy load. But here’s the catch: there are different types of this material. Which one is the best for our sandy soil? Also, won’t it break if the temperature drops below freezing in winter? Let’s talk about these concerns further.
The Tampa Twist: Local Considerations
Hands down, the paver is a choice. This material can be customized to whatever design, color, and style you want, plus it’is really sturdy and repair is quick and easy. But Tampa has a unique geography that might pose challenges.
- Sandy Soil: There are different kinds of soil in Tampa. Some are loam, clay, sand, and everything in between. However, for the most part, everyone has to deal with sandy soil. Now, while they are a hallmark of our local beaches, sand is prone to settling. Sand shifting is especially more pronounced during the wet season, typically from May to October when about two-thirds of the annual rainwater falls. Settling will cause unevenness. When the floor becomes uneven, there will be stress on the whirlpool that could lead to leaks. Moreover, this could also cause the units to crack.
- Freeze-Thaw: We seldom experience below-freezing temperatures in Tampa. But on occasion, it does happen. To set your expectation, dips below freezing in the winter months could negatively impact the performance of this flooring. But you can use freeze-thaw-resistant ones to mitigate this problem. On top of that, proper drainage is needed to prevent water from pooling. Pooling water would freeze and expand within the unit, causing the unit to crack under pressure.
- Local Building Codes: Building regulations vary by area in Tampa. It's crucial to check with your local County Building Department to understand the specific requirements or permits needed for hot tub installations on your patio.
Building Your Dream Soak: Factors for Longevity
Now that we've addressed the "Tampa Twist," let's delve into the elements that ensure your hot tub on pavers enjoys a long and bubbly life:
- Focus on Quality: Not all pavers are created equal. For your Tampa hot tub project, select high-density, interlocking concrete pavers designed for heavy loads. These pavers offer superior strength and stability, ensuring your whirlpool sits level and secure for years to come.
- When in Tampa, Choose Wet-Cast Pavers: Tampa's climate is a delightful mix of sunshine and occasional rain showers. To combat the potential for moisture-related issues, consider wet-cast ones. This type is denser and less porous than other options, making it ideal for withstanding Tampa's weather patterns.
- The Foundation Matters: The base beneath your pavers is the unsung hero of your hot tub project. A properly compacted crushed stone base is essential for optimal weight distribution and drainage. This makes sure your paving stones remain level and prevent settling, protecting your investment.
- Professional Construction Pays Off: As a local ourselves, we understand your love for everything DIY. However, installation is not one of those projects you should DIY. To make sure the underground support is stable and safe to use, it is best to partner with a qualified professional. With their years of experience, they do a better job at assessing the area where you’d like to install the whirlpool, excavate the site, and properly prepare the base. They’ll then meticulously lay the units, creating a level, stable foundation for your hot tub. Because of this, you will have peace of mind knowing your whirlpool may be used any time of the year without worrying about damaging the floor or the tub.
Cost Considerations: Budgeting for Your Backyard Oasis
Budget is a main concern for any construction project. To give you an idea of an estimate, here's a brief breakdown of potential costs:
- Selection: There are many factors that influence the total cost of the project. There is the type, size, and style you choose. High-density interlocking types are suitable for hot tubs. It typically ranges from $9 to $24 per square foot.
- Base preparation: Compacted crushed stone is typically used for underground support. This usually falls within $3 to $6 per square foot. Besides that, you have to add the cost of fabric and setting bed.
- Professional installation: The cost of hiring a professional contractor to construct the project varies depending on the size of the project and its complexity. Labor costs could range between $10 to $20 per square foot.
- Ongoing maintenance: Cleaning and sealing help prolong the lifespan of your floor. Paver cleaners and sealants typically cost around $19 to $54 per gallon. The application frequency depends on usage and weather conditions.
Remember, these are just ballpark figures. For a more accurate estimate, consult with a qualified Tampa contractor.
