| Hot Tub Deck: Framing the Base and Installing the Decking |
From "Weekend Remodeling"
episode WKR-201 |
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This is an intermediate level project and rated 3 on a "difficulty" scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most difficult. The deck was built and hot tub installed in one weekend. Materials: quick-set concrete (used for the footer)
pressure-treated lumber in the following various sizes: - 2x6 for the floor joists
- 5-quarter board for the decking
- 2x10 for the beams
- 4x4 for the posts
drill and bits with a socket attachment
cordless drill
circular saw
miter saw
jig saw
reciprocating saw
spiral nails
gas-powered nail gun
level
speed square
framing square
chalk line
tape measure
shovel
stakes and string
galvanized nails and screws
various electrical supplies used by the electrician
two-man auger
Landscape cloth
mulch Framing the Base and Installing the Decking - In order to stop any future growth of weeds, host Fuad Reveiz decided to lay down some landscaping cloth (figure A) and spread some mulch before closing up the space for good.
- Once the mulch is down, it's time to start framing the base. First, make sure the joists are nice and straight.
- Tack the end joist in place, and layout the rest of the joists in 16" increments.
Expert Tip: Whenever you build a deck that's going to support the weight of a 5,000-pound hot tub, it's critical that the weight be displaced over a large surface area. A crisscross pattern of double and single joists is an effective way to accomplish this. - Continue to nail the joists until the deck is covered properly (figure B), and do know that a power nail gun will make this a much easier task. Now that the framing is complete, you can see how strong the bracing is going to be.
- The next step is to install the decking and the steps. Five-quarter decking board is being used for this project, and since this treated lumber will shrink as it dries, Reveiz suggests that you don't leave any space whatsoever between the boards (figure C), using a board-bender to hold the boards together tightly.
- Continue to progress across the deck one board at a time until the decking is completed.
Expert Tip: Depending on the climate, treated Southern pine can take up to several weeks to dry. You should hold off painting, staining or applying any finish until you're sure the wood is completely dry. - Once you install the last board, trim the edges evenly down the side (figure D) with a circular saw.
- Now it's time to install the steps. Start by nailing the one-step stringers. Once again, you'll want a nail gun to complete this task.
- Since the stringers are far apart, some 2x4s are being added (figure E) to help support the treads. For the tread, use two 5-1/4" deck boards, but two 2x6s or one 2x12 would work just as well.
Expert Tip: For most stair treads, 5-1/4" boards will work, but if you need extra strength, go with the 2x-lumber. But if you do, this will double the cost of your treads. In the final segment, Reveiz will complete the project by installing the hot tub and railings.
RESOURCES :
Hydro Spa
Clearwater, FL 33762
Website: www.hydrospa.com
GUESTS :
Sandy DeKoning
Mountain Stream Spas
Phone: 865-774-6888
Website: www.mountainstreamspas.com
Richard Wallace
Representative
Southern Pine Council
Phone: 504-443-4464
Website: www.SouthernPine.com
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