You’ve picked out the perfect hot tub. You’re daydreaming about soaking under the stars, sipping a drink, and letting the jets work their magic. But before delivery day rolls around, there’s one very important question to ask: What kind of surface is going to support your new spa?
Hot tubs aren’t lightweights. A spa full of water and people can easily weigh over 5,000 pounds. The surface underneath it has to do a lot of heavy lifting—literally. So choosing the right foundation isn’t just about looks. It’s about long-term performance, safety, and protecting your investment.
Let’s walk through your options for the best hot tub surface.
Concrete: Tried, True, and Rock-Solid
Concrete pads are one of the most reliable surfaces for hot tubs. They’re stable, long-lasting, and can be poured to perfectly match the dimensions of your spa (plus a bit of surrounding area). If you want a foundation that won’t budge an inch, concrete is the gold standard.
This option is ideal if you’re setting your hot tub in the backyard, just building a new patio, or upgrading an existing slab. Keep in mind that the surface should be level and at least 4 inches thick for standard spas. Reinforced concrete is even better, especially for larger models.
For homeowners looking for a permanent setup, this is often considered the best hot tub base.
Pavers and Patio Blocks: A Stylish Option
Some hot tub owners prefer paver stones or patio blocks for aesthetic reasons. They look great, especially when you’re trying to match landscaping or extend an existing patio space. And when installed properly, they can provide solid support.
That said, pavers require a compacted gravel base and precise leveling to work well. If any of the stones shift over time, the hot tub could become unbalanced. That can put strain on your spa’s shell and internal components.
If you go this route, it’s worth hiring a professional or talking to a knowledgeable hot tub dealer to get all the details on how to get it done right.
Gravel or Crushed Stone: Temporary or Budget-Friendly
Looking for a quick setup or planning to move your hot tub in the future? A gravel base might be a practical short-term solution. It’s inexpensive and provides good drainage, which helps keep the area around the spa dry.
However, not all gravel is created equal. You’ll need to use crushed stone—not round river rock—and create a level, compacted surface at least several inches deep. Framed edges can help keep the stone in place over time.
It might not win the beauty contest, but it can work well for portable hot tubs or in less formal outdoor spaces. Top with compacted sand before you set your pavers in place, and then fill the gaps between the pavers with fine masonry sand.
Deck Installations: Great Views, Extra Prep
Want your hot tub on a deck? It’s a fantastic way to create an inviting outdoor retreat. But before you place your spa there, make sure the deck can support the weight.
This usually means working with a contractor or structural engineer to reinforce the deck, if needed, or to build a new custom deck. Just because it holds a grill or furniture doesn’t mean it’s ready for a filled spa.
Hot tubs on decks are especially popular near mountain homes and scenic spots—anywhere the view is worth soaking in.
Things to Watch For
No matter which surface you choose, keep these tips in mind:
- Level is non-negotiable. Even small slopes can throw off water levels and put strain on components.
- Think about drainage. You want water to flow away from the spa, not under it.
- Access matters. Pick a spot that’s easy to reach for maintenance and cover removal.
Let the Experts Help You Choose
Picking the best hot tub surface is one of the first steps toward a setup that lasts. If you’re not sure what works best for your space, don’t go it alone.
At Everything Billiards & Spas, we help customers find the right hot tub and the right information about a foundation to support it. Our team is here to guide you from start to soak. Visit us at our hot tub store in Charlotte, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, or Huntersville, or give us a call to start planning your perfect setup today.
