Yes, you can put a hot tub on decking, but only if the deck is designed to carry it. A filled hot tub with people in it weighs 1.5–2.5 tonnes, far more than a normal garden deck is built for.
Hot tub on decking: how much weight?
| Hot tub | Weight full with people |
|---|---|
| 2–3 seat | 1.0–1.4 tonnes |
| 4–5 seat | 1.5–2.0 tonnes |
| 6–7 seat | 2.0–2.5 tonnes |
| Inflatable 4–6 person | 0.9–1.2 tonnes |
What a hot tub deck needs
- Joists at 300–400 mm centres instead of the usual 400–600 mm.
- Extra posts or concrete pads directly under the hot tub area.
- Ideally, a concrete slab under the tub with decking built around it.
- An access panel so the tub can be serviced.
- Sign-off from a builder or engineer for raised decks.
The easiest option
The safest way is to sit the hot tub on a concrete slab or paving and build the deck around it, so it looks sunken. See what to put under a hot tub for base options.
Raised decks and planning
A raised deck over 0.3 m high may need planning permission. Check the Citizens Information planning guide or our hot tub planning permission guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can a normal deck hold a hot tub?
Usually not. Most garden decks are not built for 1.5–2.5 tonnes. Get it checked or reinforced.
Can I put an inflatable hot tub on decking?
Only on a strong, level deck. They weigh around a tonne when full.
Is it better to put a hot tub on concrete or decking?
Concrete is stronger and simpler. Many people put the tub on a slab and deck around it.
Do I need planning permission for a hot tub deck?
A raised deck over 0.3 m high may need permission in Ireland.
Get a hot tub with installation
Base advice, delivery and electrics arranged across Ireland.
