Hot tubs are a wonderful, relaxing investment. Like all big purchases, it's important to take care of them. Since most hot tubs are situated outside, building a hot tub enclosure to keep debris and prying eyes away from your spa goes a long way towards making sure you'll use it regularly. There are many different styles of hot tub enclosure, from a simple roof, to gazebos, to small buildings. Hot tub enclosures can be ordered as kits, or built yourself, depending on your budget, the type of enclosure you prefer, and how skilled you are at doing it yourself.
There are a number of different materials commonly used to build hot tub enclosures. Red cedar is very popular, since it has an attractive appearance and is resistant to rot and insect damage. Since your hot tub enclosure will be sheltering a warm, moist spa, it's important for it not to be easily damaged by moisture and heat.
Another material that's used frequently is treated pine. Normally, pine is not as durable as cedar. However, treated wood can resist insect damage and decay, and is kiln dried before and after treatment to prevent warping and help it accommodate stain or paint. Pine has the benefit of being less expensive than cedar. However, without paint or other treatment, it can have too much of a "lumberyard" look for some people's tastes.
Vinyl-coated hot tub enclosures are a recent development. Coated enclosures and gazebos are usually made from pine, with a smooth vinyl sleeve over the wood to prevent exposure to the elements. They're low maintenance and designed to resist the elements. Vinyl-coated hot tub enclosures are among the most expensive variety, but given the long life and low maintenance requirements of the material, they may well be worth the cost.
The last material you might find hot tub enclosures made from is solid plastic. While you might associate plastic construction with cheap kid's toys, that's not the case here. All-resin construction means that there are no cracks for water or dirt to collect in, and nowhere for microorganisms to grow. Plastic is resistant to rot, and insects won't consider making a meal of it. The price for this style is similar to that of vinyl-coated models, and maintenance is similar – just hose off your pavilion from time to time. Some don't care for the machined appearance of plastic hot tub enclosures, however, and their insulative properties are different from those of more traditional wood enclosures.
No matter what type of hot tub enclosure you choose, be sure that you get one that's well suited for your site. Many enclosures will require a concrete pad, or some other firm surface, before they can be built or assembled. This is a good idea for your hot tub, too. It provides support for the enormous weight of water that it has to hold. A hot tub enclosure is a great investment, since it protects your hot tub and makes sure you'll be able to enjoy it.
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