Replacing a Hot Tub Cover

Overview:

Most hot tub covers have a foam core that will absorb water over time causing it to break down.  The life of a hot tub cover is approximately 3-8 years, depending if it is inside or outside hot tub.  Several factors affect how long hot tub covers last and when you will be replacing it. Replacing a hot tub cover is not a difficult task but before purchasing a replacement you should look at the different covers that are available. There are both hard hot tub covers and soft hot tub covers to choose from.

Sunlight, rain, and freezing temperatures slowly cause the stitching that holds the vinyl together to rot. What usually happens is that water accumulates between the vinyl and the foam making the cover heavier and heavier until the seams and stitching fail.    

Because hot tub covers are heavy and bulky to move there are hot tub cover lifts that are available that connects to the hot tub cover to facilitate removing it. The lift is quite easy to use even for small children that use the hot tub. These type lifts can cost anywhere from $150 to $250, depending on the type of lift that is needed for your hot tub installation. Add another $150 for the replacement cover for a complete package.

Types of Covers:

1. Hard Covers:

For an outdoor hot tub a hard cover is available that is strong enough to support animals and the weight of small children. They are considered a safety cover and are usually the most expensive on the market and are also bulky and difficult for one person to remove without the aid of a cover lift. Although they are expensive the price is worth it to insure safety for pets and children around the hot tub. The hard covers reduce the risk of animals and small children from falling into the hot tub through the cover. Outside tubs are subject to a lot of trees and shrubs. The hard topped hot tub cover will protect the hot tub from any debris that might fall on it.

If the hot tub is located inside you can place items such as baskets or plants on the top of the cover to make it look more attractive when not in use. The cover protects the hot tub from dirt and other materials from contaminating the water.

2. Soft Covers:

Soft hot tub covers are usually used when the hot tub is located in an open environment or is indoors where there does not need to be anything placed on top of it. Soft covers usually have a lot of tie down straps that secure it in place and are even found in child proof versions so that small children cannot open the cover.

Both of these types of covers help to protect the hot tub from materials getting into it, as well as helping to preserve the heat of the tub so that the water heater does not have to run as hard to maintain the heat. Replacing a hot tub cover is quite easy for the DIY homeowner. Shop around before purchasing a replacement cover. I recommend the hard cover because it is safer and is more durable than a soft cover. Often spa sales outlets sell covers at a discount at the end of the season; you can usually pick one up to suit your needs at a very reasonable price.

See: Hot Tub Installation

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