Have you ever fantasised about stepping out of a rejuvenating hot tub soak and straight into your home without braving the cold or putting clothes on? Many hot tub owners have had this dream. But is installing a hot tub in your garage actually feasible?
This article will cover everything you need to know about the costs, preparations, and considerations for installing a hot tub inside your garage, so you can decide if this backyard luxury can become an indoor reality.
What are the Benefits of Putting a Hot Tub in the Garage?
There are several advantages to choosing the garage for your indoor hot tub installation:
- Convenience – Step straight from the soothing warm water into your home interior in your bathrobe, without rushing indoors or messing with outdoor steps.
- Privacy – Soak in the tub without neighbors or passersby watching you. The garage offers more seclusion.
- Shelter – Avoid dealing with inclement weather like rain, wind, or snow. The garage protects the tub and bathers.
- Ambiance Control – Deck out the surroundings inside your garage however you wish to enhance the atmosphere. Add lighting, music, or décor.
Key Factors to Consider Before Installation
While putting a hot tub in the garage offers benefits, there are also some important factors to consider before installation:
Water Supply
To fill your hot tub, consider its self-contained plumbing system, eliminating the need for connecting to water mains. While it recycles water, initially filling it can be inconvenient. A water source near your garage is handy. Regular maintenance involves refilling every few months due to evaporation. Installing a water tap in or near your garage is worthwhile for ease of use.
Drainage
Proper garage drainage is crucial for two reasons. Firstly, when cleaning your hot tub every few months, a floor drain prevents spills. Secondly, a floor drain is essential for handling the water splashed when exiting the hot tub, saving you from constant cleanup after each use. Consider installing the hot tub near an existing, properly graded floor drain for convenience.
Flooring
For optimal stability, place your hot tub on a solid base. Garages with concrete slabs are ideal, but for those with dirt floors, install a stable foundation. Choose waterproof or, at a minimum, slip-resistant flooring in the garage to handle inevitable water spillage from the hot tub.
Internal Structure
To protect the garage structure from moisture, install a vapor barrier on walls and ceiling when placing a hot tub indoors. Consider waterproof drywall and moisture-resistant paint to shield wooden framing from water damage, and have a contractor evaluate if ventilation upgrades are needed to safely install a hot tub in the garage.
Covering
Even in an indoor setting, a hot tub cover remains crucial. Regularly replacing the cover when the hot tub is not in use has the dual benefit of minimizing humidity and moisture in the indoor space, as well as reducing water evaporation. This practice ensures heat retention, leading to lower energy costs. A hot tub cover enhances safety and security, particularly for households with inquisitive young children.
Ventilation
Garages often have high humidity, worsened by the addition of a hot tub. To avoid mold and mildew, install a powerful exhaust fan and, if needed, consider a ceiling fan or dehumidifier. Promptly addressing ventilation is crucial, as reversing mold and mildew damage is challenging once it takes hold.
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Costs of Installing a Hot Tub in the Garage
Here are some of the main costs to keep in mind:
- Plumbing – Installing water lines, drains and taps specifically for the hot tub.
- Humidity Control – Ventilation systems like an industrial exhaust fan, dehumidifier, etc. This is very important.
- Flooding Prevention – Systems to detect leaks and prevent damage.
- Electrical Work – Upgrading wiring or installing new outlets if more power needed for hot tub setup.
- Permits – Building permits or inspections required for major electrical and plumbing work.
- Flooring – Waterproof and slip-resistant tiles or rubber flooring.
- Contractors – Plumber, electrician, HVAC technician costs can add up.
Preparing the Garage for Hot Tub Installation
Thoroughly preparing your garage is crucial for a successful hot tub installation. Here are some key steps:
- Have a licensed contractor inspect the garage space and note any changes needed to support the weight and moisture of the tub.
- Check wall and ceiling insulation rating. Add insulation if needed to reduce humidity and condensation issues.
- Install a vapor barrier along all walls and ceilings to protect framing from moisture damage.
- Upgrade wall finishing to waterproof drywall panels designed for bathrooms.
- Seal the garage door trim and fixtures to prevent humidity escaping the garage.
- Grade the concrete floor to drain properly or install a drainage system.
- Remove items that could be damaged by humidity like cardboard boxes or wood furniture.
- Install all needed electrical, plumbing and ventilation before placing the hot tub.
Conclusion
Installing a hot tub in your garage can allow for refreshing soaks without having to deal with harsh weather. With proper moisture control preparations and upgrades to protect structural elements, the garage can be transformed.
Add a good ventilation system for an ideal location for indoor hot tubbing. Carefully weigh the upfront costs and required humidity mitigation, but this project can provide a luxurious and convenient at-home spa experience.
FAQs
Is it OK to put a hot tub indoors?
Putting a hot tub indoors is generally not recommended due to potential moisture issues.
Can you put a portable hot tub in the garage?
While possible, installing a portable hot tub in a garage is typically not advisable due to moisture and ventilation concerns.
Is it a good idea to have a hot tub in the garage?
While convenient, it is usually not a good idea to have a hot tub in the garage due to moisture and poor ventilation that can damage the structure over time.
