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What is the most durable material for a hot tub?
What is the most durable material for a hot tub?
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Written by Kimberly Giraldo
Updated over a week ago

When you are shopping for a hot tub that will last you for years to come, it’s important to purchase a high-quality model from a premium brand. There is a big difference between a luxury hot tub that has been designed and engineered with the finest materials and a subpar one that has not.

If you have asked yourself, “What is the most durable material for a hot tub?”, this article will reveal the high-quality materials that are used to make the finest hot tubs. As you read, you will learn how to discern the best hot tubs that are made with the most durable materials. Hot tubs made with premium, durable materials are built to last and can withstand the elements and extreme weather. These are important factors that can determine the life of your hot tub.

What is the most durable material for a hot tub?

Many different materials are used to build a hot tub. This article will focus on the commonly used materials used to build portable hot tubs, also called above-ground hot tubs. A portable hot tub or spa isn’t necessarily named as such because it can be easily transported around. In fact, it is best to have a portable hot tub professionally delivered and installed.

Rather, a portable or above-ground hot tub refers to the fact the that hot tub and its equipment are self-contained. Some parts of the hot tub that this article will discuss include the shell, the skirting or cabinet, the insulation, and the cover. The materials used for each of these parts of your hot tub are different.

What material are hot tubs made of?

Depending on the type (such as above-ground, inflatable, or in-ground), the brand, and the model, the materials used to build a hot tub will vary. In the case of portable hot tubs, commonly used materials include:

•Acrylic

•Rotomolded plastic

•Vinyl or latex

•Cement

•Stainless steel

•Fiberglass

•Reinforced PVC

What is the best hot tub material?

Because there are many different materials used on various parts of your hot tub, there are multiple answers to this question. However, the sturdiest, most durable materials for each part—from the shell to the cabinet—will ensure your hot tub is built to stand the test of time.

What is the hot tub shell?

The shell of your hot tub is the outer layer that forms the basin where you will sit and enjoy your hydrotherapy. This is where the seats are formed and the jets are placed to deliver your massage.

What is the best hot tub shell material?

The materials used to create a hot tub shell vary. All Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs feature ProFusion™ shells. These shells are comprised of the highest quality acrylic, a bonded vapor barrier, and a resin composite which are layered together for the ultimate durability. This creates an inseparable bond that can withstand both heat and cold.

What is hot tub skirting?

Hot tub skirting is also referred to as hot tub cabinet or hot tub siding. Essentially, this is the portion of your hot tub that encapsulates the shell as well as the internal components of your hot tub, such as filtration systems and water management systems, and other equipment. The hot tub cabinet allows access to these internal components for repairs or maintenance. It also serves as an added layer of protection for your hot tub’s shell and equipment.

What is the best hot tub skirting material?

Hot tub cabinet material can vary. Some commonly used materials are synthetic wood, cedar, or composite plastics. Hot tub siding material should be both weather-resistant and UV-resistant to preserve the aesthetics of your spa while also protecting it. Jacuzzi® Hot Tub’s tool-free cabinetry is made with materials that are fade-resistant, maintenance-free, and that can withstand heat and cold. The materials are designed to keep your hot tub cabinetry looking beautiful and like new for many years.

While traditionally, hot tub cabinets were made of wood, today many hot tub brands use superior synthetic materials to construct their cabinets, as they will not rot or deteriorate like wood. Most synthetic hot tub cabinets are durable and UV-resistant.

Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs feature ProEndure™ cabinets, synthetic spa cabinets that seamlessly meld the beauty of natural wood with the maintenance-free qualities of durable, UV-resistance thermal plastic. Employing the use of this material also allows the Jacuzzi® brand to maintain its commitment to the environment and reduce demand on the Earth’s precious natural resources.

What hot tub insulation material is best?

Insulation is a vital part of your hot tub. The insulation not only serves as another layer of protection for your spa, but it can also help keep your utility bills lowered. Insulation can be full foam or partial foam. Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs incorporate high-density foam, as well as a lighter foam, that completely surrounds the shell and fills the cabinet.

Beyond that, Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs are full-foam insulated—including foam along the shell, the floor, and the cabinet. This makes them among the most energy-efficient hot tubs, helps your hot tub retain its heat, ensures quieter operation, and helps keep your energy bills lowered.

Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs’ insulation is reliable even in the coldest climates, and the Extreme Cold Package is also available with many models. This features an additional factory-installed layer of insulation between the frame and the siding. This package also includes an upgraded hot tub cover designed to withstand harsh weather and extremely cold climates.

In part because of its high-quality insulation material, all Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs exceed the California Energy Commission standards for spa energy consumption.

What is the best hot tub cover material?

Speaking of hot tub covers, they are crucial to protecting your hot tub and preserving your hot tub water’s heat. Jacuzzi® ProLast™ Hot Tub covers are made with a durable UV-stable, weather-resistant woven polyester outer fabric, and a heat-locking expanded polystyrene (EPS) high-density foam core, insulating your hot tub while also saving energy. Jacuzzi® ProLast™ Extreme covers elevate this protection even further.

In addition to ensuring your hot tub cover is made with the best materials, it’s essential that it fit your hot tub properly. It should be tightly fitting to create a seal that keeps out the elements, including dirt, debris, and other contaminants while locking in your water’s heat.

What are the best hot tub base and foundation materials?

Other important components of your hot tub, and the materials they are made of, are the foundation and the base. For example, Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs feature a rugged protective barrier that insulates your spa from the foundation. The durable ABS-formed foundation protects your hot tub’s components from moisture and the elements while adding structural strength.

The material of the foundation on which you have your hot tub placed is also essential. The most durable materials recommended to support your hot tub include concrete, a sturdy deck, and a prefabricated spa pad, the latter of which are typically constructed of high-density polyethylene plastic that is built to withstand thousands of pounds per square foot.

Because style is an important part of your hot tub selection, Jacuzzi® Hot Tubs are not only made with the finest quality materials, but they also feature a variety of stylistic options when it comes to the shell, the cabinet, and even the hot tub cover. For example, if you wish to create an opulent, dramatic hot tub haven, you can choose a Jacuzzi® Hot Tub, such as the J-445™ model, with a Midnight shell color and Smoked Ebony cabinet color. This sophisticated and sultry combination creates the ideal ambiance for a date night soak in your hot tub.

Or you could create a lighter, more traditional spa setting by selecting a Jacuzzi® Hot Tub, such as the J-385™ model, with a stunning Porcelain shell combined with a Brushed Gray cabinet. This color combination can evoke feelings of tranquility and calm as you enjoy your hydrotherapy.

If you’re attracted to a modern look, you might choose a model in the Jacuzzi® J-LX® Collection, featuring a streamlined, geometric form. A Platinum shell and Modern Hardwood cabinet is a stunning timeless combination that can complement these models.

When you purchase a hot tub, it should bring you soothing relaxation for many years to come. The longevity of your hot tub can be dependent upon many factors, materials and build are among the most important. Choosing a high-quality hot tub from a reputable brand that is known for manufacturing superior hot tubs that last can help ensure you will be able to indulge in unparalleled hot tub hydrotherapy well into the future.

A visit to your local spa showroom is a crucial step on your journey to becoming a hot tub owner. A trusted hot tub dealer can help you not only choose the right hot tub for you, but they can also be there to support your hot tub needs for years to come.

Affiliations: Jacuzzi® is a registered trademark of Jacuzzi Group. All rights reserved.

Medical disclaimer: This information is not intended to prescribe a particular diagnosis or course of action. We are not medical professionals. Please contact your GP or other medical professional for advice if you have any concerns about your current health or well-being.

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