How to Install a Jacuzzi Tub
There is nothing quite like sliding into a Jacuzzi tub after a long day. You can locate a Jacuzzi tub in a convenient or private setting and installation is quite easy. Begin early in the day and you will be soaking your wary bones by nightfall.
Required Materials
4×4″post stock
2×4″ stock
Galvanized screws
Electrical conduit
Plumbing conduit
Plumbing glue
Cement
Sand water
Post anchors
Bolts & nuts
Required Tools
Drill with full drill set
Hammer
Shovel
Table saw
Level
Square
Tape measurer
Pencil/paper
Step One: Locate the Tub Site
A Jacuzzi tub can be located just about anywhere there is a drain entrance and available power. Inside or out, they work just as well as long as there is adequate space. An interior Jacuzzi tub requires a licensed plumber and electrician. An exterior location is preferable for a do-it-yourselfer, but a plumber and electrician (particularly the electrician) will still be required for a safe and enjoyable tub experience. In either event, the tub needs a solid surface to be located on. If an outside deck location is chosen a solid frame system will be required. If a ground location is chosen a foundation and framing system needs to be considered.
Step Two: Foundations
For a ground location, an eight point foundation system is required based on the size of your Jacuzzi tub. Dig eight foundation holes below the four foot average frost line. Each hole should be located as part of a diamond pattern along the outer tub edge and the edge of the seat pan. In other words, locate the foundation holes one on the outer edge and the next on the seat pan edge. Insert cement tubes and pour cement. Insert a post anchor as the cement dries.
Step Three: Installing the Framing
Connect posts to the post anchors. Drill two bolt holes into the posts and insert bolts. Attach carriage bolts and post to drilled horizontal frame members. Cut diagonal support pieces with 45 degree angle, pre-drill and screw to horizontal support members and post. Repeat the process for inner support frame. Make sure the height of the tub off the ground is enough for drain clearance.
Step Four: Stairway
Construct a stairway to match the height of the finished deck. The deck structure should be constructed in the same fashion as the tub framing, constituting a third ring of foundations and posts. Using pressure treated lumber may be a bit more expensive, but will pay off in spades down the road. If the treated lumber does not have a slip resistant finish, applying a textured finish may be wise.
Step Five: Plumbing
The plumbing system of the Jacuzzi tub should be installed by a licensed plumber. Before you begin constructing the Jacuzzi support frame, consult the plumber for piping considerations.
Step Six: Power
The wiring system of a Jacuzzi tub should be installed by a licensed electrician. It could be dangerous if you try doing the wiring yourself because any faults could prove fatal; remember, there is water involved.