The Three Main Types Of Hot Tubs

Hot tubs are a soothing way to relax after a long day, or maybe just because. There are three main types of hot tubs, all of which offer a number of different advantages and drawbacks. If you are looking to install a hot tub in your home, understanding the differences between the types of hot tubs can help you make an educated decision:

Acrylic Hot Tubs

Acrylic hot tubs are formed out of plastic, and are usually nothing more than a covering or shell over the piping and heating elements of the hot tub. They also usually have an access door in the side which allows for easy maintenance of the insides of the hot tub.

Acrylic comes in a wide variety of colours and styles, and as a result can be matched to the aesthetic of your home and backyard. Acrylic is also a very durable and lightweight material, able to withstand a great deal of pounding without cracking or breaking. They also vary greatly in price, which means that they can fit any budget.

However, acrylic hot tubs have very little insulation, which means that you will have to pay more in electric bills to heat the water in your hot tub. Furthermore, sunlight can cause the acrylic to bubble and deform, which can be unsightly.

Fiberglass Hot Tubs

Fiberglass hot tubs are extremely durable and strong hot tubs. They are usually just a covering, like acrylic hot tubs, and have an access door in the side. They are made out of a single piece of fiberglass, which provides increased structural stability and durability to the hot tub. If properly cared for, a fiberglass hot tub can last many years. Additionally, the heavy amount of insulation in fiberglass hot tubs allows for energy saving, as less electricity has to be used to reheat the water.

However, fiberglass hot tubs are made out of nonrenewable materials, which is a serious environmental consideration. Furthermore, as they are prefabricated in single pieces, it is impossible to customize the look of a fiberglass hot tub. Finally, they can also crack under pressure if they are improperly drained, a problem unique to fiberglass hot tubs.

Wood Hot Tubs

Commonly made out of cedar, due to cedar's strong mold resistance and natural strength, wood hot tubs provide a natural look to your home. They are made out of sustainable materials, and offer no environmental concerns. They can also be mounted onto a deck, which means that no heavy duty construction will have to occur in order to install your hot tub.

However, it should be taken into account that wood hot tubs are not as durable as either acrylic or fiberglass hot tubs. Additionally, preformed seating is impossible with wood hot tubs, and they cannot be customized to the degree that acrylic hot tubs can be. Wood hot tubs also require constant maintenance to keep the wood clean and to prevent it from rotting and decaying.

To learn more, contact a company like J Adam & Sons Plumbing with any questions you have.

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