Imagine this, after a long day of work or a strenuous workout, you can walk straight from your car into your private spa oasis. No more having to share a common space with strangers or paying for monthly spa memberships.
But before you jump straight in, you need to be aware of a few pros and cons.
Here at Garage Insiders, we’ve researched and tested the idea of a spa in garage, and we want to share with you what you, as a homeowner, MUST know before taking the plunge.
So, whether you’re considering revamping your garage to build a spa or are just curious, read on to learn about the possibility of building an indoor spa in your garage.
Can You Put A Hot Tub In A Garage And Is It Safe?
Installing a hot tub in your garage offers plenty of benefits. However, you should consider some potential risks before making your final decision. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons.
Pros of Having a Spa in the Garage
Better Ventilation
With the right design, garages can allow for optimal airflow, which helps to prevent problems like mold and mildew. This is important since hot tubs produce heat and steam, which can cause humidity and moisture issues in poorly ventilated areas.
Plumbing And Drainage Are More Accessible
Garages are typically designed with plumbing connections, which makes connecting your hot tub to your home’s water and drainage systems much easier. This makes maintenance and cleaning of the hot tub a breeze.
More Space for Family and Friends
Garages provide ample space for family and friends to relax and unwind in the hot tub. Unlike outdoor hot tubs, you can use your indoor spa all year round, regardless of the weather.
Garage Walls Are Easier To Waterproof
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA), water-resistant drywall must be used in wet areas to prevent moisture damage. However, waterproofing regular drywall requires additional materials and time to apply properly. On the other hand, most garage walls are already made of moisture-resistant cement board or bricks, eliminating the need for extra waterproofing measures.
Garage Floor Is Suitable For Spas And Hot Tubs
Most hot tub models are designed to sit on a solid, level surface, which makes the concrete garage floor ideal. Furthermore, concrete is durable, slip-resistant, and easy to clean.
Electricity Is Readily Available (Plug And Play)
Most modern hot tubs are designed to be “plug and play,” meaning that they only require an electrical outlet to function. However, if you plan to install a more elaborate electrical system for your hot tub, you may need to hire a licensed electrician to ensure everything is up to code.
Cons of Having a Spa in the Garage
Lack Of Privacy
Garages are usually located near the street and neighbors’ homes, which could leave you feeling uncomfortable with your neighbors’ prying eyes. If you have windows or doors in your garage, they may be able to see into your garage while you are using the spa.
Can Cause Flooding
Garages are typically lower than the rest of the property, so water can flow in during heavy rainstorms. If the garage floor isn’t properly air-sealed or sloped, the water can get inside the spa and cause all sorts of problems, including mold and electrical hazards.
Is there flooding in your garage? Here’s how to keep the water out.
Cannot Be Used During A Bad Weather
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, heavy snow, or other severe weather conditions, you may not be able to use your garage spa for long periods. Additionally, if your garage is not properly insulated or heated, it may be uncomfortable to use the spa during the colder months may be uncomfortable.
Difficult To Install
A hot tub inside a garage is notably challenging to install, and the installation process requires significant knowledge of electrical and plumbing systems. We highly recommend that you hire an expert to ensure the installation process is completed to a high standard.
Important Things To Consider Before Setting Up A Spa In The Garage
As a garage expert, I know what needs to be considered before setting up a spa. Let me list some of the most important things you should consider before tackling this project.
Ventilation For The Hot Tub In The Garage
Proper ventilation is essential to ensure that your hot tub is effective and healthy. Without it, mold can grow, and air quality can suffer from poor air circulation caused by humidity and steam from your hot tub. Make sure that you have adequate ventilation installed, such as windows, exhaust fans, or air vents, so that mold doesn’t become an issue down the line.
Garage Insiders Tip: A dehumidifier is also a great ventilation option to install, as it can control moisture levels and prevent mold and mildew growth in your garage.
Plumbing And Drainage Systems
According to a survey by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), faulty plumbing and drainage systems are some of the leading causes of water damage in garages. Make sure there are no blockages or broken pipes, which could lead to water damage or flooding if not properly addressed before installation begins.
Space
Hot tubs come in different sizes, so make sure you have enough space in your garage for installation (and removal!) if needed at any point down the line. Measure twice or even three times if necessary. It’s better to be safe than sorry! Additionally, it is important to consider how much room will be needed around the hot tub for people using it and other items, such as lawn chairs and seating benches, that may need extra room.
Garage Insiders Tip: The most common hot tub size for garages is 6-7 feet long and 3-4 feet wide, with a height of around 3-4 feet.
Waterproof Walls And Floors
The hot tub water will inevitably splash around, so you need to make sure that your garage walls and garage floors are appropriately sealed to prevent moisture damage. You can invest in waterproof paint or hire a professional contractor to install moisture-resistant materials like tile or vinyl flooring.
Durable Garage Floor
The last thing we want when installing a hot tub inside our garages is a cracked floor due to excessive weight or movement from use! Installing a durable, slip-resistant garage flooring material is essential to avoid accidents and ensure that your garage remains in good condition.
Electricity Accessibility
Electricity accessibility is a critical factor to consider when setting up a spa in your garage. You will need reliable power to operate the tub and any other electrical components, like lights or speakers. Additionally, you need to make sure that the electrical wiring can handle the load of the hot tub without causing any safety issues.
Important Note: As per a survey by Home Advisor, faulty electrical installation has resulted in 67,800 fires, 485 deaths, and $868 million in property losses during a typical year. Always hire an experienced electrician to install the electrical wiring to avoid any safety hazards.
Can You Put An Inflatable Hot Tub In Garage?
Yes, you can put an inflatable hot tub in your garage. However, there are some important things to keep in mind.
For example, you’ll need to make sure your space meets the requirements for installation and use of the hot tub. According to The Spruce website, your garage should be at least 10 x 12 feet with an 8-foot ceiling height. If your space is not big enough, installing a hot tub may not be possible.
You will also want to ensure that it is properly heated and insulated for year-round use.
Additionally, it’s important to check local codes and ordinances related to safety issues such as water drainage and electrical systems.
Finally, you will also want to make sure that any insulation installed in your garage is rated specifically for wet areas (which a hot tub would be).
Where Is The Best Place To Drain A Hot Tub From The Garage?
The best place to drain your hot tub is a sewer cleanout.
A sewer clean-out is an access point to the main sewer line, typically located outside your home. It allows for easy access to your home’s plumbing system, making it the safest and most efficient way to dispose of your hot tub’s wastewater.
Draining your hot tub into a storm drain, grassy area, or driveway can harm the environment and violate local laws. The water from a hot tub contains chemicals that can be harmful to plants and wildlife, and they can also contaminate groundwater sources.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, installing a spa in your garage can be a great addition to your home, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
On the one hand, having a spa in your garage can be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day. On the other hand, it requires proper planning and electrical and plumbing work and may take up valuable space.
As a garage expert, I urge you to seek professional assistance if the work is difficult to complete or follow. It’s considerably safer and smarter to do so, especially for beginners.
We encourage you to explore our blog posts to learn more about your garage and all it has to offer. With Garage Insiders as your go-to resource hub, your garage can become the ultimate home oasis.
