Question:
I want to build a hot tub in my back yard using either stone or tile. I'm
> wondering why I couldn't just build it like you would
> a landscaping pond using the black plastic. Would it be able to stand hot
> water? If not, what about just using the same
> techniques used for swimming pools? All I want is a hot tub for just 1
> person; the size of a bath tub, just little longer so
> you can stretch out. There was a guy who had a web-site of a pool he built
> in his backyard.
Answer:
This is something I've wanted to do myself for some time. I've done a fair
amount of research and thinking on the subject. My goal is to make a
homemade hot tub for as little money as possible.
I have two tubs. One is an old Mr. Spa junker that a buddy gave me. I
repaired the rotted wood sides, did some plumbing repairs and fixed some
leaks and used it for about 8 years. It was a pain keeping that thing
running because of it's poor plumbing design. But it's hard to complain
about a tub that cost me no more than $100 in repair materials. That's
better than paying $3-4k, which is what a tub this size costs.
Now, I also have a 6' SofTub. It is a nice simple design, relatively cheap
to run, lightweight and portable (when empty). It also had the advantage of
not requiring a crane to install it on my deck. They use an interesting
design where the heat is provided by scavenging heat off of the pump motor.
No separate heater is used, and it is very economical to run. It was still
too costly in my opinion, but the wife wanted to replace our failing tub
fast.
