Three ways to set it into the ground
- Full recessed installation: The tub rim level with the terrace or paving. The most attractive option, but requires a shaft around the entire tub for access to the equipment.
- Partial recessed installation: The tub rises 30 to 50 cm above the terrace and can be sat on at the edge. The equipment is accessible via side panels; the shaft is shallower.
- Installation on a raised terrace: The terrace will be built around the hot tub standing at the original level. No excavation required; access to the equipment from below or via inspection hatches in the floor.
What to consider before breaking ground
- Service access: The pump, heater and control unit are located in one side of the tub. This side must remain accessible; otherwise, every repair will require dismantling the terrace.
- Shaft drainage: Rainwater and overflow from the bath must have somewhere to drain; otherwise, the equipment will stand in water.
- Thermal cover and roof enclosure: With a built-in bathtub, the cover is harder to remove; this is solved by a cover lifter or a sliding roof.
- Safety: An edge level with the floor looks neat, but children and guests may easily overlook it. Lighting and a lockable cover help.
- Permits: A sunken bathtub with a shaft is a minor construction, usually not requiring permission if the setback from the property boundary is observed. We will verify this on site.
How we do it
After the survey you will receive a shaft drawing with dimensions for the selected model, including connections and drainage. The shaft will be built by our or your construction crew according to the drawing. We will deliver the hot tub by crane, position it, connect it and finish the edge tiling. We will coordinate the sequence of work so that the terrace does not wait for the hot tub and vice versa.
What you are asking about
Does a shaft need to surround the entire hot tub?
Yes for full recessed installation, with at least 40 to 60 cm clearance around the tub for settling, insulation and servicing. For partial recessed installation, clearance is only required on the technical side and covering of the side panels.
Can a swim spa also be installed in-ground?
Yes, with swim spas recessed installation is common precisely because the tub is high. The same applies: concrete slab, shaft with drainage and access to the equipment.
How is an in-ground hot tub serviced?
Via the service side of the tub in the shaft or through inspection hatches in the terrace. Therefore, we determine the equipment's position before constructing the shaft, not after.