How To

How to Make Your Own Spa Cover

Contributor
By Jennifer Waldman
eHow Contributing Writer
(7 Ratings)
Spa Cover
Spa Cover

A spa cover protects your Jacuzzi or hot tub from leaves, dirt and other debris when you aren't using it, but buying a spa cover at the hardware store or through another retailer can get expensive. instead, you can make your own for a fraction of the cost, as long as you use weather-proof material.

From Quick Guide: Intro to Canvas tarps
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Measuring tape
  • High-density foam
  • Canvas or other material
  • Clips or fasteners

    How to build your own spa cover.

  1. Step 1

    Measure the dimensions for your spa cover. Some hot tubs and Jacuzzis are round, while others might be square except for one cut corner or even octagonal. Once you've measured all sides, including the total circumference and the diameter, add two inches to each side.

  2. Step 2

    Determine whether or not you need your spa cover to be insulated. If you want to protect the spa from extreme temperatures, you'll need 2-pound density foam. Otherwise, 1-pound or 1.5-pound density will be sufficient.

  3. Step 3

    Purchase the foam you've chosen from a local hardware store. If you don't know which brand would be best, or if you find yourself confused, ask a store employee to help you with your selection.

  4. Step 4

    Cut the foam according to the dimensions of your spa. Again, adding two inches to each side will ensure you can cover the entire spa without leaving holes or gaps through which debris can fall in. A box-cutter should be sharp enough to cut the foam, or you can use a saw.

  5. Step 5

    Purchase material with which you can cover the foam. A spa cover should be both functional and attractive, so choose a material that you will find aesthetically pleasing. Vinyl, leather and thick canvas are all potential options.

  6. Step 6

    Attach the material cover to the foam with a staple gun. If you want to be able to remove it for washing, however, you can also attach a zipper to one side of the cover and insert the foam panel that way.

  7. Step 7

    Attach vinyl straps to the ends of your spa cover. These can be clipped to your Jacuzzi or hot tub by clips or any other fastener you find at your local hardware store. Just make sure that the spa cover is securely rooted to the frame of the Jacuzzi so that harsh winds don't drag it away.

Tips & Warnings
  • Know that a spa cover is important as soon as you buy your hot tub or Jacuzzi. While you're making the cover, protect your spa with a large tarp or sheet of canvas.
  • Point all power tools away from your body, and request assistance if you've never used them before.

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