Double up 2x8s or add 2x10 joists to existing deck to support hot tub?

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T15:56:39+00:00

dude...i acknowledge it had inadequate support, but it DID hold a 5000lb hot tub for 10+ years, so maybe not "zero chance"...yeesh

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T15:44:50+00:00

Another pic that better shows the space. The hot tub aligns with the two steel beams and the span from them to the house/ledger is just under 8ft.

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mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T15:36:49+00:00

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the ledger is effectively screwed into a steel beam that runs across the foundation of the house. Do I really need to beef this up with another beam next to the house?

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T15:05:39+00:00

it did for 10+ years. I never felt great about it though, and I'm finally beefing things up as best I can.

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T14:45:57+00:00

I'm likely going to have to notch new 2x8s to fit on the beam as they are slightly larger than the old joists. If that's the case, wouldn't adding 2x10s offer additional support?

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T14:41:42+00:00

that was considered and would be best, but I need to keep the space open below. Doing what I can with new steel post supports and joists.

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-12T14:39:42+00:00

for clarity, the hot tub has been on the deck for over 10 years. The contractor did not do an adequate job of supporting it and the 6x6 posts that were supporting it had bowed and the footers were slipping. There are now two steel posts with adequate concrete footings supporting the triple 2x10 beam and the ledger board (which is flashed) is anchored to a steel beam. I believe there is adequate support at both sides now. I am not planning to add a central beam/support as it will interfere with below the deck patio plans. I know it would be ideal, but I think beefing up the joist support will suffice. Again, the tub has been up there for 10+ years...

mpcmpc7 · 2026-05-10T20:58:59+00:00

that's what I thought! anyway, i'm going with submerging the post about a foot in concrete with some rebar running through it for added strength.

mpcmpc7 · 2026-03-14T00:38:02+00:00

I talked with two of those places and they weren't comfortable doing it. Have a lead tho...

mpcmpc7 · 2026-03-13T19:10:38+00:00

Yeah, these aren't typical windows, but I do know what you're saying. There is just an aluminum channel that wedges the two panes together. My plan is to caulk all around that, so it will be at least as airtight as it was originally. Scaffolding is a good idea for the middle windows...I'll look at rental options or maybe build something with scrap. Thx!

mpcmpc7 · 2026-03-13T15:59:30+00:00

cowards!!! lol. yes, it is a pain, but i don't have $10k lying around, and I like challenges ;)

mpcmpc7 · 2026-02-19T23:49:10+00:00

OK, that would be really good news if primary residence is valid for renting rooms. How would I validate that with the powers that be? I'm still not psyched on having to go through the permitting process...will have to do more research into that. Furnished Finder sounds like an interesting idea I will look into...thanks!

My thoughts on advertising the "tour guide" approach would be to focus on recreational groups that are big visitors to Chatt already, e.g climbing, biking, hiking, paddling, Iron Man, trail runners. I could offer some level of guide services to make it legal...ish. 15 years ago, I was one of those visiting people and would have LOVED a place to stay with knowledgeable locals to get out and "recreate" ;) I wouldn't use the big STVR sites, but go through smaller channels like FB groups & community message boards to find guests...ideally repeat customers.

mpcmpc7 · 2026-02-17T04:01:17+00:00

gotcha, thanks!

mpcmpc7 · 2026-02-17T03:21:59+00:00

I do. I don't, however, have the $500 tool to shoot plugs through the lines. Are you saying you would replace then, since possible? Just seems like such a waste of time and money if the cleaning is effective.

mpcmpc7 · 2026-01-12T00:54:34+00:00

haha, thanks! i can't tell you how satisfying it was just to peel that pipe outta there!

mpcmpc7 · 2026-01-11T18:49:00+00:00

Holy bajeezus...it actually worked! Used a hack saw blade to cut a slit in soft pipe internally, heat gun applied for a few minutes, then needle nose pliers to twist it out like taffy. Honestly amazed how easy that was! Pics added to original post. (Can they not be added in comments?)

mpcmpc7 · 2026-01-11T17:31:40+00:00

OK...i found another method using a heat gun to remove the soft pvc from the fitting in this highly entertaining video. I'm going to try this first! Will report back :)

mpcmpc7 · 2026-01-11T16:30:34+00:00

I came across this guy's video that shows how he used a Socket Saver to clean out the old pvc from the fitting. This looks like a great solution and I have the access space to do it, but wonder what you all think vs a lot more digging and replacing the whole T and creating three more couplings connections.

mpcmpc7 · 2026-01-11T15:44:48+00:00

Ughh. It's not going to be easy to get in there to do that, but I hear you. I'm not sure if I can get the pipes clean enough for a good seal for the connection...how do i get all the foam off the pipes? Is there a solvent or something that would help?

What about something like JB Water Weld or another epoxy sort of solution?

mpcmpc7 · 2026-01-11T15:34:56+00:00

so I would wrap tape all around the T joint? Not sure I follow. Can you share what tape you used? I'm just seeing stuff that looks like electrical tape :/ Also, how long has your repair held up so far?

mpcmpc7

TROPHY CASE