How to Frame a Jetted Tub Deck

Record the width and depth of the tub base with your tape measure. If the tub has an overhang or lip, do not include it in the calculations. The lip will sit over the frame, not inside it. Check with the manufacturer's specs and see if any extra space is required around the tub before making your measurements final. Add this extra space to your width and depth measurements.

Measure and cut pieces of 2-by-4-inch lumber for the bottom plates in your tub frame. The bottom plate, which extends along the width of the tub (side to side), should protrude about 3½ inches at each end to allow for the bottom plate, which extends along the depth of the tub (front to back) to fit flush inside it when installed. The result will be a proper rectangle with all sides fitting together squarely.

Record the height of the tub with your tape measure. Cut 2-by-4s to fit this measurement, using your circular saw. You will need two vertical studs at each end of every set of top and bottom plates, and one vertical stud every 16 inches throughout.

Lay the bottom plates and vertical studs onto a flat working surface, and use your hammer and nails to fasten them together, placing the end studs' butts flush with and on top of each end of the bottom plate and one every 16 inches on center. Install the studs so the flat sides are perpendicular to the bottom plate. Assemble each side of the framework separately so you can attach them together once they are tilted into position. You should have four bottom plates with studs protruding upward when you've completed this step.

Cut two pieces of 2-by-4 about 1½ inches shorter than the bottom plate. Secure these with a hammer and nails to the sides of the tops of the studs. One plate goes on one side of the studs, the other plate goes on the other side. The idea is to create a simple framework that is twice as wide at the top than it is at the bottom. This extended top end allows for a solid deck structure at the top and saves space and materials at the bottom. Repeat the top plate installation process for each wall in the framework.

Stand the framework elements in position around the tub installation area and use your hammer and nails to fasten them to the floor joists. Drive nails through the bottom plates and into the joists beneath your flooring surface. Two nails per joist location will suffice. Nail the four walls together at each corner as well.

Measure the top of the framework around the opening and cut a sheet of 3/4-inch plywood to fit. Use your straightedge and pencil to mark the wood, and use your circular saw to make the straight cuts. If you have a curved hot tub and wish to create a curved deck around it, use a jigsaw to make the arched cuts. Use your hammer and nails to fasten the plywood on top of the frame so the opening you have cut matches the shape of the tub below. The plywood will ring your tub and serve as your deck; you can cover it with tile or stone as desired.