How do you block wind around a hot tub?

Having a hot tub outdoors can be a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the fresh air. However, one problem that many hot tub owners face is dealing with wind. A constant breeze can quickly cool down the water, requiring the hot tub’s heater to work harder and use more energy. Excess wind can also blow debris into the tub and make it difficult to enjoy your soak. Implementing some simple wind blocking solutions can help create a more comfortable hot tub experience.

Why is wind a problem for outdoor hot tubs?

There are a few reasons why wind causes issues for outdoor hot tubs:

• Wind cools down the water – Hot tub water needs to be kept within a certain temperature range (typically 100-104°F) for safety and comfort. Wind blows away the warm air rising off the tub and replaces it with cooler air, causing the water to lose heat faster.
• Wind blows debris into the tub – Leaves, dirt, pollen, and other items can get stirred up by wind and deposited into your hot tub water. This can clog filters and jets and require more frequent water changes.
• Wind makes it uncomfortable for users – Sitting in a hot tub on a windy day can feel cold and unpleasant. Wind steals away the warm air that should be trapped around your body.
• Wind increases operating costs – Because wind accelerates heat loss, your hot tub’s heater has to work harder to keep the water at the desired temperature. This uses more electricity.

What are some solutions for blocking wind around a hot tub?

Here are some of the most effective options for creating a wind barrier around your outdoor hot tub:

Use screening or lattice panels

Installing screens or lattice panels around your hot tub is a simple way to block wind. You can purchase mesh screen panels or lattice and secure them to the posts around your tub using zip ties, hooks, or screws. For a more decorative look, choose lattice with a pattern or paint it to match your deck or outdoor color scheme. Just be sure to leave access on at least one side so you can get in and out of the tub easily.

Build a privacy fence

Constructing a tall privacy fence around your backyard and hot tub is an excellent block against wind. Cedar and redwood are ideal fence materials because they are naturally resistant to rot and decay. Make sure to sink the fence posts at least 2 feet deep into concrete for stability. For the best wind protection, the fence should be 6 feet high or more.

Plant a windbreak

Strategically planting trees, shrubs, and trellises to act as a windbreak can help divert gusts coming from certain directions. Good options for windbreak plants include cedars, arborvitae, and honeylocust trees. Allow plenty of space between the plants and your hot tub so the growing branches don’t interfere. It can take a few years for the plants to grow dense enough to effectively slow wind.

Build a pergola or arbor

Constructing an overhead pergola or arbor right around your hot tub creates an instant wind barrier. Use weather-resistant wood beams or PVC materials. Add sections of screening between the overhead beams to block wind from blowing through. Planting climbing vines on the pergola provides natural coverage as they grow in.

Add a privacy curtain

For a temporary wind solution, install a privacy curtain on one side of the hot tub. Use curtain clips or hooks to attach one end of the curtain to the side of the pergola or fence. Add curtain weights or heavier material along the bottom edge to keep the fabric taut and prevent flapping in the breeze.

What materials work best for blocking wind?

The optimal materials for creating a good wind barrier include:

• Solid fencing – Cedar, redwood, composite materials. At least 6 feet tall.
• Lattice – All-weather treated wood or PVC lattice panels. Opt for smaller openings (1-2 inches).
• Screens – Fiberglass mesh, polyethylene wind screen panels. Look for small perforations.
• Plants – Cedars, arborvitae, honeylocust trees. Allow space between plants.
• Pergola/arbor – Cedar or composite overhead structure with weather-resistant wood or PVC beams.

Avoid using materials like canvas tarps or plastic sheeting that can flap around in the wind. The goal is to create a sturdy barrier that prevents air from blowing through.

Where should you place wind barriers around a hot tub?

Carefully consider where you position wind barriers around your hot tub:

• Observe wind patterns – Take note of the main wind directions in your yard and block the sides most impacted.
• Block prevailing winds – In most areas, the strongest winds come from the West. Focus barriers on the western side.
• Leave an access point – Don’t surround the entire tub or you won’t be able to get in. Leave an opening on the leeward side.
• Allow space between tub and fence – Position fences, screens and plants at least 2 feet from the edge to prevent debris issues and allow access.
• Consider privacy and views – If wind comes from directions where you want to maintain views, use detached screens or lattice panels instead of a solid fence.

How high should wind barriers be around a hot tub?

For optimum wind blocking, plan for your wind barriers to be:

• At least 6 feet high – This prevents wind from blowing over the barrier into your soak zone
• 1-2 feet taller than the hot tub – Helps prevent wind that shear downs over the barrier from hitting tub users directly
• Above the high water/sitting level – Stops wind from blowing across the top of the barrier and hitting people as they soak

If using plant windbreaks, allow room for growth upward. You may need to use temporary fencing for the first few years until the trees/shrubs grow taller.

How much will wind blocking cost around a hot tub?

The cost to add wind barriers around your hot tub depends on the materials used:

Wind barrier option	Estimated cost
Wood privacy fence	$15-30 per linear foot installed
Vinyl lattice panels	$10-15 per 4×8 panel
Fiberglass screening	$3-8 per linear foot
Windbreak plants	$50-150 per tree installed
Cedar pergola	$2,500-5,000 for 12×12 structure

Consider how many linear feet you need to enclose and choose economical materials to reduce costs. Landscaping and plant options involve lower upfront expense but take time to grow in.

Key Takeaways

• Wind accelerates water heat loss and blows debris into outdoor hot tubs.
• Solutions include privacy fences, screening, lattice, windbreaks, pergolas and curtains.
• Cedar, PVC, fiberglass mesh and robust plants work best to block wind.
• Aim for 6 foot height barriers, allow space around the tub.
• Block the prevailing wind direction but leave access opening.
• Cost ranges from $3 per foot for screening to $5,000 for cedar pergola.

Conclusion

Dealing with wind around an outdoor hot tub can be frustrating, but is easily remedied by adding some simple wind barriers. By installing an attractive privacy fence, screen panels, lattice, plantings or an overhead pergola, you can protect your hot tub from obnoxious winds. This allows you to enjoy the pleasant experience of soaking outside without your water losing heat or dirt blowing in. Be strategic in placing wind blocks to divert the prevailing breezes but still allow easy access. With some creative landscaping or fencing, you can boost your hot tub’s coziness and efficiency.