Hot tub cover sizes: how to measure and replace
Quick answer
Measure the cover across the top: length by width corner to corner, the corner radius (how rounded the corners are), and the skirt depth (how far it hangs down). Order to those numbers. Replace a cover when it is heavy, sagging, or waterlogged, because a tired cover quietly doubles your heating cost.
The cover is the cheapest big win on a hot tub. A tight, dry, well-fitting cover holds heat in and keeps debris out; a waterlogged one is heavy, leaks heat, and is the usual reason a power bill creeps up.
How to measure for a cover
- Length and width. Measure the top of the tub corner to corner, in both directions. For a round tub, measure the diameter. Measure the cabinet, not the old cover, which may have shrunk or spread.
- Corner radius. Most square tubs have rounded corners. Hold a tape to a corner and find the radius (a common one is 5 inches); the cover must match so it sits flush.
- Skirt depth. The flap that hangs over the edge, usually 4 to 6 inches, seals the gap. Measure how far down you want it to reach.
- Fold direction and taper. Note which way it folds and that covers taper thicker at the hinge; order the thickness (taper) that suits your climate, thicker for colder.
When to replace it
- It is heavy or sagging. A cover that soaked up water has lost its insulation and strains the lifter and your back.
- The vapor barrier is torn or the foam is brittle and snapped.
- Your bill went up with no other change. Run the numbers on the running cost calculator; a fresh cover often pays back fast.
Cover, lift, and conditioner
A cover lift makes a heavy cover a one-person job, and conditioner keeps the vinyl from drying out and soaking up water in the first place.
Get hot tub cover Get cover lift Get cover conditioner
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Common questions
How do I measure a hot tub cover?
Measure the top of the tub corner to corner for length and width (diameter for a round tub), find the corner radius, and measure the skirt depth you want. Order to the tub, not the old cover, which may have distorted.
What size cover do I need?
It is set by your tub's top dimensions and corner radius, not a one-size-fits-all number. A common square tub is about 84 by 84 inches with a 5 inch radius, but confirm with a tape. Many makers also list the factory cover size for your model.
How often should a hot tub cover be replaced?
Most covers last about 5 to 7 years. Replace sooner if it is waterlogged and heavy, sagging, or torn, since a failing cover loses heat and drives the running cost up. Conditioning the vinyl yearly extends its life.