Articles by J JWhen buying a Hot Tub how does one assess the shell used. Quite often a cheaper acrylic may be used and one can always tell the quality producer of hot tub shells. These are usually deep tubs as some manufacturers’ use such cheap grades of material that it cannot take the manufacturing processes to get a really deep spa. Some times, you can see stretch marks on the bends and curves of the Hot Tub particularly so or more so with some finishes as opposed to others. I have seen this even in Lucite shells but on following thus up I found that this manufacturer whilst using Lucite had not been using Lucite xtracast acrylic (the best grade and most expensive).
In my view, the better-built spas in the world are made with a patented four layer strengthening process, which is called Dura-Bond ?. This exclusive system combines the acknowledged beauty of Lucite-Xtra ? Acrylic with a layer of ABS for shell strength and integrity. Then the maker of the better spas in the world add a layer of double strengthening material Dura-Bond ?. This high-density material is re-enforced with a fibrous chop material that adds very considerable strength to the Spa Shell. The process is completed with a thick layer of polyurethane foam.
Lucite-Xtra ? cast acrylic is a non-porous material that resists stains like the build up of lotions and body oils, which can ruin non- acrylic spas. This tough, hard wearing, material keeps it shine and colour despite the use of sanitizing chemicals, high temperatures and exposure to sunlight. Its strong durable surface resists chipping, cracking and denting. Lucite-Xtra ? is easily maintained with a cloth ,sponge and mild soap. No additional polishing or waxing is needed to keep its lustrous appearance.
One can always check the quality of these Hot Tub Jacuzzi Shells by applying what I call the lipstick test. Because Enderol and other similar low cost surfaces are actually porous (a great place for bacteria to manifest itself), they are of course also much less resistant to staining which is why you would see a tile line around some of their spas. If you apply lipstick, then usually it is not easy to remove. On high grade Acrylic, since it is non-porous, it will simply wipe right off.
When you or your friends are thinking of buying a Hot Tub it is always worth probing a little beneath the glitz of the packaging and presentation. Do not fall for the simple patter of a salesperson who simply repeats by rote some pre-planned presentation and very probably does not even use a Hot Tub Jacuzzi.
As with most things in life it pays to buy the highest quality that one can afford from a manufacturer who has been established for many decades as opposed to perhaps, secondhand or indeed a cheap import , remember the old adage that buying cheap usually means that you end up buying twice.
Also in life it is usually a question of pay now or later. If you get suckered and buy a cheap product undoubtedly you will pay later not only in terms of repairs but also increased running costs.
Make sure you buy from a long established American manufacturer and not just a cheap import from the East.