Now the hard part
This project was not completed without some challenges. As mentioned earlier, one of the difficulties was accessibility—not just for excavation, but also when it came time to transport the hot tub from the front of the house to its final resting area. Again, there was not enough room on either side of the house
to safely move the hot tub into position; therefore, it needed to be lifted overtop of the house with a crane. Fortunately, the gross weight of the average size stainless steel hot tub is a lot less than most would expect (approximately 272 kg [600 lbs] without water).
The excitement and reaction from customers when the crane arrives never gets old. There is always a sense of nervousness that something could go wrong, but this is typically overshadowed by excitement and anticipation of the final look when the hot tub is set in place. Further, today’s craning equipment is quite advanced; for this project, the entire process—from positioning the crane to placing the hot tub and retracting the crane—took approximately two hours.
Level and in place
After some minor adjustments, the hot tub was level and square. To this end, having a level foundation is critical to the overall functionality of the hot tub. Once the placement of the hot tub was finalized, the base frame was fastened into the concrete foundation and a protective covering was placed over the interior of the hot tub to protect it from construction debris.
Overcoming project obstacles
With the hot tub in place, the surrounding work (e.g. landscaping, hardscaping, etc.) took full flight. During this stage, it is not uncommon for customers to have a change of heart when it comes to the final colouring and textures of the surrounding structures—especially with the hot tub temporarily exposed and gleaming against the house in this case.
For the most part, this client chose the right colours and textures with the exception of the stone materials they selected to surround the fireplace and structural deck pillars. Changing the stone on this project was not a matter of visiting the local big-box store and returning the same day with their alternate choice. Changes such as this become a process, especially when the stone is imported from another country. Further, trying to explain changes in price, extended deadlines, and scheduling conflicts is easier said than done. In delivering these messages to the client, a number of “what if” scenarios followed.
In this case, the contract that was signed during the initial negotiations came into play. It stipulated changes to the scope of work during construction, how it could present delays, as well as influence the final cost of the project. Therefore, as both parties originally agreed to these written terms, the contract was very influential when delivering the message regarding the impacts of changing the stone materials.
Regardless of the written terms in the contract, open communication with the client and detailed explanations pertaining to such changes is a necessity. It is also a good idea to compile daily reports (with supporting images) and submit them to the client in the form of an e-mail. Not only does this add clarity, but it also opens the door for constant communication from start to finish.
An amicable resolution was agreed to whereby the landscape company accommodated the client’s request to change the stone and complete the surrounding areas of the hot tub.
A large crew was designated to outline and form the area for the coloured concrete, which was poured and sealed for additional protection. Another crew strategically cut and installed the stonework using an adhesive epoxy, which was followed by the application of sparkling epoxy grout.
The concrete, stonework, and stainless steel hot tub and fireplace truly reflected the client’s wish for a contemporary looking backyard. Thanks to a little patience and the understanding of the homeowner’s needs, the finished project is an immaculate leisure space respectful of the look they sought after.
