Hot tub cover vendor

[spalover]

Hi everyone

I'm looking to replace the cover on my Sundance spa. It is a regular shaped hot tub, and the dealer is quoting over $500 for a new one. I found several sites online selling them, and they also offer free shipping. Does anyone have any experience with http://www.hottubcoverdepot.com or http://www.beyondnice.com? Any other suggestions?

[spalover]

Also, does anyone know whether the following upgrades are worth it? I am not sure what options we might need, or if they're necessary, and would appreciate any opinions.

• 2.0 pound foam core
• extra thick vapor barrier (5mil)

Thanks!

[Dr. Spa™ Ret.]

the depot place advertises a 26 oz. Marine Grade. This is the thinnest lightest vinyl I've ever heard of being used in a spa cover. They give the cold crack rating (something worthless as the cover is ALWAYS warmed by the spa), but mention nothing about the UV or pigment rating. They mention nothing that I can find about the thickness of the polyethylene wrapping the foam cores, other than it's "thick", or how it's sealed (one of THE most important aspects of a cover). They say they use galvanized channel support, but don't bother to mention what gauge the steel is (typically this kind of information is omitted for a reason...........they don't want you to know :-) ). And lastly, they're stealing one of my photographs.

beyondnice...the R-value they list is either exaggerated, or not determined by standard ASTM testing standards. HEY! These guys are stealing the same exact picture as the other site...........me thinks they're the same company....in fact, looking at their specs, and how the site is written, I'd say they're the same company.

[wmccall]

Also, does anyone know whether the following upgrades are worth it? I am not sure what options we might need, or if they're necessary, and would appreciate any opinions.

• 2.0 pound foam core
• extra thick vapor barrier (5mil)

I don't know about these options, but having had a 10 years of use. Reinforced hinge and straps is a useful option. My last cover is still in good shape on all its seams.
Thanks!

[Dr. Spa™ Ret.]

2 pound foam is excellent where additional strength is needed. For every pound of weight 1 pound foam will support, 2 pound foam will support 2 pounds of weight. Remember though, 2 pound foam is twice as heavy as 1 pound.

Insulation wise, the gain isn't so great, based on 1" of foam thickness, #2 = R-4.35, 1.5# = R-4.17 and 1# = R-3.85

One big advantage of 2# foam is that it's ability to absorb moisture is much less than 1# foam.

The vapor barrier is probably your best investment, though 5 mil is still a bit low.

[Shaamus]

Both companies (if they are separate companies) appear to be selling Prestige Spa Covers.