Ask 'Dr. Spa' Q & A Message Board

: You've actually answered your own question without even realizing it.
: Your problem is that you are obviously shopping the low end of the
: spa cover market. Unfortunately, most people do it, so you are
: certainly in the majority. The problem is that everyone expects to
: get high quality in the low end of the market. That will not happen.

: At $350 to $400, this means that you are actually spending around $300
: or so on the cover. The rest is shipping. $300 is decidedly low end
: in this business. Most cover manufacturers offer covers of various
: quality in order to appeal to folks in various market segments.
: Unfortunately, the majority of folks choose the low end and wonder
: why their cover lasts for only a couple of years at best.

: I try to talk my customers into better quality covers. I have reasonable
: success. The cover that is currently on my tub is a very high quality
: cover that is about ten years old now. It is a bit faded from the
: weather and sun, but it is not waterlogged (double wrapped,
: hermetically sealed inserts) and the stitching is in great shape. In
: fact, it is triple stitched in key areas for strength. I was willing
: to spend the additional money for this cover. Unfortunately, you
: would have to be willing to spend an additional $200 for this level
: of quality. Are you willing to do that?

: John
John, I share this view of hot tub covers. I am on my second cover in 6 years, so about 3 years per cover. The first one waterlogged and finally tore apart right down the middle of the two halves. I suspect the one I have will probably do the same some time in the next 12 months. These are covers sold with Hot Springs spas.
Are you suggesting that we "upgrade" to a more expensive cover with the hope of finding better quality? I would gladly spend $500 if I knew the cover would last for atleast 5 years. My tub is outside and we do have hot summers and cold winters here in the midwest. I dont expect a miracle but I would appreciate something that would last. What brand or source do you recommend? Thanks!