Why Should You Measure Your Cover Correctly?
Kerry AvisAre you considering purchasing a new cover. Measuring a hot tub cover can be more challenging than it seems, resulting in incorrect orders. We are here to help you properly measure the cover. Call Kerry 01293 824094
Spa Cover Features
- 5″ x 3″ Tapered Hard Top Cover
- Spa covers are available in several sizes
- Marine grade vinyl in charcoal grey and coffee brown
- 8 secure safety straps
- 6 reinforced handles
- Full seam heat seal
Measuring a hot tub cover is not always as easy as it looks, and we do get orders where the wrong size has been purchased.
If you are happy with the fit of your current cover then we recommend measuring that:
However, not only do you need to measure the length and width as shown, you also need to measure the radius corners, this is really important and often catches people out:
If you follow these instructions here's what you will achieve:
1. Perfect Fit
Accurate measurements ensure your cover fits perfectly. A cover that's too large can look sloppy, while one that's too small might not fit or protect your Spa properly. A correct measurement ensures a snug, tailored fit.
2. Enhanced Protection
A well-fitting cover will stay in place better, offering more reliable protection over time and preventing the wear-and-tear that can result from ill-fitting covers.
3. Improved Aesthetics
A cover that’s the right size looks more polished and professionally done. .
4. Longevity and Durability
When covers fit correctly, they last longer. Covers that are too tight might strain and tear over time, while those that are too loose may bunch up, causing friction or pulling that could lead to premature wear. Proper measurements extend the lifespan of both the cover and the item it’s protecting.
In short, accurate measurements give you better functionality, aesthetics, and durability—plus, they can save you the hassle of returns or adjustments!
Measuring step by step
You will need a tape measure, a notepad, a straight edge such as a spirit level or a length of timber, and ideally a second person.
- Take the old cover off and make sure the acrylic lip of the spa is clean and dry.
- Measure the length (A) across the top, from the outside edge of the acrylic on one side to the outside edge on the other. Measure through the middle, not near a corner.
- Measure the width (B) the same way, at a right angle to the length.
- Measure the corner radius (C) on one corner, as described below. Check another corner to make sure they match.
- Write everything down in centimetres, and take a photo of the spa from above with the tape in place.
The corner radius, explained in words
Few spas have sharp, square corners. The acrylic curves round, and the cover has to match that curve. Picture laying two straight edges along two sides of the spa so that they stick out past the corner and cross, making an imaginary square corner in mid-air. The radius is the distance from that imaginary corner back along one straight edge to the point where the spa's edge starts to curve away from it.
- A small radius, such as 6 cm or 10 cm, means a fairly tight corner.
- A large radius, such as 28 cm, means a very rounded corner.
As a guide, a cover made with a 10 cm radius will also sit on spas with a larger radius, but a cover with a large radius will leave gaps on a spa with tight corners.
Common measuring mistakes
| Mistake | What happens | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring the cabinet instead of the acrylic lip | The cover is too big and the edges overhang | Measure the acrylic edge only |
| Measuring the old cover | Any stretch or shrinkage is copied | Measure the spa, unless the old cover fitted perfectly |
| Ignoring the corner radius | Gaps at the corners, heat loss | Always measure and note the radius |
| Assuming the spa is square | The cover will not sit down evenly | Measure length and width separately |
| Mixing inches and centimetres | The wrong size is ordered | Pick one unit and stick to it |
When you can skip measuring
If you own a Canadian Spa hot tub, many replacement covers are listed by model, so you can order by name. Search for your model in our replacement hot tub covers, for example the Niagara and Vancouver cover or the Winnipeg cover. For other spas, our Deluxe square covers come in standard sizes from 198 to 233 cm.
Frequently asked questions
My measurements fall between two standard sizes. Which do I choose?
Call us on 01293 824094 before ordering. A cover that is too small will not sit on the spa, and one that is too large will let heat out at the edges.
Do I need to measure the skirt?
Usually not for a standard cover, but if your old skirt was noticeably too long or short, measure from the top edge of the acrylic down the cabinet and tell us.
What if my spa is round or octagonal?
Measure the diameter across the widest point for a round spa. For an octagon, measure across the flats and the length of one side, and send us a photo.
Why does the fit matter so much?
A good seal keeps heat in, keeps rain and debris out, and lets the safety straps lock properly.
Need a new cover?
Find a replacement cover for your hot tub, and a lifter to make it easier to handle.