How to Measure a Replacement Hot Tub Cover
Get length, width, corner radius and skirt length correct the first time. This guide takes 10 minutes and saves you from a cover that does not fit.
What You Need Before You Measure
Before you touch the tape measure, gather these:
- Rigid tape measure (not a soft cloth one)
- A helper (strongly recommended for accurate readings)
- Notepad or phone for notes and photos
- A straight edge for corner radius (ruler, book, cutting board, yardstick)
Step 1: Measure the Hot Tub Shell, Not the Old Cover
Old covers warp, sag, and swell after a few seasons. If you measure the old cover, you will get inaccurate dimensions and your new cover will not fit.
Rule: Always measure the actual top edge of your hot tub shell, outside-to-outside, lip-to-lip. Measure both length and width.
Step 2: Measure the Corner Radius
This is the single most-missed measurement. Place a straight edge (ruler or book) flush against one corner so it touches both straight sides. Measure the gap between the straight edge and the curve at the deepest point. That is your corner radius.
Common corner radii are 4 inch, 6 inch, 8 inch, and 10 inch. Measure carefully because a 1 inch error here means your cover will not seal properly.
Step 3: Decide on Skirt Length
The skirt is the part of the cover that hangs down past the spa edge. Standard skirt length is 5 inches.
Measure from the cover edge down to where you want the skirt to end. For most spas this is the top of the cabinet or the top of the deck. Longer skirts trap more heat but cost slightly more.
Step 4: Choose Your Taper
The taper is the difference in thickness between the edge of the cover and the peak in the middle. The taper helps snow and rain run off.
- 5-to-3 inch (standard): 5 inches thick at the edge, 3 inches at the peak. Right for most Canadian climates.
- 6-to-4 inch (heavy snow): For Northern Ontario, BC interior, Quebec, parts of Alberta with heavy snow loads.
Not Sure? Submit a Custom Cover Quote
Our Customer Care team confirms every measurement with you before production starts. If you tell us your hot tub make and model, we can often verify the standard dimensions and corner radius from manufacturer data. We will not start production until you and our team have agreed on the specs.
Ready for a Cover That Lasts?
Premium materials standard. 3-year warranty, not pro-rated. Free shipping across most of Canada.