Build your own wood-fired hot tub from scratch, no electricity, no plumber, no compromises. This is the book that takes you from an idea to a finished tub. Whether you want a traditional cedar barrel, a timber-framed box with a liner, a budget stock tank conversion or a permanent concrete installation, every method is covered in full detail with exact specifications, real-world dimensions and proven techniques.
What makes this book different? This is not a collection of weekend project summaries. It is a comprehensive construction manual written by a builder who has done the work. Every chapter gives you the specific measurements, materials, tools and sequences you need. No vague advice. No hand-waving. Just clear, tested instructions from foundation to first soak.
Inside you will find: • Four complete build methods, barrel (cooperage), box/square (timber frame + liner), stock tank conversion (budget) and concrete (permanent), each with full step-by-step construction sequences • Thermosiphon heating explained from first principles, how natural convection circulates water through an external wood-burning stove without pumps or electricity • Stove selection, sizing and installation, internal, external and copper coil options with heat-up calculations for every tub volume • Site preparation and foundation design, gravel pad, concrete slab, timber deck and paving options with load calculations • Plumbing, drainage and overflow systems, pipe sizing, routing, materials and connection techniques for reliable thermosiphon flow • Insulation and covers, how to cut heating time by 30–50% and retain temperature 2–3× longer • Water quality management, the fresh water approach, hydrogen peroxide sanitisation and seasonal maintenance schedules • Decking, steps, privacy screening, lighting and landscaping, turning a tub into a complete outdoor living space • European building regulations, country-specific guidance for France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the UK including solid fuel installation standards and chimney requirements • Complete materials checklists, stove manufacturer comparison tables, dimension references and a troubleshooting guide
All measurements in metric. All prices in euros. All regulations European. Written for both experienced builders looking for a new challenge and enthusiastic beginners willing to learn. Everything is explained from the ground up, no prior construction experience assumed. Part of The Self-Builder’s Library series by Andrew Calder. Also available: How to Build a Sauna.
