Jason wrote:
I've been living in my house for 3 years, and it came with an outdoor
hot tub (subjected to rain, sun, cold weather, etc). The cover wasn't
in the best condition when I moved in, but it has gotten considerably
worse, and a lot heavier. It's now way past the time to replace it.

In researching, I now understand that water logs the styrofoam, and I
should have probably replaced the cover a long time ago. But, I hate to
blow $300+ on something that I don't fully understand, and I certainly
don't like trusting my wallet to a salesman.

What do I REALLY need to know about the hot tub cover? Are there really
"better" ones that will save me a ton on my electric bill? Am I going
to have to replace the cover again in a few years, regardless of what I
buy this time?

In researching Google, I stumbled across SpaCap, www.spacap.com. It's
more expensive, but makes claims of lasting longer, being easier to
manipulate, and helping to save on the electric bill. But from the
site, it doesn't look like anything more than a cheap piece of vinyl.
Has anyone had experience with this that can verify or refute their
claims?

TIA,

Jason


Took a look at your link and it looks pretty questionable and flimsy to
me. I bought a replacement one from a company in Texas about 3 years
ago for around $325 I think. Don't remember the name, but sure you
can find them online. They make it to your measurements and you can
get it extra thick for more energy effieciency if you want.

Mine was well made, very durable and fit well. However, it is now
starting to get slightly heavier, so it is obviously starting to get
water absorption too. At this rate, looks like it may need to be
replaced again at 5-6 years life. Not sure what the typical life is.
The original lasted about 15 years. However the first 10, it was
used inside, which I believe makes a big difference. The main failure
seems to be that like yours, they get water logged. I'm no expert,
buy you would think they could seal these up better so that would not
happen.