How to make a template
Materials you will need: Materials needed: 5-6 mil 10ft x 100 ft clear plastic, electrical tape, a sharpie marker, a pair of scissors. NOTE: It must be clear plastic, and it must be at least 5 mil in thickness to prevent stretching. The thicker the better
Stretch plastic over spa and pull tight, so there are no wrinkles or bubbles and secure to the sides of the spa shell/cabinet, housing.
With a Sharpie or similar type of permanent marker:
Trace outside (O.D.) of shell on all sides.
Trace inside (I.D.) of shell on all sides. If the spa is built in, indicate this as waterline.
Trace an outline of controls and anything on top of spa lip that might hinder a good seal.
Keeping in mind that the seal must rest on a flat surface to seal correctly, mark where you would like the cover to rest with a dotted line. If you are not sure, skip this step and we will determine it for you.
With a dotted line, mark where you would like the hinge. If no markings, then we will determine the best location.
This is the finished template that has been marked accordingly. Notice how we have captured the controls, cut outs, cup holders/speakers. The template has been marked to show water line (ID) and the outside edge of the spa shell (OD).
How to make a template for an inground spa/hot tub
The best way to make a template for an inground spa. All of the instructions apply for either application. Just note for an inground spa we need the inside dimension (ID) marked see photos
MUST MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE ON YOUR TEMPLATE:
YOUR NAME, YOUR CITY OR PO#, MUST ALSO MARK TOP SO WE DO NOT MAKE THE COVER UPSIDE DOWN. LAST MARK WITH A DOTTED LINE WHICH DIRECTION YOU WANT THE HINGE