Aluminum vs Steel Hot Tub Steps: Which One Should You Buy?

Aluminum vs steel hot tub steps at a glance

What the listings say about weight and size

The clearest stated difference is weight. The Dark Grey aluminum steps list an item weight of 11.0 pounds, and the Teak Brown listing of the same steps lists 12.93893015678 pounds, while the steel steps list 33.0 pounds. The aluminum listings describe the same frame and treads, so the different stated weights are a listing quirk worth noting, not a property of the color.

The listed dimensions do not line up neatly. The aluminum steps list product dimensions of 20.9 inches by 4.99 inches by 14.8 inches, and the steel steps list 22.0 inches by 4.99 inches by 48.0 inches, with 4.99 inches as the middle figure in both. The listings give no labels for which figure is height, width or depth, so do not read 48.0 inches as the height of the steps alone. The aluminum listing also gives a size of 15.7 IN without saying what it measures, so treat that figure with care. The steel listing gives a size of 3 Steps, which matches its title.

Grip, stability and the handrail question

Both sides state a non-slip surface, in different forms. The aluminum steps have a non-slip wood grain surface and adjustable foot pads, and the listing states a weight capacity of 300 lbs. The steel steps use DIY non-slip tape in pre-measured mats that are removable for cleaning, and triangular bars reinforce the frame.

The handrail is where the steel listing disagrees with itself. The title says 1 handrail support, while the bullets say the steps are designed with sturdy handrails on both sides. The maker lists pre-drilled mounting holes for secure installation, so check the listing photos and the stated parts before you buy, and treat the handrail count as unclear until the listing agrees with itself. Our hot tub hand rail roundup covers rails as a separate buy.

Assembly and upkeep

The aluminum listing gives a concrete assembly claim: pre-drilled holes, simple installation instructions, and assembly in 15 minutes with only 4 steps, per the listing. The maker also claims weather and UV resistance, no cracks, and color that holds, with low maintenance cost over long term use. Those are the maker’s claims, stated in the listing, and the steps are listed for pools, spa benches, RVs, porches, high beds, kitchens and patio decks.

The steel steps come with all the necessary mounting hardware and require no special tools, per the listing. The black powder-coated finish is described as corrosion resistant, and the non-slip tape mats are removable for cleaning. The steel set is listed for RVs, campers, travel trailers, hot tubs and swimming spas, as well as use around the home, yard, garage or warehouse.

Gear for each side

These are scored on the Chill Score, which scores each set of steps on performance, build, value, safety and warranty. None of the listings states a UL or ETL listing, so all score zero for safety. Only the steel listing states a warranty term, so only it scores for warranty.

Scores run from 9.2 to 9.8: each product’s point total is placed on that range, so more points always means a higher score. Safety counts only for powered gear or where the listing states safety features; where it does not apply, the score is taken over the remaining 90 points.

Choose aluminum if

• You want the lighter set of steps: the Dark Grey listing states 11.0 pounds.
• You like a wood grain tread and adjustable foot pads, with a stated capacity of 300 lbs.
• You want a 15 minute assembly in 4 steps, per the listing.
• You want a choice of Dark Grey or Teak Brown to match the deck.

Choose steel if

• You want a handrail and a third step.
• You want mounting hardware included and no special tools, per the listing.
• You want a stated 1 year warranty.
• You want steps that also serve an RV, camper or travel trailer, per the listing.

Check Your Space First

• Measure the spot beside the tub against the listed dimensions: 20.9 inches by 4.99 inches by 14.8 inches for the aluminum steps, and 22.0 inches by 4.99 inches by 48.0 inches for the steel steps.
• Check the spot is level and firm for the load: the aluminum listings state a capacity of 300 lbs, while the steel listing gives no capacity figure. The steps themselves list 33.0 pounds for the steel set and 11.0 pounds for the Dark Grey aluminum listing.
• Leave room for the handrail on the steel steps, and check the listing photos before you buy.
• Keep the assembly area clear: the aluminum steps list 15 minutes and 4 steps, and the steel steps list mounting hardware with no special tools.
• Check the color against the deck: the aluminum steps come in Dark Grey and Teak Brown, and the steel steps come in Black.

Common questions

Are aluminum hot tub steps lighter than steel ones?

On the stated figures, yes. The Dark Grey aluminum steps list an item weight of 11.0 pounds, and the steel steps list 33.0 pounds. The Teak Brown aluminum listing states 12.93893015678 pounds, which is heavier than the Dark Grey figure for the same steps, so the aluminum weight depends on which listing you read.

Do hot tub steps need a handrail?

Not every set has one. The aluminum listings state no handrail, while the steel listing describes a handrail, though its title and bullets disagree on the count. If a rail matters to you, confirm the count in the listing before you buy, or see our hot tub hand rail roundup.

How many steps should hot tub steps have?

The listings here offer 2 steps on the aluminum side and 3 steps on the steel side. The steel listing gives a figure of 48.0 inches, but the listing does not say whether that figure is the step height or the height with the handrail, so compare the stated sizes with the height of your tub wall before you choose. The steel listing states a size of 3 Steps, and the aluminum listing states a size of 15.7 IN without saying what it measures.

Can aluminum hot tub steps stay outside?

The maker claims the HDPS treads and aluminum alloy frame resist weather and UV, prevent cracks, and hold color with low maintenance cost. That is the listing’s claim, not a promise we repeat as our own. The steps are listed for pools, spas, RVs, porches and patio decks.

What warranty comes with hot tub steps?

Only one listing here states a term: the steel steps list a 1 year warranty. The aluminum listings state no warranty term. Check the listing at checkout, since warranty terms can change.

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