The benefits of hot tubs are widely known. Incorporating a hot tub addition to an established Hardscape may be easier than you think.
You’ve seen the glossy pictures of luxurious retreats, of steaming-hot baths enjoyed outside, and you’ve decided it’s time to build the dream in your own backyard. A nice long soak in a hot tub is one of life’s simplest and purest pleasures. We’ve covered the basics about spas. Check out this article to begin your research.
Attached or Detached
Once you’ve decided on the type of spa will fit best your needs, next is determining the positioning of the structure.
New installation
If the spa is part of a new pool installation, positioning options may be predetermined by the pool’s orientation in your backyard. Some homeowners use attached spas to relax after swimming and prefer the spa to be closest to the house for quicker entry after finishing the soak. Most designs situate the spa well away from any diving boards to avoid splash.
Pool addition
A spill-over spa can be added to an established pool for less cost than one may assume. Vinyl spa kits are available for homeowners interested in a pool remodel project. Where the kit is installed is best determined with the help of a pool expert, as spa addition may change the pool’s water maintenance and power supply systems.
Stand Alone
Homeowners interested in a year-round spa experience are better off with a detached, stand-alone spa. A spa closer to the house is preferable to use in the cold winter months when a long stroll back to shelter may prove challenging.
Integration into the Hardscape
Luxury status
Designing your spa area in the same style as a deluxe resort is actually quite simple. The key is to ensure safe, easy and plentiful access to the structure. Steps, patio space, walkways and decking all contribute to the overall feel of the spa. Having more than one access point to the spa helps add to the welcoming aura of the space. Integrating seating and garden walls around the spa also helps add that resort look.
Materials also make a difference in the feeling of luxury. Paving stones make building a resort-level spa affordable and they are meant to last (unlike wood decking which will need frequent replacing).
Small and intimate
Perhaps a solo or couple experience is what you’re looking for in a spa, as opposed to an open, guest-filled gathering. One access point to the spa, privacy walls and less surrounding seating are some design options to use when constructing a cozy spa area. Paving stones and capstones come in all shapes and sizes. Choosing a smaller-surface stone, as opposed to large, square patio pavers like Lastra porcelain tiles, may help in designing a look that welcomes a guest into a private alcove.
Versatile options
Your established Hardscape does not need to determine which kind of spa to install. Any spa option is able to be integrated into your current Hardscape. Paving stones are designed in multiple and various shapes, sizes and colors, and it will be easy to find pavers to use in your spa area that complement your patio. Keep your imagination open to the possibilities.
Ask around
As always, the best information comes from those who have experienced the challenges. Ask around. Other spa/pool owners may have some insights and hints that can help you choose which design will work well for your family. For example, some of our customers suggest having some sort of foot bath near a spa to help keep it free of dirt and grass. There are always little things that only experienced spa owners would know.
Enjoy
A spa brings a whole new level of outdoor enjoyment into your life. In addition to the known health benefits of a spa for individuals, spas provide, essentially, another hearth to your home. Spas are gathering places as well as sanctuaries for private reflection. Adding a spa to your outdoor space will bring more opportunities to connect with others and center oneself.
