Backyard swim spas have become popular additions to homes across the country (and beyond), and with their compact footprint and powerful swim technology, this is no surprise.
These modern pools have transformed the way you can swim at home, making it possible to enjoy the many benefits of having a pool without needing a large backyard to accommodate one.
If you’ve been in the market for a swim spa and are on the lookout for some inspiration as you prepare for this new, exciting backyard addition, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’re exploring the world of swim spa ownership, from the basic steps for installation to designing your dreamy new oasis. We’ll even share a few backyard swim spa installations to spark your imagination!
Let’s dive in and discover the future of your backyard.
Planning Your Swim Spa Installation
Before we get to the design elements to complement your swim spa, let’s first explore what you’ll need to do to prepare for your new swim spa.
Choosing The Right Location
Before you hop online or stop by your local swim spa dealership, you want to take a look at your backyard and determine where you imagine your swim spa getting installed.
While it’s tempting to jump right into picking your spa, you first need to know exactly how large or small it needs to be.
By choosing your ideal location beforehand and measuring the available space, you can quickly determine which sizes would best suit your space without leaving it too cramped.
As you assess your backyard, consider privacy, accessibility, and pre-existing structures that may complement your new swim spa.
Apply For Permits
Your city may require you to apply for certain permits, such as building or electricity permits, to install a swim spa, and some areas may require you to follow local zoning rules and Home Owner Association guidelines.
Before taking the plunge and investing in your swim spa, look into any necessary permits and await approval after applying for them.
If you’re unsure where to begin, talk to your swim spa dealership.
Selecting Your Backyard Swim Spa
Now that you know your sizing boundaries, and have your necessary permits, you can dive into choosing your dreamy new retreat!
Backyard swim spas come in a variety of styles, each featuring unique elements that enhance the experience beneath its waters.
This can include highly influential aspects like the type of swim jets or subtle elements like the shape of the interior. Here are a few things to consider as you narrow down your options:
- Insulation and energy efficiency
- Current speeds
- Jet configurations
- Maintenance features, such as dual filtration systems
- Gripped flooring to support various exercises
- Seating capacity
- Size of the swim area
Each of these elements will help you determine which model is best suited for your unique needs.
Backyard Prep
After you’ve chosen your swim spa, it’s time to begin preparing your backyard for its arrival. During this step, you’ll need to perform a number of steps alongside the help of professional contractors.
The first thing you’ll need to do is install your foundation. Your swim spa needs a strong, level foundation capable of supporting its weight.
The most common foundation is a concrete slab. Not only are they affordable, but they provide exceptional stability for years to come.
Alternatively, you could install your swim spa on a reinforced deck, paver stones, or your existing patio so long as it can withstand the weight of your spa. If you’re using a pre-existing structure, have a professional verify its weight limits and structure stability first.
Secondly, you’ll need to have your electrical installed. Swim spas require a lot of power, so they need a dedicated electrical line with a GFCI breaker. Hire a professional, insured electrician to perform this step, and request they be on-site on delivery day to ensure everything is hooked up properly.
Lastly, prepare the path the delivery team will take to get your swim spa to its new location. Measure your pathway to ensure it’s large enough for your swim spa to move through, and verify the pathway is cleared of any debris, such as low-hanging branches.
If you don’t have enough space for your spa to be moved into your backyard, you will require a crane to lower it into your backyard. Plan ahead for this step, working alongside your dealership.
Backyard Swim Spa Design Ideas
Your swim spa has arrived and is ready to enjoy—now’s the time to start transforming it into the outdoor paradise you’ve been envisioning.
Integrating Your Landscape
The landscaping in your backyard can play an integral role in setting the stage for your backyard atmosphere.
From retaining walls and raised decks to garden beds and custom steps, there are plenty of ways to create a unique space that reflects your unique aesthetic.
Here are some landscaping options to consider:
- Raised garden beds: Add a pop of color and a stunning design element that hugs one side of your spa.
- Box hedges or Arborvitae: Offering dense foliage and bright shades of green, these are great options to enhance privacy while creating a lush backyard oasis.
- Stone pathways: Easy access to your spa is key, and adding a stunning stone pathway leading directly to your new aquatic retreat is the perfect way to enhance accessibility while adding sophistication.
- Pergolas or gazebos: These elegant features offer ample protection while becoming a statement piece of your backyard.
Adding Privacy
When it comes to spending time in your backyard, the last thing you want is interruptions from neighbors or nearby traffic.
Adding privacy features can be a great way to enhance your comfort, keeping prying eyes at bay so you can fully relax each time you sink into the warm depths of your swim spa.
Here are some easy ways to enhance the privacy of your backyard swim spa:
- Trellis walls with climbing plants
- Dense foliage, such as jasmine bushes, hedges, or arborvitae
- Fencing or wood panel walls
- Decorative panels
- Stone walls
- Retractable privacy screens
Pair With Accessories
If you’re looking to enhance your time in the water, whether you want to improve your relaxation sessions or amplify your aquatic workouts, adding the right accessories is key.
Curious about what kind of accessories you should add to your list? Here are a few of our top suggestions:
- Aquatic fitness gear
- Hot tub safe aromatherapy or outdoor diffusers
- Hot tub sponges
- Steps and handrails
- Outdoor sound systems
- Waterproof fitness trackers
However you choose to customize your swim spa experience, the options are endless.
Get Inspired: Captivating Swim Spa Installations
Are you more of a visual person and love the idea of getting a sneak peek at what other people have chosen to do with their backyard swim spas? This section is for you!
Below, you’ll discover some exceptional installations to help spark your creativity!
This in-ground installation offers a high-end appeal, with the edge of the patio seamlessly blending into the welcoming waters of the spa. Paired with the Covana Legend swim spa cover, this installation maximizes safety and efficiency, while making it effortless to access the spa. Beyond the spa, the sophisticated stone bench seating creates a welcoming escape for those outside the water.
Have a deck and want to incorporate it into your swim spa design? This installation makes accessing the spa easy with custom steps and a raised deck to match the height of the spa. Featuring tall beams along one side, this backyard swim spa is perfectly designed for custom privacy elements like retractable screens or curtains and provides the ideal place for hanging plants.
Another deck-side design, this installation seamlessly combined poolside seating with a custom raised deck, transforming it into a family-friendly chill zone. Located directly outside the back door, slipping into the water of this spa, even in the middle of winter, is a breeze, ensuring your soothing retreat is always ready to welcome you into its depths.
This installation made the most of the stunning backyard view while adding privacy from the side and above. Featuring custom steps and a concrete walkway with lighting, this backyard design leads your eye through the space to land directly on the standout feature: the swim spa!
Backyard Swim Spas for Sale in Meredith, New Hampshire
If you’re ready to step into a backyard oasis that feels like a dream, Sundance Spas of New Hampshire is here to help!
With our collection of spas, you’ll discover premium models designed with impeccable attention to detail.
Visit our Amehers or Meredith, NH, showrooms today and discover your new backyard staple!
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