What better way to relax after a long and stressful day than with a spa of your very own in the backyard. If you are considering whether a spa is the right choice for you, you’ve come to the right place. We have put together a complete guide to spas and swim spas to inform you of everything you need to know before making your decision.
What is a spa?
A spa is essentially a small sized pool that has designated seating, heating, and spa jets. They are primarily used for rest and relaxation. A spa allows you to enjoy all the benefits that water offers whilst being far more cost effective and easier to maintain than a swimming pool. Spas and swim spas come in a selection of colours, styles, and designs so you are sure to find a style that suits your lifestyle requirements.
Different types of spas
Swim spas
Swim spas are larger than a regular spa as they are designed for relaxation as well as fitness and hydrotherapy purposes. They are great for those who have a courtyard or are limited on space as they are far smaller than a normal sized pool. As swim spa owners use their spa for relaxation on a regular basis, they tend to cost more in heating then those who own a regular sized pool. This is because they are generally heated to a higher temperature and for longer periods of time.
Spas
Spas offer many of the benefits that swim spas do although they don’t have enough room to swim in them. Due to their small size they can only be used for hydrotherapy and relaxation. Spas are relatively simple to maintain.
Pool with a spa
A pool with a spa incorporated into its design provides the ultimate swimming experience. This type of style is multipurpose and allows you to swim laps and play with the kids in the pool before moving into the spa to relax. Perfect for entertaining, as there is ample room for the kids to swim and play in the pool while the adults kick back and relax in the spa area. A pool spa design looks impressive and can add to the overall appeal of your pool. The only negative to this spa type is that it is more expensive to install and it will cost more to run than if you just had one style or the other.
How do you install a spa?
Spas and swim spas can be either freestanding or installed inground. They can be installed as a part of a pool design or on their own. Each installation method has its advantages and disadvantages.
In-ground
Inground spas tie well with an array of backyards. As they are installed inground rather than just placed on the ground they can be easily blended in to create a cohesive space. Inground spas can create a stunning feature in the backyard and if done well, can potentially add value to your home. The only downfall to having a spa installed inground is that it will cost more as the construction process is far more labour intensive.
Above ground
There are two different types of above ground spas and they are ready made and freestanding spas. Whilst they are the cheapest spa option on the market, you should know that they aren’t as sturdy or durable as a spa that is installed inground. They also aren’t as appealing and it can be hard to incorporate them into the style of your backyard. It is very unlikely that they will add any value to your home if you decide to sell.
What are the ongoing costs associated with running a spa?
There are a few factors that can affect the amount of money you will spend on your spa. How big your spa is, how often you use it and whether you have help from solar or not can all affect your spas ongoing costs. To give you an idea, a large spa such as a swim spa, costs around $15 a week whereas a smaller type costs around $10. If you do not heat your spa, they only cost about $3 a week.
Fencing for your spa
It is a mandatory requirement that all bodies of water deeper than 30mm, spas included, have a compliant pool fence in place. If you don’t, you could face hefty fines. It is a good idea to consider your spa fencing in the design phase. Your pool builder can advise you of your fencing options. Ensure that your pool fence meets the national standards that are in place and is compliant before construction is finished.
Benefits of spas and swim spas
Sitting in warm water whilst getting massaged by spa jets is obviously relaxing. But did you know there are additional benefits to owning a spa? Some of them include:
Encourages you outside
Being outside in the fresh air has an array of benefits and what better way to that than sitting in a warm spa enjoying the serenity.
Reduce stress
Unwinding in the spa after a long day can reduce stress and improve overall mental wellbeing. There’s nothing more relaxing than immersing yourself in warm water with spa jets and bubbles.
Sleep better
Warm water is known to relax the entire body which will result in a better night’s sleep. Relaxing in the spa before bedtime will leave your body rested and ready for sleep.
Alleviate pain
Warm water along with spa jets can work to massage tired and sore muscles as well as reduce pain associated with injuries or conditions such as osteoarthritis.
Beneficial for cardiovascular health
When submerged in water, it puts pressure on the body and in turn it increases your heart rate. This can have positive impacts on your cardiovascular health.
Improve health and wellbeing
Having a spa of your own allows you to relax and destress every day. This can drastically improve your overall well being.
Quality time with those you care about most
A spa means getting outside, away from technology to spend time together as a family. They are also ideal for entertaining when friends come over.
Some factors to consider before purchasing a spa or swim spa
Purchasing a spa is big decision, here are some things you should consider before buying one to ensure you are getting the best value for money:
• How much can you afford to spend on a spa?
• How much space are you willing to give up for a spa?
• The number of people using it
• Do you want it exclusively for relaxation or fitness too?
• Will it work well in the layout of your backyard?
Your pool builder can offer helpful advice regarding which type of spa is best suited to your lifestyle requirements.
Are you ready to improve your lifestyle?
We hope this article has provided you with an insight into spas and the benefits that they offer. If you would like further information, give our friendly team at Barrier Reef Pools Perth a call. We have extensive experience fitting and installing award winning spas and swim spas and are happy to help if we can.
