Swimming pool builders in Knoxville, Tennessee understand that when the pool is closed for the season that thoughts will turn to “maybe we should get a hot tub or spa this year.” If this is the stage where you are now, you will be making decisions on whether to have an above ground or an in ground model spa or Jacuzzi. Ask your swimming pool builder about the pros and cons of each type so you can make an informed decision.
The budget for the project should be top of mind when making decisions and having an idea in mind of what you can spend for the construction
as well as on going maintenance should be done prior to your meeting with a hot tub contractor. A hot tub may cost anywhere between $5,000 and $25,000 depending on many factors including the size, the building material, the accessories as well as its placement. An in ground hot tub or spa means you will need to have a site excavated and landscaped for it and this will be more labor intensive and thus will have more of an upfront cost. Estimates for operating costs for both models will be around $30 monthly for utility costs, care and maintenance. Above ground models run between $3,000 and $12,000 for installation.
An above ground structure will typically require less maintenance than in ground ones. Regardless of the model you choose, check with your swimming pool builder about warranty information on parts and how they vary between manufacturers.
After you’ve checked your budget and the warranty information for the model you’re looking into you will need to decide where to place the spa. Is there an existing deck where it can be placed? If you live in an area of the country where you experience snow and frost, you may want to have the hot tub close so you can get to it easily in the winter. There is nothing better on a snowy evening than to slip into the soothing, bubbling water and watching the snow melt on the surface. Talk with your swimming pool builder about the utilities you will need for it – do you have a water source nearby? Will you need to run electricity for it?
You will want to sit in and “sample” some hot tubs to get a feel for how they fit you and the ideal placement for the jets. When you’re in it make certain the seats are comfortable and check out the various types of jets. You need to decide whether you want therapeutic jets or simple jets. If it is going to have to fit people of disparate heights you will want seats that comfortably fit those individuals.
Talk with your pool builder and hot tub contractor about the type of cover you should purchase. You need a quality cover, but if it is heavy, you will want to buy a cover lifter as well.
There are myriad accessories to liven up your hot tub – from retractable televisions to wine refrigerators to towel heating racks – your imagination and the depth of your wallet is the limit when looking into your purchase. Have fun and enjoy your hot tub time!