Backyard Swim Spa Installation in Kalispell, MT - Your Complete Guide

The allure of a backyard swim spa combines the relaxation of a hot tub with the exercise capabilities of a swimming pool, right in the comfort of your own home.

Especially in Kalispell, MT, where the backdrop of stunning landscapes adds to the charm, installing a swim spa can transform your backyard into a year-round retreat.

If you’ve been considering investing in a backyard swim spa and are finally ready to take the leap, you’ve come to the right place.

This guide will walk you through every step of installing a swim spa, ensuring you make informed decisions to enhance your property's value and your lifestyle.

Planning Your Backyard Swim Spa Installation

Before you jump right into selecting your dreamy new backyard addition, you’ll need to take a few steps to ensure you know what your constraints are, especially when it comes to sizing! Here are three things you’ll need to do before hitting the showroom:

Choosing the Right Location

Your choice of location will influence the enjoyment and functionality of your swim spa, making it an important inclusion in this pre-planning phase. Considerations should include things like:

• Exposure to sunlight
• Privacy
• Proximity to your house
• Ease of delivery (think accessibility!)
• Space

By considering each of these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down the optimal location for a swim spa in your backyard. Once you know this, it’s time to take precise measurements and move on to the next step: exploring your options!

Size and Installation Considerations

Swim spas come in various sizes, and selecting the right one depends on your available space and how you plan to use it.

Whether you're using it for rigorous aquatic workouts, relaxing hydrotherapy sessions, or quality family time, ensure the dimensions accommodate your needs.

Consider the layout of the hydrotherapy seats, the size of the swim area, and the power of the swim jets.

In terms of installation, you have two main styles you could choose from: above-ground or below-ground. Above-ground installations may create a luxurious, high-end feel to your space, but they require more work to install and are thus more costly.

Above-ground installations, on the other hand, are much more popular due to their ease of installation and cost-effectiveness. If you want that “in-ground” feel without the work, simply install your swim spa next to a raised deck!

Obtaining Necessary Permits

Before you take the final step and invest in your new backyard swim spa, it's crucial to handle the legalities.

In Kalispell, this means securing the right permits. Each area has its own requirements based on the size and type of construction, so contact your local city center to avoid any legal hassles and ensure your installation complies with all local zoning laws and building codes.

Preparing for Installation

Now that you’ve laid the groundwork and have taken the leap into swim spa ownership, it’s time to start preparing your backyard! Here are the two most important elements you’ll need to have ready before delivery day.

Ground Preparation

When preparing your backyard for a swim spa, the foundation you choose is crucial to the longevity and safety of your investment.

A properly prepared foundation not only supports the weight of the spa, which can be considerable when filled with water and users, but it also prevents a host of structural and operational issues down the line.

Here's a more detailed look at the foundation options:

Concrete Slab:

• Strength and Stability: A concrete slab is one of the most popular and reliable foundation choices for a swim spa. It provides a level, sturdy surface that can easily support the weight of the spa. Concrete should be at least 4 inches thick and reinforced with wire mesh or rebar to increase its strength.
• Preparation: The site needs to be cleared and leveled. Formwork is then set up to define the area where the concrete will be poured. Ensure proper drainage away from the spa to prevent water accumulation.
• Longevity: Concrete offers great longevity, resisting weather changes and ground movement. Once cured, it requires minimal maintenance and provides a permanent fixture for your swim spa.

Compacted Gravel:

• Flexibility and Drainage: Gravel is another suitable option, especially if you prefer a less permanent solution or if your backyard has drainage issues. A gravel base should be made of crushed stone, typically 4 to 6 inches deep, and compacted until the particles are tightly packed.
• Preparation: Level the ground and remove any sod or debris. Install a border around the area to keep the gravel contained, and then layer and compact the gravel until it is flat and firm.
• Benefits: Gravel provides excellent drainage and can be easier to install and remove if you decide to relocate your swim spa.

Pavers:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Pavers offer a visually appealing alternative that can complement your landscape design. They need to be laid over a well-compacted base of sand and gravel to ensure stability and levelness.
• Preparation: Like with gravel, start by leveling the site. Lay down landscape fabric to prevent weed growth, followed by a layer of gravel and sand for the pavers to rest on. Ensure each paver is level and tightly fitted to prevent shifting.
• Maintenance: Pavers may require periodic adjustment if they settle unevenly, but they provide a durable and attractive foundation.

Decking:

• Elevated Installation: Installing your swim spa on a deck allows for an elevated view of your surroundings and can be integrated into the existing deck or a new structure specifically designed to support the weight of a full spa.
• Preparation: Ensure the deck frame is sturdy and reinforced to handle the additional load. Consulting with a structural engineer or a professional builder is advisable to confirm the deck can support the spa's weight.
• Considerations: Wood or composite materials can be used. However, they require more maintenance than concrete or gravel and must be treated to withstand moisture and prevent decay.

Each foundation option has its advantages, depending on your specific needs, budget, and backyard conditions.

Properly preparing the foundation for your backyard swim spa is essential for ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and long-lasting leisure experience.

Electrical Requirements

Most swim spas require a 220-240 volt, dedicated electrical connection to provide the necessary power for the high-performance heaters and pumps to work as needed.

Adhering to local electrical codes and regulations is non-negotiable. These codes are designed to ensure that all electrical installations are safe and do not pose any hazard to homeowners.

This makes it imperative to hire a certified electrician to complete this work. They will know how to properly run the necessary electrical, incorporating safety measures such as ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).

Delivery Day Basics

The process of delivering and placing your swim spa in your backyard is not one to underestimate, given the size and weight of these luxurious units. Here are some factors you’ll want to consider:

• Coordination with Delivery Services: Professional delivery services specialize in handling large and heavy items like swim spas. It’s essential to coordinate with them beforehand to discuss access routes to your backyard and any potential obstacles that might complicate delivery, such as gates, steps, or uneven terrain. Your dealership should be able to help coordinate this process.
• Using the Right Equipment: Typically, specialized equipment such as cranes or forklifts might be required, especially if the spa needs to be lifted over your house or a fence. The use of such equipment ensures that the swim spa is handled safely and lowers the risk of damage to both the spa and your property.
• Electrical Connection: As previously discussed, ensuring that your swim spa is connected to a suitable power source is crucial. This needs to be done by a certified electrician who has already prepared the site with the necessary electrical wiring and connections.

Bring It All Together With Some Final Touches

Once your new backyard swim spa is finally in place and your delivery professionals have walked off site, it's time to finally begin enhancing your space with the perfect blend of elements.

Here are some factors to consider as you navigate the endless landscaping and design possibilities.

Enhancing Privacy

Privacy is a crucial aspect of creating a relaxing and secluded backyard swim spa environment and can be done in a variety of ways.

• Strategic Plantings: Consider planting tall shrubs or fast-growing trees around your swim spa area. Species like arborvitae, bamboo, or holly can serve as natural privacy screens that also add a touch of greenery. Ensure these plants are suited to the local climate and position them to block prevailing winds or direct sightlines from neighbors.
• Decorative Fencing: Installing fencing can instantly increase privacy. Choose materials that complement your home’s exterior and landscape design. Options like cedar panels or composite materials offer longevity and require minimal maintenance. Decorative lattice panels can add a stylish element while still blocking unwanted views.
• Privacy Screens: For a more flexible option, consider freestanding privacy screens. These can be made from wood, metal, or even weather-resistant fabric. Screens are ideal for smaller spaces or where you want the option to move or adjust the barriers as needed.

Decorative Touches

Enhancing the area around your swim spa with decorative touches not only increases functionality but also elevates the overall aesthetics of your outdoor space.

• Surrounding Deck: Building a deck around your swim spa can make it a seamless part of your outdoor living space. Use materials that match or complement your existing outdoor decking. Ensure that the deck is built with slip-resistant materials for safety and consider built-in benches or steps for easy access to the spa.
• Stone Patio: A stone patio creates a durable and attractive ground cover around your swim spa. Choose flagstone, slate, or even pebbles for a natural look. The texture and color of natural stone can enhance the spa’s appearance while providing a sturdy surface for spa users.
• Integrated Steps: If your swim spa is above ground, integrated steps are essential not only for accessibility but also for aesthetics. Choose materials that match or accent your spa and the surrounding features. Steps can be built from wood, stone, or composite materials and can include handrails for additional safety.
• Outdoor Lighting: Install ambient lighting to enhance the mood in the evening. Solar or LED lights can be placed around the deck, pathways, or plants to create a serene evening setting.
• Weather-Resistant Furniture: Add functional but stylish furniture to make the space more inviting. Choose materials that can withstand the local climate, such as teak, wrought iron, or synthetic rattan. Include waterproof cushions for comfort and color, and consider a small outdoor table for refreshments or accessories.

By incorporating these features, your swim spa can become more than just a place to relax or exercise; it transforms into a core element of your backyard oasis.

Each of these elements not only adds privacy and functionality but also enhances the overall beauty of your outdoor living space, making your home a haven for relaxation and entertainment.

Elevate Your Kalispell Backyard With a Swim Spa from Big John’s

Installing a backyard swim spa, is not just an upgrade to your property—it's an investment in a lifestyle of relaxation, health, and continuous enjoyment.

With the right planning, foundation, and aesthetic enhancements, your swim spa can become an integral and cherished part of your home.

As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that expert advice and professional service are invaluable. For residents of Kalispell and the surrounding areas, the team at Big John's is ready to help you find the ideal swim spa that fits your space and preferences.

Whether you're just starting to explore your options or are ready to invest in your chosen spa, Big John's offers a range of services to guide you every step of the way.

Visit Big John's today to discover how easy and rewarding it can be to bring the luxury and comfort of a swim spa into your backyard.

Let us help you transform your outdoor space into a haven of leisure and delight that you and your family can enjoy year after year.