Are you longing for a luxurious retreat right in your own backyard? Envision a cozy space turned into a haven for relaxation and socializing. It’s time to transform that dream into a tangible existence! By combining a hot tub and fire pit, you can transform your modest outdoor area into a chic and welcoming escape. Adding a hot tub instantly enhances any backyard, providing a peaceful getaway from the daily routine. Whether you desire to unwind after a long day or host a memorable gathering with loved ones, a hot tub offers endless opportunities for both relaxation and entertainment. While the water eases away your worries, you can revel in the warmth and serenity of your personal retreat. But why stop there? Introducing a fire pit creates a warm atmosphere and extends your outdoor enjoyment. Imagine yourself gathered around the flickering flames, toasting marshmallows and exchanging stories with family and friends. The combination of a hot tub and fire pit strikes the perfect balance between luxurious spa-like indulgence and rustic allure. So, start imagining the makeover of your small backyard into a lavish retreat with a hot tub and fire pit. With some creativity and the right design, you can craft a space that beckons you to step outside and savor the ultimate in comfort and relaxation.
Advantages of owning a spa in your outdoor space
As the days lengthen and the temperatures climb, summer is the ideal time to relish outdoor leisure. What better way to enjoy the warm weather than soaking in a hot tub in your yard? Imagine immersing yourself in the soothing warm waters after a day of summer pursuits or hosting a memorable gathering with friends and family in your yard. Here’s why a hot tub is the perfect addition to your yard this summer and how our latest range of hot tubs can enhance your relaxation experience.
While hot tubs of any style offer various health and wellness benefits, outdoor hot tubs go a step further just by being in the great outdoors!
Below, we’ll outline some of the top health benefits you can experience every time you soak in a relaxing hot tub, along with some that can only be achieved from an outdoor installation.
- Optimal Recovery After Exercising
Many athletes use hydrotherapy to aid in restoring and rehabilitating healing joints and muscles. With the aid of jetted hydromassage and soothing warm water enveloping your body, you can help expedite healing throughout your body after a workout.
These elements can assist in eliminating lactic acid and loosening tight muscles, while enhancing blood flow to better oxygenate even the muscles farthest from your heart. Spending time in a hot tub reduces soreness and stiffness after engaging in strenuous activities and can also lower your risk of injury. Hot tubs easily serve as the ultimate post-workout recovery regimen and are a wonderful way to reward yourself!
- A Enjoyable New Exercise Routine
Hot tubs aren’t just great for after exercising; you can also incorporate them into your exercise routine! You may be curious about how to work out in a hot tub, and the answer is actually quite simple. There are numerous low-impact exercises you can perform in an outdoor hot tub that can improve your strength, flexibility, and muscle tone, while also safeguarding your joints! For many bodyweight exercises, you don’t need a lot of space to complete them, and your hot tub offers more than enough room to execute a variety of exercises.
- Enhance Sleep Quality
Spending time in an outdoor hot tub for just 30 minutes before bedtime is a healthy way to unwind and relax your body and mind. While you enjoy a soothing soak, the warmth of the water will elevate your body temperature. Once you exit the spa, your body will begin to cool down. This abrupt drop in temperature is your body’s natural way of preparing itself for a restful night’s sleep and will send signals to your body that induce drowsiness. This helps you fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep longer throughout the night. The powerful massage jets will wash away any concerns, aches, and pains while affording you a moment of tranquility and peace, which will set the tone for the rest of your night.
- Enhance the amount of time spent with family and friends
After all, a hot tub does more than just offer peaceful relaxation. Hot tubs also create the ideal environment for reconnecting or hosting gatherings with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting an unforgettable hot tub get-together or inviting your closest friends for a backyard spa day, your hot tub can also provide numerous social advantages. It’s time to bring your friends and family together and enjoy meaningful conversations. There are so many enjoyable and entertaining activities to engage in while in a hot tub or outdoor spa with loved ones. Disconnect from your phones and other gadgets and invite the people who bring joy to your life to join you in your hot tub or outdoor spa.
- Increase the Value of Your Residence
Your outdoor hot tub also helps to enhance the overall quality of your home, boosting its market value. Even if you don’t intend to sell, knowing that your home’s value is increasing can give you peace of mind for the future. However, this doesn’t solely impact the monetary value of your home. It also raises your perceived value, making you feel positive about your living space every day. With a backyard that offers endless opportunities for relaxation and allows you to spend quality time with family and friends in an enjoyable manner, you’ll soon rekindle your love for your home!
- Spend More Time in Nature (and Unwind!)
This is one of those things that seems quite evident when it comes to outdoor hot tubs, but did you realize that spending just 20 minutes in nature can help reduce stress levels? That’s correct, creating an outdoor sanctuary can transform your self-care routine and combat the daily stressors you encounter, both at home and at work. Simply return home, step out into your beautiful backyard, and feel the stress fade away!
Advantages of having a fire pit in your backyard
Backyard fire pits are gaining popularity, and it’s easy to understand why: From elaborate gas-burning fire pits to simple brick pits for building a wood fire, fire pits offer a variety of advantages.
Extend your outdoor season.
Nature limits the time we can spend outdoors. An outdoor fire pit prolongs the time you can spend in your backyard by providing a source of warmth. Fire pits enable you to host outdoor gatherings when cool spring or autumn evenings would typically keep you indoors.
Create an outdoor gathering spot.
People enjoy congregating around a campfire. A campfire provides the perfect outdoor gathering spot to unwind with family, friends, and neighbors. Let your loved ones know that you plan to light up your outdoor fire pit on a warm summer night, and you’re sure to attract a crowd.
Enjoy the warmth from all directions.
There are other methods to heat your backyard, but one of the main benefits of an outdoor fireplace is that you receive heat from all sides. This means more people can comfortably gather around the fire.
Illuminate your backyard.
Of course, fire doesn’t only provide warmth; it also provides light. When you add an outdoor fireplace, you introduce an additional light source to your backyard. When you add a fireplace, you add romantic, twinkling natural light to your outdoor space.
Improve the look of your outdoor living space.
Incorporating a fire pit or fire pit table to your yard, patio, or deck can revamp your living space. A fire pit adds a beautiful focal point, sets the tone for your outdoor living area, and can help define a gathering space. Your outdoor living area is an extension of your home, and when you equip it with a fire pit, you help create an additional outdoor space in your home.
Offer functionality.
One of the outstanding aspects of outdoor fire pits is that they can serve a purpose, in addition to providing warmth and light. Many outdoor fire pits and fire pit tables are designed to serve more than one function. Fire pits can be designed as the centerpiece of a dining table or coffee table, or some fire pits have a built-in grilling surface to serve as additional outdoor cooking equipment.
Find the style that suits you.
There are numerous types of outdoor fire pits and fire pit tables. You can find large, sophisticated gas fire pit tables that ignite at the touch of a button to act as a dramatic focal point for your yard, or opt for a simple wood fire pit to add a rustic element to your patio. Whether you prefer traditional or modern, gas or wood, fire pit or fire pit table, there is a style that is perfect for your outdoor living space.
How to choose the right hot tub for your small backyard
A hot tub is more than just a luxurious addition to your backyard—it’s a spot to relax, unwind, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you’re envisioning a private retreat or a place to entertain guests, choosing the right hot tub can turn your outdoor space into a haven of relaxation. But with numerous options available, how do you select the perfect hot tub for your needs? In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential factors to consider when choosing a hot tub that suits your lifestyle and backyard.
- Establish Your Budget
Before delving into the various features and sizes, it’s crucial to set a budget. Hot tubs can vary in price from a few thousand dollars for a basic model to tens of thousands for a high-end luxury option. Consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term costs such as maintenance, energy usage, and any accessories you may desire. While it may be tempting to opt for the least expensive option, investing in a high-quality hot tub can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance costs and ensuring better durability.
- Take Size and Capacity into Account
Hot tubs come in a range of sizes, from compact 2-person models to large 8-person spas. The size you choose will depend on how many people will be using the hot tub regularly and the amount of space you have available in your backyard.
– Small (2-3 people): Suited for couples or small families with limited space.
– Medium (4-5 people): Perfect for small gatherings and offers a balance of space and seating capacity.
– Large (6+ people): Best for those who enjoy entertaining or have a large family.
Measure the area where you plan to install the hot tub to ensure it will fit comfortably. Don’t forget to leave room for access and maintenance.
- Assess the Features
Contemporary hot tubs are equipped with a range of functions aimed at improving your enjoyment. When selecting a hot tub, consider which features are most important to you.
– Jets: Seek out strategically placed jets that target specific muscle groups for maximum relaxation. Some hot tubs offer adjustable jet options.
– Lighting: LED lighting can create a calming ambiance, perfect for an evening soak.
– Audio System: Bluetooth speakers let you enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while you relax.
– Waterfalls and Fountains: These features add soothing sounds and visual appeal.
– Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient models can save on electricity costs and are better for the environment.
Prioritize the features that contribute most to your relaxation and enjoyment, and be aware of any additional costs they may entail.
- Consider Installation and Maintenance
Hot tubs can be set up in different ways, such as above-ground, partially in-ground, or fully in-ground. The installation method you choose will affect the cost and overall look of your backyard. Also, consider the maintenance requirements of your hot tub, including water maintenance, cleaning, and winterization.
– Plug and Play Models: These hot tubs that operate on 110V are simple to set up and do not need professional electrical work. They’re a great option for those looking to save on installation costs.
– Corded Models: Typically larger and more powerful, these models require professional installation but offer more features and customization options.
Choose a hot tub with an easy-to-use filtration system and consider purchasing a cover to keep the water clean and reduce heating costs.
- Test Before Making a Purchase
If possible, visit a showroom and test several different models of hot tubs before making a decision. Look for seat comfort, water flow, and ease of use of controls. Some retailers offer a “wet test drive,” where you can actually get into the hot tub with water to get a feel for it before you buy.
- Plan for the Future
Think about how your requirements may evolve in the future. If you plan to expand your family or host more guests, it might be worth investing in a larger model now. Also, consider how long you plan to stay in your current home, as moving a hot tub can be difficult and expensive. Choose a model that can accommodate any future changes in your lifestyle or household size.
How to choose the right fire pit for your small backyard
Enhancing any outdoor gathering, whether you’re toasting marshmallows with the kids, unwinding after a long day, or hosting family and friends, a firepit in your backyard is a great addition. It extends your living space into your outdoor area, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors even during the colder seasons.
When choosing a firepit, there are numerous factors to consider, from selecting a style that complements your space to researching local regulations. Here are all the essential steps you need to take to find the ideal firepit for your residence.
- Size and Space
The appropriate firepit size depends on the size of your outdoor area and the number of people you plan to entertain. Small firepits are generally 36 inches wide or less. They are more for aesthetics than for warmth.
Medium-sized firepits range from 36-45 inches wide. These firepits are still spacious enough to accommodate up to 10 people, allowing you to arrange seating around the fire.
Large fire pits are 45 inches or wider and provide substantial heat. They make for an excellent centerpiece in large backyards and commercial spaces.
Keep in mind that you should have around 5-7 feet of clearance around the fire pit for outdoor furniture. Avoid placing a fire pit beneath trees, low-hanging plants, or near flammable objects.
- Check Your Local Regulations
Before you start looking for a fire pit, check your local ordinances concerning outdoor fire pits. Some areas have strict regulations regarding the positioning of fire pits and open burning.
You can reach out to your city or county office and inquire about fire pit regulations. They will be able to inform you about the types of fire pits allowed and any other regulations you need to adhere to.
If you reside in an apartment or condominium complex, review your building codes or homeowners association rules to see if there are any specific regulations concerning fire pits. If you are renting, make sure to ask your landlord for permission to install a fire pit on the property.
- Fuel Type: Gas vs. Wood Fireplaces
Firepits are powered by three primary fuels: Natural Gas, Propane, and wood. Consider the type of outdoor experience you desire. Gas firepits offer convenience and modern features like remote control and special fire media. On the other hand, wood firepits create a cozy, campfire-like ambiance that transforms your backyard into a rustic cabin-style retreat.
- Fireplace Material
Common materials for firepits include aluminum, concrete, copper, fiberglass-reinforced concrete (GFRC), steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and stone.
Most commercially manufactured firepits are made of steel, concrete, or copper. Steel firepits are lightweight and weatherproof, while concrete firepits are heavier and more permanent. Copper firepits exude elegance and develop a beautiful natural patina over time.
Some materials require more maintenance than others. Steel and concrete firepits require little maintenance, while copper firepits need regular polishing. Also, consider the weather conditions in your area. For instance, certain materials, such as mild steel, may rust more quickly in humid coastal areas.
- Choose a Modern or Classic Fireplace
Your outdoor firepit can be the focal point of your backyard, so it’s important to choose the option that best suits your style. Modern firepits feature unique geometric designs, sleek shapes, or intricate steelwork. Classic firepits rely on sturdy, traditional designs and dark metal or stone construction.
- Portability
Portable firepits are an excellent choice if you want the flexibility to move your firepit or take it with you on outings. They are typically less expensive than permanent firepits and are easy to set up and dismantle. However, portable firepits may be less stable and not as durable as fixed firepits.
- Cost
Modern firepits can range in price from $1,500 to $10,000. The cost depends on the size, materials, and features of the firepit. For example, a small painted metal firepit falls on the lower end of the spectrum, while a large stone firepit with a built-in seat can cost several thousand dollars.
Design tips for incorporating a hot tub and fire pit into your small backyard
A well-designed backyard can provide a peaceful retreat from the busyness of daily life.
Few elements can rival the combination of a hot tub and fireplace when it comes to creating an inviting outdoor oasis.
The mix of warm water and crackling flames produces a calming and visually appealing atmosphere.
In this extensive guide, we will explore various backyard ideas that incorporate a hot tub and fireplace, offering inspiration and practical advice for turning your outdoor space into a tranquil sanctuary.
Selecting the Ideal Location
Consider the Arrangement
Before delving into the specifics of your backyard design, it’s crucial to identify the perfect location for your hot tub and fireplace. Start by assessing your yard’s layout and how these features will fit into your existing space.
Take into account factors such as accessibility, privacy, and proximity to other amenities like seating or dining areas.
Evaluate Safety Precautions
While the allure of a hot tub and fire pit is undeniable, safety should be a primary consideration when planning their placement. Ensure there is enough distance between the fire pit and any flammable structures, such as your home or garden shed.
Also, consider installing appropriate safety measures, such as fire extinguishers and sturdy handrails around the hot tub area.
Create a Calm Atmosphere
To enhance the relaxation of your hot tub experience, focus on creating a peaceful atmosphere. Incorporate natural elements like lush greenery, flowers, and strategically placed rocks or boulders. Consider adding soft lighting, such as fairy lights or lanterns, to add a magical touch to your evening soak.
Privacy is Essential
Privacy is crucial for fully enjoying your hot tub. Consider installing a privacy screen, pergola, or trellis draped with vines to create a secluded atmosphere.
Bamboo or tall grass can also be used to create a natural barrier that offers both privacy and aesthetic appeal.
Seating and Relaxation Area
A hot tub is not only for soaking; it’s also for creating a space to relax and socialize. Combine comfortable seating and lounging areas around your hot tub to provide ample space for chatting, reading, or simply soaking up the sun.
Choose furniture that’s weatherproof and can withstand the elements, and select pillows or throws that complement your backyard theme.
Select the Right Fireplace Design
When it comes to your firepit, the design options are limitless. Consider the overall aesthetic of your backyard and choose a firepit that complements its style.
Whether it’s a sleek, modern gas firepit or a rustic stone firepit, ensure it’s a striking focal point that ties the entire outdoor space together.
Cozy Seating
To maximize the enjoyment of your firepit, create a comfortable seating arrangement around it. Adirondack chairs, outdoor sofas, or benches are all excellent options.
Don’t forget to provide plenty of pillows and blankets to keep you cozy on cold days.
Cooking by the Firepit
Take your firepit experience to the next level by adding cooking options. Consider adding a grill or firepit table that makes it easy to cook and entertain outdoors. Roasting marshmallows or preparing delicious treats over an open fire can add a fun touch to your backyard get-together.
Harmoniously Integrating a Hot Tub and Fireplace
Create a Focal Point
Design your outdoor space in a way that highlights the hot tub and fireplace as the focal points. Arrange seating areas in a way that draws attention to these features, making them the center of attention.
Adding lighting fixtures or decorative elements around the hot tub and fireplace can further enhance their visual appeal and create a cohesive design.
Utilize Natural Elements
Incorporate natural elements such as rocks, stones, or wood accents to blend your hot tub and fireplace into your backyard landscape. Use these materials to build a pathway leading to the hot tub or to create a border around the fireplace area.
By incorporating natural elements, you’ll create a harmonious flow and a sense of unity in your outdoor space.
Lighting and Ambiance
The right lighting can transform your backyard into a magical retreat, especially when combined with the warmth of a hot tub and fireplace.
Install soft, ambient lighting options like outdoor wall lights, string lights, or solar-powered lanterns to create a charming ambiance that can be enjoyed both day and night.
Safety considerations for your hot tub and fire pit
Hot Tub Safety Tips for Beginners
Have you recently decided to install a hot tub in your home? Spas and hot tubs can be a very enjoyable water feature, but they should only be used in a way that ensures everyone’s safety. If you’re considering a hot tub installation near Salt Lake City, here are some helpful guidelines for staying safe around your spa:
- Keep the water balanced.
Maintaining proper chemical levels is an important part of hot tub safety. Because viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants can live in untreated hot tub water, be sure to test your hot tub’s pH and sanitation levels regularly. Your local pool company can provide test strips and the chemicals needed to keep your spa’s water balanced.
- Keep your children safe.
Hot tub and spa safety is especially important for children. Because their skin is thin at this age and their bodies are more susceptible to overheating, infants and toddlers should never be allowed in your hot tub. Also, young children should not use a hot tub until they are tall enough to lift their heads completely above the water when standing on the bottom of the hot tub. Children who are tall enough to use a hot tub should only be in the water for 5 minutes at a time to avoid overheating, and they should never submerge their heads. Also, children should never be left unsupervised around a hot tub, or any type of pool.
- Stay hydrated.
If you plan to soak in a hot tub for more than a few minutes, it is important to stay hydrated. Water not only heats your body, but it also causes it to sweat. You may not realize it because you are in the water, but your body is losing hydration and electrolytes as you soak in the spa. Always have water with you and keep it close by while you are enjoying your hot tub. Using your spa safely and properly ensures that your hot tub installation will provide years of enjoyment for you and your family.
- Keep it clean
Warm water can be a breeding ground for bacteria and microorganisms, so it’s important to keep your hot tub water clean, sanitized, and chemically balanced to avoid the risk of infection.
Fire Pit Safety Tips You Can Use Year Round
Fire pits are a great addition to any backyard. They’re easy to build, fun to use, and add warmth to your outdoor living space. Since you’re dealing with fire, fire pit safety should be one of your top priorities before you get started. Simple precautions will help you avoid accidents, so here are some tips for staying safe while using a fire pit.
- A fire pit is essentially a safer way to keep a fire under control than a traditional campfire. Many fire pits have a net around them that allows you to enjoy the beauty and heat of the fire, while keeping out most of the unwanted sparks. Other types of fire pits don’t have a net, but instead are built into the surrounding rocks. Keep all of the fire pit components in good working order for best results.
- When building a fire, it’s best to use natural materials like kindling or a kindling stick. These natural materials may take a little longer to start a fire, but they will give you more control over the fire. When using lighter fluid or other chemical lighters, the fire will start quickly but can easily get out of control.
- For the best fire pit safety, find a safe location in your backyard. Your fire pit should be on a flat, level surface, in an open area with good ventilation. The fire pit should be a good distance away from your home and other outbuildings. We recommend keeping your fire pit 10-20 feet away from your home and at least 3-5 feet away from outdoor furniture, plants, or trees. Make sure that any dead, dry, or low-hanging leaves are cleared in a circle about 15-20 feet around your fire pit.
- Have a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby to put out any flames that start to get out of control.
- Finally, make sure everything is completely cool before cleaning out any ash or debris from the fire pit.
With proper fire pit safety precautions, a fire pit can be the perfect accessory to turn your backyard into a retreat an interesting autumn sight.
Maintenance tips for your hot tub and fire pit
Firepits and hot tubs elevate your outdoor living space, serving as an elegant and comfortable focal point. Whether you purchase or construct one, a firepit is ideal for outdoor gatherings or a quiet evening at home throughout the year. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your firepit and hot tub remain in good condition. Maintaining your firepit and hot tub doesn’t have to be challenging. By paying attention to the basics, you can help your firepit and hot tub last a long time.
Here are some suggestions for caring for your hot tub:
- Clean the filter
The filter prevents dirt and bacteria from reaching the pump and heater, which are more expensive to replace. Rinse the filter weekly and clean it monthly. You can also soak the filter in a cleaning solution to remove buildup and extend its lifespan.
- Shock your hot tub
A shock treatment kills bacteria and sanitizes your hot tub. If you’re shutting down your hot tub for the winter, shocking it will remove any standing water.
- Monitor your water level
Low water levels can cause flow problems and shut down your heater.
- Drain your hot tub
Draining your hot tub every three months helps keep your system in good condition.
- Test your water
Use a liquid test kit or test strips to regularly test the pH and alkalinity of your water. This will help you determine if you need to add or subtract chemicals.
- Maintain your water
Use the appropriate products to treat your water and maintain the proper chemical balance.
- Clean the cover
Clean your hot tub cover every one to three months to prevent dirt and debris that can cause wear and tear and mold.
Below are some suggestions for keeping your fire pit in good condition:
- Clean regularly
Clean your fire pit after each use to prevent rust and ensure it is functioning properly. Soot and dirt can clog the burners and reduce efficiency.
- Check for damage
Regularly check for cracks, holes, or other damage and repair them immediately. If you have a portable fire pit, tighten all fasteners.
- Protect from the elements
Season your firebox with oil and cover the bare metal with high-temperature rust-resistant paint.
- Extinguish it properly
To ensure your fire is extinguished, soak the firebox with water, mix the ashes and embers with dirt, and scrape off any partially burned wood.
- Remove ash and debris
Before starting a new fire, remove any ash or debris from the previous fire.
- Inspect the burner system
Regularly inspect the burner and its attachments, such as valves and pipes, to ensure they are safe and efficient.
- Turn off the gas
When not in use, turn off the propane gas and close the lid on your firebox.
- Inspect the gas line
If you have a fuel-fired firebox, inspect the gas line for holes, kinks, or debris.
Conclusion: Enjoying your own luxurious oasis at home
Even though they may appear to be different, hot tubs and fire pits offer similar benefits when integrated into your backyard design.
Both features expand your living space outdoors, creating a cozy atmosphere for family and friends to enjoy. Entertain friends, reconnect with loved ones, or simply enjoy the sound of the sparks and the whir of the jets as you relax and unwind.
Regardless of your budget, you can create a luxurious backyard oasis using the tips we’ve provided. Be sure to choose features that best suit your needs and preferences. Adding a deck, fire pit, patio, or pool, for example, gives you plenty of space to relax and entertain guests. So get started today, and you’ll soon be enjoying all the benefits of having a backyard oasis!