Spa Basics

Most "spas" are made out of either fiberglass or acrylic. Acrylic spas are, by far, the better of the two types and will provide longer life and service to their owners. "Hot tubs" are made of wood, sometimes with a liner set inside. They can provide you with that "jet action", but without the contoured seating acrylic spas offer. A  "whirlpool", the way the word is commonly used, refers to any spa or hot tub's circular "water action". Remember, a "Jacuzzi" is not a generic name for spas. Jacuzzi is a company that makes "whirlpool baths" and spas. Any spa or hot tub will provide you with this "whirlpool action" of the water. We like to refer to all of the above units as Hot Tub Spas. This is kind of a catch-all phrase. "Jetted Bathtubs" are usually made of fiberglass or acrylic and can be used in either new construction, or to replace existing bathtubs. They normally get installed in the bathroom and have a jet pump attached to them. You fill a Jetted Tub each time you want to use it, then turn on the jet pump to get that therapeutic effect. They do not require the addition of chemicals because you drain the water out after each use. Portable, self-contained spas require no external plumbing, excavation or electrical work. They plug directly into a standard 110 volt household wall socket. Most portables can be easily carried by a few people, so you can bring them outside in the summer and inside during the winter months (although many people enjoy using their spa outside even in the winter; it is quite pleasant sitting in a hot spa when it's cold outside!). Portable spas are also beneficial because they can be removed and transported in the event you sell your home and wish to bring your spa with you. Many people build a step right up to their portable spa to give it that "built-in" look, while still allowing them to move the spa when they so desire. A lot of interesting deck work has been done around many of our clients' portable spas. Inground spas can be set in an outside deck, sunk into a cement floor or can be installed semi-inground with a wood or tile deck built around it. Inground spas do require some plumbing, electrical and sometimes gas work before you have the finished product. However, your dealer can arrange all these services for you as well as work with your own private contractors in the event you are also having a room built to enclose your spa. Frankly, an inground spa is initially more costly than the same model in a portable unit, but it will substantially add to the value of your home, while providing you with quite a unique and relaxing luxury. Back to Spas