Like the swimming pool, the spa has yet to finish conquering a certain number of households. Its outdoor installation has become trendy lately. However, due to bad weather, it cannot be enjoyed all year round.

To solve this problem, it remains useful to accompany it with a protection type spa shelter. This structure meets the essential needs for protection, privacy, and comfort for optimal relaxation.

If you want to equip yourself with one, know that there are several models. Between a round spa shelter, inflatable spa shelter, sliding spa shelter, closed spa shelter or open spa cover, there is something for every taste and every need.

If you have trouble making your choice, we suggest you consult this article. It can serve as a guide to find the ideal spa shelter model.

What are the different types of spa shelters?

Also called spa dome or spa cover, a spa shelter is a structure made of wood, aluminum, cellular polycarbonate, or steel. It serves to protect the spa jacuzzi against wind, rain, and dirt. It helps ensure the quality of the spa water.

Even better, this installation creates a space that is both relaxing and private where you can enjoy the hot tub away from the prying eyes of neighbors.

Its benefits do not stop there. It allows you to use the spa even if it is raining or cooler. Thus, using it extends the season of use of your spa jacuzzi while optimizing the comfort it provides.

We can distinguish three categories of spa shelters: the open spa dome, closed spa dome, and attached spa dome. The first offers you a simple roof to protect your bubble bath from snow or rain. However, it cannot shelter you from the cold or from the intrusive gaze of your surroundings.

As for the closed spa shelter, it is a completely enclosed space often with polycarbonate or glass glazing. Thanks to this structure, it protects the basin from climatic hazards.

That’s not all, it allows you to enjoy your bath in complete privacy without being spied on by neighbors. Some closed spa shelters are equipped with sliding glass bays. You can thus open them depending on your needs and especially the season.

As for the third type of spa shelter, it is installed against a house wall. This attached spa jacuzzi shelter is therefore robust. It can be closed or open, telescopic or modular, motorized or manual.

No matter the preferred type of spa shelter, the equipment protects the basin so that you can enjoy it all year round. It comes in many sizes and various shapes. The following passage helps you avoid choosing a bad garden spa shelter.

Which spa shelter to choose? Available options

Installing a spa shelter allows you to enjoy your jacuzzi all year while protecting it from bad weather, wind, and outside views. Whether to add comfort, create a relaxation space, or extend the life of your installation, here are some practical models to consider:

• Fixed shelter: solid and permanent structure (wood, aluminum, PVC, or glass), perfect for regular use.
• Telescopic shelter: modular system that opens and closes according to your desires and the weather.
• Pergola or gazebo: offers aesthetic and partial shading for simple and elegant use.
• Inflatable dome or bubble: economical and removable solution, which effectively protects against bad weather.
• Sliding shelters: optimal practicality, allowing easy opening as needed.
• Gazebo / kiosk: closed and stylish structure, creating a true relaxation corner in the garden.

How to choose the size and shape of a spa shelter?

The selection of the bubble spa shelter model should not be made on a whim. It is important to consider your tastes, your budget, your expectations, the shape of your spa, the style of your outdoor space, and especially the space dedicated to the installation.

Inflatable spa shelter, wooden spa shelter, aluminum spa shelter or polycarbonate alveolar jacuzzi spa shelter, even though there are several types, we can classify 3 shapes of spa shelters: dome-shaped, handle-shaped, and rotunda. Make your choice taking into account the criteria mentioned above. 

It should be noted that the structure of the garden spa shelter helps improve the aesthetic aspect of your outdoor space. Among the different models, the rotunda dome spa is currently very popular.

Regarding dimensions, the selection of the spa shelter model mainly depends on the layout you plan to make.

If you want to accompany the jacuzzi with garden furniture, try to favor a sliding spa shelter or a rotunda spa shelter that is much larger. The furniture also takes up space.

That said, before choosing the dimensions of the spa shelter, please take into account the shape and size of the jacuzzi spa to be covered. Some pools are designed to accommodate 2 people and others 6 users. The more space the spa offers, the more spacious its shelter must be.

Comparison of different spa shelter models

Each model meets specific needs depending on your budget, the style sought, and the frequency of use. Here is a comparison table to help you choose:

Type of shelter	Advantages	Disadvantages	Ideal for…
Fixed shelter	Durable, aesthetic, good insulation	High price, requires installation work	Regular use, high-end spa
Telescopic shelter	Modular, custom protection, modern	Higher cost than simple models	Year-round use
Pergola / canopy	Elegant, affordable price, quick installation	Partial protection (limited rain/wind)	Seasonal use, limited budget
Inflatable dome	Compact, economical, easy to install	Less durable, limited aesthetics	Temporary spa or small budget
Sliding shelter	Easy opening and closing	Medium to high price	Modern homes with outdoor spa
Gazebo / kiosk	Maximum comfort, warm relaxation space	High price, bulky	Creation of a harmonious wellness corner

What materials are recommended for a durable and weather-resistant spa shelter?

Just like the choice of materials suitable for the veranda or pool shelter, the finish of the spa cover deserves careful consideration. This element defines the robustness as well as the lifespan of the inflatable spa shelter, closed spa shelter or round spa shelter.

Many individuals prefer the wooden spa shelter because of its aesthetic appeal. This installation perfectly matches outdoor environments. It adds a natural and warm touch to your garden.

This type of spa shelter is also favored for its insulation quality. It is capable of maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the spa dome. Its drawback is frequent maintenance. It requires specific care to preserve its original condition and to withstand the weather.

The aluminum spa shelter structure, on the other hand, is admired for its contemporary look. It brings a fresh note to your outdoor space. Due to its lightness, it is both easy to assemble and maintain. This material is also able to resist weather hazards.

Besides the wooden spa shelter and the aluminum spa shelter, a wide range of models are made from clear cellular polycarbonate.

Since it is a transparent material, it allows natural light to pass through the interior of the closed spa shelter or round spa shelter. Additionally, it lets you admire the garden, the sky, and the landscape outside.

Like the aluminum spa shelter structure, this clear cellular polycarbonate equipment stands out for its lightness, which simplifies its installation. It also appeals to most people due to its tolerance to UV rays.

How can the spa shelter be aesthetically integrated into my outdoor space?

Just like the arbor and pergola, the closed or open spa shelter is a very nice decorative element for your terrace. Generally, it is not difficult to integrate it into your outdoor space.

If you want to give it a modern touch, nothing beats favoring the aluminum bubble spa shelter. This material displays a contemporary touch that complements the design of your garden. Since it comes in multiple styles, it can suit all settings.

As for the advantages of the wooden spa shelter, they not only concern its insulating qualities but also its great versatility. Like any new wood construction or charred wood, this type of spa shelter adapts to all outdoor decor themes, from the most classic to the most modern.

If your garden has a sophisticated style, it integrates easily. The same goes for a simple decor; the wooden spa shelter easily finds its place among other decorative objects in your garden.

Inside or outside, this natural material harmonizes very well with vegetation.

What are the ventilation and insulation options for a spa shelter?

Whether you equip yourself with a round spa dome, a clear cellular polycarbonate spa cover, or a sliding spa shelter, the equipment must provide optimal insulation and ventilation for the spa jacuzzi.

Good insulation maintains a pleasant temperature inside a garden spa shelter. It also helps save energy.  

And when an open spa shelter offers better ventilation, it ensures healthy air, which prevents moisture buildup. Therefore, please consider these two important elements before installing it in your garden.

In general, a wooden spa shelter or an aluminum frame type open shelter facilitates air movement. This is not the case with a closed spa shelter. If you have one, consider improving its ventilation.

You can complement it with sliding glass doors. At the right time, simply open them to allow fresh air to circulate.

Regarding insulation, some materials of the garden spa shelter are naturally insulating. Wood, for example, is capable of maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the spa cover.

Otherwise, you can use an air dehumidifier. The device serves to absorb moisture, also preventing the appearance of mold.

The use of a bioclimatic pergola is likewise an excellent idea ensuring ventilation as well as insulation of the closed or open spa shelter.

The module’s roof consists of adjustable slats regulating humidity levels, ambient heat, air movement, and incoming light. It thus optimizes the comfort of using your hot tub.

How to maintain and clean a spa shelter to extend its lifespan?

Wooden spa shelter or aluminum spa shelter, whatever the type of spa shelter chosen, this structure requires regular maintenance. This operation increases its longevity and optimizes its performance. To carry it out properly, the approach varies depending on the materials used in its construction.

For a wooden spa shelter, this natural element generally requires specific care. It does not tolerate the test of time well. To ensure its protection, it is advised to use products designed for this purpose.

If the garden spa shelter is made of raw wood, specialists suggest using wood stain. Versatile, this product acts as a fungicide, insecticide, and UV protector. It is preferable to apply 2 or 3 coats on the walls of the spa dome.

If you have an aluminum spa shelter, know that this structure is praised for its easy maintenance. You only need to use a low-pressure water jet and that’s it. It is not recommended to scrub the surfaces of the aluminum spa shelter with a brush, as this can cause scratches.

The care of an inflatable spa shelter made of clear alveolar polycarbonate is similar to that of an aluminum structure. Stains disappear with a water jet cleaning.

And even if stains adhere strongly, avoid using an aggressive product. It may damage the spa cover. Always prefer care that is both natural and gentle.

What are the average installation and maintenance costs of a spa shelter?

The price of a garden spa shelter varies depending on countless factors such as size, installation location, material, and type of spa shelter.

The larger the equipment, the more expensive it seems. And if you install it outdoors, its cost can increase since it requires more work.

As for the finish, a wooden spa shelter and an aluminum spa shelter come at a high price, unlike the fabric spa shelter model. It is normal that the durable material proves expensive compared to the lightweight one.

If you opt for the aluminum spa shelter, you need to budget significantly, as it requires large expenses. Generally, it is offered between €700 to €2000. As for a wooden spa shelter, its cost ranges between €300 to €1000.

That said, it is observed that the price of a closed spa shelter is higher than that of an open spa shelter. If the former is offered between €400 and €2000, the latter is only worth between €50 and €300. Its cost increases or decreases depending on the quality of the finish and the size of the spa shelter model.

How to ensure good security and accessibility with a spa shelter?

It remains necessary to specify that an outdoor spa is governed by the same regulations as a swimming pool. Since January 2004, it is required to be accompanied by a security system compliant with the directives of the French Standardization Agency or AFNOR.

The use of a spa cover or a spa shelter is part of the solutions guaranteeing the protection of the jacuzzi spa. This equipment must demonstrate solidity and durability in order to secure it over time.

To be able to enjoy it for a long time, prefer a high-quality spa shelter. Although it sometimes costs more, it ensures resistance, robustness, and longevity.

For optimal security, you have the option to accompany it with a protective barrier and a detection alarm.

Even if the spa presents less danger than a swimming pool due to its smaller size and depth, it is advisable to lock access to protect children from the risk of drowning.

A closed spa shelter or one equipped with sliding glass bays is the best choice when there are children at home.

Are there eco-friendly or low environmental impact spa shelters?

Even though there are many spa shelters available on the market, prioritize a spa shelter model with a lower environmental impact. Many are eco-responsible, thanks to the quality of their construction materials.

Others offer optimal insulation quality helping you save energy. Once the garden spa shelter is ready to use, it retains heat, limiting the use of heating.

Besides that, the advantages of a spa shelter also lie in its ability to preserve the spa water quality. It protects it from tree leaves and other external pollution. This cover thus reduces maintenance and the use of the filtration system.

What regulations or permits should be considered when installing a spa shelter?

Whether you choose the round aluminum spa shelter, the inflatable spa shelter, the sliding spa shelter, the wooden spa shelter or the closed spa shelter, it is essential to inquire about the current regulations. The procedure to follow depends notably on the area and size of the spa cover to be installed.

If the latter has a height of less than 1.8 meters and a ground footprint of less than 10 m2, its assembly does not require any prior request or declaration to be made to the town hall.

However, if the height of the round spa dome or the inflatable spa shelter exceeds 1.8 meters, its installation requires a prior declaration of work to the municipality. The same applies to a structure with a ground footprint between 10 and 100 m2.

It is also possible that your future garden spa shelter meets both of these conditions, in which case you need to submit a building permit before setting it up. The procedure is similar to those living in a classified or protected area.

In any case, it is recommended to inform yourself about the administrative procedures applicable in your region. Regulations may vary from one municipality to another.

To avoid breaking the law, take the time to consult the officials to get more information on the subject.