Create a cozy outdoor haven that offers protection from the elements with these hot tub shelter ideas
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8 Hot Tub Shelter Ideas to Consider This Summer
Updated Sep. 24, 2024
A well-designed hot tub shelter is crucial for creating a relaxing and private environment around your hot tub. Without shelter, you’ll be fully exposed to the sun, neighbors and even uninvited guests (we’re looking at you, mosquitos). Check out these 10 hot tub shelter ideas to keep your hot tub safe and inviting and elevate your at-home spa experience.
Retractable Awning
Pros:
- Can be rolled out on rainy or snowy days
- Provides privacy and shade
- Option for unobstructed views
- Protects your hot tub cover from sun damage
Cons:
- Fabric may not be suitable for extreme wind or snow
- Must be rolled in or out
Patio awnings make excellent hot tub shelter ideas as they provide shade without a bulky frame taking up space. This retractable awning covers up to 12 feet of space and may be left up year-round. The retractable feature lets you easily pull it out for shade over your outdoor hot tub and slide it back in when not in use. It comes in two neutral colors, gray and beige, to coordinate with any outdoor decor.
Shade Sail
Pros:
- Affordable
- Height can be adjusted
- Offers protection from the sun
- Protects against light rain
- Offers privacy and shade
Cons:
- Not easily put up and taken down
- Not fully rain-resistant
As far as hot tub shelter ideas go, a shade sail is especially simple. The hardware (sold separately) connects to the D rings on all four ends and attaches to poles or beams around your hot tub. The fabric filters 95% of UV rays keeping the area below shaded to reduce the air temperature, so the heat comes from the water and not the beating sun.
Patio Gazebo
Pros:
- Protects hot tub from direct sunlight
- Maximizes privacy
- Come in a wide variety of styles and sizes to much different decor aesthetics
Cons:
- Expensive
- May not provide full cover, depending on design
Patio gazebos are both stunning additions to the backyard and elegant hot tub shelter ideas. This metal patio gazebo is worth every penny with its built-in mosquito netting and privacy curtains. The UV-protected tiered roof lets air flow through while protecting against both summer sun exposure and standing up to winter snow cover.
Canopied Pergola
Pros:
- Provides maxium cover from sun and the elements
- Offers privacy
- Protects the hot tub against inclement weather
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Expensive
- May require custom build
If you have a open-air pergola or an awning on your short list of hot tub shelter ideas, this pergola with canopy combo could be the winner. The aluminum framed pergola can be left uncovered for air flow or covered with the included UV- and water-resistant fabric. Included anchor and mounting materials complete the installation within minutes. Get to know if you can put your hot tub on deck.
Cantilever Outdoor Umbrella
Pros:
- Ideal for small spaces
- Can be put up or taken down easily
- Provides shade and protection from light rain or snow
Cons:
- Provides minimal privacy
- Does not protect the hot tub from sun damage
When it comes to hot tub shelter ideas, a solution for those short on space is a solar umbrella. The 11-foot top casts shade no matter the angle of the sun thanks to its five adjustable positions, without having a bulky frame that takes up too much space. Enjoy your jacuzzi or hot tub at night, thanks to the lights attached to the umbrella. Get it in gray, navy blue, red or sand.
Pop-Up Canopy
Pros:
- Quick setup
- Affordable
- Does not need to be attached to your house
Cons:
- Not as durable as other options
- May blow away with strong wind
For shaded coverage that doesn’t need to attach to your home, consider this pop-up canopy. Set it up within minutes and get shade from all angles, which is a necessary consideration when buying a hot tub. Use the canopy windows to look outside or close everything off with the front curtains—talk about shelter and privacy! Bonus: These hot tub accessories will elevate your spa experience.
Folding Sun Structure
Pros:
- Affordable
- Large enough for parties
- Easy to store
Cons:
- Needs to be staked down
- Not permanent
Looking for temporary coverage for a party? This extra-long folding sun shelter provides shade over a hot tub and seating area to keep revelers fully shaded until sundown. Once this canopy is staked in the ground with the provided hardware, you won’t have to worry about the wind blowing your cover.
Screened Tent
Pros:
- No assembly required
- Keeps mosquitos and bugs away
- Affordable
- Provides both privacy and shade
Cons:
- Must be set up for each use
If mosquitos are your biggest hot tub complaint, this mesh-sided pop-up tent provides a solution. The hexagonal screen house wraps around a standard or inflatable hot tub, with sizes ranging from 6 feet by 6 feet to 15 feet by 15 feet. A major plus is it doesn’t require any assembly. Simply step inside through the zippered screen door and enjoy some bug-free relaxation.
What to Consider When Buying a Hot Tub Shelter
Several key factors must be considered when shopping for a hot tub shelter to ensure a good investment and a safe, functional outdoor environment.
Outdoor Hot Tub Placement
When choosing a location for your hot tub, place it at least 16 feet away from any overhead power lines for the sake of safety. Fallen powerlines that come in contact with water can cause severe injury or even death. You should also ensure your hot tub is at least five feet away from any other structures, like sheds, garages or homes, to prevent flooding.
Local Regulations
Depending on your city or town, local regulations may dictate where and how you can build your hot tub shelter. Even if you are building on your own property, consulting with your local regulations office is always a good idea to ensure you build per these regulations.
Building Codes
Building codes vary from state to state and one municipality to another, so it’s important to understand how they influence your build. It may be helpful to hire a general contractor familiar with the ins and outs of the building codes in your area to help you navigate the project. If you live in a community that has a homeowner’s association, you may need to get additional approval for any hot tub shelters.
Budget
Hot tub shelters are no small investment, even if you stick to more affordable options. They can range in price from just a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Carefully consider how much you want to spend because the sky’s the limit, especially if you opt to have a pergola or gazebo custom-built.
Available Space
Hot tub shelters can take up quite a bit of space depending on which type you choose and the size of your hot tub. Even if you want a large pergola or custom gazebo, sometimes the amount of space in your yard won’t allow it. Consider how much space is available for your hot tub shelter and look at options that you can reasonably fit in your space.
Solid Foundation
Building a solid foundation is one of the most important hot tub installation steps. Hot tubs typically weigh thousands of pounds, so you’ll need to ensure that the deck, patio, or concrete slab where you place it is sturdy enough to accommodate its weight. What may seem like small cracks can become big problems if left unaddressed over time. Make sure your foundation is not only sturdy but flat as well.
Ventilation
If you choose a hot tub shelter that fully encloses your hot tub, pay close attention to ventilation. Hot tubs produce exceptional moisture, so you may need an exhaust fan for fully enclosed hot tub shelters. Excess moisture and humidity can cause damage to your deck, patio or home. You may even want to consider a powered ventilation system if you are building a hot tub enclosure that you intend to use all year round. Consult an experienced contractor to determine the best ventilation option for your unique situation.
Climate and Weather
Think about the weather and climate in your location and how it might impact your hot tub shelter. For example, locations that experience extreme wind and cold may require shelters that can be broken down and stored during the winter or sturdy structures that can withstand the elements. If you live in a mild or warm climate all year round, you have more options available to you.
Why You Should Trust Us
Ashlyn Needham, the author of this piece, is a freelance writer and home decor expert. She has over six years of experience writing home-related content that has been featured in The Spruce, HomeLight, Wayfair and Family Handyman. Ashlyn is passionate about creating a well-designed, functional home and loves inspiring readers to do the same.
Nina Derwin is a commerce updates editor for Reader’s Digest, Taste of Home and Family Handyman with experience researching and reviewing various items to help shoppers find the best products on the market. She researched and updated this piece.
How We Found the Best Hot Tub Shelters
When looking for the best hot tub shelters, we carefully researched and considered various options in various styles. We paid close attention to functionality, durability, and price. We looked for temporary options that could be stored in the off-season, as well as custom builds and pre-fabricated enclosures. Ultimately, we found that the best hot tub shelters meet your needs based on your climate, budget and available space.
FAQ
Can you put a canopy over a hot tub?
A canopy or pergola can provide shade over a hot tub and help create a sense of privacy for you and your guests while the tub is in use.
How far does a hot tub need to be from a house?
Installing a hot tub a safe distance from your home helps protect your house from damage and any potential hazards. A hot tub should generally be at least five feet away from your house or any other surface, like a deck or patio.
Should you put a gazebo over a hot tub?
A gazebo is a great addition to your hot tub. It looks beautiful, helps provide privacy and protects your hot tub from the elements, like sunlight, rain and wind, prolonging its lifespan.
Originally Published: April 27, 2023
