Are you considering a pool or spa but can’t quite decide between the two? There’s a new trend in outdoor entertainment that offers the best of both worlds: the Spool—a hybrid of a spa and a pool! Outdoor water features like Spools have skyrocketed in popularity, offering the relaxation of a spa with the spaciousness and versatility of a small pool. If you’re wondering whether a Spool is the right choice for your backyard, here’s a closer look at the benefits, the best manufacturers, and one thing in particular you should know before you buy.
What Is a Spool?
A Spool combines the best features of a spa and a pool—smaller than a traditional pool but bigger than a spa. This innovative water feature offers several advantages over both traditional spas and pools, making it an ideal solution for homeowners with limited space or those seeking a more flexible outdoor experience.
Why Consider a Spool?
Here are a few key reasons why Spools might be the perfect backyard addition:
- Ideal for Small Spaces: Spools are perfect for yards with limited space. They’re more compact than a traditional pool but still offer the enjoyment and relaxation of a larger water feature. If you are struggling against impervious surface constraints, this might be an ideal solution!
- Great for Family & Group Entertainment: While smaller than a pool, Spools can be built larger than a traditional spa, making plunge pools more suitable for family gatherings or parties with friends, or even a game of pool volleyball.
- Faster Heating & Cooling: Unlike a pool, Spools heat and cool quickly, allowing you to enjoy the experience year-round, no matter the weather.
- No Need for a Fence: When equipped with an automatic or locking cover, Spools may not require a fence, unlike a traditional pool. This can save you both time and money while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your backyard.
- Built-In Seating & Jets: With built-in seating and spa jets, Spools offer a relaxing, spa-like experience, even if they’re installed at ground level. You can enjoy the luxury of a spa while still having the space of a pool.
- Faster Installation: Spools come pre-manufactured and are shipped as a complete unit, meaning the installation process is much quicker than with traditional pools, which require custom on-site construction.
Spool Construction: Gunite, Fiberglass, or Recycled Shipping Containers?
Spools can be built using one of three primary methods: gunite, fiberglass, or even recycled shipping containers. Each method offers unique advantages in terms of durability, installation, and customization.
To learn more about the construction options and how each method affects your spool’s performance and longevity, check out the links to some of the top Spool manufacturers in the Philadelphia area:
Typical Spool Sizes and Pricing
Spools come in a variety of sizes to fit different backyard needs. On average, you’ll find Spools ranging up to 4’ in depth, from 8’ to 12’ in width, and up to 40’ in length.
Due to the shipping costs, installation requirements (including crane services), and the need for site preparation, you should budget around $40,000 installed and can go up to $120,000 depending on size and features.
The Top 3 Spa Pool Manufacturers to Consider
When it comes to choosing a manufacturer for your Spool, consider these top companies in the Philadelphia, Princeton and New Yorks areas:
- Immer Spa: Known for its luxurious and high-performance Spools, Immer Spa offers customizable options with cutting-edge features.
- Trek Pools: Trek Pools is recognized for its durable, energy-efficient Spools that are designed to fit seamlessly into modern outdoor spaces.
- Soake Pools: Soake Pools artfully crafts precast concrete plunge pools that combine aesthetics and functionality, offering elegant designs suited for a variety of backyard settings.
What Manufacturers Won’t Tell You
While Spools offer many benefits, there’s one important thing that manufacturers often don’t highlight: Spa Pools cannot be shut down like a normal pool. Since Spools are typically only 4’ deep, they must run continuously to maintain their temperature. This is crucial to know before making a purchase.
However, the good news is that a well-insulated Spool and an energy-efficient cover will minimize heat loss and keep your operating costs manageable. For example, Joe and Jen, two of our clients who recently installed an energy-efficient Spool (photo below), reported that their utility bills were much lower than expected, thanks to the insulation and efficient cover.
Final Thoughts
A Spool is a fantastic alternative to a traditional pool or spa, especially if you’re limited on space but still want a luxurious, functional outdoor water feature. By understanding the benefits, the construction options, and the cost of installation, you can make an informed decision about whether a Spool is right for you. With options from top manufacturers like Immer Spa, Trek Pools, and Soake Pools, you’ll find a variety of styles and designs to suit your needs.
Before you make your final decision, just keep in mind the continuous operational costs associated with Spools. With proper insulation and energy-efficient equipment, however, your Spool can provide years of enjoyment without breaking the bank.
Ready to transform your backyard with a Spool? Explore the options from these top manufacturers and get started on your journey to a more fun, relaxing outdoor space today! We’d love to make your backyard spa dream come true. Let’s schedule a consultation to see it come to life.
