The short answer: Renaissance Pools designs and builds custom gunite spas in Austin, almost always as part of a new pool. An attached spa typically adds $15,000 to $20,000 to a custom pool, it is built at the same time as the pool, and it can be raised with a spillover into the pool or sunken level with the deck. If you already have a pool, a spa can often be added as part of a pool remodel.
This page covers the questions Austin homeowners ask us most about spas: what one costs, raised versus sunken, which features are worth it, and how long it takes. For the full picture on new pools, see our Austin pool builder page.
A gunite spa is built in place, the same way as a gunite pool: the shape is formed with steel, sprayed with concrete, then finished with tile, coping and an interior finish. Because it is custom, the spa can match the pool’s shape, tile and stone, and it can sit wherever it works best in your yard. That is the main difference from a portable hot tub, which is a manufactured unit set on a pad.
Most of the spas we build are attached to the pool and share its equipment, so one system runs both. The spa is plumbed and wired during the same build as the pool, which is the simplest and most cost-effective time to add one.
When the spa is built with a new pool, it typically adds $15,000 to $20,000. Our custom pools start at $49,900, and most clients add features like a spa, tanning ledge or water features, so a typical custom pool with upgrades lands around $70K to $90K. Your exact price depends on the spa’s size, whether it is raised or sunken, the tile and stone you choose, and features like lighting and spillovers.
A few things that affect cost less than people expect:
If you are adding a spa to an existing pool, the cost depends on the pool’s condition and how much of the deck, tile and plumbing changes, so we price those projects after seeing the pool in person.
This is the biggest design decision, and both are good choices. It mostly comes down to how you want the backyard to look and how you will use the spa.
A raised spa sits above the pool, usually with its wall facing the water. That wall gives you a place for tile that shows, and it lets water spill over the edge into the pool, which adds the sound of moving water. Raised spas work well as a focal point and on sloped lots where the yard already steps down.
A sunken spa sits at or near deck level, so the view across the yard stays open. It suits a clean, low-profile look and makes it easy to step from the deck straight into the spa. Many sunken spas still spill into the pool over a lower edge.
In Mueller, a homeowner with a big, flat lawn wanted a modern pool and spa that would make the backyard the best room of the house. We built a rectangular pool with a raised spa at one end, a tanning ledge, iridescent glass tile on the spa and waterline, LED lights and bubblers, plus a heater and a chiller so the water is comfortable year-round. We hit rock during the dig and removed it, at no extra charge. The build itself took about 10 weeks. Read the full Mueller pool and spa story.
Because the spa is built alongside the pool, it does not add a separate project. Permits and any HOA approval usually take about 4 weeks, and construction typically takes 8 to 12 weeks after that. We handle the design, permits, excavation, plumbing, electrical and finishes from start to finish. Learn more about our construction process.
An attached gunite spa built with a new pool typically adds $15,000 to $20,000. Custom pools start at $49,900, and a typical custom pool with upgrades like a spa lands around $70K to $90K.
Often, yes. Adding a raised or sunken spa with a spillover is one of the upgrades we do as part of a pool remodel. We look at the pool in person first and price it from there.
Neither is better in general. A raised spa makes a focal point and allows a spillover into the pool; a sunken spa keeps the view open and sits level with the deck. We help you choose based on your yard and how you will use it.
Permits and HOA approval usually take about 4 weeks, and construction typically takes 8 to 12 weeks. The spa is built at the same time as the pool.
No. Rock excavation is always included in our price.
Yes, through Lyon Financial. Many clients plan their pool and spa around a monthly payment.
Thinking about a spa for your Austin backyard? We’ll come out, look at your yard, and talk through raised versus sunken, features and budget before anything is dug. Call Renaissance Pools at 512-987-5117 or request your free estimate.
