Thinking About Upgrading Your Pool?

Thanks to modern pool remodeling techniques, these luxury features can often be integrated into your current pool without the need for a complete rebuild.

A pool renovation is the perfect opportunity to create a resort-style experience right in your backyard. Whether you want a relaxing spa to enjoy or a shallow sun shelf for tanning and family fun, both upgrades bring style, and value to your home.

Can I Add a Spa to My Pool?



Adding a spa to a pool is one of the most common remodeling requests. A spa offers the ultimate in relaxation, giving you a heated, bubbling escape that pairs perfectly with swimming. Depending on your preferences, a spa can be:

• Attached to the pool with a spillover effect for seamless design
  
  
• Raised above pool level for a dramatic, elevated look
  
  
• Integrated with custom tile or stonework to match your pool’s finishes
  
  

Benefits of Adding a Spa to a Pool

• Relaxation and hydrotherapy after a long day
  
  
• Year-round usability, even when it’s too cool to swim
  
  
• Increased property value and buyer appeal
  
  
• It’s a centerpiece for entertaining family and friends

Can I Add a Sun Shelf to My Pool?

Yes, you can also add a sun shelf to your pool. Also known as a tanning ledge or Baja shelf, this shallow platform is typically 6–12 inches deep and is designed for lounging.

Imagine reclining on an in-pool chair with a drink in hand or watching kids splash safely in shallow water—it’s a feature that combines relaxation with practicality.

Benefits of Adding a Sun Shelf

• Resort-style design for a high-end look
  
  
• Kid-friendly shallow zone that’s safe and fun
  
  
• Perfect for tanning without leaving the water
  
  
• Customizable with umbrellas and loungers for ultimate comfort
  
  

Design Options for Pool Remodeling Upgrades

When adding a spa or sun shelf, you’ll also have design choices that can take your pool to the next level:

• Tile & Stone Accents – Choose glass tile, natural stone, or porcelain for a luxury finish.
  
  
• Lighting Upgrades – Add LED lighting to highlight your spa or sun shelf at night.
  
  
• Water Features – Consider bubblers, fountains, or spillovers for movement and sound.
  
  
• Automation – Integrate your new spa with a smart control system to adjust temperature and jets from your phone.
  
  

What to Expect During the Remodeling Process

Here’s a step-by-step look at how professionals add a spa or sun shelf to an existing pool:

1. Consultation & Design – A pool remodeling expert evaluates your current pool, plumbing, and layout. Together, you’ll design the spa or sun shelf that best fits your space.
   
   
2. Demolition & Excavation – Contractors cut into the existing pool structure to make room for the new feature.
   
   
3. Plumbing & Electrical Work – New lines are added for spa jets, heating, or bubblers on a sun shelf. Electrical work is completed for pumps, lights, and automation.
   
   
4. Structural Reinforcement – The new section is framed and tied into the existing pool shell for long-term durability.
   
   
5. Surface & Finish Installation – Plaster, pebble, or tile finishes are applied to match or upgrade your pool’s surface.
   
   
6. Final Touches & Startup – Water is added, systems are tested, and the pool is ready for use.
   

How Much Does It Cost to Add a Spa or Sun Shelf?

The price depends on your pool’s size, existing condition, and the finishes you select. On average:

• Adding a Spa to a Pool: $35,000+ depending on size, custom finishes, and equipment.
  
  
• Adding a Sun Shelf to a Pool: $9,000 – $16,000 depending on dimensions, bubblers, and tile work.
  
  

While these upgrades require an investment, they dramatically improve your pool’s functionality and your home’s value.

Is It Worth Adding a Spa or Sun Shelf?

For many homeowners, the answer is absolutely. These upgrades make your pool more versatile, enjoyable, and visually stunning. Families love sun shelves for their safe shallow water and space for lounging, homeowners who entertain enjoy spas for relaxation. Both features increase the overall value, appeal, and usability of the pool.

How Long Does It Take to Add a Spa or Sun Shelf?

The timeline for adding a spa or sun shelf to your pool typically ranges from 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the size of the project and the complexity of the design.

Factors That Influence the Timeline

• Scope of Work – A simple sun shelf addition may be quicker than building a raised spa with custom finishes.
  
  
• Permitting Process – Waiting on local approvals can add time before construction begins.
  
  
• Weather Conditions – Rainy days can delay excavation, concrete curing, or finish application.
  
  
• Material Availability – Custom tile, stone, or special equipment may require additional lead time.
  
  

Do I Need a Permit to Add a Spa or Sun Shelf?

In most areas, the answer is yes. Because adding a spa or sun shelf changes the structure of your pool, local building departments typically require a permit. This ensures the work meets safety and structural standards.

Gold Standard Pools will handle the permitting process, including submitting engineering plans, scheduling inspections, and coordinating approvals with the county or city.

Can any pool be upgraded with a spa or sun shelf?

In most cases, yes—but the condition of your existing pool shell and plumbing layout will determine feasibility.

Will adding these features damage my current pool?

No. With professional construction, the spa or sun shelf is structurally tied into the pool for long-term durability.

Do I have to resurface my whole pool?

Not always, but many homeowners choose to resurface the pool at the same time, so the finishes match seamlessly.

Ready to explore your options? Click here and contact our team to learn how we can design the perfect spa or sun shelf addition for your pool.