Simple Small Backyard Hot Tub Landscaping on a Budget

After a long day, few things beat soaking in the warm, bubbling water of a hot tub in your own backyard oasis. But landscaping around a hot tub can quickly become an expensive endeavor. With some creativity and budget-friendly ideas, you can design a gorgeous small backyard hot tub area without breaking the bank.

We'll share planning tips, material ideas, and design strategies to help you create a private backyard relaxation space on a budget.

Setting Your Budget Expectations

The first step is determining your overall backyard makeover budget. Be realistic about how much you can spend on the hot tub itself along with landscaping materials and plants. Consider the following when making your budget:

• Hot tub cost - Consider buying a quality used tub or finding discounts on floor models.
• Hardscaping - Opt for budget materials like gravel, mulch, pavers.
• Softscaping - Choose low-maintenance plants, start from seedlings or cuttings.
• Labor - Save money by tackling landscaping tasks yourself.

Set your maximum budget, then look for ways to trim costs on materials and DIY installation. Even on a tight budget, you can create a relaxing and stylish backyard hot tub oasis.

Choosing the Right Hot Tub

Your budget will play a key role in selecting an affordable hot tub option. Consider these tips to choose the right hot tub for your space and needs:

• Look for budget-friendly brands like Coleman or Intex.
• Choose a smaller tub with room for 2-4 people to save money.
• Find used hot tubs listed locally to get quality at a lower price.
• Ask about floor models or lightly used tubs from hot tub dealers.
• Seek out energy efficient options to save on operating costs.

Settle on the right size tub for your space, then compare brands and features to find one that fits your budget. With some deal hunting, you can find a quality hot tub at an affordable price point.

Key Hot Tub Features to Consider

When selecting a hot tub model, keep an eye out for these useful features:

• Insulated cabinet - Retains heat and lowers operating costs.
• High energy efficiency rating - Uses less power to run.
• Adjustable jets - Target sore muscles with precision.
• Simple digital controls - Makes setting temperatures and schedules easy.
• Built-in hard cover - Provides safety, heat retention, and aesthetic appeal.

Prioritize energy savings along with comfort and relaxation-enhancing capabilities when evaluating hot tub features.

Creative Ways to Save on Hot Tub Costs

If an expensive built-in hot tub is beyond your budget, get creative with these cost-cutting ideas:

• Find used hot tubs listed for sale locally.
• Ask hot tub sellers about returned or open box discounts.
• Consider an inflatable tub with pump and heater accessories.
• Build a low-cost wooden surround for an above-ground tub option.
• Repurpose an old water trough or large barrel into a hillbilly hot tub.

With imagination and persistence, you can uncover ways to add a soothing hot tub without overspending in your small backyard.

Designing Landscaping for Your Backyard

Carefully mapping out your available backyard space will help guide your landscaping plans. Consider the following when designing your layout:

• Measure your yard and sketch ideas to visualize layouts.
• Ensure proper drainage and ventilation around the hot tub.
• Allow for accessibility to equipment for maintenance.
• Map pathways with budget hardscaping materials.
• Add private screening with tall plants or DIY panels.

Zone your backyard space into functional areas like pathways, plant beds, and seating. Use budget materials creatively to define specific zones on a budget.

Choosing Hardscaping Materials

Hardscaping provides structure and definition within a landscape. Some budget-friendly hardscaping options include:

• Gravel or mulch for pathways
• Repurposed bricks or pavers
• Pea gravel beds edged with thrifted timber
• Sand or DIY concrete mix for patios
• Upcycled containers for planting beds

Visit home improvement store clearance sections and thrift shops to discover low-cost hardscaping materials with lots of character.

Softscape Plants for Visual Interest

Strategically placed plants, or softscaping, helps tie the whole landscape together. Some budget-friendly options include:

• Native wildflowers - Grow easily from seed.
• Herbs - Thrive in containers near hot tub humidity.
• Shrubs - Provide privacy and hide landscaping clutter.
• Succulents - Low maintenance, drought resistant.

Mix heights, colors, and textures for an inviting, peaceful plant palette around your hot tub.

Preparing the Installation Site

Proper site preparation is crucial before installing your hot tub. Here are key steps for getting your space ready on a budget:

• Level ground and improve drainage issues if needed.
• Lay crushed gravel, bricks or pavers to create a stable base.
• Install any needed electrical or plumbing hookups.
• Build up a sturdy foundation for balanced tub installation.
• Frame the space with timber or repurposed wood.

Taking time to correctly prep the hot tub site will pay off in the long run. Focus on structural elements before adding final decorative touches.

Minimizing Installation Expenses

You can reduce hot tub installation costs in your DIY landscaping project with thrifty solutions like:

• Borrow or rent equipment like a small excavator for a weekend instead of hiring labor.
• Ask friends to help position the tub in exchange for a thank you barbecue.
• Install plumbing and electrical yourself if handy instead of paying a contractor.
• Use repurposed timber or low-cost cinder blocks instead of poured concrete.

Tap into your own sweat equity and community network to creatively lower project expenses.

Safety Tips for DIY Hot Tub Installs

Focus on safety when installing a hot tub yourself with tips like:

• Wear protective gear - gloves, goggles, boots, and back brace.
• Stretch before lifting - warm up muscles to avoid injury.
• Ask for help - recruit friends to share heavy lifting.
• Review regulations - ensure proper electrical and enclosure guidelines are met.

Work slowly, take breaks, and keep safety the top priority for a smooth installation.