You already have a pool — and you love it. But lately, you’ve been eyeing those gorgeous spillover spas you see in backyard photos and wondering: could I add one to my existing pool? The answer, in most cases, is yes.
Adding a spa to an existing pool is one of the most popular pool remodeling projects in Tampa Bay. It transforms a backyard you already enjoy into something that feels truly resort-level — and it’s one of the best investments you can make for both your lifestyle and your home’s value. Furthermore, in Florida’s mild winters, a heated spa becomes one of the most-used features in your entire backyard.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from the types of spas available to the remodeling process, costs, and what to expect during construction. Let’s dive in.
Can You Really Add a Spa to an Existing Pool?
Yes — and it’s more common than you might think. Homeowners add spas to existing pools all the time as part of a broader pool remodel. Whether your pool is 5 years old or 25 years old, an experienced pool remodeling contractor can assess your current setup and design a spa that integrates beautifully with what you already have.
That said, it’s not quite as simple as bolting something on. Adding a spa to an existing pool is a construction project that involves excavation, plumbing, new equipment, and potentially some updates to your existing pool shell and deck. Consequently, it’s important to work with a licensed, experienced pool contractor who understands how to do this correctly.
Factors your contractor will evaluate:
- The size and layout of your existing pool and backyard
- The condition of your current pool shell, plumbing, and equipment
- Where the spa will be positioned relative to the pool
- Whether your existing equipment can support a spa or needs to be upgraded
- Local permitting requirements in your county
Types of Spas You Can Add to an Existing Pool
Not all spas are the same, and the type you choose will depend on your backyard layout, your budget, and the look you’re going for. Here are the most popular options for homeowners adding a spa to an existing pool in Tampa Bay.
Attached Spillover Spa
This is the most popular and visually stunning option. An attached spillover spa is adjacent to your existing pool. It is elevated slightly above the water level so that warm water continuously spills over the edge and cascades into the pool below. The result is a breathtaking water feature that looks as good as it feels. Additionally, because it shares plumbing and equipment with your pool, it’s often the most efficient option from a maintenance standpoint.
Detached In-Ground Spa
A detached spa is separate from the pool. This option gives you more flexibility in terms of placement and design. However, because it operates on its own plumbing and equipment, it does require a bit more infrastructure and ongoing maintenance than an attached spa.
Raised Spa
A raised spa is built on an elevated platform — often a bond beam or retaining wall — and can be either attached or positioned near the pool. Raised spas add significant visual height and drama to the overall pool design. They’re especially striking when combined with sheer descents or fire bowls integrated into the raised wall beneath the spa.
What Does the Remodeling Process Look Like?
Adding a spa to an existing pool is a remodeling project, not a quick add-on. Here’s a general overview of what the process involves so you know what to expect from start to finish.
Design consultation
First, you’ll meet with your pool contractor to discuss the type of spa you want, where it will be placed, and how it will connect to your existing pool and equipment. This is also when your contractor will assess the current condition of your pool and identify any updates needed before the spa is added.
Permitting
Like any pool construction project in Florida, adding a spa requires a permit from your local county. Your contractor will handle the submission, but it’s important to factor in permitting time — typically 3 to 6 weeks in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties — when planning your project timeline.
Excavation
Once permits are approved, the crew will excavate the area where the new spa will be built. For an attached spillover spa, this typically involves digging alongside your existing pool shell.
Steel and plumbing
Before committing to the project, have a reputable contractor inspect your current pool shell, plumbing, and equipment to ensure everything can support the addition or identify what needs to be addressed first.
Gunite shell
The spa’s concrete shell is applied using gunite or shotcrete — the same method used for your original pool. This gives the spa its permanent shape and structural integrity.
Tile, coping, and finishing
Tile, coping, and interior finish are applied to match or complement your existing pool. If you’re doing a full remodel alongside the spa addition, this is a great opportunity to update your pool’s finish and tile at the same time.
Equipment upgrades
Depending on your existing setup, your contractor may need to upgrade your pump, heater, or add a dedicated spa blower. A properly sized heater is essential for getting the most out of your spa year-round.
Final inspection and start-up
After construction is complete, the project goes through a final county inspection. Once approved, your contractor will fill the spa, balance the water chemistry, and walk you through how everything works.
How Much Does It Cost to Add a Spa to an Existing Pool?
Cost is naturally one of the first questions homeowners ask, and the honest answer is that it varies quite a bit depending on the type of spa, the complexity of the project, and the condition of your existing pool. Generally speaking, adding a custom in-ground concrete spa to an existing pool in the Tampa Bay area ranges from $20,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the scope of work involved.
Factors that affect the cost include:
- Type of spa (attached spillover, detached, or raised)
- Size of the spa and number of jets
- Equipment upgrades required (heater, pump, automation)
- Tile, coping, and finish selections
- Whether you’re combining the spa addition with other remodeling work
- Permitting fees for your specific county
One thing worth noting: if your pool is due for a resurfacing or remodel anyway, combining that work with your spa addition is a smart way to maximize your investment. You’ll save on mobilization costs, and the finished result will look cohesive and intentional rather than like a patchwork of updates done at different times.
Will Adding a Spa Increase My Home’s Value?
In Tampa Bay’s real estate market, a pool with an integrated spa is a premium feature. Buyers who are specifically searching for a move-in ready home with a resort-style backyard will notice — and value — the addition. While the exact return on investment varies depending on your neighborhood and home price point, a well-executed spa addition consistently adds appeal and perceived value.
Beyond resale value, however, the day-to-day enjoyment of a spa is genuinely hard to put a price on. Whether it’s unwinding after a long workday, hosting friends on a cool January evening, or simply having a space in your own backyard that feels like a five-star hotel — a spa adds a dimension to your outdoor lifestyle that most homeowners say they can’t imagine living without once they have it.
Is Your Existing Pool a Good Candidate for a Spa Addition?
Most existing pools in the Tampa Bay area can accommodate a spa addition, but the condition of your pool matters. Before you commit to the project, a reputable contractor will inspect your current pool shell, plumbing, and equipment to ensure everything can support the addition or identify what needs to be addressed first.
Your pool may be a strong candidate for a spa addition if:
- The pool shell is structurally sound with no major cracks or leaks
- Your backyard has adequate space adjacent to the pool for the spa footprint
- Your existing equipment is in reasonable condition or you’re open to upgrading it
- You’re planning a broader pool remodel and want to add the spa at the same time
The best way to find out for sure is to schedule a consultation with an experienced pool remodeling contractor. They’ll be able to give you an honest assessment and a clear picture of what’s involved for your specific situation.
Ready to Add a Spa to Your Tampa Bay Pool?
At Gulfstream Pools & Spas, we’ve been helping Tampa Bay homeowners upgrade their existing pools with beautiful custom spas since 1992. We know the local permitting process inside and out, we use only high-quality materials and equipment, and our team will work with you from design through completion to make sure the final result exceeds your expectations.
Whether you’re ready to get started or just exploring the idea, reach out and talk with us. We offer free, relaxed, no-pressure consultations, and we’ll visit your backyard, assess your existing pool, and walk you through your options with complete transparency.
Call us at (813) 925-0909 or request a free quote at GulfstreamPools.com. Your upgraded backyard is waiting.