Are you looking for ways to create privacy around your outdoor hot tub? We’ve got 9 ideas for privacy screens, fencing, plants and other features that provide seclusion. Plus, they can enhance the overall aesthetic of your backyard as well.
1. Privacy Screens for Hot Tubs:
Many people like privacy screens because they typically cost less and require less work to install. In fact, many screens come as freestanding units, so you don’t have to worry about a permanent installation.
In addition, you can choose from a variety of different screen styles adding a a modern, ethnic or contemporary feel to your outdoor space. Alternatively, you can get retractable screens that you can adjust as you like.
On the flip side, freestanding privacy screens tend to be less stable, so they can fall over if you live in a windy location. Plus, they usually have a max height of about 6 feet tall. Therefore, you may not get as much privacy as gazebos, pergolas or tall shrubs or trees.
2. Hot Tub Pergolas:
Pergolas can provide privacy from above and on the sides around your spa. Therefore, they can give you additional privacy in your outdoor space.
You can choose from a variety of materials (wood, metal, vinyl), so you have several options when it comes to how much money you want to spend. In other words, pergolas can fit all sizes of budgets. For example, you can get a Coolaroo aluminum pergola form about $500-600 – or a rustic cedar wood pergola for between $500-$2000.
Some models included overhead canopies, while others do not. In addition, wood-framed pergolas give you more sturdy structure to attach side panels or curtains for extra privacy.
3. Outdoor Curtains for Privacy:
Outdoor curtains offer a low-cost option for creating backyard privacy – as long as you have a wall, post or tree to secure them to. I use a cable kit like this one to hang my outdoor curtains. It’s super simple, easy to set up – and most importantly, it works well.
Fabric screens have the advantage in that you can choose from a variety of different colors and lengths. Plus, you can conveniently wash them if needed. In my experience, I’ve found that outdoor curtains can look great and last a long time when they are made of durable and weatherproof materials.
The disadvantage with curtains is that they can blow around in the wind if they are not weighted down. If your backyard doesn’t get lots of wind, this may not matter you – or you can add weights to the bottoms of the curtains.
4. Privacy Fencing for Hot Tubs:
Fencing allows you to add complete privacy on the sides of your spa, and it’s fairly straightforward to install. However, it requires more time and work to build and it’s always aesthetically pleasing to look at. You may also have height restrictions in your neighborhood.
5. Use Plants Around Your Hot Tub:
Planting trees or tall shrubs can provide a natural, cozy barrier around your tub. And when you pick the right plants for your space, they can thrive on their own and require minimal maintenance and care.
Having said that, you will need adequate space and ground in which to plant them. If you have your hot tub on a deck or patio, you may be able to plant trees or shrubs in large pots. However, they may not grow as big or as tall as they would in the ground.
6. Use a Trellis for Privacy:
A trellis on its own may not give you the screening that you want for a hot tub. However, they make the ideal structure for growing vines and climbing plants that CAN create a lush privacy screen.
Choose from metal, wood or vinyl trellises in the size of shape you want. Also, some cheaper versions may require more maintenance and not be as stable. I think you get what you pay for in this situation.
7. Add Privacy with an Awning:
Retractable awnings typically attach to the side of your house and don’t have to cost much money. In addition to providing some privacy, they can also give you shade, wind and rain protection when needed.
However, you will need a wall or side of your house on which to attach it. Plus, awnings don’t provide privacy on the sides. That said, you can combine an awning with tall potted bushes or a retractable privacy screen to minimize exposure.
8. Hot Tub Gazebos:
The advantage of a hot tub gazebo is that can provide privacy, shade and weather protection. In addition, many of these structures can make your hot tub more enjoyable to use year-round.
Well-built gazebos cost more than non-permanent structures, but they can be well worth the investment. Plus, they may even enhance the value of your home.
9. Build a Rock Wall Around Your Hot Tub:
Rock walls offer an ultra-sturdy privacy wall and sound barrier. Generally, they require more effort to construct, as well as money. However, this can be time well spent over the long run because they need minimal maintenance or cost once installed.
| Privacy Screen Idea | Pros | Cons | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Privacy Screens | Non-permanent, movable, versatile, easy to set up. Also retractable options. | Not as sturdy or stable, can blow over in gusty wind. | $200-$500 per panel |
| Pergola | Provides partial privacy, can be customized with plants or curtains, adds aesthetic value. | May not provide complete privacy, requires maintenance, may not be suitable for all outdoor spaces. | $500-$3,000 |
| Outdoor Curtains | Inexpensive, easy to install and remove, versatile. | May not provide complete privacy, blows around in wind, may not be as durable. | $50-$200 |
| Privacy Fencing | Provides complete privacy, customizable, durable | Expensive, may require professional installation, permanent | $20-$40 per linear foot |
| Tall Shrubs/Trees | Provide natural privacy, eco-friendly, can add aesthetic value | May take years to grow to desired height, requires regular maintenance, may not be suitable for all outdoor spaces | $50-$200 per plant |
| Trellis | Provides partial privacy, adds aesthetic value, can be customized with plants. | May not provide complete privacy, requires maintenance, cheaper products can be less sturdy/stable. | $50-$500 |
| Retractable Awning | Provides adjustable privacy and shade, easy to install and remove. | May not provide complete privacy, may not be durable, sturdy wall/structure needed. | $300-$2,500 |
| Gazebo | Provides complete privacy, adds aesthetic value, may increase value to home. | Expensive, may require professional installation, permanent. | $2,000-$10,000 |
| Rock Wall | Provides complete privacy, durable, may add aesthetic value. | Expensive, may require professional installation, permanent. | $50-$100 per square foot |
Keep in mind that any of these backyard hot tub privacy ideas can not only make your spa more feel more secluded, but they can upgrade the appeal of your backyard as well.