Upgrade Your Pool: Add a Baja Shelf, Spa, or Waterfall

 

A swimming pool is often the centerpiece of a backyard, a place for relaxation, fun, and making memories. But as time goes on, your pool might start to feel a little outdated or lack the features you now crave. The good news is you don't have to start from scratch to get the pool of your dreams. A professional pool remodel can completely transform your existing space, adding luxury features that enhance both its beauty and functionality.

If you've been thinking about a pool upgrade, you might be wondering what's possible. Can you really add a spa to your existing pool? What about a relaxing Baja shelf or the soothing sound of a waterfall? The answer is a resounding yes. This guide will walk you through how you can incorporate these popular features during a pool remodeling project, turning your ordinary pool into an extraordinary backyard oasis.

Why Remodel Your Pool?

Before we explore the "how," let's touch on the "why." Homeowners in Jacksonville, FL, and beyond choose to remodel their pools for several reasons. An outdated design can make a whole backyard feel tired, while worn-out surfaces can be rough on your feet and harbor algae. A remodel is the perfect opportunity to update the aesthetic with new tiles and finishes, improve energy efficiency with modern equipment, and, most excitingly, add brand-new features that cater to your current lifestyle.

Adding features like a Baja shelf, waterfall, or spa not only increases your personal enjoyment but can also boost your property value. These luxurious additions make your pool more versatile, appealing to everyone from young children to adults looking for a tranquil escape.

Adding a Baja Shelf

A Baja shelf—also known as a tanning ledge or sun shelf—is a large, shallow platform at the entrance of your pool, typically submerged in about 9 to 18 inches of water. It's the perfect spot for sunbathing, relaxing in a lounge chair, or for small children to play safely.

How it's done:

Adding a Baja shelf during pool remodeling involves extending the pool's structure. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

1. Drain the Pool: First, your pool will be completely drained to allow the remodeling crew to work.
2. Chip the Area: The section of the pool wall and floor where the shelf will be built is carefully chipped away to expose the underlying rebar structure.
3. Build the Framework: New rebar is installed to create the frame for the shelf, tying it into the existing pool shell to ensure structural integrity. This framework defines the shape and size of your new shelf.
4. Apply Concrete: A layer of concrete (often shotcrete or gunite) is applied over the rebar framework to form the solid structure of the shelf.
5. Waterproofing and Finishing: Once the concrete cures, a waterproofing layer is applied. Finally, the new shelf is finished with the same material as the rest of your pool interior, such as plaster or pebble, to create a seamless look.

A Baja shelf is a fantastic addition that creates a resort-like feel, offering a new way to enjoy the water without being fully submerged.

Incorporating a Waterfall

A waterfall adds both visual drama and a tranquil auditory element to your pool. The sound of cascading water can mask neighborhood noise and create a peaceful, spa-like atmosphere. Waterfalls can range from simple, sheet-like descents to elaborate rock formations that look completely natural.

How it's done:

The complexity of adding a waterfall depends on the design you choose.

1. Plumbing and Equipment: The first step involves running new plumbing lines from the pool's circulation system to the location of the waterfall. This often requires adding a dedicated pump to ensure adequate water flow without impacting your pool's filtration.
2. Construct the Feature: The waterfall structure is then built. This could be a raised wall section (bond beam) along the pool's edge or a custom-built rock formation. For rock waterfalls, a concrete base is poured, and artificial or natural rocks are mortared into place.
3. Install the Weir: A weir, which is the opening the water flows out of, is installed at the top of the structure. The width of the weir determines the thickness and shape of the falling water.
4. Finishing Touches: The structure is finished with materials like tile, stone veneer, or stucco to match your pool's overall aesthetic.

A well-designed waterfall can become the focal point of your backyard, adding a touch of elegance and serenity.

Integrating a Spillover Spa

Adding a spa is one of the most popular pool remodeling projects. An integrated or spillover spa is built adjacent to the pool, with one wall lower than the others, allowing water to cascade from the spa into the pool. This creates a beautiful visual and a gentle waterfall sound.

How it's done:

Adding a spa is a significant undertaking, but it's entirely feasible with a professional remodeler.

1. Excavation and Framing: An area next to the pool is excavated. A rebar framework is constructed to form the spa's shape and tied into the existing pool structure.
2. Plumbing for Jets and Heating: This is a crucial step. Separate plumbing lines are run for the spa's jets, suction, and heating system. A dedicated heater and pump are installed to allow the spa to operate independently and maintain a high temperature.
3. Concrete Application: Concrete is applied to form the spa's shell. The spillway edge is carefully crafted to ensure a smooth, even flow of water into the pool.
4. Finishing: The spa interior is finished to match the pool, and the exterior can be decorated with tile or stone. Benches are built into the design for comfortable seating.

A spa provides year-round enjoyment and a therapeutic space to unwind, making it a truly valuable addition to any home in Jacksonville, FL.

Find the Right Partner for Your Pool Remodel

Adding features like a Baja shelf, waterfall, or spa requires extensive knowledge of pool construction, plumbing, and design. It’s not a DIY project. Working with an experienced and licensed pool remodeling contractor is essential to ensure the new features are structurally sound, seamlessly integrated, and built to last. A professional will handle all the necessary permits, planning, and construction, giving you peace of mind.

If you’re ready to transform your backyard with a stunning pool renovation in Jacksonville, FL, we’re here to help. At All Phase Pool Remodeling, we specialize in bringing our clients' visions to life. We can help you design and build the custom features that will make your pool the envy of the neighborhood.

Contact All Phase Pool Remodeling today for a free estimate and start planning your dream backyard oasis.