There’s nothing quite like relaxing in a hot tub, especially when it comes with the added comfort of year-round protection!
But in Saskatoon, where winters can be brutal and the summers unpredictable with sudden wind, rain, or even snow in March, building the perfect hot tub enclosure isn’t just about adding flair – it’s about building smarter.
A hot tub left exposed to the elements loses both its beauty and its lifespan. Worse, it can limit how often you actually get to use it.
That’s where a proper enclosure comes in, not just any pergola or dome slapped together, but a well-designed structure that protects your investment, keeps heat inside, blocks wind, and enhances your backyard.
Let’s walk you through exactly how to make it happen.
1. Pick the Right Type of Hot Tub Enclosure for Your Backyard Setup
Not all hot tub enclosures are created equal. Your choice depends on how often you want to use your hot tub, your aesthetic goals, and Saskatoon’s unpredictable weather.
Three Options to Consider:
| Enclosure Type | Best For | Weather Protection | Style Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunrooms | Year-round use | Excellent | High |
| Louvered Roofs | Adjustable airflow & shade | Moderate–High | Sleek/Modern |
| Screen Rooms | Bug & wind control, fair weather | Moderate | Casual |
A louvered roof system is a great choice if you want sunlight in summer and solid rain cover in winter. Bonus? Premium Home Leisure offers automated aluminum louver systems that can close tightly at the touch of a button.
If you’re more into cozy winter hot tub sessions, a vinyl or glass sunroom might be your best bet. It traps heat, blocks snow, and keeps that Saskatoon chill out.
2. Think Like a Builder: Know Your Site and Climate Limits
Before buying anything, take a serious look at your space and Saskatoon’s climate.
You need to plan for:
- Snow load capacity (Saskatoon gets 90+ cm of snow annually)
- Wind direction and strength – install windbreak walls if needed
- Sunlight access – morning or afternoon soak? Your angle matters
Saskatoon’s sharp weather swings mean enclosures must be solid. Don’t settle for something flimsy when your investment deserves protection.
3. Sort Out Your Structure and Permits Ahead of Time
Planning the dream is one thing. Making it legal and safe is another.
You’ll likely need a building permit for a permanent hot tub enclosure in Saskatoon. Be ready to show plans, site drawings, and compliance with bylaws.
Concrete pads or reinforced deck foundations may also be needed to hold the enclosure frame and spa weight.
Also, make room for:
- Electrical panels and GFCI outlets
- Ventilation systems for steam (especially with glass or polycarbonate roofs)
- Easy drainage access for water changes
4. Choose Materials That Work Hard and Look Good
You’re not just buying a frame. You’re buying a system that’ll face years of sun, ice, and moisture.
Best Materials for Saskatoon Enclosures:
- Powder-coated aluminum – low-maintenance, rust-free
- Polycarbonate roof panels – great light diffusion and durability
- Stainless steel hardware – long-lasting in wet environments
- Tempered glass walls – premium look and protection from wind
Want warmth and style? Consider wood-framed pergolas treated for moisture, but expect more upkeep.
5. Add Weather Protection Where It Counts
Wind whipping through an open hot tub enclosure? No thanks. You need walls or retractable screens that shield but don’t suffocate.
Here’s what works well:
- Wind/privacy walls with tinted glass or polycarbonate
- Rain gutters and downspouts integrated into roofs
- Retractable vinyl or mesh panels for seasonal use
- Built-in infrared patio heaters to keep it cozy
Don’t forget about floor drainage. Standing water = a mold party waiting to happen.
6. Match the Vibe: Make It Part of Your Backyard
Your spa shouldn’t feel like it dropped out of nowhere. Match your hot tub oasis to your home and garden style with hot tub accessories.
- Use paint colors that blend with your fence or siding
- Add LED lighting under louvers or inside the roof frame
- Line the space with stone pavers, natural wood panels, or accent plants
- Tuck in a privacy fence or garden wall if neighbors are too close
A clean, cohesive design not only looks better, it feels better too.
7. Don’t Forget the Hot Tub Extras
You’ve nailed the structure. Now make your soak actually relaxing.
From water care to music and comfort, these finishing touches matter:
- Cover lifters and spa steps for safety and ease
- Bluewave™ stereo systems for mood-setting music
- True Water™ systems that clean your spa with fewer chemicals
- Cupholders, towel racks, and even outdoor showers to rinse before soaking
The enclosure protects the spa. These upgrades protect your peace of mind.
8. Make It a Full Backyard Retreat
Why stop at just the hot tub?
Add a built-in BBQ, a swim spa, or even a cold plunge tub nearby for contrast therapy. Premium Home Leisure customers often pair enclosures with:
- Saunas or plunge tubs
- Outdoor kitchens or smokers
- Pergolas with retractable roofs for multiple zones
Suddenly, your spa isn’t just a spa. It’s also your evening escape.
9. Prep for the Build: What to Expect During Installation
Depending on your hot tub enclosure choice, installations can take anywhere from a day (for a prefab gazebo) to several weeks (for a custom sunroom).
Steps include:
- Foundation prep (concrete or deck)
- Framing and roofing
- Electrical and lighting hookup
- Adding screens, louvers, or glass
- Final inspection and walk-through
Plan your project in spring or early summer to avoid rushes, and always request a free quote in advance.
10. Maintain It Like a Pro
Your enclosure doesn’t need to be high maintenance if you pick the right materials.
- Rinse aluminum frames and glass walls monthly
- Check the gutter and drainage flow in the fall and spring
- Lubricate motorized louvers or retractable parts annually
- Remove mesh or vinyl panels in deep winter (unless 4-season rated)
Ask Premium Home Leisure about maintenance packages or annual inspections to keep your equipment in top condition.
FAQs
How much does a hot tub enclosure cost in Saskatoon?
Costs vary depending on size and material, but expect anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 or more. Sunrooms and louvered systems cost more, while simple gazebos are more budget-friendly.
Do I need a building permit for a hot tub enclosure?
If your enclosure is fixed to your home or has a permanent roof/walls, you likely need a permit. Portable structures may not. Always check with the City of Saskatoon first.
What’s the best roof for snow?
Polycarbonate or steel roofs with a slope are ideal for snow runoff. Flat louvered roofs are fine too, as long as they’re rated for the Saskatchewan snow load.
Can I use my hot tub in winter with an enclosure?
Absolutely. A quality enclosure keeps snow out, traps heat in, and makes winter soaks more enjoyable. Add an infrared heater for even more comfort.
Is wood a good choice for hot tub enclosures?
Wood looks great, but it needs regular staining and sealing in our climate. For lower maintenance, go with powder-coated aluminum or vinyl-clad structures.
Build Your Dream Hot Tub Space
Building the ultimate hot tub enclosure in Saskatoon isn’t just about looks—it’s about smart planning, local weather awareness, and choosing materials that work as hard as you do.
When done right, it creates a space you’ll use all year, not just when the weather cooperates.
At Premium Home Leisure, we’ve helped homeowners design custom enclosures, sunrooms, and backyard spas since 2003. Ready to start? Visit our showrooms or contact us online today, and let’s build something you’ll actually use!
