Upstate SC - Looking for Fiberglass pool builders

[Alysenlynn]

Hey, we are looking into getting a fiberglass pool. I'm still in the comparison stage. So far I have only been able to locate three companies that sell with builders in my area: San Juan Pools, Alaglas Pools and Barrier Reef.

The San Juan and Alaglas stores look to be franchise type businesses. The barrier reef builder to actual a local contractor that recommends and uses barrier reef products. I have a ton of questions that I got from another forum to ask all three when we go in to talk to them and get quotes. It seems to me that the major thing to look for is a good builder/contractor.

Does anyone have any experience in dealing with the three types of fiberglass pools I've mentioned? Also is anyone out there located in the upstate of SC that can recommend a specific builder/contractor?

Alysen

PS Anyone want to talk me out of fiberglass and into gunite? We think we like the fiberglass better but I'm willing to hear other sides. We won't do vinyl as I have dogs and would like them to be able to swim freely with the family if desired. Too high of a potential for sharp claws to require a new liner!

[Alysenlynn]

Found one I like in our area finally...thanks!

[CarlD]

If you have steps or a dog ramp a vinyl liner should be safe.

I'd LOVE to let my doggie in--He's a young Belgian Sheepdog and, while not waterdogs like Labs or Chessies, or Newfies, they are good swimmers who love water. But I'm afraid his long hair will clog the plumbing, far worse than a human's, and I'm worried that his skin won't tolerate chlorine exposure the way humans can--I just don't know. Dogs have very sensitive skin, that's sensitive in different ways than people's.

Anyone have any insight on this?

FG pools tend to be limited in size. You also need to have a site that does NOT have ground water or, like a 16x30' boat it could float out of the ground--it takes a lot more water to float concrete. Also watch for climate conditions that cause de-lamination. I don't THINK you get them in northern South Carolina, but you may.

One morning I left Columbia heading to Chapel Hill, on nothing but an un-faired motorcycle. It was 12 deg F in Columbia when I left, and never went over 20 the whole way back! All I can say is I was 30 years younger, stupider and more broke than I am now!

But my point is if that is becoming common in your winters the contractor types here can advise you if that's too cold for F/G.