Behind the Scenes of Custom Pools: Budgeting, Trends, and Client Advice

Creig Prince co-owns 360 Custom Pools and R and R Pool Service, and arrived in the East Texas pool business by an unconventional route through the fitness world. He talks about what it takes to last in an industry that keeps changing.

On design, he covers the move from freeform to contemporary straight-line pools, and explains why saltwater systems are losing ground in certain markets. The conversation also takes in coping, hardscaping, tanning ledges and the rising popularity of turf around pools.

A significant part of the discussion is about money: being transparent with clients about budgets for major home projects, and the expectations that come with luxury outdoor spaces. On the service side, Creig covers the mistakes maintenance teams commonly make and why attention to detail matters.