From serving as an Army officer to transforming backyards into dream spaces, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Discipline, resilience, and a passion for creating something meaningful have guided me every step of the way.
How It All Started
My journey with Agape Decks and Fences began 15 years ago when I installed my first pool. At the time, I had no formal training, just YouTube videos and a willingness to try something new.
I built that pool in my backyard and discovered a passion for the process. It wasn’t just about construction; it was about creating a space that brought joy and lasting memories.
After that initial project, I helped a few friends with their pools. However, my path shifted when I joined the Army, where I served as an officer for eight years. During that time, I developed discipline, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to taking care of people, values that would later influence my business approach.
When I returned to Charlestown, Indiana, I began considering my future. With a passion for the outdoors and years of experience building custom homes with my father-in-law, I realized my true calling.
Five years ago, I decided to focus on pool building full-time, and Agape Pools was established.
Building Agape Pools: Turning Visions Into Reality
At Agape Pools, we specialize in creating backyard paradises with two primary types of pools. Vinyl liner poo ls are built with a wall kit, offering versatility and the ability to refresh the design every 5–10 years by replacing the liner. This makes it easy for homeowners to update their pool as trends change.
Fiberglass pools are pre-molded shells that are becoming increasingly popular due to their low-maintenance qualities. Their slick surface resists algae buildup, providing an easy-care option for families.
When people ask, Which is better, fiberglass or vinyl liners? it really depends on what you’re looking for. Fiberglass pools are ideal if you want minimal upkeep, while vinyl liners offer the flexibility to change colors and designs over time.
Why do families choose to install pools? It’s simple: they want a vacation in their own backyard. With busy schedules and hybrid work environments, having a pool at home means kids can swim, and parents can relax or even work poolside. It’s all about creating lasting memories in the comfort of your own space.
The Process: From Call to Completion
The process of building a pool starts with a simple phone call. We gather the homeowner’s details and schedule a site visit. From there, we take precise measurements, create a digital sketch to visualize the design, and provide a detailed estimate.
With pool costs ranging from $80,000 to $130,000, we know it’s a big decision, so we give homeowners plenty of time to think it over. We also offer financing options, with payments spread out over 20 years, to make it easier.
Once approved, our in-house construction team handles everything. We start by preparing the site, ensuring a solid base for the pool. For fiberglass pools, we crane the shell into place; for vinyl liner pools, we build it on-site.
Next, we make sure the plumbing is set up properly, and the grading ensures the water flows correctly. Finally, we complete the project with polished concrete work, bringing everything together for a stunning finish.
The Challenges Homeowners Should Expect
One thing I’ve learned is that homeowners often underestimate the challenges involved in pool construction. Weather delays can happen, and the amount of dirt excavated always surprises people, no matter how many photos or warnings we provide.
Another common challenge is dealing with neighbors, who sometimes watch closely to ensure their property isn’t affected during the construction process.
Launching EternaTurf
My journey with EternaTurf started about five years ago when I visited a friend in Arizona. He showed me how big the turf industry was, and I thought, Why not bring this to Louisville? That’s when EternaTurf was born, and now we’re expanding in several locations, including Lexington, Sarasota, Low Country, and Tucson.
The biggest advantage of turf is its low maintenance. No more mowing, and it’s perfect for pet owners, there’s no muddy paws, no mess, and it drains perfectly. It’s also great for playgrounds, safe, clean, and no more mulch everywhere.
And for homeowners, it means a beautiful yard without the upkeep. We’ve even worked on large-scale projects like installing pet relief areas at airports in Louisville and Cincinnati. It’s practical, clean, and perfect for travelers with pets.
Looking ahead, the future is bright. My goal for EternaTurf is to expand to 40–50 locations nationwide within the next five years. We’re building a dealer model to onboard and train new partners, helping them succeed in their local markets.
At the same time, I see Agape Pools continuing to bring joy to families who dream of having their own backyard paradise.
Today, I put that same drive into building pools and installing artificial turf, creating outdoor spaces that bring joy and connection to families. Whether it’s pools or turf, I pride myself on delivering quality and professionalism in everything I do.
