Building a Pool

I had a pool built by A-Bear Pool Innovations in Sugarland. The pool exceeded all our of needs and expectations. They do great work. Scott and Janet Hebert are the owners and they have one field supervisor and one scheduler/project manager. http://www.abearpoolinnovations.com/

Hi: I just got an estimate on a pool and was wondering if this type of construction is overkill for a pool in houston, texas or is it good? I was told standard is 12" beam with with 3/8" rebar on 8" centers. Pool/spa is 16' x 29' 3.5' to 6' deep 8' raised spa with 6 jets Est 14,000 gallons 15" beam around pool 8" thick gunite on walls 8" gunite on floor 1/2" #4 rebar 10" on center Alternating 1/2" #4 rebar 5" on center (was told this would lead to rebar every 5" on center in walls) Thanks for any opinions.

Hi: I am in Houston, TX and just met with one of the pool builders that I am intervewing for bids. He has a pool package that includes 350SF of SunDek. He explained that Sundek is supposed to be cooler than Pea Gravel but that it if it stains, you will see the stain more than if Pea Gravel were to stain. Since both are basically concrete and will probably crack in a few years anyway, should I stick with the lower cost Pea Gravel? I would rather spend the $$ on a Pentair EasyTouch system and salt chlroinator. Any opinions good or bad are appreciated! Thanks

Hi: Anyone have experience with Richard's Pools and Spas in Hosuton (1701 HW 6). I went there today and am getting a pool estimate done. They have a great showroom and I got a bunch of reference letters but wanted to hear from anyone in this forum. The pool designer recomended pea gravel over bare concrete. I would like pavers cause if they break or crack it's an easy repair, but at 11.25 a sf that's expensive. Any suggestions on other houston builders in the katy ft. bend area would be appreciated. Thanks,