Dealerships

Ten Questions with Eric Nelson from Nelson Pools
April 29, 2025

From left to right: Eric Nelson, Brooke Nelson, Mike Nelson, Gloria Nelson
At Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools, we love highlighting our incredible dealers who help bring backyard dreams to life!
This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Nelson Pools, a trusted name in pool installation serving Mobile, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida. Nelson Pools is licensed in Alabama as a General Contractor and in Florida as a Certified Commercial Pool & Spa Contractor. They are bonded, insured, and their team is committed to delivering high-quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and expert installation you can count on.
We caught up with Eric Nelson, Vice President of Nelson Pools, to talk about the business, passion for pools, and what sets them apart!
1. How did Nelson Pools get started?
Eric: Nelson Pools is more than just a business—it’s a family tradition. My father, Mike Nelson, started the company in 1980, and we’ve been committed to installing top-quality pools ever since. I guess you could say I was born into the business—I started working with my dad when I was just 12 years old. Now, we have two locations—one in Summerdale, AL, and one in Pensacola, FL.

Billabong Splash in Ocean Shimmer
2. What inspired you to get into the pool industry?
Eric: Honestly, it was always in my blood. Growing up around pools, I naturally developed a passion for the industry. It’s incredibly rewarding to help homeowners create their own backyard escapes.
3. How long have you been a Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools dealer?
Eric: We’ve been a proud Barrier Reef dealer since 2019, providing the highest quality fiberglass pools to homes across our service areas.

Outback Lounger in Sandstone Shimmer
4. What makes Nelson Pools stand out from the competition?
Eric: We pride ourselves on delivering a high-quality product at a competitive price and, most importantly, standing behind our work. As a construction company first, we know exactly how to properly install fiberglass pools to ensure durability and longevity.
5. What are your most popular Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pool models?
Eric: Right now, our most popular models are the Grande 23’ and Laguna 23’. These pools are ideal for smaller yards while still offering great features like benches and safety ledges. For homeowners with different needs, we help match them with the right model—like the Whitsunday or Outback Dundee for lap swimmers or the Billabong Splash for those who love entertaining and lounging.

Billabong Splash with Oval Spa in Evening Sky
6. What’s the biggest concern customers have about fiberglass pools?
Eric: A lot of customers worry about durability. But once they see samples of Barrier Reef’s fiberglass shells and learn about the lifetime limited structural warranty, those concerns disappear.
7. What advice would you give to someone considering a fiberglass pool?
Eric: Fiberglass is a great choice because it’s durable and incredibly easy to maintain compared to other types of pools. Plus, installation is much faster than concrete, meaning you’ll be swimming sooner!
8. How does Nelson Pools give back to the community?
Eric: We believe in giving back. We’re proud sponsors of the American Heart Association and have donated CPR Training Kits to local schools. In Alabama, CPR training is required for graduation, but many schools lacked the equipment for hands-on training. With the help of the American Heart Association, we supplied these kits, so students are properly trained to save lives.

We also support “Blossoms of Hope,” the primary fundraiser for the Christian Service Center in Gulf Shores, AL, which provides food and emergency financial assistance to families in need.
9. What do you love most about being a Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pool authorized dealer?
Eric: The partnership and sense of family. Barrier Reef truly cares about their dealers and supports us every step of the way. We love being part of the Barrier Reef family!
10. If you could build your dream backyard, which Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pool would you choose?
Eric: That’s easy—the Castaway 35’. It’s got everything you could want—tanning ledge, hot tub, bench seats, and a large swim area. It’s the ultimate backyard escape!
Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools has authorized dealers across the United States! If you are ready to start “Living the Dream Every Day,” let us connect you with a dealer in your area today! We have a wide of variety of styles, shapes, and colors that fit any lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a pool, spa, or sundeck, we have the perfect addition for your outdoor space.
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