Services: Custom pool design, New inground pool build, Pool resurfacing, +4 more
The 30-Second Verdict
Anthony & Sylvan is the oldest national pool builder (founded 1946) with a strong Florida operations footprint — they sell pre-engineered designs from a catalog, which keeps prices predictable and timelines tight. Premier Pools & Spas is the largest pool-builder franchise in America with stronger custom-design support, more local-owner flexibility, and aggressive pricing on entry-level builds. For a known-quantity catalog gunite pool with a 50+ year corporate warranty, Anthony & Sylvan wins. For maximum design customization, water features, and integrated spa/outdoor kitchen builds, Premier Pools wins.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Anthony & Sylvan Pools
Pros
- Founded 1946 — longest continuously operating pool builder in the U.S.
- Catalog-based design keeps quotes accurate and timelines tight
- Strong Florida presence in Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville
- 30-year structural warranty (industry leading)
- Vertically integrated — design, build, service in-house
Cons
- Less design flexibility than custom builders
- Premium pricing — typically 10–20% above local Florida builders
- Limited footprint on Florida’s East Coast and SW Florida
- Some homeowners report slow post-build service response
Premier Pools & Spas
Pros
- Largest pool-builder franchise in the U.S. (250+ locations)
- Local owner-operators — better accountability than corporate
- Strong design customization — 3D renderings, custom features, integrated spas
- Competitive on entry-level gunite (often 5–15% below Anthony & Sylvan)
- Frequent financing promotions
Cons
- Quality varies by franchise location — vet the local owner before signing
- Sub-contracted work on some trades (electrical, deck) — ask for trade list
- Warranty is the franchise’s responsibility — weaker if owner closes/sells
- Some markets have multiple Premier Pools franchisees competing on price
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Anthony & Sylvan Pools | Premier Pools & Spas | |
|---|---|---|
| Florida Coverage | Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, parts of SE FL | Statewide via 8+ franchise locations |
| Typical Build Price (14×28 gunite + cage) | $75,000–$120,000 | $65,000–$110,000 |
| Build Timeline | 10–14 weeks | 8–16 weeks (varies by franchise) |
| Design Flexibility | Catalog-based; light customization | Fully custom; 3D rendering standard |
| Structural Warranty | 30 years (corporate) | Lifetime structural via franchise (check transferability) |
| Equipment Warranty | Manufacturer-direct (Pentair, Hayward) | Manufacturer-direct (Pentair, Hayward) |
| Financing Options | Available; rates competitive | Frequent 0% APR promotions |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better warranty coverage in Florida?
Anthony & Sylvan’s 30-year corporate structural warranty is the industry standard and survives even if a local office closes. Premier Pools’ lifetime warranty is franchise-issued — if the franchise sells or closes, the warranty’s transferability depends on the new owner. For long-term peace of mind, A&S wins. For a 5-10 year horizon, the warranties are functionally equivalent.
Is Anthony & Sylvan available in my area of Florida?
A&S directly serves Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and parts of southeast Florida. SW Florida (Naples, Fort Myers) and the Panhandle are not covered by Anthony & Sylvan — you’ll get pushed to a partner or have to use a different builder.
Which is cheaper for a basic gunite build?
Premier Pools typically prices a basic 14×28 gunite pool with a screen enclosure 5–15% below Anthony & Sylvan in Florida — around $65,000–$80,000 vs $75,000–$90,000. The savings narrow on larger or custom builds where A&S’s catalog efficiency stops mattering.
Should I get a quote from local builders too?
Yes — always. Local Florida pool builders (Tri-County Pools, Coastline Pools, etc.) frequently beat both national brands by 10–20% on basic builds. The national brands win on warranty depth and process consistency; local builders often win on price and personal attention. Get 3+ quotes regardless.
Top-Rated Local Florida Pool Construction Alternatives
You don't have to pick a national brand. These Florida-based pool construction companies have the highest real Google ratings in our directory — often at a fraction of the franchise price.
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