Pools and Spas
In an era where businesses come and go, reaching a 50-year milestone is no small feat. Yet, Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas, a family-owned pool construction company based in Deerfield Beach, has not only survived but thrived for five decades—continuing to set the standard for quality and innovation in the industry.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leaders
Founded in 1975 by brothers Robert and Tim Van Kirk, along with their parents, Van Kirk & Sons has grown from a small operation into a powerhouse, building over 300 pools a year. Today, the company is co-owned by Tim and his nephew, Robert Van Kirk, who credits their long-term success to constant evolution.
“Many small businesses last a long time, but they don’t always grow,” says Robert. “We never settle. Every year, we evolve — adapting, improving and finding new ways to be better than before.”
Tim Van Kirk and Robert Van Kirk
The Impact of Technology
The pool industry has changed drastically over the past 50 years, largely due to advancements in technology. What was once a hands-on, paper-driven process is now digital, with designs created using sophisticated software instead of hand drawings.
“Technology has sped up the industry, which is both a blessing and a challenge,” explains Van Kirk. “On one hand, projects move faster. On the other, expectations have skyrocketed — people want things instantly. But at the end of the day, some things still require a human touch.”
Quality Above All Else
One thing that hasn’t changed at Van Kirk & Sons is their unwavering commitment to quality.
“Our philosophy is simple: You can have speed, price or quality — but you can’t have all three,” says Van Kirk. “We prioritize quality because a well-built pool will last a lifetime. We don’t just build and walk away. We test, fix and fine-tune to make sure everything is perfect before handing it over to the client.”
That commitment to excellence has earned the company a reputation for reliability. “We’ve seen and solved just about every issue possible in this business. With decades of experience and a dedicated team, we have the knowledge and manpower to handle anything.”
A New Generation Leading the Way
Unlike many long-standing companies, Van Kirk & Sons isn’t relying solely on veteran employees. They’ve made a concerted effort to recruit and train young talent, ensuring they stay ahead of industry trends and new technologies.
“It’s tough to find young people who want to commit to this industry,” says Van Kirk. “But we take pride in having a strong, youthful team that brings fresh ideas and energy. This balance between experience and innovation is what allows us to keep growing and evolving.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding Beyond Pools
The future is bright for Van Kirk & Sons, but they’re focused on smart, strategic growth.
“We don’t want to expand so much that we sacrifice quality or service,” Van Kirk emphasizes. “Instead, we’re thinking outside the box — always trying to stay five steps ahead.”
That means going beyond pools and spas to offer full-scale outdoor transformations. The vision? To design and build complete backyard escapes, including decks, patios, gazebos, barbecue areas and pergolas.
“We have the manpower and expertise to turn an ordinary backyard into a full outdoor entertainment space,” says Van Kirk. “It’s not just about pools — it’s about creating an experience.” With a strong foundation, an eye for innovation and an unshakable commitment to quality, Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas is proving that some businesses don’t just survive the test of time — they redefine it.
Van Kirk & Sons Pools & Spas, 3144 S.W. 13th Drive, Deerfield Beach, 954-755-4402, vankirkpools.com
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