Long before transforming Northwest Columbus backyards into resort-style retreats, James “Jimmy” Moore was learning a very different kind of groundwork—one shaped by hard labor, family influence, and a front-row seat to what it takes to build something that lasts.
For Moore, the foundation was set early. Growing up in Grove City, he spent his childhood alongside his father, who ran a trucking business and brought his sons along to job sites. It wasn’t just about the work—but mindset. Watching his father navigate both construction projects and business decisions left a lasting impression, one that would quietly shape the future of what is now Moore Bros Pools and Patios.
After high school, Moore didn’t jump straight into building luxury outdoor spaces. Like many entrepreneurs, he started small—cutting grass and taking on whatever work he could. At the same time, he pursued a path that would define him for more than two decades: becoming a firefighter with the Columbus Division of Fire.
Moore rose through the ranks, eventually serving as a lieutenant and spending over 20 years in the field, including time at the station near Morse and Karl Road—just minutes from many of the homeowners his company serves today. That proximity isn’t lost on him. The same neighborhoods he once protected in emergencies are now the communities where he helps families build spaces for connection, relaxation, and everyday living.
While the career paths may seem worlds apart, Moore sees a direct line between the two.
“People think construction is stressful,” he says. “But when you’ve been in life-or-death situations, you learn how to stay calm and figure things out quickly.”
That ability—to remain steady under pressure—has become a defining characteristic of Moore Bros. Whether it’s navigating unexpected site conditions or managing the complexity of a high-end outdoor build, Moore approaches challenges with the same level-headed problem-solving that defined his firefighting career.
But perhaps the most significant carryover isn’t just composure—it’s an unwavering commitment to safety.
In firefighting, safety isn’t optional. And for Moore, that mindset didn’t stay behind when he left the firehouse. Today, it shows up in every aspect of his business, from how projects are executed to the recommendations he makes to clients.
He’s candid about it. After witnessing firsthand the devastating consequences of unsafe environments—and lifesaving incidents—Moore is unapologetic in his stance. He strongly advocates for automatic pool covers, even when they come at a higher cost, because to him, peace-of-mind isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
That same philosophy extends to his crews. Every job site is treated with intention and care, including mandatory safety measures like construction fencing around active dig sites and strict protocols when operating heavy equipment. This isn't checking boxes—it’s about protecting people.
And while safety is a cornerstone, it’s not the only thing that sets Moore Bros apart. At its core, the company is built on something far more personal: brotherhood. It’s a word Moore uses often, and never lightly. The culture he experienced in the fire department—where trust is non-negotiable and every person depends on the other—became the blueprint for how he runs his business today.
Moore Bros isn’t just a team of employees. It’s a tight-knit group that operates with shared accountability and pride in their work. Many team members are long-tenured, and Moore actively seeks individuals who aren’t just looking for a job, but a place to build a career. “We want people who see themselves retiring here,” he says.
That sense of loyalty and shared purpose has fueled remarkable growth. What began as a small lawn care operation has evolved into a company of more than 100 employees, specializing in high-end pools and patios across Central Ohio.
Yet even with that growth, Moore hasn’t lost sight of what matters most: standing behind the work. In an industry where projects can be complex and expectations high, Moore is clear about his promise to clients—if something isn’t right, they’ll make it right. It’s a commitment rooted not just in business, but in personal accountability.
Looking ahead, Moore’s vision for the company is both ambitious and grounded. He hopes to build something lasting—not just in terms of physical spaces, but as a legacy business. With the next generation already involved, including his sons and nephew, Moore Bros is positioned to remain a family-driven company for years to come.
Today, Moore calls Northwest Columbus home and is getting married in October—a new chapter; and a full-circle moment for someone who has spent decades serving and working within the same community. And for the homeowners he works with, that local connection is everything.
Because at the end of the day, Moore isn’t just building pools or patios. He’s creating spaces where families gather, where memories are made, and where the idea of home extends just a little bit further—into the backyard.
“Being a firefighter taught me how to stay calm when things don’t go as planned—and in construction, that happens. But more importantly, it taught me that safety comes first. Whether it’s our crew or a homeowner’s family, that responsibility never goes away.”