A stock tank pool can be a fun and affordable way to cool off during hot summer days. With some planning and DIY skills, you can create your own backyard oasis using a livestock watering tank. This guide will walk you through how to make a stock tank pool in 9 easy steps.
Choosing the Right Stock Tank
The first step is selecting the right stock tank for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:
- Size – Stock tanks range in size from 100 to 1000 gallons or more. Measure your space and decide how big of a pool you want. Bigger is better for swimming space.
- Material – Tanks are typically made of galvanized steel, polyethylene plastic or fiberglass. Steel and plastic are cheaper but fiberglass is more durable.
- Shape – Tanks come in round, oval or rectangular shapes. Round tanks work well for circular decking.
- New vs Used – Brand new tanks are the most expensive. You can find quality used tanks for much cheaper on sites like Craigslist. Just thoroughly clean and disinfect a used tank before installing.
For a small backyard, a 300-500 gallon round galvanized steel tank is a good affordable option.
Choosing a Location
Pick a flat, level spot in your yard with full sun exposure for installing your stock tank pool. You want an area that will accommodate the size of the tank plus have room to walk around it.
Make sure to check for any buried pipes or wires before you start digging. It’s best to locate it close to your home so you have easy access to electricity for pumping water and filtration.
Laying the Foundation
The stock tank will need a solid, level base to sit on. The best option is a concrete pad.
Follow these steps:
- Mark out the size of your tank in the location you want to install it.
- Dig out the area several inches deep.
- Fill with crushed gravel and compact it down. This will create drainage under the pad.
- Build a wood frame the dimensions of the tank. This will hold the shape of the concrete as it cures.
- Pour 4-6 inches of concrete within the frame and smooth it out evenly.
- Let the concrete fully cure for at least 2-3 days before placing the tank on it.
The concrete pad prevents the tank from shifting and gives you a flat surface for lounge chairs around the pool.
Setting up the Stock Tank
Once your concrete base has hardened, bring in the stock tank and get it situated:
- Thoroughly clean out the tank if purchasing used. Scrub all surfaces with an antibacterial cleaner or bleach solution. Rinse well.
- Place the tank centered on the concrete pad. Make sure it sits level.
- Fill tank half full with water and check for leaks. Address any leaks with silicon caulk before proceeding.
Now the tank is ready to become a swimming pool!
Installing the Pump and Filter
The equipment needed to convert a stock tank into a functioning pool includes:
- Submersible pump – This pump sits inside the tank and circulates the water. Opt for one sized for at least double the gallon capacity of your tank. This ensures adequate water turnover.
- External filter – A canister or pressurized sand filter is required to filter and clean the water. Choose one correctly sized for the pump flow rate.
- Plumbing supplies – Flexible PVC hoses, fittings, check valves and grounding wires are needed to connect the pump to filter system.
Follow these steps:
- Install the pump near the bottom of the tank and run the power cord safely out the top of the tank.
- Assemble plumbing connections from pump to filter using schedule 40 PVC parts and hoses.
- Install filter on level ground next to the tank according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Attach all grounding and bonding wires to prevent electric shock hazard.
- Test entire system by running pump through filter for several hours and checking for leaks.
Proper pump sizing and an efficient filter will keep your stock tank water clean and hygienic all summer long.
Adding Pool Ladder or Steps
In order to get in and out of the stock tank pool, you need an entry system. Here are some options:
- Ladder – Fiberglass pool ladders with stainless steel or plastic steps attach easily to the side of most tanks. This is the most compact entry solution.
- Steps – Stack cinder blocks or pressure treated lumber to create steps leading up to the tank rim. Build a railing for safety. Steps allow more flexibility in design.
- Deck – Constructing a wooden deck surrounding the tank lets you install pool steps or install an infinity edge to get in directly from the deck. More complex but creates a nice aesthetic.
Think about which entry option best fits your yard space and needs. The entry should be placed where it’s most convenient but out of the main swimming area.
Adding Decking or Patio
One great advantage of a stock tank pool is you can add wooden decking or a patio right up to the outer walls of the tank. This lets you lounge poolside or design amazing landscaping around it.
For decking:
- Build a simple square or custom shaped deck around the tank leaving just enough space between boards for drainage.
- Use pressure treated lumber since the deck will get wet. Allow room for steps/ladder.
- Add benches or built-in seating on the deck for getting in and out of the pool.
For a patio:
- Mark out a shape around the pool that allows for drainage gaps between the pavers.
- Dig out the area several inches and fill with crushed gravel. Compact down.
- Install concrete pavers, brick, flagstone or other hardscaping leaving 1-2 inch gaps between pieces.
- Sweep polymeric sand into joints between pavers to stabilize the patio.
Well-designed decking or a patio gives you expanded space to enjoy the pool.
Adding Pool Accessories
Part of the fun of owning a backyard pool is decking it out with cool amenities:
- Sunshade – A sail shade provides respite from the sun and allows you to be outside longer. Attach poles to the deck or patio.
- Seating – Comfy outdoor chairs, loungers and side tables let guests relax poolside. Match your deck or patio material.
- Lighting – Rope lighting around the rim or decorative solar lanterns create ambiance for night swimming.
- Speakers – Install outdoor Bluetooth speakers to play music from your phone or stereo system.
- Diving board/slide – For large pools, add a diving board or slide for more active recreation.
Choose accessories that match your backyard style and make the space more enjoyable. Start with basic necessities like seating and shade.
Adding Pool Chemicals and Maintenance
To keep water clean and prevent algae growth, you need to add pool chemicals and maintain proper water chemistry:
- Chlorine – Use liquid chlorine or chlorine tablets in the skimmer basket to sanitize the water. Maintain 1-4 ppm.
- pH – Add pH increaser or decreaser periodically to keep pH 7.2-7.6 for soft, non-irritating water.
- Algaecide – Apply algaecide on a regular preventive basis or when needed to control algae blooms.
- Testing – Use test strips weekly to check chlorine, pH and alkalinity levels. Adjust as needed.
- Shocking – Periodically shock the pool with chlorine to renew sanitizer levels after heavy use.
- Filtration – Run your filter at least 8 hours daily for adequate water turnover and skimming.
Daily chlorine and regular shocking provides proper sanitation for crystal clear pool water.
Caring for Your Stock Tank Pool
On-going maintenance is essential for longevity and keeping your pool operating properly all season long.
- Skim debris – Use a skimmer net daily to remove leaves, bugs and other debris from the water’s surface.
- Check equipment – Regularly inspect the pump, filters and plumbing for leaks or issues.
- Clean filter – Backwash or rinse cartridge filters when pressure rises to maintain proper flow.
- Brush walls – Scrub the tank walls weekly with a nylon brush to prevent biofilms and algae from forming.
- Watch water level – Top up the water periodically to replace water lost from splashing.
- Shock weekly – Add chlorine shock once a week or whenever chlorine drops below 1 ppm to maintain sanitization.
- Drain in winter – Drain all the water in fall and disconnect hoses and pump before freezing temperatures hit.
With proper installation and care, your stock tank pool can provide many years of summer enjoyment!
Frequently Asked Questions About Stock Tank Pools
What size pump and filter do I need?
Choose a 1 to 1.5 HP pump with a flow rate that turns over your entire tank volume at least 2 times per hour. Get a filter sized 30-50% bigger than the pump flow rate.
How much will a stock tank pool cost?
A basic setup costs $1200-$3000 depending on size. The tank itself ranges $500-$2000. Pump, filter, accessories add more cost.
How do I clean a used stock tank?
Scrub inside thoroughly with a detergent solution or diluted bleach. Triple rinse. Disinfect by filling with water and chlorine bleach for 24 hours. Then rinse again.
What are galvanized stock tanks made of?
Galvanized steel tanks have a coating of zinc alloy applied to both sides of steel sheets for rust resistance and durability.
Can I install a heater on my stock tank?
Yes, you can add an in-line electric or gas pool heater just like on a permanent pool. This will allow you to extend the swimming season.
Do I need chemicals if I empty and refill the tank weekly?
Yes! Chlorine is still needed for sanitation whenever water is standing. Test and balance chemicals weekly, even with partial water changes.
How close can my septic tank be to my pool?
Septic tanks should be at least 20 feet away from your stock tank pool to prevent cross-contamination of water.
What depth should the water be?
Depends on tank size but generally 3-4 feet deep is best for swimming. Make sure pump is fully submerged.
Conclusion
Installing your own stock tank pool is a satisfying DIY project that can create an amazing backyard oasis to enjoy all summer long. With the right materials, location and some plumbing and construction skills, you can build a personalized pool that provides fun for the whole family without a huge investment. Just be sure to plan out all details in advance and properly maintain the water chemistry. Kick back with a cool drink in the shallow end of your new favorite backyard upgrade!