If you’ve just had enough of the summer heat and you want to go swimming, then you’ve come to the right place.
Now, we aren’t going to tell you to install a whole above ground or in-ground pool in your backyard, because let’s face it, that’s way too expensive. However, a really neat idea is to use a stock tank to make a pool.
For those of you who don’t know, a stock tank is simply a large water tank or water trough used to give livestock water. They kind of look like large above ground pools in the sense that they are like large circular dishes.
However, if you’re not using one to keep your livestock hydrated, you may as well use it to keep you cool. Right now, we’re going to take you through nine simple stock tank pool ideas for your backyard.
1. Classic Stock Tank Pool
If you just want to keep things simple, you can always go with a classic stock tank pool. All you really need for this is a galvanized steel stock tank that you fill with water, and possibly add a filter pump to keep it clean. Of course, if you’re able to regularly replace the water, you might not need a filter pump. In some cases, it might also be wise to add a certain amount of chlorine to kill bacteria.
The convenient thing about a classic stock tank pool is that it’s really easy to set up because you don’t need much else besides the tank itself and a space to put it on. Yeah, you can put some gravel or pavers around it for a more sophisticated look, and some pool floats on the inside, but that’s about it. If you happen to have a neighbor that has an old stock tank laying around, you won’t even need to spend any money.
2. Wooden Deck Surround
If the classic stock tank pool isn’t quite enough for you, and you’d like something that looks just a bit more sophisticated, creating a wooden deck surround is your next best bet. Yes, lumber is somewhat expensive, but you can always find reclaimed wood and you might be able to find old doors, boards, or other lumber laying around your home.
You don’t necessarily have to buy new lumber to make a wooden deck surround. If you manage to find something that you can upcycle, then you can create a rather vintage appearance as well.
Not only will a wooden deck surround make the pool look better, but it also makes things more comfortable. You can put chairs on it and sit around your pool. To make the deck more durable, you can always treat it with a special waterproof treatment, and to make access easier, install a set of stairs.
3. Built-In Seating
Here’s where things get really interesting, because now we’re about to turn your stock tank pool from a small swimming area into a lounging spot.
What we’re talking about here is using waterproof materials such as treated wood or PVC to build benches or even chairs that you can place along the inside of the tank.
This brings the experience to a whole new level because no longer do you have to stand or swim like a peasant, but instead, you can sit in the cool water, hold a drink in hand, and enjoy the afternoon sun.
4. Poolside Pergola
Sure, enjoying the summer sun is always nice, especially if you want a bit of a tan. However, if you’re on the verge of burning, or you just have kids that shouldn’t be in the sun for too long, adding a bit of shade to the mix is a good idea.
What we’re talking about here is installing a pergola over your stock tank pool. This will provide you with a bit of shade, and it also looks nice.
Not only that, but you can also install some string lands, climbing plants, or even outdoor curtains on the pergola. This can take things to a whole new level by adding an aesthetic appeal to an otherwise drab affair.
5. Mosaic Tile Design
Okay, so here we have one of the more out-of-the-box ideas so to speak, but giving your stock tank pool a unique and colorful look with a mosaic tile design is always an option.
If you want it to be super colorful and to reflect light in neat ways when the sun hits it, using waterproof adhesive to stick tiles to the inside of the tank is a great idea.
Not only does it allow for the light to create some really neat patterns, but it also adds a stylish aesthetic appeal to the mix.
6. Rustic Stone Surround
We’ve already talked about making a wooden deck surround for your stock tank pool, but that’s not the only type of surround you can make.
If you’re worried about your pool moving around, and you’d like it to have a bit of a border for the aesthetic appeal, then creating a rustic stone surround using large and flat stones or cobblestones is a great idea.
7. Tropical Paradise
If you’re someone who likes to escape to a tropical country, but just doesn’t get to do so as often as you’d like, then turning your stock tank pool into a tropical paradise is the way to go. You can add some colorful decor, tiki torches, lush plants, and even build yourself a little poolside tiki bar. This way, you can feel like you’re in a tropical destination all without having to leave your backyard.
You can then start adding some plants around the stock tank pool, things such as hibiscus, ferns, and other potted plants, such as palms, that create a tropical vibe. If you really want to take things to the next level, take some bamboo and create a fence, and then add in a thatched roof umbrella for a bit of shade.
8. Pool Heater
Unfortunately, not all of us live in climates where it’s always swimming weather. Even in the summertime, pools can cool down during the nighttime, to the point where it may be uncomfortable to use. Therefore, you can extend the usability of your stock tank pool by adding a pool heater.
This will allow you to enjoy your pool no matter how cold it is outside. In case you’re worried about wasting energy, there are ecofriendly solar pool heaters instead of propane or electric heaters. It’s something that although it may not improve the aesthetic appeal of your pool, it will surely improve its overall functionality.
9. Kid-Friendly Features
If you’ve got kids, then a neat idea is to add some kid friendly features into your stock tank pool. A shallow splash area, pool toys, and even a small slide are all options to choose from. To make it safer for your kids to enter and exit the stock tank pool, using some foam or inflatable steps is recommended.
Final Thoughts on Stock Tank Pools
The simple reality is that creating your own stock tank pool is a great way to put a pool in your backyard without having to spend an obscene amount of money. Moreover, with the tips that we provided you with above, you can turn that basic stock tank pool into something truly special that you and the whole family will enjoy.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.