Rising temperatures made us all look for a cool outdoor idea. Did you know that having a pool in your yard is not actually as luxurious as you think? Stock tank pools are not merely a modest choice to stay cool on pretty hot summer days for those who can not afford to have a huge in-ground pool. But they also have the potential to turn your yard into a vacation spot. Before we start getting to know the stock tank pools: Let us go back to how this concept has emerged: These humble and affordable farm staples were originally designed as water troughs for livestock. They are simply meant to be filled with water on farms and ranches for livestock, such as cattle, horses, goats, and sheep. That simply explains why they are named stock tank pools.
Here is getting to know stock tank pools in 8 questions that will help you decide on whether to build or not.
1)What material stock tanks are made of?
Stock tanks are commonly manufactured out of two materials: galvanized metal (usually galvanized steel) or plastic (usual polyethylene). Plastic tanks are advantageous in terms of lightness and easy movability. They are quite practical to transport. On the other hand, metal tanks are heavier, and a bit more challenging to transport. Another point that should be pointed out about metal tanks is that: They conduct more heat, therefore warming the water quickly on hot summer days. When it comes to another advantage: They are quite hard to break or bend. Meanwhile, disadvantageous in terms of vulnerability to rust and corrosion when exposed to water for a long period.
2) What size are stock tanks pools?
The standard size of the tanks is 8 feet in diameter by 2 feet in height. There are smaller models including a 6 footer, while others stretch to 11 feet or more.
3) Which shape should I pick?
Stock tank pools are mainly round or oval-shaped. Round ones tend to be more inviting and warm. They exude party vibes, charming for children to play in. While oval-shaped ones are meant to be more personalized. That means offering a private pool for one person only.
4) How to build the tank pool?
In case you are wondering what kind of equipment do you need to build one: The answer is some sturdy level ground. They are quite easy to set up. It all starts with choosing an area as flat as possible in your yard. Then it means it is time to seal it off and plop down on the ground.
5) How to customize stock tank pools?
There are alternative ways to customize if you like to have a unique pool that reflects your own style. Adding surrounding rock tiles to create makeshift flooring or harmonizing the tank with surrounding premium wooden decks and siding are just two of them.
6) How to maintain the pool?
It is time to mention another great advantage: Stock tank pools do not necessarily require a long and challenging maintenance process. Firstly and most importantly, draining after each use is recommended. The owners of stock tank pools need to treat the pool at least once a week to keep consistent chlorine levels, in addition to replacing the filters every couple of months.
7) How much do stock tank pools cost?
Stock tank pools rise as an affordable alternative to above-ground swimming pools. Let us make a comparison in terms of cost between types of pools. An in-ground swimming pool costs on average between 20,000 and 65,000 dollars and an above-ground pool can cost between 3,500 to 15,000 dollars. While the cost of a stock tank is starting at 200 and varies up to 450-500 dollars depending on its size and material.
8) What are the common problems and suggestions?
Stock tank pools have a lot to offer. Meanwhile, they do lead to some problems. One of them is undesirable flying insects. Standing water can be attractive for mosquitoes. Installing mosquito netting around the tank became a solution for some of the stock tank owners. Another common problem is the slime building up around the edges of the tank. Slime can be subject to a number of problems; such as bacterial growth, slippery steps, and skin irritation. Yet the building-up slime is preventable. All you need to do is to buy a pool net and regularly skim the surface. Another practical solution is to buy a pool vacuum to remove build-up from the bottom.
It is better not to skip another issue. Tanks could be subject to corrosion and rust over long periods. However, these are not unsolvable either. The recommendation is to put the chlorine tablets in a chlorine float instead of dropping them directly into the water. According to a number of tank owners, this works out well and prevents rust and corrosion.
Make your decision…
In the end, stock tank pools are tempting in many respects. Checking out the examples on social media shows us that: They have the potential to reshape the atmosphere of the space in the yard. Especially dogs and kids have a great time in tanks. Besides, it is thrilling to have one painted and exuding party vibes and gather people around. Even when there are no parties, It is simply beautiful to have one as a decor water element. Let us see if this concept will continue to rise and replace standards in-ground swimming pools year by year.
