Take farmhouse chic to a whole new level this summer. If you’d love to ditch the community pool for a private oasis in your own backyard, install a pool. Stock tank pools are the latest trend for summertime cool down and cost you a fraction of the expense (and hassle) of installing a traditional inground pool.
Stock Tank Pools
What are They?
On farms, stock tanks hold the water for horses and cattle to drink out of. If you’ve ever seen a western, think of a horse’s trough. They come in a variety of sizes. Professionals suggest opting for an 8-10 foot diameter tank. Anything smaller makes it more difficult to actually swim in. As their popularity grows, however, it might become more difficult to find them. Tractor supply stores stock them. But you might have to hop online to find a good-sized tank to fit your needs.
Installing Your Tank
While easier to install than a regular inground pool, stock tank pools need more finessing than a kiddie pool. You can’t just set it, fill it and go. For one thing, stagnant water attracts mosquitoes. For another, you need a nice level, shaded spot. Metal does heat up. So, shade is a must. Once level, make sure it is free of anything with sharp edges. Using a layer of compacted sand helps protect the bottom of your pool from catching on any sharp objects below that might puncture its surface. You can keep the majority of it above ground if you’d like or bury it deeper into the ground for more stability and protection from the hot summer sun.
Keeping it Clean and Sanitary
You’ll need a pump to help circulate the water. Like a normal pool, maintain the proper pH balance to prevent algae growth. To do that, use a floating spa cleaner. Put chlorine tablets inside. Feel free to talk to your local pool supply store to find out how much chlorine your stock tank pool needs to stay clean. Use a skimmer to regularly clear out debris.
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