DIYer Uses A Clever Tractor Supply Find To Build A Durable Swimming Pool
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Have you ever dreamed of having your very own swimming pool? Whether it's the hefty price that comes with installing a pool or a limited amount of outdoor space holding you back, there's a DIY solution for a simple backyard pool. On YouTube, Garrett Brown – Real Estate Investor posted a video showing how to transform a Tractor Supply stock tank into the perfect backyard swimming hole. The large, metal tank is just the right shape for a shallow pool and should be durable enough to last for a few years. By adding a pump, the DIYer created an inexpensive above-ground pool for less than $800. While some traditional above-ground pools may be just as affordable, this DIY alternative has a rustic, stylish look and is more customizable.
Having a spot to cool off and relax without paying a huge price is one of the benefits of installing a stock tank pool in your yard. To assemble the pool, Brown drilled holes in a 700-gallon galvanized round stock tank (about $600 at Tractor Supply). This allowed him to connect the hoses from the pool pump. On Amazon, an Intex Krystal Clear filter pump for above-ground pools is only around $64. Adding plunger valves to your pump's setup will allow you to do maintenance on the pump without having to drain your entire pool. To complete this project, you'll also need plumber's putty or a sealant designed for underwater use to prevent leaks around the pump hoses.
Turning a Tractor Supply stock tank into a refreshing swimming pool
Before you can even think about setting up your Tractor Supply stock tank, filling it with water, and taking a dip, you'll need a level spot to set it. Finding a good place to set the heavy metal container is a common problem with DIY stock tank pools, and Brown ended up having to relocate his stock tank from his yard to the patio. Starting on a level surface makes this project much less of a hassle. Set the empty tank on a concrete pad in your backyard or directly on your patio. Otherwise, you'll need to dig out a spot in your lawn and level the ground.
@garrettbrownre How can you build a pool for cheap? You have to become a cowboy apparently. 🤠 Parts needed – 8FT Stock Tank Pool – Intex Filter Pump – 2 3/4" hole saw w arbor – threaded intake strainer – intex plunger valve – plumbers putty Full video on my youtube! #cowboypool #stocktankpool #stocktankpooldiy #cowboypools #diyproject #diyprojects
To attach the pool pumps, Brown used a hole saw drill attachment to make two openings in the side of the stock tank wall. The cutout for the pump's outlet valve needs to be situated higher up than the one for the inlet valve for it to work properly. After drilling, consider filing the edges of the opening to smooth sharp areas. You'll also need to clean any metal shards from the inside of the pool. The DIYer then wedged the hardware for the pool pump into the side of the tank. He covered the seam with plumber's putty to make it watertight before connecting all the pump parts. However, a waterproof, structural sealant, like Loctite Marine Fast Cure adhesive sealant ($13 at Home Depot), is a great alternative.
Completing and customizing your stock tank swimming pool
Once the valves were completely assembled and attached to the tank, the DIYer sprayed them with a hose to check the seal for leaks and attached the pump hoses. If you're concerned about drilling holes or sealing the openings, throw the pump hoses over the side of the stock tank instead. While this doesn't look quite as nice, it's easier and prevents some of the potential for leaks.
Finally, you'll be able to fill your DIY swimming hole with water. While the DIYer used a floating dispenser with chlorine tabs to treat the water, 35% food-grade hydrogen peroxide can also be used in your stock tank pool to try to prevent rust. However, be sure to test the water to ensure that there's enough peroxide and add more if needed. The DIYer added steps and a wooden bench around the stock tank to complete the pool.
Brown's instructions are a convenient DIY guide to set up a stock tank pool, but there are so many alternatives. Paint the outside and potentially the inside to alter the aesthetic. Covering the outside with a material like bamboo provides a natural look. For a nicer interior, installing a liner designed for stock tank pools before filling it makes this look like a legit pool. On Amazon, a Vevor 8-foot stock tank pool liner is about $90. Cut holes in the liner for your pump valves. Slipping pool noodles over the rim of the stock tank can also make it more comfortable and prevent kids from hitting the hard metal edge.