As the warmer weather rolls around, you’re going to be spending a lot more time outdoors — and also wishing you had a way to cool down. Of course, the “simple” solution would be to install a pool in your backyard, but that costs thousands of dollars — until now! Enter: stock tank pools, a trendy and affordable way to enjoy some fun in the sun this summer.
And yes, in case you’re wondering, stock tanks are what you think they are. They’re intended to be used as water troughs for livestock animals, but now they’re being repurposed as backyard swimming pools. In fact, according to Tractor Supply Co.‘s website, an increasing number of customers are buying stock tanks (you can get one for around $400) to use as swimming pools.
Here’s an example of a stock tank pool, shared on Facebook by a California company called The Urban Farmer:
Honestly, it makes sense simply because of how easy it is to set up. Tractor Supply Co. explains the installation steps on their website, and let me tell you — it may not be as easy as turning your pick-up truck into a pool (because yes, that is possible, too!).
But the stock tank pools look like they will last much longer, and they’re definitely far more backyard-barbecue worthy. That’s for sure!
Perhaps the most difficult part will be finding the perfect place to position your stock tank swimming pool. You’ve got to make sure it’s set up on a flat area. So if you don’t have one, you’re going to have to create one, perhaps by using compacted sand or concrete.
The kid in this photo, shared by Instagram user @mrslaurenash, certainly seems to be enjoying his stock tank swimming pool!
If you want to create an in-ground version, you’ve got to make sure the area you dig is completely smooth, too.
Here’s a beautiful in-ground stock tank pool surrounded by a stone patio. This one comes courtesy of Kelly Nequist Photography:
Once you’ve selected the tank (they come in a variety of sizes), you’ve got to clean it and add water. In order to get it ready to swim in, it’s also important to make sure you’ve got your pump and tank secured. There are detailed instructions on how to do this on the Tractor Supply Co. website.
From there, the stock tank swimming pool operates pretty much like a conventional pool, except it’s very easy to empty and refill if need be.
Once you have your stock tank pool installed, you want to keep it in tip-top shape.
“We use an above ground pool pump/filter,” Annie McCreary, the owner of a stock tank pool, wrote on Instagram. “We do add chlorine as needed, just like a regular pool/spa. I test it daily with the pool strips, [and] I shock it once a week — so easy! If it gets too funky, it’s easy to drain and re-fill.”
Here’s a snap of McCreary’s stock tank pool in a picturesque setting in the woods.
Check out this stock tank swimming pool that’s actually built into the landscaping, shared on Instagram by Melinda Nichols. It’s hard to tell that it’s not the real deal!
Say hello to your new, easy-to-install summertime swimming hole!
Here’s some more Instagram inspiration from user @bhivegreen:
RELATED: How To Make A Hay Bale Swimming Pool (Yes, This Is A Real Thing!)
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Checkout Simplemost for other great tips and ideas to make the most out of life.
