The Ultimate ILOTank Stock Tank Pool Guide

Thinking about a backyard pool without the hassle of a traditional install? This guide covers everything you need to know before buying a stock tank pool: what it is, how to pick the right size and material, what you need to get started, and how to keep it in shape.

What is a stock tank pool?

A stock tank was originally built as a watering trough for livestock. Its round shape, sturdy build, and depth have made it a popular alternative to traditional pools in recent years. At ILOTank, our tanks are made specifically for swimming, in galvanized steel or polyethylene, and shipped ready to set up in your yard — no excavation and, in most cases, no building permit required.

Why choose a stock tank pool?

• Affordable: significantly cheaper than an in-ground or traditional above-ground pool, with no professional installation fees.
• Fast setup: a flat, stable spot is all you need — your pool can be ready to swim in within a day.
• Distinctive look: the rustic-chic style fits both country backyards and modern outdoor spaces.
• Flexibility: great for small yards, renters, or anyone who wants a seasonal pool without a long-term commitment.

How to choose the right size

ILOTank stock tank pools come in several diameters, typically from 5 to 8 feet. A few guidelines:

• 5' to 6': great for one person or a couple, or for smaller yards and balconies.
• 7': the most versatile size, comfortable for the whole family.
• 8': ideal if you entertain often or want more room to move and cool off with others.

Also leave enough space around the pool to walk around it, add a step, and fit your filtration equipment.

Galvanized steel or polyethylene?

The material you choose changes the swimming experience:

• Galvanized steel: heats up quickly in the sun, so the water feels great earlier in the day. It also cools down faster once the sun goes down. This is the classic industrial-chic stock tank pool look.
• Polyethylene: insulates heat better, so the water stays warmer for longer, even into the evening. It's lighter and has a smoother, more modern finish.

There's no wrong choice — it comes down to whether you mostly swim in the afternoon (steel) or want to enjoy your pool into the evening (polyethylene).

What you need to get started

Beyond the tank itself, a few essentials make the experience much more enjoyable:

• A pump and filtration system sized for your tank, to keep the water clear without constantly changing it.
• Water treatment products: chlorine tablets, test strips, and pH balancers.
• A protective cover to keep debris, insects, and leaves out of the water between swims.
• A submersible heater (optional) if you want to enjoy your pool even on cooler evenings.

To make things easier, we offer kits that bundle these essentials to match your tank size.

Installation, in brief

Setting up a stock tank pool usually takes an afternoon: pick a flat spot (ideally on a gravel base), set the tank level, connect the filtration, then fill and treat the water. For the full step-by-step, see our installation guide.

Basic maintenance

A well-maintained stock tank pool stays clean with very little effort: skim out debris, test and adjust the pH regularly, clean the pump filter, and drain the pool before winter. Our maintenance guide covers every detail, season by season.

Want to learn more? Also check out: our stock tank pool kits and accessories guide, to get your pool fully equipped from day one.