Painting the Exterior of a Stock Tank Pool: DIY How-To Guide

Stock tank pools are becoming increasingly popular for their rustic look and functionality. To preserve and customize the appearance of your stock tank pool, painting the exterior is a great option.

Why Paint a Stock Tank Pool?

1. Corrosion Protection : Paint protects galvanized metal from oxidation and rust, extending the life of your pool.
2. Personalized Aesthetics : You can choose colors that harmonize with your outdoor space, creating a unique ambiance.
3. Ease of Maintenance : Quality paint makes cleaning and maintenance easier, while providing a smoother surface.

Steps to Painting the Exterior of Your Stock Tank Pool

1. Surface Preparation : Begin by cleaning the exterior of the stock tank with acetone or thinner to remove any invisible oil layers. Wear gloves, eye protection, and a mask during this step.
2. Sanding : Use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the surface. This creates a texture that helps the paint adhere better. Be careful not to damage the galvanized coating on the metal.
3. Applying an Etching Solution : Apply a white vinegar solution to create micro-pores on the surface. This will help the primer and paint adhere better.
4. Primer Application : Apply a latex-based metal primer, such as Rust-Oleum Latex Primer, avoiding oil- or alkyd-based primers which can cause flaking.
5. Final Painting : Apply a latex-based acrylic paint of your choice. Be sure to let the paint dry completely between coats.

Is painting the inside of the stock tank pool a good idea?

Painting the inside of a stock tank pool is not recommended for several reasons. The galvanized coating, designed to resist corrosion, does not hold paint well.

This can lead to rapid paint peeling, which not only detracts from the appearance but can also contaminate the pool water.