What to do with your stock tank pool in winter

What to do with your stock tank pool in winter

Ah, the stock tank pool… That summer essential, where sunny afternoons turn into truly refreshing moments. But now winter is coming, and you're probably wondering: "What am I going to do with my stock tank pool in winter?" Good news: with a little preparation, your stock tank pool can spend the winter outdoors worry-free. Follow our tips to protect it and find it in perfect shape next spring.

Winter maintenance for your stock tank pool

Winterizing your stock tank pool might seem like a chore, but remember: a little preparation now means years of happy swimming ahead. So put on your toque and get ready to face winter like a pro.

  1. Drain it completely!: First, empty all the water from your stock tank pool. Yes, all the water. You don't want ice to damage your pretty metal pool. So connect a hose to the drain valve and empty it.

  2. A good cleaning: Once drained, clean the inside with a little mild soap and a brush. It's the perfect time to say goodbye to the insects, leaves and algae residue that moved in over the summer.

  3. Dry it out: After cleaning, let the inside dry thoroughly so stagnant moisture doesn't cause trouble over the winter.

  4. Flip it upside down onto small blocks so air can circulate and water doesn't sit.

  5. Leave it that way all winter, without a tarp. Snow and ice won't damage it — water will drain off naturally.

And there you have it! No chemicals, no hassle. Your stock tank is built to withstand Quebec winters and will be ready for a dip as soon as the warm weather returns.

All our tips to protect the galvanized coating

The zinc coating on your stock tank pool is built to last. A few good habits are all it takes to keep it in perfect condition year after year.

  1. Inspect regularly: make a habit of checking from time to time for any deep scratches in the coating.

  2. Touch up scratches with cold galvanizing spray: sand lightly and apply a few thin coats to restore the zinc protection. Basically, treat your pool like your favourite car.

  3. Good ventilation: make sure there's enough airflow to prevent moisture from building up under the stock tank by placing it face down on blocks.

Benefits of turning your stock tank pool upside down

1. Prevent water buildup: With the stock tank pool upside down, rain, snow and debris can't collect inside. Less standing water means less risk of mould.

2. Reduce damage: Turning the tank over also minimizes the risk of damage from the weight of accumulated snow or ice. The bottom of the tank is the strongest part, so it is better able to carry these loads without deforming.

3. Protection from the elements: When the stock tank pool is turned over, it is less directly exposed to the weather, which can extend its lifespan by keeping snow and ice off the most vulnerable surfaces.

Conclusion

So, what should you do with your stock tank pool in winter? Drain it, clean it, let it dry, then flip it face down onto small blocks. Inspect the coating and touch up any scratches as soon as they appear. A little preparation now, and your stock tank pool will thank you with many summers of refreshing swims!

The full step-by-step guide: Winterizing your stock tank pool in Canada