Stock tank pools can be an inexpensive way to cool off in the summer and to add style and a conversation piece to any backyard. If you want to maintain a comfortable water temperature, you may be wondering how you can insulate it. We have thoroughly looked into the available information on this topic and have found some answers for you!
Stock tank pools are almost always a DIY project, and there is no one right way to insulate your pool. But here are some of the best ideas for insulating a stock tank pool:
- Use carpet padding or insulation
- Build a frame and use foam board
- Make a decorative cozy or sleeve
If you want to maintain your pool at the right temperature, using the right insulation may make a big difference and could save you energy costs. Keep reading as we break down each insulation method and discuss how you can keep your pool warm. We'll even go over how you can seal your pool and if you should use a pool liner. Without further ado, let's get into it.
Can You Insulate A Stock Tank Pool?
If you only use your stock tank pool in the summer, the steel does a great job keeping the water at a nice temperature. Many summer-only users opt to just paint and maintain it with a pump and chlorine tablets.
You may be thinking of using your stock tank pool during cooler months, or if you wish to use it as a hot tub, then you will want to use one of the following insulation methods. Which one you should choose will depend on how your pool is set up and what its main use would be.
Use Carpet Padding Or Insulation
Using leftover carpet padding could be an inexpensive solution. Cut the padding to fit and then fasten with plumber's or another industrial tape.
Use carpet padding when you need a thinner insulation solution. This type is easy to wrap and can provide a smooth appearance that can either be spray painted over or wrapped with another material. Cut into sections that are easy to manage and use plumber's tape to connect the padding around the pool.
Click here to see thin carpet padding on Amazon.
If your pool is inside another fixture like a deck or another type of frame, you may choose to use regular insulation padding. The higher R-value will allow your pool to stay warm longer.
This is a good choice if the pool will be used as a hot tub and higher temperatures need to be maintained or if your climate has extreme temperatures.
Click here to see this cotton insulation on Amazon.
Build A Frame And Use Foam Board
You may borrow an idea from one farmer who insulated his feeding stock tank by building a frame and then attached foam board to the frame.
The tub is then placed in the frame and sealed with expanding foam and boxed in with plywood.
The foam board idea can also be used for boxed-in or in-deck pools. It's helpful to measure your stock tank, build your frame and attach the boards, and then build the deck around the stock tank. If your deck is already made and you are dropping a tank in, this method could be difficult to execute.
See these foam boards for insulating on Amazon.
Make A Decorative Cozy Or Sleeve
If you are not trying to maintain extreme cold or hot temperatures but would like to keep your pool from cooling off too much overnight,you could make a decorative sleeve or cozy for it. A sleeve with a thick wool padding with a flannel overlay could give a country flair to your backyard.
How To Make A Cold Plunge Tank
You may want to use your tank as a cold plunge tank. For this type of tank, you'll want to use more robust insulation.
Use a garage insulation kit together with a reflective cover and you can make a Silver Bullet like the one in this video. This type of insulation with the reflective wrapping kept this plunge tank cool for three days.
Click here to see this garage door insulation on Amazon.
Click here to see Reflectix insulation on Amazon.
How Do You Turn A Stock Tank Into A Jacuzzi?
One of the latest trends is to turn a stock tank into a hot tub. It can be an inexpensive alternative to purchasing one from the store. You'll only need a tub, pump, water heater, and your chosen insulation method to get started.
Click here to see this pool pump on Amazon.
Choose a level spot to place your hot tub. You can either place it on your deck or a flat spot in your yard. You will want to consider where your power source is and privacy factors when you plan your tub's location.
Measure and drill or cut holes for your jets if you will have them and for the tubing for the filter pump. Use the package instructions to set up your heater and filter. If you didn't want to plan a whole jet system but still wanted the bubbles, you could use a portable jet massager.
Click here to see this portable spa tub jet on Amazon.
Once your heater and filter are set up, fill your tank and check for leaks. You may need to add additional fittings or a sealer to reduce leaking. The below video shows how one homeowner created a hot tub out of their stock tank using foam insulation, reflective insulation, and wood paneling.
How To Heat A Stock Tank Pool?
In addition to insulating, if you want a warmer pool or a hot tub, you'll need to have an ongoing way to heat the water. The most popular options for this are to use a propane or electric water heater. This electric water heater is suitable for a stock tank-sized pool.
Click here to see a spa thermostat on Amazon.
If you are looking to just keep the water pleasantly warm, it's not necessary to get a pool heater. You could keep your pool warm to the touch by covering it with a solar cover during the day when it's not in use.
Click here to see this solar blanket on Amazon.
These solar rings float in the water and catch the sun's rays which will provide an extra source to heat your pool. They can be used together with a solar blanket for maximum solar heating or on their own to heat up the water for afternoon use.
Click here to see these solar rings on Amazon.
Do You Seal A Stock Tank Pool?
Sealing galvanized steel can be difficult to do in a manner that will last. You need a seal that will hold up underwater and adheres well to the stock tank material. Sealing your stock tank not only stops leaks but will help keep bacteria and rust under control.
Use silicone caulk for the joint perimeter and around holes. Paint the entire inside of the stock tank with a nontoxic epoxy paint like Pond Shield.
Follow the package instructions for the best results. The manufacturer recommends scoring the surface of your tub with 60-grit sandpaper and treating it with vinegar before applying the epoxy.
Click here to see silicone caulk on Amazon.
Click here to see Pond Shield on Amazon.
Can You Put A Pool Liner In A Stock Tank?
Pool liners may add a pretty touch, but most stock tanks are too small for most pool liners sold. If you use the caulk seal and nontoxic epoxy, you won't need a liner, however, a liner does provide the added benefit of reducing heat loss.
Most liners will drape over the edges, but these can be covered by a sleeve or outer wall. One solution to reduce wrinkles and an improper fit would be to cut two pieces out of the fabric. First, cut the wall off the liner, then measure and cut to fit lengthwise leaving enough to overlap.
You will be left with the floor liner. Measure and cut out the correct size. Adhere the pieces using industrial glue, and seal the seams with clear waterproof silicone caulk.
Click here to see this 12-foot pool liner on Amazon.
In Closing
Now that you know how to insulate your stock tank pool and other solutions for maintaining optimal temperatures, get started! Creating a stock tank pool and choosing an insulation method that will suit your tub can be a rewarding project, and you will enjoy the result for years to come.
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