STEP 6
PREP THE SPACE FOR YOUR STOCK TANK POOL Prepping the space for your cowboy pool is an essential part of the process. It must be precise. The surface of the water does not lie. If your leveling is off, it will show when the pool is filled. To avoid draining and releveling the area, ensure the ground material is compact. Also make the foundational support materials extend out a minimum of one foot past the outer edge of the stock tank. If you already have a poured concrete patio or other solid foundation, skip to the next step. However, note that most patios are graded away from the house to encourage water runoff so the water level in your pool will likely be off a bit if you place it on a pre-formed pad without making adaptations. If you’re starting with lawn or soil, start by clearing the area of trees, bushes, shrubs, plants, rocks, and grass. Use a rototiller to grind up the soil if you’re removing grass. Then rake the sod away, leaving the soft dirt below. Fill in holes and dig out high points so the surface is completely level. Then place a 2x4 or other straight board across the surface of the dirt. Ensure it comes into contact with the soil across the length of the board. Place a level on the board to see where you need to make adjustments from side to side. Rotate the board and measure level again. Repeat the process as often as necessary until the entire area is prepared. Next, add one or more inches of sand. Build it up and tamp it down for a firm foundation. Again check the level.
STEP 7
PLACE THE STOCK TANK
Now you’re ready for your tank to be delivered and put into place. Whether you’re having it lifted in by crane or you scrounge up a group of willing friends, try not to disrupt the foundation. In other words, don’t drag the tank over the sand you’ve so diligently prepared. Once you’ve placed the stock tank, level it once more, making adjustments as needed.
15
June 2023
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