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Stock Tank Pools vs. Traditional Plunge Pools: What’s the Difference?
4 Sept 2024
Informational
Eduardo A. Morales
Comparing Your Pool Options in Australia
When it comes to adding a plunge pool to your backyard, Aussies now have more choice than ever. Should you go for a modern steel stock tank pool, or stick with a traditional concrete, fibreglass, or plastic plunge pool? Here’s how they compare—on price, looks, maintenance, and everything in between.
➡ Traditional plunge pools can be concrete (custom or precast), fibreglass (pre-moulded shells), or prefab plastic (lightweight, dual-wall designs).
➡ Stock tank pools are made from rugged galvanized steel, often used for livestock tanks—now transformed into a fast, fun, and affordable backyard plunge.
➡ Upfront costs for stock tank pools start as low as $600, while traditional options can run from $10,000 to over $80,000.
➡ Maintenance, install time, and customisation all vary—so what matters most for you?
Key Steps for Starting Your Organic Garden
Here’s a quick guide to help you get started with your small-scale organic garden:
Choose the Right Location: Find a spot with at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the Soil: Enrich your soil with organic compost to improve fertility and structure.
Select Organic Seeds or Plants: Opt for certified organic seeds or seedlings to ensure a chemical-free garden.
Use Natural Pest Control: Rely on companion planting, beneficial insects, and homemade organic sprays to keep pests at bay.
“There’s a plunge pool for every Aussie—choose the one that fits your space, budget, and backyard dreams.”
Cost, Installation, Durability, and More—Side-by-Side
Upfront Costs & Install:
Stock Tank Pool: $600–$2,500 basic, up to $15,000+ with upgrades. Same-day to 2-day install.
Concrete Plunge: $42,500–$80,000+ installed; 1–2 days for precast, up to 14 weeks for on-site build.
Fibreglass Plunge: $25,000–$70,000+; 1–3 weeks once delivered.
Prefab/Plastic: $10,000–$30,000; usually 1–2 days.
Running Costs & Upkeep:
Stock Tank: Around $500/year, low chemical use, minutes of cleaning each week.
Traditional: $800–$2,000/year (more with heating), but still less than full-sized pools.
Lifespan & Durability:
Stock Tank: 10+ years with care, fully relocatable, UV and rust resistant, designed for Aussie conditions.
Concrete: 25–40+ years, adds permanent value, can be resurfaced.
Fibreglass: 15–25 years, low-maintenance, UV-protected, but not moveable.
Customisation & Looks:
Stock Tank: Rustic/industrial look, but can be painted, decked, or accessorised.
Concrete: Fully customisable, premium finish.
Fibreglass/Prefab: Limited shapes but modern and sleek, some colour choices.
Who’s It For?
Stock Tank: Cost-conscious buyers, renters, small blocks, wellness fans, and Airbnbs.
Traditional: Homeowners wanting a permanent feature, property value, or high-end finish.
Pros & Cons Table:
Feature | Stock Tank Pool |
| |
|---|---|---|---|
Cost | $1000-15k | $25-100k+ | |
Install Time | 1-2 Day (DIY OK) | Weeks or Months (Pro Install only) | |
Lifespan | 10+ Years | 15-40 Years | |
Customisation | Basic, DIY mods | Unlimited (concrete), limited (fibreglass/prefab) | |
Maintenance | Low, simple | Low, moderate | |
Mobility | Moveable | Permanent | |
Aesthetics | Rustic/unique | Premium/Custom |
Real Experiences
Stock Tank Pool Owner:
“No regrets at all from me! I have an 8ft and no kids—just adults chilling. It’s been a godsend this summer… maintenance has been less than I expected.”
Traditional Plunge Pool Owner:
“We had a stress free experience and are over the moon with our pool. I have sung the praises of Geoff and his wonderful team to everyone… would recommend to anyone interested in getting a plunge pool.”
