"Curved cedar bench with turquoise cushions around a stock tank pool at sunset, with brass lanterns, potted succulents, and a wooden pergola casting shadows"

DIY Stock Tank Pool Bench: Save a Fortune on Your Backyard Oasis

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DIY Stock Tank Pool Bench: Save a Fortune on Your Backyard Oasis

There’s nothing quite like dipping into a refreshing stock tank pool on a scorching summer day. But where do you put your towel? Your drink? Your dignity when climbing in and out? That’s where a custom stock tank pool bench comes in handy!

I’ve built three of these beauties for my backyard setup, and I’m gonna show you exactly how to create your own for a fraction of what those fancy pre-made versions cost. We’re talking $50-200 in materials versus paying $1,250+ for something you could build yourself in a weekend.

Golden hour view of a stock tank pool with a curved cedar bench, turquoise cushions, brass lanterns, and potted succulents under a pergola with lens flare.

Why Your Stock Tank Pool Desperately Needs a Bench

Let’s be honest – stock tanks weren’t originally designed for human lounging. Without proper seating:

  • Getting in and out becomes an awkward scramble (especially after a few summer cocktails)
  • There’s nowhere to place essentials like drinks, sunscreen, or your phone
  • The metal edge gets blazing hot in direct sunlight
  • The overall look screams “livestock watering hole” rather than “stylish backyard retreat”

A custom bench transforms your humble stock tank into a proper backyard oasis. It’s one of those projects where function meets style in perfect harmony.

Close-up of a stock tank pool bench at dusk showing cedar wood joinery, LED rope lighting under drainage gaps, a woven basket with Turkish towels, and a frosted glass in a built-in cup holder.

Materials & Tools You’ll Need

For a Basic Wooden Bench:
  • 2×6 pressure-treated lumber (amount depends on pool size)
  • 2×4 pressure-treated lumber for support structure
  • Exterior wood screws (3-inch and 2.5-inch)
  • Exterior wood stain or sealant
  • Circular saw or miter saw
  • Drill/driver
  • Measuring tape
  • Level
  • Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
  • Pencil
  • Safety gear (glasses, gloves)
Optional Upgrades:
  • Cedar or redwood instead of pressure-treated (looks prettier but costs more)
  • Hidden hinges for storage compartments
  • Cup holders (pre-made or DIY)
  • Solar-powered LED lights for evening ambiance

Overhead drone view of modern farmhouse stock tank pool with curved pine bench, black metal supports, geometric cushions, and matching umbrella on gravel patio with landscaped surroundings.

Step-by-Step Building Process

Step 1: Measure Your Pool

First things first – every stock tank pool is slightly different. I learned this the hard way when I built my first bench using measurements from some random YouTube video.

Measure the exact diameter of your pool at the top edge. You’ll need to create a curved bench that matches this circumference. For a standard 8-foot stock tank, the circumference is roughly 25 feet. Decide how much of that you want your bench to cover.

Step 2: Design Your Bench

You have a few options here:

  • Full Circle Bench: Surrounds the entire pool (most materials, most impressive)
  • Half Circle Bench: Covers just one side (more economical, still functional)
  • Quarter Circle Bench: Minimal coverage but provides essential seating (budget option)

For my pool, I chose a 3/4 circle design that left one section open for easier access to the filter and pump equipment.

Rustic pool bench made of weathered barn wood, surrounded by misty morning countryside, with metal bucket planters of vines, nautical rope accents, and vintage watering cans.

Step 3: Create a Template

This is crucial for getting that perfect curve that hugs your pool’s edge.

  1. Cut a piece of scrap plywood or cardboard
  2. Hold it against your pool edge
  3. Trace the curve
  4. Cut along your trace line
  5. Test it against your pool to ensure it matches perfectly

This template will be your guide for cutting all your bench boards.

Step 4: Build the Support Structure

Your bench needs solid support that won’t rot or collapse. I recommend:

  1. Create “legs” using 2×4 pieces positioned every 2 feet around your pool
  2. Set them approx 6 inches away from the pool edge
  3. Make sure they’re level and secured into the ground (concrete footings for permanent installation or pressure-treated feet for temporary)
  4. Connect the legs with horizontal 2×4 supports
Step 5: Install the Seating Boards

This is where you’ll use your template:

  1. Take your 2×6 boards and trace your curve template onto each one
  2. Cut along the lines with your circular saw
  3. Sand all edges smooth (nobody wants splinters in their swimsuit)
  4. Attach the boards to your frame, leaving about 1/4 inch between each for drainage
  5. Make sure the inner edge overhangs the pool by 1-2 inches for a seamless look

Close-up of whitewashed cedar coastal-style quarter bench with striped cushions, showcasing intricate joinery and shell-filled niches against a blurred pool backdrop.

Step 6: Finish and Protect

Outdoor wood needs serious protection:

  1. Sand the entire bench thoroughly
  2. Apply at least two coats of exterior wood sealer or stain
  3. Pay special attention to end grain and joints where water can penetrate
  4. Allow to dry completely between coats

I used a redwood-tinted sealer on my cedar bench, and two years later it still looks amazing despite constant water exposure.

Wide-angle view of a deluxe stock tank lounge with curved wooden bench, integrated shade, macramé hangers, market lights, and cozy Bohemian decor in late afternoon light.

Styling Your Pool Bench

Now comes the fun part – making your bench look magazine-worthy!

Rustic Style:
  • Add reclaimed wood accents
  • Use metal buckets as planters
  • Incorporate rope details
Coastal Vibes:
  • Choose a whitewashed or light blue finish
  • Add nautical accessories
  • Use woven baskets for storage
Modern Farmhouse:
  • Keep the wood natural with clear sealer
  • Mix in black metal accents
  • Add geometric pattern cushions

For my setup, I went with a coastal-meets-bo

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