10 Above Ground Pool Ideas Using Stock Tanks for a Rustic Industrial Look

Idea 2: Build a Half-Moon Cedar Deck Around the Tank

Half-moon cedar deck around a stock tank pool for a rustic industrial above ground pool design

Use wood to soften the steel

A half-moon deck is one of my favorite stock tank upgrades because it gives you warmth without hiding the metal completely. That contrast is the magic.

Cedar is especially pretty here because it holds up well outdoors and naturally brings in that honey-toned rustic softness. Redwood works too if that’s easier to find in your area.

Keep the deck partial, not full

I actually prefer a partial deck surround for this look. It keeps the pool feeling airy and still lets the galvanized wall show off.

A full wrap can be beautiful, but sometimes it starts to read more suburban than industrial. The half-deck keeps things cooler, simpler, and usually cheaper.

Add comfort details that matter

This is where I like to add wide steps, a towel hook rail, and enough deck space for bare feet and a little tray of drinks. Tiny details make the pool easier to use, not just nicer to look at.

I once built a deck too narrow around a client’s plunge setup, and wow, every step felt like a balance test. Lesson learned: leave room for bodies, not just boards.

Perfect for narrow patios and side yards

A partial deck is great when you want one “active” side for getting in and out, but you still need clearance around the rest of the tank. It’s practical and really pretty.

But if you want a more dramatic, moody version of this whole vibe, the next idea goes darker in the best way. Hit the next button below and let’s talk about painting that tank black.