How to Make a Freeze-Proof Water Tank

An outdoor water tank can freeze in the winter.

In areas where the temperature can drop below freezing, the water tank for watering livestock can freeze. A livestock owner can either go out on the freezing days to thaw out the water tank or can make a freeze-proof water tank. A simple freeze-proof water tank can be made out of a large truck tire, using a saw and some concrete. This type of freeze-proof water tank is relatively inexpensive to make.

Things You'll Need

• Large tire from 150-ton truck
• Reciprocating saw
• Concrete mix to pour 0.5 yards

Instructions

1. Cut the bead off one side of the tire with the reciprocating saw. The bead is the inner part of the sidewall of the tire.

2. Lay the tire on the ground where the water tank will be. Place the side with the bead on the ground.

3. Pour the concrete into the bottom of the tire to fill up the bead. The concrete will form the bottom of the tank as it adheres to the tire.

4. Fill the tank with water.

Tips & Warnings

• Silicone can be used as an extra sealant between the tire and the concrete to ensure that the tank does not leak.

• When pouring the concrete, be sure to allow for an opening for a pipe if the water will be supplied through the bottom of the tank.

References

• Liliybrook Herefords: Bull and Frost Proof Water Trough

Resources

• Ibiblio: Build A Freeze-Resistant Stock Tank; Arlen J. Busenitz