How to Make a Redneck Swimming Pool: The Ultimate Guide with Hay Bales


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Have you ever wanted to have a swimming pool in your backyard but thought it was too expensive to build? Look no further than a redneck swimming pool. Yes, you read that right. With just a few hay bales, some water, and a little bit of elbow grease, you can create a refreshing oasis right in your own backyard.

Don’t let the name fool you. These DIY pools are a clever and cost-effective solution to beat the heat during the scorching summer months. They’re also a great option for those who want to avoid the expense and hassle of installing a traditional pool.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you how to make a redneck swimming pool with hay bales step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from finding the perfect spot to set up your pool, to adding a liner to keep your pool clean and safe, to filling it up with water for a refreshing dip. By the end of this guide, you’ll be ready to dive in!

So, grab a cold drink, put on your sunscreen, and let’s get started on creating your own redneck swimming pool that will be the envy of all your neighbors!

Introduction: Why Choose a Redneck Swimming Pool?

If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to beat the summer heat, a redneck swimming pool might just be the answer you’re looking for. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also a great way to show off your creativity and resourcefulness. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through the steps of how to make a redneck swimming pool with hay bales, and explain why it’s a great option for those who want to stay cool without breaking the bank.

But first, you might be wondering why you should choose a redneck swimming pool over a traditional pool. Well, for starters, they’re much more affordable. While a traditional pool can cost thousands of dollars to install and maintain, a redneck swimming pool can be made for just a fraction of that cost. They’re also much easier to install and can be taken down and stored away when not in use. Plus, they’re a great way to add some rustic charm to your backyard.

Cost-effective

One of the biggest advantages of a redneck swimming pool is its affordability. By using hay bales as the base, you can save a lot of money on the construction of your pool. In fact, you can make a redneck swimming pool for as little as $200, whereas a traditional pool can cost upwards of $10,000. Plus, you won’t have to pay for costly installation fees or ongoing maintenance.

Easy to Install

  • Another great advantage of a redneck swimming pool is how easy it is to install. All you need are hay bales, a tarp, and a hose. Simply stack the hay bales in a square or rectangular shape, line the inside with a tarp, and fill with water using a hose. It’s that easy!
  • Compared to a traditional pool, which requires extensive excavation and installation, a redneck swimming pool can be up and running in just a few hours. And when summer is over, simply drain the water and take apart the hay bales for easy storage.

Creative and Fun

Lastly, a redneck swimming pool is a great way to add some personality and fun to your backyard. With the rustic look of hay bales and the novelty of a non-traditional pool, your redneck swimming pool is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. You can even add some personal touches, such as decorations or seating around the pool, to make it even more inviting.

So, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, easy-to-install, and fun way to stay cool this summer, a redneck swimming pool is definitely worth considering. Keep reading to find out how to make one with hay bales!

Step 1: Find the Perfect Spot for Your Redneck Swimming Pool

Before you start building your redneck swimming pool, you need to find the right spot for it. The spot should be flat and level, so you don’t have to worry about water running off in one direction. It’s also important to pick a spot with easy access to a water source, like a garden hose, and with good drainage, so you don’t end up with a mud pit instead of a swimming pool.

If you’re planning on using hay bales to create your pool, it’s a good idea to pick a spot with some shade, as the sun can cause the hay bales to break down more quickly. You’ll also want to make sure the spot is large enough for your pool and any accessories you plan on adding, like chairs or umbrellas.

Considerations When Choosing a Spot:

  • Flat and level ground
  • Easy access to water source
  • Good drainage
  • Some shade
  • Enough space for pool and accessories

How to Test Your Spot:

You can test whether the spot you’ve chosen is level by using a long, straight board or a level. Place the board or level on the ground and check for any dips or rises. If you find any, you’ll need to level the ground before you start building your pool.

To test for drainage, dig a small hole in the spot you’ve chosen and fill it with water. If the water drains away quickly, you’re good to go. If it takes more than an hour for the water to drain away, you’ll need to choose a different spot or improve the drainage by adding gravel or sand to the soil.

Step 2: Get Your Hay Bales and Prepare the Ground

Now that you have found the perfect spot for your redneck swimming pool, it’s time to prepare the ground. First, you’ll need to gather some hay bales. You can find them at a local farm or even online. Make sure you have enough to surround the entire area of the pool you want to create.

Next, clear the area of any rocks, sticks, or other debris that could puncture the plastic liner you’ll be using for the pool. You’ll want to create a level surface for the pool, so use a shovel or rake to even out the ground as much as possible. If the ground is especially uneven, you can use sand to fill in the low spots.

Use Hay Bales to Create a Border

Start by creating a border around the perimeter of your pool area with the hay bales. Make sure they are tightly packed together, and use zip ties or twine to secure them in place. The hay bales will act as a barrier to keep the pool water from escaping and to hold the plastic liner in place.

Layer the Bottom with Sand or Plastic

Once you’ve created a border with the hay bales, it’s time to prepare the bottom of the pool. You can use sand or plastic sheeting to create a smooth surface for the pool. If you use sand, make sure to pack it down tightly and level it out as much as possible. If you use plastic sheeting, make sure it is thick enough to withstand the weight of the water and any people who will be swimming in the pool.

Add Water and Enjoy!

Now it’s time to fill your pool with water! Use a garden hose to fill the pool to the desired level. You can add chlorine or other pool chemicals to keep the water clean and clear. And once the water is in, it’s time to jump in and enjoy your very own redneck swimming pool!

Step 3: Add a Liner to Your Hay Bale Swimming Pool

Now that you have your hay bale swimming pool set up, it’s time to add a liner to make it more durable and prevent leaks. You can use a variety of materials for your liner, such as a heavy-duty tarp, a pool liner, or even an old billboard.

Before adding the liner, make sure to smooth out the bottom of the pool and remove any sharp objects that could puncture the liner. Once you have the liner in place, use bricks or rocks to weigh down the edges and prevent it from shifting or bunching up.

Use a Heavy-Duty Tarp as Your Liner

  • A heavy-duty tarp is an affordable and easy option for your hay bale swimming pool liner.
  • Make sure to choose a tarp that is thick and durable enough to withstand the weight and pressure of the water.
  • Place the tarp over the pool and use bricks or rocks to weigh down the edges.

Consider a Pool Liner for Added Durability

  • If you want a more permanent solution for your hay bale swimming pool, consider using a pool liner.
  • You can purchase a pool liner at a pool supply store or online.
  • Make sure to measure your pool before purchasing a liner to ensure it will fit properly.

Repurpose an Old Billboard as Your Liner

  • If you’re feeling creative and want to repurpose an old billboard, it can make for a unique and durable pool liner.
  • Make sure to choose a billboard that is made of a thick, sturdy material.
  • Cut the billboard to fit the size of your pool and secure it in place with bricks or rocks.

Adding a liner to your hay bale swimming pool will not only make it more durable but will also prevent leaks and increase the lifespan of your pool. It’s a simple step that will make a big difference in the overall quality of your swimming experience.

Step 4: Fill Your Redneck Swimming Pool with Water

Now that your hay bale pool is lined, it’s time to fill it with water. This can be done using a garden hose or a bucket if you’re feeling particularly adventurous. Make sure to add enough water to reach a depth of at least 3 feet for swimming.

It’s important to note that the water in your hay bale pool will need to be changed more frequently than a traditional swimming pool, as hay can break down and make the water murky. Consider draining and refilling your pool every 2-3 weeks to keep the water clean and clear.

Choosing the Right Water Source

When filling your hay bale pool, it’s important to consider the source of your water. If using well water or water from a pond, make sure it is clean and free of any harmful bacteria or chemicals. It may be necessary to treat the water with a pool shock treatment to ensure it is safe for swimming.

Keeping Your Pool Clean

  • Use a pool skimmer to remove any leaves or debris that may fall into your hay bale pool.
  • Consider using a pool filter or a pool vacuum to remove any dirt or sediment that may settle at the bottom of the pool.
  • Add chlorine or other pool chemicals to keep the water clean and free of harmful bacteria.

Maintaining Your Pool

  • Check the water level regularly and add more water as needed.
  • Monitor the pH and chlorine levels of your pool water and adjust as necessary.
  • Drain and refill your pool every 2-3 weeks to keep the water clean and clear.

Tips for Keeping Your Redneck Swimming Pool Clean and Safe

Now that your redneck swimming pool is ready to use, it’s important to keep it clean and safe. Here are some tips to help you maintain your pool:

Tip #1: Use chlorine or other pool chemicals to keep the water clean and clear. Follow the instructions on the label for the proper amount to use based on the size of your pool.

Regular Maintenance

  • Skim the surface: Use a skimmer net to remove any debris floating on the surface of the water.
  • Brush the walls: Use a pool brush to scrub the sides and bottom of the pool to prevent algae growth.
  • Check the water level: Make sure the water level is at the appropriate level to ensure the pump and filter are working properly.

Health and Safety

  • Supervise children: Never leave children unattended in or around the pool.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water while swimming to prevent dehydration.
  • Protect your skin: Apply sunscreen to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
  • Clean up spills: Wipe up any spills or messes to prevent slips and falls around the pool area.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your redneck swimming pool all summer long in a safe and clean environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a redneck swimming pool made of?

A redneck swimming pool is made of hay bales and a tarp. The hay bales create the walls of the pool, while the tarp is used to hold the water. Hay bales are a popular choice because they are affordable and easy to find in rural areas.

Q: How do I prepare the hay bales for the redneck swimming pool?

Before setting up the redneck swimming pool, it is important to make sure that the hay bales are tightly packed and do not have any gaps. Tightly packing the hay bales will help ensure that the pool does not leak and that it holds its shape.

Q: How do I secure the tarp to the hay bales?

The tarp can be secured to the hay bales in a number of ways, but one popular method is to use bungee cords or zip ties to fasten the tarp to the hay bales. Bungee cords or zip ties will help keep the tarp in place and prevent it from slipping or sagging.

Q: How much water does a redneck swimming pool hold?

The size of a redneck swimming pool can vary, but most pools made with hay bales hold between 4,000 and 10,000 gallons of water. 4,000 to 10,000 gallons is enough water for several people to swim and play in the pool.

Q: How do I keep the redneck swimming pool clean?

Keeping the redneck swimming pool clean is important for safety and hygiene reasons. One way to keep the pool clean is to use a pool skimmer to remove debris from the water. Pool skimmer is a useful tool that can help keep the water clean and free of debris.

Q: Is it safe to swim in a redneck swimming pool?

While swimming in a redneck swimming pool can be a lot of fun, it is important to remember that these pools are not designed with safety features like traditional swimming pools. Safety precautions should be taken to ensure that everyone using the pool stays safe, including adult supervision and avoiding rough play in the pool.

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