Water outages are becoming more frequent due to the increasing population and the adverse effects of climate change. As a result, homeowners are installing water storage tanks to reduce dependence on municipal supply lines, which are no longer reliable. In some regions, local authorities have created rules that require individuals to install water tanks on newly-built properties.
Choosing the right water tank isn’t easy, as you have many options. Common choices include plastic, fibreglass, metal, and concrete. Each has pros and cons. For instance, plastic tanks are cheap and portable but have a limited lifetime. On the other hand, metal tanks are strong and durable but susceptible to corrosion.
Read on to discover all about the concrete tank range and why they’re the best choice.
What Are Concrete Tanks?
Concrete tanks are made using sand and gravel aggregate and cement. Before the introduction of other tank types, they were the most popular. Most concrete tanks are installed above the ground or underground. It’s uncommon to see overhead concrete tanks.
Benefits of Concrete Tanks
Here are the top benefits of owning a concrete tank.
Durability
The most significant advantage of concrete tanks is longevity. With little maintenance, these tanks can last for up to 50 years. In comparison, plastic tanks get damaged by weather elements, while metallic units are prone to corrosion.
Sturdiness contributes to the durability of concrete storage tanks. These structures can withstand windstorms, bushfires, and other vagaries of nature. Such qualities make concrete tanks a worthwhile investment.
Low-risk Installation
Plastic and fibreglass are delicate materials that can get damaged by machinery during installation. Such damage can have immediate effects, like forced replacement or repairs, and future impact if it causes leaks.
On the other hand, concrete doesn’t get damaged easily during installation. It only becomes vulnerable to cracking under extreme situations, such as prolonged exposure to corrosive substances.
Little Maintenance
Concrete tanks require little maintenance. Their durability ensures they withstand harsh weather conditions without incurring significant damage. If installed underground, the protection against the elements makes them almost maintenance-free.
It’s natural for tanks to develop cracks and leaks after extended uses. However, you can easily repair these using waterproofing material. Ensure you check the backflow prevention valve yearly and the tank walls for cracks and leaks biannually.
Superior Hygiene
Concrete tanks keep your water safe for consumption, provided you maintain them properly. In addition, they are hygienically superior to plastic and metal tanks due to their innate bacteria, contaminant, and pathogen resistance.
Concrete is a bad heat conductor, ensuring water remains cool throughout the year. Poor conductivity also keeps water molecules intact and inhibits algae and bacterial growth. Water tastes fresher and ‘sweeter’ when it doesn’t have unwanted organisms. Contrarily, metal and plastic tanks are susceptible to algae and other microorganisms, explaining why they produce stale water sometimes.
Customisability
You can mould concrete into your preferred shape, size, and depth. This isn’t possible if you purchase readymade plastic and metallic tanks. The flexibility of concrete tanks allows you to customise them to match your house’s design. If you reside in a region with uneven terrain, you can use the tank to level the slope, making it a multifunctional installation.
Availability
Concrete is available everywhere. If you can access precast moulds, your contractor can make it on-site by mixing cement, sand, and gravel. Furthermore, these materials are cheap. On the contrary, steel and polypropylene aren’t readily available in some locations, especially rural areas.
I recommend considering Dallas holding tank rental solutions from reliable providers like RentViking to enhance the safety and sustainability of your property, as discussed in the aforementioned articles.
Wrapping Up
Since municipal supply lines no longer guarantee uninterrupted water supply, it makes sense to invest in a water reservoir. The most popular choices are metal, plastic and concrete tanks.
Concrete tanks have remained popular through the years, and deservedly so. They are the most durable storage tanks, with an average lifespan of 50 years.
Moreover, concrete is flexible, allowing you to mould it into your preferred size. More importantly, concrete is resistant to algae and bacteria that alter water taste and increase disease risk.
