What to Consider When Choosing a Type of Water Storage Tank

If you want to have a water storage tank on your property, you have many options from which to choose, including the material and the size of the tank. This can mean anything from a very lightweight plastic tank that holds just a few gallons to an oversized concrete tank that can hold several thousand gallons. While having all those choices is good because it means you're sure to find something you prefer, it can also be overwhelming. Note a few things to consider to make the choice easier and to ensure you get a water storage tank that fits your needs.

1. Foundation

You might want a large water tank so that you can hold several hundred if not thousands of gallons of water in case of a drought or other emergency, but consider the weight of the tank and all that water as well. Water weighs over eight pounds per gallon, so for every hundred gallons you want to store, that's more than 800 pounds of extra weight in your tank. In turn, a large water tank might need a foundation poured underneath it in order to keep it from actually sliding downward into your property's soil. 

This foundation needed might be made of sand, gravel, or concrete, but it can be expensive and require added time to pour that foundation. Keep this consideration in mind when choosing a large underground tank so you can be sure to include the expense in your budget.

2. Leaking

Water tanks made of concrete usually need a liner or a special sealant so that the water doesn't seep into the concrete itself and cause leaks. Steel tanks may see leaks form around the connectors of the tank. Wood tanks can also require a sealant so that they aren't prone to rot or mildew from absorbing the water itself. On the other hand, fiberglass tanks are made of one solid piece that doesn't leak. Fiberglass may be more expensive than other options, but because of this durability and because it often needs fewer repairs than a material like steel, it can often be the better choice for long-term use.

3. Underground versus above ground

The location of your tank may affect what type you choose, for example, if you want an above ground tank, you need to opt for a dark color of plastic so that you don't experience algae growth on your water. In hot summer months, a steel tank stored above ground might get overly warm, so a fiberglass or even a wood tank might be better.