In the current world climate, it is paramount to be self-sufficient and environmentally responsible. To do this, one must seek out alternative solutions to traditional concrete water tanks as a means of conservation. Consequently, exploring new and innovative options has never been more important.
This article will discuss the advantages of using plastic underground water storage tanks over concrete options and will feature a few available products from Tank Depot.
Traditional Needs for Underground Water Storage
For centuries, the storage of underground water has been an integral part of efficient water management systems to ensure a steady supply for multiple purposes. The Romans are renowned for their state-of-the-art strategies in this area, such as piping and heated floors with both hot and cold running baths accessible by the public. Even wealthy Roman citizens had access to continuous running faucets inside their private homes.
Apart from the Romans, other ancient civilizations also employed various methods to store and manage water resources. Despite its many variations across various cultures, the general concept behind underground water storage systems is mainly that of efficiently capturing, storing and distributing water. To accomplish this task, cisterns, wells or aqueducts were usually constructed using materials like clay and stone.
Modern Interest in Self-Reliance
As individuals across the globe recognize the essential function of water in maintaining life, safeguarding the environment and promoting socio-economic development, the urgency to conserve this vital resource has heightened. Several contributing factors can be identified for this increasing emphasis on water preservation, including:
- The expansion of the global population
- The impacts of climate change
- Environmental challenges connected to the risks of water scarcity
In response to these challenges, conservative governments, international organizations, businesses and individuals are increasingly prioritizing the importance of water conservation. These efforts encompass advocating for responsible water resource utilization, investing in water-saving technologies, raising public awareness of water preservation and implementing policies aimed at safeguarding water resources for both present and future generations.
Plastic Underground Water Storage Tanks
The building of plastic underground water storage tanks incorporates contemporary materials and manufacturing techniques to develop long-lasting, lightweight and eco-friendly alternatives to conventional concrete tanks. They are usually created from top-quality polyethylene and have ribbed designs to improve their sturdiness and steadiness.
The creation process frequently includes rotational molding, where the plastic is warmed up and rotated inside a mold. This process coats the inside surface evenly and creates a smooth, single-piece structure. This eliminates potential weak points or joints that could lead to leaks or structural failure. Once the plastic has cooled and solidified, the finished tank is removed from the mold and is ready for installation.
Advantages and Benefits
Plastic underground water storage tanks provide several benefits over their concrete counterparts, which makes them a more attractive option for modern water storage needs:
- Cost-effective: Plastic tanks are generally more affordable than concrete tanks, both in terms of materials, construction and installation costs.
- Lightweight and easy to transport: Plastic tanks are significantly lighter than concrete tanks, making them easier to transport and install on-site.
- Resistant to corrosion and leaks: Plastic tanks do not corrode or degrade over time like concrete, making them more resistant to leaks and ensuring the stored water remains clean and uncontaminated.
- Design versatility: Plastic tanks come in various sizes and forms, providing more options and the ability to adjust to unique site situations.
- Eco-friendly advantages: Producing plastic tanks has a smaller carbon impact than concrete for a greener option.
Constructing an Underground Concrete Water Storage Tank
Concrete has been a favored material for constructing underground water storage tanks due to its resilience and sturdiness. However, the construction process for a concrete underground water storage tank typically involves several complicated steps:
- Site preparation: Before beginning the construction, the site must be prepared, which includes evaluating soil conditions and performing any required excavation work to establish a stable foundation for the tank.
- Tank design: During the design process, various factors such as the tank’s size, shape and purpose, along with any pertinent regulatory requirements and safety standards, are considered.
- Construction: This step involves creating a reinforced concrete structure by pouring concrete into formwork that outlines the tank’s shape. The concrete is then allowed to cure and harden to form a robust and durable structure capable of withstanding the pressures exerted by the stored liquid and surrounding soil.
- Waterproofing: Typically, this includes applying a protective coating or lining to the tank’s interior to prevent water and contaminants from infiltrating.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of concrete underground water storage tanks. This may involve periodic inspections, cleaning and repairs as needed to address any signs of wear, damage, or potential leaks.
As environmental sustainability, water conservation and concerns regarding the potential risks associated with leaking underground storage tanks gain prominence, alternative materials and designs, such as plastic, are increasingly being employed to meet the evolving demands of the contemporary world.
Concrete Underground Water Storage Tanks: Disadvantages and Hurdles
Despite their historical significance, concrete underground water storage tanks have a number of disadvantages that make them less suitable for modern needs:
High Cost
The underground concrete water tank price can be significantly higher than alternative materials, such as plastic. This is due to the labor-intensive construction process, the need for specialized equipment and skilled workers and the cost of raw materials.
Complexity in Design
The underground concrete water storage tank design process can be quite complex and requires a detailed understanding of engineering principles, soil conditions and other site-specific factors.
Susceptibility to Leakage
Concrete tanks can develop cracks over time, which can lead to water leakage and possible contamination of the stored water. Repairing these leaks can be expensive and labor-intensive.
Heavy Weight
Concrete tanks are heavy and require substantial reinforcement to prevent collapse or structural failure, which adds to the overall cost and complexity of the project.
Environmental Impact
The production of concrete has a considerable carbon footprint that contributes to climate change and environmental degradation.
Tank Depot: Plastic Underground Water Storage Tank Options
Tank Depot provides various top-notch plastic underground water storage tanks, made to accommodate different requirements and uses. Here are some choices to consider:
Norwesco 325-Gallon Cistern Tank
Constructed from strong, long-lasting polyethylene and designed with ribbed reinforcement, the Norwesco 325 is perfect for smaller uses like collecting rainwater at home.
Ace/Denhartog 1,000-Gallon Low-Profile Cistern Tank
This compact tank is made to fit in small areas and is ideal for storing rainwater underground. Built from sturdy polyethylene, it can hold up to 1,000 gallons, which works well for both home and business uses.
Norwesco 5,025-Gallon Cistern Tank
This bigger tank is crafted from strong, long-lasting polyethylene and has a ribbed structure for extra sturdiness. With the ability to hold 5,025 gallons, it works well for various uses, like storing water for farming and industrial purposes.
Tank Depot Carries the Best Solutions for Plastic Underground Water Storage
Tank Depot plastic underground water storage tanks are a more cost-effective, environmentally friendly and flexible solution for managing water resources compared to traditional concrete tanks. We carry plastic and fiberglass storage solutions for water, chemicals, septic and accessories to complete them.
Contact us today to explore the range of options available or to find a retail location near you!