Water stands as the most crucial resource for sustaining communities worldwide. Just try to picture life devoid of readily accessible clean water—it’s nearly inconceivable! Deprived of it, we’d struggle to maintain personal hygiene, have running water in our homes, utilize indoor plumbing, or access clean drinking water.
In developed nations, substantial volumes of usable surface water are stored in water storage tanks. However, neglecting to clean your water tank can result in contaminating your water supply with bacteria and parasites, leading to gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea, and other waterborne illnesses.
Hence, inspecting these tanks is imperative to ensure they remain structurally sound, and to maintain clean and safe water for a multitude of purposes, including power generation, agriculture, mining, and household use.
The Essential Role of Water Tank Inspections
Regular inspections of tanks can result in long-term financial savings by enabling you to accurately identify when tank replacement or repairs are required. Without adequate maintenance, numerous materials commonly used for water tanks deteriorate over time.
In addition to tank upkeep, inspections of potable water tanks are vital for preserving water quality. Over time, sediment may accumulate at the tank bottom. In small quantities, this sediment does not impact water quality or the structural integrity of the storage tank.
How Visual Inspections Help Detect Water Tank Damage
In the past, water storage tanks were typically inspected by skilled divers, sometimes even without draining the tank entirely. However, hiring external divers often comes with high hourly expenses and coordination difficulties.
Luckily, there are more economical alternatives for carrying out inspections. Simply inspecting the exterior of your water tank can offer valuable insights. A thorough examination of the tank’s surface can uncover cracks or crazing caused by UV degradation and other stressors. It’s crucial to address these stressors promptly to prevent significant damage to the water tank.
Restoring Your Water Tank
Here are some solutions for repairing a water tank, particularly when dealing with minor cracks and leakages visible on its surface:
For Cement Water Tanks:
- Empty the water tank and ensure it is completely dry.
- Use a brush to apply a concrete bonding agent to areas with minor cracks, covering the inner regions.
- Mix one part hydraulic cement with three parts water. Begin by applying the cement to the outer layer, allowing it to dry before cementing the inner structure.
- Lastly, reinforce the liner edges using a hammer.
Plastic Water Tanks
In the domain of poly tank maintenance, plastic or poly tank welding stands out as a common method for repairing cracks.
The initial method involves heating, which is particularly effective for addressing small cracks visible from the top. Additionally, the use of fiberglass sheets can help prevent plastic leakage.
Another alternative is to apply epoxy or putty to the affected areas. These substances contain chemicals that produce heat upon contact. As you knead them together, they become warmer and more flexible, enabling effective repair.
Metal Water Tanks
When faced with a rust hole in a conventional metal or steel water tank, using sealant might offer a solution.
Begin by draining and thoroughly cleaning the tank. Then, trim the tip of the sealant tube to create an opening large enough for easy application of the adhesive. Insert the sealant tube into the caulking gun, making sure it is securely attached.
Apply the sealant around the affected area, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Smooth the sealant evenly over the damaged area using a putty knife. If your water tank is located outdoors, it’s highly advisable to paint the area surrounding the sealant once it has dried. Exposure to sunlight and the elements can lead to rapid degradation of the sealant.
Water Tank Concerns? We Can Help!
Once you’ve identified damage to your water tank and learned how to perform repairs, you can implement a temporary solution that may last for weeks or months, providing time to arrange for professional inspection.
If you’re in the United States, Tanks Liners by American Tanks is the leading choice for water tank repair and fire water tank inspection services. Our skilled maintenance and repair team provides top-quality services, including concrete water tank inspection, general water tank maintenance, and water tank inspection.
Whether your water storage tank is residential, industrial, or commercial, you can rely on us to expertly handle the task. Reach out to us today to receive a quotation for your project!
Call Tanks Liners by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@americantankliners.com
