When you want your water storage solutions to last long and work well, making them waterproof is very important. But how you make something waterproof can be quite different depending on whether the water tank is above-ground or underground.
Before talking about details, it is important to know why waterproofing is needed for both types of tanks. Water tanks, whether they are placed above the ground or below it, can have problems such as leaks and seepage.
Above-ground tanks: unique challenges and solutions
Above-ground tanks are out in the open, so they face different weather types and this brings special problems for keeping water from getting inside.
• Material compatibility
You need to make sure the waterproof layer works well with tank material like metal or plastic. Sunlight can damage many materials over time, so choose something that stands up strong against UV rays. Big swings in temperature cause expansion and shrink; it’s vital to pick waterproofing able to handle big hot-cold changes without cracking. Good quality coatings by water tank waterproofing services to put around the outside stop water from leaking into tank walls.
• Exposure to UV rays
Tanks that are above ground always get sunlight, which can harm materials over time. UV rays from the sun can make some waterproofing materials wear out and become less useful. Use UV-resistant coatings or paints made for above-ground tanks.
• Temperature fluctuations
Above-ground tanks have big changes in temperature, making the tank material expand and shrink. This regular movement might cause cracks in the waterproofing layer if it is not handled correctly. Flexible waterproofing membranes installed by from Dropex Waterproofing Services are very good for tanks above the ground.
• Physical damage
Above-ground tanks can get more easily damaged by things like hail, flying debris from strong wind, and even accidental hits. Using strong waterproofing layers or special coatings that add extra protection against physical harm can be very useful.
Underground tanks: specific considerations
Underground tanks, even though they are safe from UV rays and bad weather, have their own problems with waterproofing.
• Soil pressure
Underground tanks always have pressure from the soil around them. This pressure can make the tank walls crack or move, which might cause leaks. A strong waterproofing method, like a multi-layered membrane system, can handle soil pressure well. These systems usually have a protective layer that helps absorb and spread out the pressure evenly so the tank doesn’t get damaged.
• Groundwater seepage
One big worry for underground tanks is water from the ground getting inside. If there is no good waterproofing, this groundwater can enter the tank, making the stored water dirty and also weakening the tank’s strength. Ask water tank waterproofing services to use waterproofing membranes to stop groundwater from coming in. These special membranes are usually stronger and better at handling water pressure.
• Root intrusion
Roots from trees and plants close by can grow into underground tanks, making cracks and leaks happen. Putting root barriers around the tank space and using materials that are waterproof and resist roots can help stop this problem.
Best practices for waterproofing
No matter if your tank is above-ground or underground, some good practices are the same for both:
a) Regular inspections
Check your water tank often for any damages, like cracks, leaks, or peeling of waterproofing layers. Finding issues early can stop small problems from growing bigger.
b) Quality materials
Buy good quality waterproofing stuff made special for the problems your tank has. This is because they lower the need for fixing things and make your tank last longer.
c) Professional installation
Although it is possible to do waterproofing by oneself, having professionals install the waterproofing guarantees that the task will be carried out flawlessly and quickly. Experts from Dropex Waterproofing Services know how to choose the correct materials and use them in a proper way, giving assurance that your tank will have good protection.