Water is the most critical resource for supporting communities around the globe. Imagine what life would be like without readily available clean water. There would be no way to wash our bodies, have running clean water in our homes, use indoor plumbing, or drink clean water. It’s beyond comprehension!
In developed countries, a huge amount of usable surface water is kept in water storage tanks. However, if you neglect to clean your water tank, your water supply may get contaminated with bacteria and parasites that can cause gastrointestinal infections, diarrhea, and other water-borne illnesses.
Thus, inspecting these tanks is important for structurally sound, clean, safe water for power, agriculture, mining, and household use.
The Importance of Water Tank Inspections
By keeping up with regular tank inspections, you can save money over time by identifying the right moments to repair or replace your tanks. Without proper maintenance, many commonly used materials for water tanks can deteriorate over time.
In addition to the tank itself, inspecting potable water tanks is vital for maintaining clean water. Sediment can gradually accumulate at the bottom of tanks, but in small amounts, it typically does not affect water quality or the structural integrity of the storage tank.
Role of External Visual Inspections in Detecting Water Tank Damage
Traditionally, trained divers must inspect a water storage tank without complete drainage. These divers usually must be externally hired, resulting in high hourly costs and coordination complications.
However, you can conduct such inspections without costing too much. You can go and look at your water tank’s exterior. Closely examining the tank’s surface can reveal cracks or crazing caused by UV degradation and other stressors. These stressors can damage the water tank severely if left unattended.
How to Repair a Damaged Water Tank
You can repair your damaged water tank on your own, especially when only dealing with a few minor cracks and leakages visible on its surface. Here are some of the solutions on how to repair a water tank:
- Cement Water Tanks Hydraulic cement is famous in construction and other industries. The main applications of this compound are to prevent leakages and concrete structures.
- Empty the water tank first and let it dry. Apply concrete bonding agent on the areas having minor cracks with the help of a brush and cover the inner regions.
- Mix one part of hydraulic cement with three parts of water. Fix the cement at the outer layer initially, then cement the inner structure after the first one dries.
- The last step is reinforcing the liner edges using a hammer.
Plastic Water Tanks
Plastic or poly tank welds are one of the most common ways of repairing cracks in the world of poly tank repair.
The first method of repairing is through heating. This method works for small cracks that are visible from the top. Using fiberglass sheets can also help in preventing plastic leakage.
You can also apply epoxy/putty to the affected areas. The chemicals of the epoxy/putty heat up upon contact, and the more you knead them together, the hotter and more pliable they become.
Metal Water Tanks
Using a sealant can be an effective solution when you notice a rust hole in a traditional metal or steel water tank.
Start by emptying and cleaning the tank. Next, cut the tip of the sealant tube, making the hole wide enough to allow the adhesive to flow easily. Insert the tube into the caulking gun, ensuring it’s securely in place.
Apply the sealant around the damaged area until it’s completely covered. Use a putty knife to smooth and evenly distribute the sealant. Once the sealant is dry, it’s highly recommended to paint over the area and the surrounding surface, especially if your tank is exposed to the outdoors, as sunlight and weather conditions can degrade the sealant over time.
Worried about a Possible a Damage to Your Water Tank?
Once you know where to look for water tank damage and how to do water tank repair, you can give yourself a temporary fix that may hold for weeks or months, giving you enough time to make arrangements to have your water tank inspected by professionals.
If you are in the United States, Raven American Tanks is the best water tank repair and fire water tank inspection company you can rely on. Our professional maintenance and repair team provides quality maintenance services, concrete water tank inspection, general water tank maintenance, and water tank inspection.Whether your water storage tank is for residential, industrial, or commercial use, we can expertly take care of them, and that’s something we can assure you of. Get in touch with us today to get a quotation for your project!
