Steel, Fiberglass, Concrete, And Plastic Water Tank: Know The Difference!

Water storage tanks come in different varieties ranging from its shape, size, material, and quality. There are four main types of water tanks available in India — steel, fiberglass, concrete and plastic water tank. Let us discuss these tanks in detail to know the exact differences between them.

Steel Water Tank

Steel water tanks are typically made of galvanized steel which is preferred safe and used for many household applications including cooking, storing and so on. These tanks are strong and can be used for extremely large storage requirements. However, it is very expensive and comparatively difficult to install. It tends to rust and corrode with time due to which zinc can lead to the water leaving the water taste like metallic. It weighs heavily and therefore it is difficult to transport and install at the same time. Most steel tank installations require a concrete slab of 100 mm thickness at least with steel reinforcing. It also requires a seam where the sheets are joined. The quality of a stainless steel tank highly depends upon how exactly are they manufactured or the sheets are joined together. Therefore, the warranty period might differ on a case to case basis.

Fiberglass Water Tank

Fiberglass water storage tanks are also referred to as the GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic) tanks that are again used to store water. It is stiff and rigid but relatively thin and light. There are both advantages and disadvantages of the same. The advantage is that the tank walls are relatively thin to manage the water pressure. On the other hand, it is more prone to cracking and leaking because of tin walls. This type of tank also allows more light entry inside than the other types of tanks. It is the biggest disadvantage as it may lead to the growth of algae which is considered harmful for human consumption. However, its quality highly depends upon the manufacturer.

Concrete Water Tank

Concrete water storage tanks are manufactured by either moulded or plastered process. It is suitable most for underground installation for commercial uses, however, smaller tanks can be installed above ground even for residential purposes. It is generally strong and long-lasting. It is very heavy in weight and therefore difficult to transport and install. New concrete tanks may impart taste and leach lime that lead to an increase in the pH of water. Therefore, it is advised needs to be flushed before use. Cracking and leaking are the most common disadvantages of a concrete water tank. It is comparatively expensive than plastic water tanks.

Plastic Water Tank

Plastic water storage tanks are most popular in demand today. There are many advantages to installing a plastic domestic or commercial water storage tank. Poly tanks are strong, durable, light in weight, easy to install and transport and cost-effective option. Due to its lightness, it is easy to maintain in the future, for example cleaning a plastic water storage tank is much easier than the other types. It is non-corrosive and comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors to match your demand and taste. It is suitable for both domestic and commercial purposes. It prevents the growth of algae as the multiple layers protect the tank from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun and fight water contamination pretty well.

Therefore, based on the above comparisons, it won’t be wrong to say that the plastic water storage tank is among the best.