rainwater tank type and style

When selecting your urban rainwater tanks, decide whether a free standing above ground tank or an in ground stormwater retention/detention tank is best.

Tank type selection is important for long term service and maintenance considerations. Market selection indicates the best options for value, non corrosion, handling, long term reliability and quality in the following order:

• polyethylene tank - food grade, UV stabilised quality product range;
• fiberglass tank - resin rich and tissue barrier, cup and sourcer configuration;
• concrete tank - small size factory produced or in-situ formed tank;
• steel tank - treated and lined for corrosion avoidance.

tank types

The application of rainwater tanks provide a environmentally sound use for the capture and storage of water resources

• polyethylene tanks
  The increased use of polyethylene tank in the marketplace is driven by the flexibility of these products for domestic and commercial application.
  advantages
  • traditional style or smooth walled urban style;
  • no corrosion issues and can be sited anywhere and for any water source;
  • ease of handling and impact flexibility for the whole of life of the tank;
  • large range and many modular shapes not available in other mediums;
  • Permanent colouring and no maintenance required.
  disadvantages
  • Does not allow for change of colour (requires trade in and replacement);

  • Slight distortion in dimensions under loading, similarily to most tanks.

• concrete tanks
  Traditionally these type of tanks have been used because of their robust construction and beneficial features in particular weather conditions such as high temperature, wind and storm. The other main advantage here is the ability to form large capacity in-situ tanks and under high operational loadings.
  advantages
  • Heavy, robust structure;
  • Thick walls and lid can limit thermal conductivity;
  • Can be constructed to higher load specifications;
  • Can be formed for larger capacity and irregular shape.
  disadvantages
  • Requires heavy equipment for installation or construction;
  • Cannot be moved easily;
  • suceptable to handling and environmental damage;
  • alcaline leaching, water balancing and taste issues occur;
  • mould formation and surface deteriation requires continual maintenance

  • impact and cracking can cause rapid deteriation of the tank.

• steel tanks
  These tanks have traditionally been a feature of the Australian landscape with their corrigated shape and reflective surface. They are also featured as rusted hulks in a harsh environment. Todays steel tanks have to be treated with protective measures and maintained to sustain the tank over time.
  advantages
  • traditional appeal;
  • rigid structure;
  • multiple footprints.
  disadvantages
  • Many corrosion issues prevail;
  • Water condition and dissimilar metals can expedite the disintegration of the tank in a short time
  • suceptable to handling and impact damage;
  • require regular maintenance inspections;
  • large number of seams, rivoted connections and silicone joints;
  • application of a thin plastic film over all surfaces and joints is needed to avoid corrosion and chemical leaching into water source.

tank styles

When selecting your urban rainwater tanks, decide whether a free standing above ground tank or an in ground stormwater retention/detention tank is best.

The choice of tank is getting larger, but the regulation and the space considerations are narrowing the options that can be considered for your site.


• above ground tanks are the traditional and convenient water storage system used in the urban and rural environments;
  • round traditional corrigated
  • round smooth wall designer style
  • slimline - rectangular, narrow, oval

  • squat low profile

• in-ground tanks are available in polyethylene and their functionality has made a sizeable leap forward where they are now the preferred system in the modern urban building block - out of sight, meeting the regulations and not taking away precious land space.


Consider the choices, think about any rebates offered and factor in the regulation constraints to help you decide which tank type is best for your needs!