Repairing and Relining Aging or Leaking Concrete Water Tanks

Repairing and Relining Aging or Leaking Concrete Water Tanks

Concrete storage tanks are widely used for the storage of water in many applications including drinking water, agricultural irrigation water, fire suppression, agricultural watering for plants and livestock, food preparation, chemical manufacturing, stormwater detention, and storage. Other water tank materials in use include plastics, fiberglass, and steel. Concrete storage tanks offer cost-effective long-term water storage in both regular and eco-sensitive locations. Concrete is exceptionally durable and when water is stored in a concrete tank, it remains clear and free of algae, does not emit order nor alter its taste. However, water tanks naturally age over time and eventually, leaks can happen. Then, it is time to secure expert tank leak repair services.

Concrete Storage Tank Leaks

A concrete water tank can experience cracks over time due to soil shifting beneath the tank, or from the freeze-thaw cycle of extreme weather conditions. Cracks can drain away fluid from the tank and allow bacteria to enter the tank, making the water unsafe for use. Signs that a tank may need tank leak repair are:

• Visible cracks on the surface of the tank.
• Signs of leakage around the tank.
• Unusual changes in the volume of liquid in the tank.

These things can contribute to tank leaks:

• An overflow system that allows water to sit around the base of the tank.
• Planting trees or shrubs too close to the tank causing the possibility of roots compromising the structure.
• Infrequent or inadequate maintenance.

FRP is Excellent for Concrete Tank Leak Repair Work

Fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) is a composite material made of a polymer reinforced with fibers. The bonded combination is a superior solution for coatings and tank linings, an excellent choice for storage tank repairs. FRP is strong and lightweight, has good corrosion resistance, has excellent thermal insulating properties, is durable, and can be applied quickly so that tank downtime is minimized.

Steps to Repair a Water Storage Tank

These are the basic steps that will be utilized by an expert lank linings service:

1. Drain and clean the tank thoroughly, ensuring that the inside surface is dry.
2. If necessary, remove dirt, old coatings, and any contaminates by abrasive blasting.
3. Apply a concrete bonding agent to repair any leaks or cracks. Multiple layers may be required to meet strength requirements, depending on the severity of the crack.
4. Apply and adhesive to coat the walls of the tank.
5. Install the new FRP tank liners, a heavy-duty flexible lining, to the walls of the tank and press the lining into place.

Call the Experts for Tank Lining Repair Work

Contact Picon FRP, Inc., based in San Pablo, CA and serving the San Francisco Bay Area. Picon is a full-service manufacturer and field service provider of industrial fiber reinforced plastic and anti-corrosion products, tank repairs, and custom fabrication. Our products provide corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, heat resistance, abrasion resistance, and more. Call 510-232-0065 today!