**Please note Versatile Tanks DO NOT repair water tanks**
They’re mammoth constructions – and they’re versatile too: concrete fire tanks really do come with a host of benefits. Whether circular or rectangular, they’ll meet the needs of engineers, architects and consultants everywhere.
But how is a concrete tank constructed? And how long will it last? To ensure you get all your questions answered – and in one place – we’ve compiled this handy guide.
Where Can Concrete Fire Tanks Be Installed?
The good thing about concrete fire tanks is they can be incorporated into everything from house drawings to plans, and even commercial building submissions. Known for their longevity, they’re regularly tested for strength and offer the ultimate in reliability too.
What is a Concrete Fire Tank Used For?
Used for extinguishing fires, above-ground external concrete water storage tanks are ideal for commercial use as they can’t be set on fire. And it’s because concrete is made of non-combustible materials – cement, water and aggregates – that it isn’t susceptible to fire.
Aside from this, concrete fire tanks won’t emit toxic fumes – and neither will they produce smoke. If that wasn’t enough, unlike some other constructions a concrete fire tank doesn’t drop molten particles when exposed to fire. With a slow rate of heat transfer, concrete acts as an effective fire shield between adjacent spaces.
How is a Concrete Fire Tank Constructed?
Now we’re getting to the real nitty gritty of this article – and possibly the reason you stumbled upon it in the first place.
Each concrete fire tank is made in a factory – and in a seamless mould. You can be sure of no leaks and the reason for that is because they’ve been manufactured in this unique way. This process also ensures they’re easy to install – and they’re ideal for use by everyone from plumbers to excavators and builders.
Construction of an Underground Water Tank: How Does It Work?
Underground water tanks are designed to be modular and to tightly sit next to each other. This makes them great for restricted site applications.
Engineered for applied loads, their design means they can be buried underground or installed as a garage, patio or driveway. Believe us when we say concrete fire tanks really are versatile. On top of this, they can be customised completely to your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a fresh water storage tank, a sump tank or a storage shed, you’ll find the right construction for you.
Concrete Tank Construction: How it Works
Ever wondered about the concrete tank construction process – and how professional companies go about it? Of course, there’s a huge amount of site preparation involved; it’s the very first step when it comes to installation.
The tank itself can be constructed above or below ground and the base of the tank needs to be flat. Preferably it should be laser-levelled, with around 150 ml of compacted road base, no fill.
In terms of weight, a concrete fire tank is pretty hefty and the foundation on which it will stand needs to be of a uniform thickness.
The ground must be capable, therefore, of bearing a pressure of 100 kPa, with no fill. There also needs to be plenty of room around the base of the tank; this is for laying out the formwork and eventually building up the scaffolding.
Vehicles – like the concrete mix truck to be used in the safe and effective construction of your concrete fire tank – will also need to gain easy access.
Why Choose a Concrete Fire Tank?
- They’re built with strength in mind, with a thick base and walls which can be up to 125mm thick too
- Replacement roofs can easily be made to suit most concrete fire tanks
- Underground tanks, in particular, can be used by a range of businesses – from airports to shopping centres and schools. Plus, they’re ideal when space is an issue above ground
Rainwater Tank Installation: A Guide
What about rainwater tank installation? How is that different to construction of a concrete fire tank? We found this handy tutorial on YouTube from Trade Secrets.
Of course, rainwater systems must be installed by a licenced planner – and they may require building approval too.
There are four components to a rainwater system; these are:
Collection – by roofs, downpipes and gutters
Storage – which comes in a host of shapes, types and sizes
Supply – by use of pumps, mains back-up systems and filters
Use – via different fixtures in the garden or home
Rainwater can be used for all sorts of reasons: for household needs like drinking water (to reduce demand on the mains supply) and watering the garden.
In terms of installation, rainwater tanks are relatively easy to set up. We found this really useful handbook via Check My Home and we reckon you’ll really benefit from casting your eye over it. It covers everything from local and Government water restrictions to the plumbing appliances which require rainwater.
Head to the link above for all the necessary information and be aware that there are a number of maintenance points you should keep in mind, too.
For instance, health and aesthetic hazards for rainwater collected in tanks can easily be minimised by means of a few sensible preventive management procedures.
Did you know, for example, that once a rainwater tank has been installed, it is recommended that you maintain the following components regularly?
- Gutters
- The Roof
- Tank inlets, insect-proofing, first flush and leaf filters
The roof is probably one of the most important considerations – and you should check the structural integrity of the tank regularly to ensure any holes or gaps are repaired.
As well as this, make a thorough internal inspection top of your list. Keep an eye out for any evidence of animals, birds or insects and their droppings (or mosquito larvae) and if there’s any evidence of algal growth, see to it immediately.
Water Tank Installation: Your Questions Answered
Want to know how to go about water tank installation? Look no further than this informative article by Practical DIY. Focusing on installing a water tank – either as a completely new installation or a replacement for an existing one – the piece will answer all your queries in one go.
Precast Concrete Tank Construction: What’s Involved?
Designed for use below ground for the storage of liquid, precast concrete tanks are commonly used to contain dirty water or leachate.
Supplied in ‘flat pack’ form, the tanks come with a concrete cover. This cover is generally solid or slatted to ensure surface liquid can flow within it, with a single modular tank holding up to 10m3.
Why choose a precast concrete tank then?
- The installation process is quick
- There’s a reduction in cure time and lower plant costs
- They can be used for recycling, filtration, storm water and clean water storage
Concrete Tanks Poured On-site: How Do They Work?
Want to watch something really interesting? If you only choose one YouTube video to pour over (excuse the pun!) today, make it this time lapse one which shows a concrete tank being constructed.
Tanks which are fitted above ground can be done so with no roof, or even with a corrugated iron roof. All concrete tops are supported by load-bearing columns; these are poured at the same time as the roof. What this does, then, is enhance the strength of the tank to give you all the assurance you’re looking for when it comes to longevity.
Concrete Base for Water Tank: Do I Need One?
First things first: how do you prepare a concrete base for a water tank? Head over to Bunnings.com for the lowdown.
Everyone knows that prior to the installation of a water tank, you need a strong base. So you’ll need to build the retaining walls, using treated pine sleepers and galvanised posts. On top of this, you’ll want to know how to make the base level using builders’ sand.
But do you need a concrete base for a water tank? The answer is ‘yes!’ – and you can find out more by watching this YouTube video from the folks at Bunnings.
Concrete is a great option for the base of your water tank and it’s for the simple reason that it’s a no-compromise solution.
How is a base for your water tank made? A steel tank stand, for example, is designed and certified by an engineer and is required if pressure is required (and you do not want to fit a pressure booster pump). Of course, though, there are all sorts of benefits to a concrete base – and you’ll find just a few of them here.
If you’re in an area of Australia at high risk of bush fires, you’ll know it’s mandatory to build a fire-fighting tank that’s going to work. And because they’re constructed well – and built to last – you really will be glad you opted for a concrete version.
Underground Tank Construction: Some More Tips
Need some more advice? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with the experts, who’ll help answer any of your questions.
When it comes to installation, don’t be tempted to go for a DIY approach. There is, of course, a cost associated with calling out the professionals, but when implemented right, you’ll find that a concrete fire tank was the very best purchase you ever made.