Water storage is a critical issue for rural homeowners, farmers and regional councils. Water tanks are needed for domestic usage and commercial usage - hydrating livestock, supporting agriculture needs and for watering and irrigation systems. In New Zealand, we’re spoilt for choice. Water tanks are usually made from concrete or plastic, and can be located above or below ground, depending on environmental factors or aesthetic preferences.

Clean and reliable water supply can be restricted in some areas of New Zealand. With more extreme weather events, we need to be more self reliant when it comes to managing key infrastructure. Managing our own water and power supply, or having more options available on our properties is a great way to mitigate our exposure to natural disasters.  

This guide to concrete water tanks will discuss considerations for your next water tank purchase. We also cover key features to be aware of and some pointers for correct installation.

Key points for your water tank purchase

First time water tank purchaser or need to upgrade or add another water tank to your property? Here are some helpful pointers to consider when you research your tank purchase.

1. Tank size and capacity

What is your current water usage, and what is your likely future capacity? It can be cheaper in the long term to get more tanks than you need right now, and save on an upgrade further down the line. A water tank calculator can be a good place to start and understand the capacity you’ll need.

Space available and the aesthetics of a water tank can also impact your planning, but consider an underground tank for smaller areas, or road frontage zones. 

If your region has long dry weather spells, you may also want a larger tank to take advantage of when it does rain.

2. Concrete or plastic water tanks?

Your choice will depend on your location and environmental factors. Plastic has more flexibility but can be prone to cracking under significant pressure and breakdown under UV rays. Extreme weather conditions favour concrete water tanks. 

Plastic water tanks are more susceptible to algal blooms. Concrete water tanks have a greater thermal mass, providing a more stable water temperature, and less chance of algal blooms developing.

3. Reinforcement and design

Structural integrity of tanks can be improved with steel reinforcing in concrete tanks, making these the best option for areas that demand a robust tank option.

Good water tank design means that inflow and outflow pipes have proper sealing, access points allow easy checks and maintenance and your chances of water contamination are reduced too. 

4. Regulations and standards

Check with your local council for their local regulations. This could include consents, engineering reports, inspections and more. The regulations can be overwhelming, but are an important part of managing your water security, water quality and safety. 

Installing your water tank

Careful installation by a qualified plumber is an important part of getting your water tank up and running quickly. There are four key things to consider and check with your installer when preparing for your installation.

1. Site preparation

Is your site level, compact, free from sharp objects, and not at risk of nearby tree trunks disrupting the site area? 

Access is also important for the truck or crane that will need to deliver and install your tank to you. Perhaps there are sections of fencing that need to be temporarily removed, or trees and shrubs that need to be relocated for an afternoon to make way for your new water tank.

2. Tank foundation

Think carefully about the best foundation for your water tank and its location. Common options include a compacted sand or gravel base. This preparatory work will allow the base to be level and support the weight of the tank both now, and when it is filled with water.

3. Tank placement

Your priority when thinking about location is an area that maximises rainwater collection. It may need to be positioned close to a roof for rain catchment, consider prevailing winds and the proximity to downpipes. It’s not always about the end purpose for the water you’re collecting - water can be transported to livestock and so on.

An elevated platform can enhance water pressure by using gravity to support better water flow, rather than having to pump it uphill.

4. Connecting to downpipes and gutters

Water collection is all about efficiency. Connecting to nearby downpipes and gutters makes sense to maximise the water going into your water tank.

Check with your supplier and installer about your options for first-flush diverters to redirect initial runoff away from your water tank. This will help to reduce contaminated matter getting into your water supply.

Benefits of Concrete Water Tanks

As a supplier of concrete water tanks for over 50 years, we’re proud of the technology and design of our concrete water tank products. Here are some of the key benefits that lead our customers to return for another tank, or refer our product to others.

1. Durability

Concrete water tanks are known to be robust and long lasting. In New Zealand’s unreliable climate, where extreme weather events are becoming more common, the durability of a concrete water tank can be reassuring. Why not secure your water supply for the decades to come? 

2. Low maintenance

Unlike other types of tanks, concrete water tanks don’t need ongoing, regular maintenance. The sturdy nature of concrete reduces the risk of damage and deterioration. Low maintenance typically translates to low ongoing costs. The initial outlay can be offset by knowing you’ll have few ongoing expenses with this asset.

3. Temperature regulation

New Zealand’s varied climate can translate to varied temperatures too. A concrete water tank will help regulate water temperatures, with the naturally insulating properties of concrete. Preventing rapid temperature fluctuation reduces the risk of algal blooms, therefore preserving water quality.

4. Environmentally friendly

Concrete is made of natural resources and PermaCrete does not use harmful chemicals in our manufacturing process. What’s more, concrete is recyclable and able to be repurposed at the end of its natural life.

The durability of concrete water tanks ensures they have a long life. Buy once and buy right.

A concrete water tank is an investment in a long lasting, reliable water storage for your home or commercial property. To ensure you get the most out of our concrete water tanks, pay attention to the installation requirements of your local authority, and take the time to occasionally check all connections and water tightness of your tank. 

The climate is evolving. Concrete water tanks are a way to future proof your resilience, and conserve potable water for your family or the needs of your landholding.

Get in touch today to chat about your unique water storage requirements.