Innovative Water Storage Solutions for Every Need
Over the years, I’ve installed and built a variety of water storage systems for people living off-grid, without access to mains water. Through hands-on experience, I’ve learned what works best for different needs and budgets.
For smaller storage needs (up to 10,000 liters), I’ve found polyurethane and fiberglass tanks to be the most reliable. They’re durable, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance.
For larger capacities, there are several options:
Pillow (bladder) tanks – The most affordable solution, but not the most durable.
Concrete tanks – The most robust and long-lasting, built by using steel bar, and concrete.
Corrugated metal tanks – This is the option I chose for myself. While they’re one of the more expensive choices, they offer excellent durability and ease of installation. Plus, as a builder, I prefer to spend my free time enjoying life rather than building for myself!
Whatever your needs, there’s a water storage solution that fits. I hope my experience helps you find the right system for your situation.
When it comes to water storage, choosing the right type of tank is essential to ensure water safety, longevity, and efficiency. Different materials and designs suit different purposes, whether it's potable (drinking) water, rainwater collection, or agricultural use. Below is an overview of the most common water storage options and their advantages.
Types of Water Storage Units
1. Fibreglass tanks.
Lightweight yet strong, resistant to rust and corrosion.
Suitable for both above-ground and underground installation.
Ideal for potable water as they do not leach harmful chemicals.
Can withstand extreme weather conditions but are generally more expensive.
2. Corrugated Metal Tanks
Made from galvanized or stainless steel, offering durability and strength.
Commonly used for rainwater harvesting and agricultural water storage.
Not ideal for potable water unless lined with a food-grade coating.
Can store large volumes of water, making them great for rural properties.
3. Polyethylene (Plastic) Tanks
Cost-effective, lightweight, and easy to install.
Available in a variety of sizes for both potable and non-potable water.
UV-resistant when designed for outdoor use.
Can be above or below ground, but underground models require extra reinforcement.
4. Bladder/Pillow Tanks
Flexible tanks made from heavy-duty rubber or PVC.
Ideal for temporary or portable water storage.
Suitable for rainwater collection, agriculture, and emergency situations.
Space-saving but more prone to punctures or leaks.
5. Plastic Cubes (IBC Totes)
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are great for rainwater harvesting.
Often used for non-potable water storage, such as irrigation or livestock use.
Affordable and stackable but should be checked for food-grade certification if used for drinking water.
6. Concrete Tanks
Extremely durable, long-lasting, and often used for large-scale water storage.
Suitable for underground installation, reducing space use and evaporation.
Heavy and costly to install but excellent for long-term potable water storage.
May require internal coatings to prevent water contamination.
Above-Ground vs. Below-Ground Storage
Above-Ground Tanks
Easier to install and maintain.
More affordable upfront but can be affected by temperature fluctuations.
Suitable for rainwater collection and agricultural use.
Below-Ground Tanks
Protects water from sunlight, reducing algae growth.
Saves space and maintains a stable water temperature.
More expensive to install due to excavation and structural support requirements.
Important Considerations for Underground Water Tanks in Waterlogged Areas
When installing an underground water tank, it’s crucial to consider the soil conditions and water table level. If the ground is prone to becoming waterlogged, an empty tank can become buoyant and "float" to the surface due to hydrostatic pressure. This can cause serious damage to the tank and surrounding infrastructure.
Why Do Underground Tanks Float?
When a tank is buried in an area with a high water table, the surrounding groundwater exerts upward pressure.
If the tank is empty or only partially full, it lacks the necessary weight to counteract this pressure.
As a result, the tank may be pushed upward, damaging pipes, foundations, or even emerging from the ground entirely.
How to Safely Install a Tank in Waterlogged Ground
If you still want to install an underground tank in an area prone to waterlogging, you must secure it properly. The best method is to concrete the tank in place, but this must be done correctly to prevent floating:
1. Fill the Tank with Water First – Before pouring concrete around the tank, it must be filled with water. This ensures it has enough weight to stay in place while the concrete sets.
2. Pour the Concrete – Once the tank is full, pour the concrete around it to create a secure anchor.
3. Allow the Concrete to Set – Keep the tank full of water until the concrete has fully cured, preventing any movement.
By following these precautions, you can install an underground water tank in waterlogged areas without risking damage or displacement. If waterlogging is a major issue, you may also want to reconsider and opt for an above-ground tank instead.
Why IBCs Aren’t the Best Choice for Water Storage
While Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are a cheap and convenient option for water storage, they have some major drawbacks if not properly protected.
1. UV Damage – The plastic used in IBC totes is not designed for prolonged sun exposure. Over time, UV rays cause it to degrade, making the plastic brittle and prone to cracking.
2. Algae Growth – The standard white (translucent) IBCs allow sunlight to penetrate, creating the perfect environment for algae to grow. This can lead to water contamination, requiring frequent cleaning and filtration.
How to Improve IBC Water Storage
If you do choose to use IBCs for water storage, consider:
Keeping them shaded or covering them with a UV-resistant tarp to prevent plastic degradation.
Painting or wrapping them in black plastic to block sunlight and reduce algae growth.
While IBCs can work for rainwater collection and temporary storage, they aren’t the best long-term solution unless properly protected from the elements.
Why Protecting Stored Water from UV and Air is Essential
Properly protecting your stored water is crucial to maintaining its quality.
UV Protection to Prevent Algae Growth – Exposure to sunlight encourages algae growth, especially in translucent containers. Algae not only discolors the water but can also produce toxins and clog filtration systems. Keeping water tanks shaded or covered with UV-resistant materials prevents this issue.
Sealing Water from Air to Prevent Acidification – If water is exposed to air, it can absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂), which lowers its pH and makes it more acidic. Over time, this can corrode metal components, affect plumbing systems, and alter the taste of the water. Using sealed tanks or airtight covers helps maintain water quality and stability.
By shielding your water from sunlight and air exposure, you ensure cleaner, safer, and longer-lasting water storage.
© Copyright Holder 2025
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.
