At the current state of climatic unpredictability, you’re not always sure that your tap water supply will suffice for your domestic needs. It’s not unusual for the municipal water to be rationed by the suppliers and leave you in limbo. This usually comes at the peak of droughts, which are all too familiar now across the globe.
Since it’s challenging to operate your homestead without water, you must seek alternative sources of this precious commodity. One of the most viable ones is rainwater. On this account, here are four rainwater storage options you should explore this 2022:
1. Plastic Water Tanks
Plastic water tanks are the most popular option for rainwater storage. They’re usually budget-friendly, and costs are always a concern for many homeowners. Aside from that, they’re advantageous in the following ways:
- They don’t rust as steel water tanks may do
- They weigh less than steel tanks, so they can be installed without using cranes
- They’re durable, thanks to the sophisticated roto-molding process used in their production
- They’re 100% safe for storing drinking water as they’re manufactured from food-grade plastic
If you decide to buy one, make a point of choosing a color that blends perfectly with your home’s exterior look. Also, select the height, diameter, shape, and design that complements your house. It’s also advisable to source your tank from reputable manufacturers or other similar ones. The better the quality of the rainwater tank you install and the higher the quality of workmanship, the longer it’ll serve you.
2. Steel Tanks
Next in popularity to plastic tanks is steel tanks. They’re your go-to option if your primary concern is durability. Some come with a guarantee of up to 20 years, and if well-maintained, you can use them for up to 40 years and beyond.
Years back, steel tanks were mostly made from galvanized steel, but this was disadvantageous because of its susceptibility to corrosion. However, technological advancement birthed the revolutionary composite known as zincalume, which is four times more corrosion-resistant than galvanized steel. Therefore, modern steel tanks are even more durable than older ones.
Another good thing about steel tanks is their hardy nature. They won’t fail even if subjected to freezing temperatures, scorching heat, fires, and extreme wind. Their excellent strength also enables you to have bigger storage capacities than you would with plastic tanks.
And should the need for repairs arise, be sure it’ll be but a quick fix. That’s because they’re assembled into distinct parts with steel plates, corrugated sheets, and bolts, unlike their plastic counterparts which come as one continuous mold.
3. Wooden Tanks
Perhaps you prefer the warm look of wood in your compound to the colder feel of plastic and steel. Luckily, you can install wooden tanks for rainwater harvesting. Aside from the natural aesthetics, they also have the following benefits over the other tank types:
- They’re perfect for remote areas because they’re usually assembled on-site, as opposed to carrying them in the finished form.
- They require little to no maintenance, unlike steel which may require painting time and again.
- They can be readily disassembled for re-erection in another site.
- They help in the regulation of the water stored therein. You may not need heating to prevent the water from freezing during the colder months. And in summer, the water remains cool despite the hot weather.
- They’re more resistant to earthquakes and cyclones.
4. Concrete Tanks
You have the option to purchase precast concrete tanks or cast them in situ. Under this category are also masonry tanks lined with plaster. The precast ones are incredibly heavy, so you must have the appropriate machinery to transport and install them at your home for rainwater collection. If you don’t have access to such machinery, it’s better for you to build the concrete tan yourself.
All you need is the common materials used to build a house, including masonry blocks, concrete, cement, sand, aggregates, water, formwork, concrete mixer, spades, trowels, steel reinforcement, and plumbline. A well-constructed concrete water tank can last up to 50 years. Just ensure you coat the inside with appropriate concrete water tank liners to protect it from corrosion.
Conclusion
Harvesting rainwater is an excellent way to guarantee your homestead a constant water supply, given the usual disruptions of municipal water. To this end, you could install steel, plastic, wooden, or concrete water tanks. Each of these has its unique pros and cons, as outlined above. You’d want to weigh all of them and settle on the most feasible option for your needs. Most importantly, get your rainwater tank from a reliable manufacturer and have it installed by a professional contractor. This way, it’ll serve you for several decades without any need for significant repairs.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.