Myth: “ALL tanks have to be leak-free.”
Reality: AWWA standards have an allowable leakage rate for concrete tanks, and don’t require leak testing of a bolted steel tank’s floor.

Myth: “Welded steel tanks can’t be made to be partially buried.”
Reality: Welded steel tanks have been successfully designed and installed in partially-buried configurations for at least 25 years.

Myth: “Some tank types are maintenance-free.”
Reality: All tanks require maintenance to achieve their design life.

Myth: “Steel tanks must be blasted down to bare metal every 8-10 years.”
Reality: Industry research and testing data actually show complete renovation intervals of 20-30 years.

Resource Type

  • Guidance

Topic

  • Water Storage Tanks