Choosing the right water tank for commercial use isn’t only critical for your water quality, but it also affects your business’ efficiency and sustainability. 

With various materials and factors to consider, such as size, location, and maintenance, making an informed choice is essential for long-term success. 

In this article, we’ll explore the best water tank materials and key considerations to help you choose the ideal tank for your commercial needs.

The Best Water Tank Materials for Commercial Use

When it comes to selecting the best water tank materials for commercial use, the decision is crucial, considering Australia’s unique climate conditions, water storage needs, and environmental concerns. 

The most commonly used materials include steel, concrete, and polyethylene (plastic). Each of these materials has its own advantages and drawbacks, making the choice dependant on specific requirements like durability, cost, and maintenance. Here’s a rundown of each material and its properties:

Steel

Steel, particularly galvanised or stainless steel, is a popular choice for commercial water tanks due to its strength and longevity. 

Galvanised steel water tanks are coated with a layer of zinc, which protects the steel from rust and corrosion. This makes them highly durable, especially in Australia’s varied climate, ranging from the humid tropics in the north to the arid outback regions. 

Meanwhile, stainless steel water tanks offer even greater resistance to corrosion and require less maintenance, though they come at a higher cost. 

One of the major advantages of steel tanks is their ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme heat, which is a common challenge in many parts of Australia. They’re also fire-resistant, making them a safe choice for areas prone to bushfires. 

However, steel tanks can be more expensive to install and transport due to their weight.

Concrete

Concrete water tanks are another solid option for a wide range of uses, known for their durability and longevity. These tanks are often preferred for large-scale commercial use because they can be constructed on-site, allowing for custom sizes and designs that fit specific needs. 

Concrete tanks are particularly beneficial in areas with fluctuating temperatures, as they have excellent thermal mass, which helps maintain a consistent water temperature and reduces the risk of algae growth. 

Additionally, concrete is fireproof and resistant to natural disasters like cyclones and earthquakes, which is an important consideration in certain regions of Australia. 

However, concrete tanks require significant upfront investment and longer construction times. They’re also heavy, making transportation and installation more challenging, especially in remote locations. 

Over time, a concrete tank can develop cracks that may lead to leaks, requiring regular inspection and maintenance.

Polyethylene

Polyethylene, or plastic tanks, are widely used due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of installation, and resistance to corrosion. 

These tanks are made from food-grade, UV-stabilised plastic, making them safe for storing drinking water and resistant to the sun’s harsh rays, which is vital in Australia’s hot climate.

Plastic tanks are also lightweight and can be easily transported and installed, even in remote areas. 

On top of that, they’re available in a variety of sizes and shapes, making them versatile for different commercial applications. 

However, while polyethylene tanks are resistant to rust and chemical reactions, they’re not as durable as steel or concrete tanks and may degrade over time when exposed to extreme temperatures. 

Additionally, a plastic water tank isn’t fire-resistant, which could be a huge disadvantage in areas prone to bushfires.

Other Considerations for Commercial Water Tanks

When choosing a commercial water storage tank, there are several key considerations beyond just the material that can significantly impact the tank’s performance, longevity, and overall suitability for your needs. 

These considerations include the tank’s size and capacity, maintenance requirements, and your own budget. Here’s a brief overview of why each factor matters.

Size

The size and capacity of the water tank should align with your business’s water usage needs.

For commercial purposes, it’s essential to accurately estimate the volume of water required daily, whether for industrial processes, irrigation, or potable water supply. 

A tank that is too small may lead to frequent refills and potential downtime, while a tank that is too large may be an unnecessary financial burden. 

In Australia, where water availability can vary widely depending on the region and season, having sufficient capacity to store water during dry periods is particularly important. Additionally, it’s worth considering future expansion plans—selecting a modular tank system could allow you to easily increase capacity as your business grows.

Maintenance

Different tank materials require varying levels of maintenance, so it’s important to consider the ongoing care needed to keep the tank in optimal condition. 

Steel tanks, for instance, may need periodic inspections to check for corrosion or rust, particularly if the protective coating wears off over time. 

Concrete tanks might develop cracks, necessitating repairs to prevent leaks. 

Meanwhile, polyethylene tanks generally require less maintenance but should be checked regularly for UV degradation or damage caused by external impacts. 

Investing in a tank that requires minimal maintenance can save significant time and money in the long run, but it’s also essential to have a maintenance plan in place to address any issues promptly before they become major problems.

Cost

The cost of the water tank, including installation, maintenance, and potential future upgrades, is a critical consideration. 

While it’s tempting to choose the most affordable option, it’s important to balance initial costs with long-term value.

Investing in a higher-quality tank that requires less maintenance, offers greater durability, and better suits your specific needs can result in significant savings over the tank’s lifespan.

Tip: Don’t forget to consider the costs of necessary accessories, such as pumps, filters, and plumbing connections, which are essential for the tank’s operation.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the best material for a commercial water tank depends on the specific needs of the business, the environmental conditions of the area, and the budget. 

Steel tanks offer exceptional durability and fire resistance, making them ideal for long-term use in harsh climates. 

Concrete tanks provide excellent thermal stability and can be custom-built for large-scale applications, though they require significant investment and maintenance. 

As for polyethylene tanks, they’re more affordable and easier to install, but they may not offer the same level of durability and fire resistance. We don’t recommend a plastic water storage tank for commercial use.