Leaks in above ground tanks might start off small, but if ignored, they can lead to damage that’s expensive and hard to fix. Whether you’re storing water, fuel, or chemicals, even the tiniest leak can cause bigger problems like waste, contamination, or property damage. That’s why acting early matters. The longer the leak continues, the more complicated the repair job becomes.
Fixing a leak isn’t always as simple as sealing it up. You’ll need to find the cause, work out whether it’s a short-term or long-term issue, and fix it in a way that will last. Below, we’ll cover how to spot signs early, what you can do immediately to manage it, and how to properly fix the tank to prevent future issues.
Identifying the Source of the Leak
Before anything can be repaired, you need to know exactly where the leak is coming from. Sometimes it’s obvious, sometimes not. Whether you’ve got a steel, poly, or concrete tank, knowing the trouble spots makes a big difference.
Here’s how you can inspect the tank:
– Walk around the base and sides looking for wet patches, especially if it hasn’t rained
– Look at the exterior for rust, discolouration, bubbling paint or crusty buildup
– Focus on joints and seams – these are the spots where leaks usually form first
– Inspect fittings where pipes come in and out of the tank, including valves and covers
– When things are quiet, listen for drips or hissing sounds
For steel tanks, check especially near the bottom where corrosion likes to gather. Concrete tanks can develop cracks that expand over time, especially with temperature swings. In poly tanks, look for stress lines or warping that may suggest the material has been weakened.
Another clue is a slow but steady drop in tank levels even though nothing’s being used. If the tank is used for fuel or chemicals, a strong smell around the site can also mean a leak. Wet ground with moss or algae growing nearby is another sign you shouldn’t ignore.
Once you know where the leak is, the next steps should follow quickly. Delaying repairs – even for a small drip – increases the risk of structural damage.
Temporary Fixes to Manage Immediate Leaks
While waiting on a proper repair, there are basic stopgap measures that can help prevent additional harm.
Try these short-term fixes:
1. Turn off the tank’s input and output flow. Reducing pressure helps slow the leak.
2. Apply a sealant patch or repair tape. These are made to plug leaks temporarily and may be applied even to wet surfaces.
3. Use hose clamps and rubber gaskets. These are useful for sealing pipe connections or small splits, especially around metal or plastic fittings.
4. Redirect the leak. For larger drips, set up catch buckets or run temporary hose extensions to guide water safely away while waiting on further action.
These measures aren’t meant to hold for long. They simply minimise risk until a full repair can be arranged. Leaving a tank with a tape patch during hot days, heavy rains, or pressure fluctuations only invites trouble. Always treat a temporary fix as a brief pause, not a solution.
Permanent Repair Solutions That Work
A lasting repair takes more than a quick patch. Once the leak is under control, it’s time to organise proper work. The fix should not just stop the current leak but also reduce the chances of another one forming nearby.
There are a few options depending on tank type:
– Steel tanks might need corroded spots cut out and replaced, or patch plates welded over splits
– Poly tanks could need plastic weld repairs or even a full section swapped out
– Concrete tanks often benefit from crack injection and resealing with waterproof compound or epoxy
– Internal liners can be replaced or installed to give another layer of protection, especially for tanks storing aggressive materials
Use high-quality materials. Sealants and liners designed for long-term storage give better results than quick-fix products from general hardware shops. There’s also peace of mind in knowing the repair is done with full consideration for what you’re storing and how the tank operates over time.
Trying to handle long-term repairs without the right experience can worsen the problem. DIY solutions sometimes cover up deeper damage or combine materials that don’t work well together. Hiring someone with tank repair experience means the leak gets fixed the right way – safely and thoroughly.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Leaks
Tanks often leak again when owners skip routine care. It’s easy to forget when things are working well, but small problems often start building long before they’re visible.
Keeping the tank in good shape means:
– Checking tanks every few months and after major weather events
– Cleaning the tank inside and out so dirt and growths don’t damage surfaces
– Watching out for early signs of wear around openings, seals, and joints
– Making sure liners are well-fitted and suitable for the liquid being stored
– Looking for rough patches inside the tank and resealing bare spots when needed
Just noticing a bit of rust or a few hairline cracks early in the year makes things easier. If those signs are ignored, they can expand into major leaks, especially after a season change or repeated filling and draining.
Even well-built tanks can wear down without warning. Keeping an eye on them helps stop that from becoming a bigger cost or headache.
Maintaining Your Tank’s Integrity Over Time
Long-term reliability comes from staying consistent with care. A good maintenance routine gives your tank a better chance of lasting for years without fail. It also helps catch issues while they’re still easy to fix.
Some steps to keep your tank strong:
– Document small changes each time you check it – a slow drip or worn gasket one season may become a problem the next
– Clean the tank and the surrounding area so moisture and grime don’t build up around the base
– Keep bolts and hardware tight as tanks shift slightly with temperature or load changes
– Use covers to protect tanks exposed to harsh sun or winds for long hours
Bring in professionals once every year or so for a full check. They can assess things from the inside out and use tools the average person doesn’t have on hand. Think of it like servicing a car – a tune-up helps it run longer and better, and it’s usually cheaper than repairing something after it fails.
Getting ahead of bigger problems is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a leak gone undetected or ignored. Even small parts like seals, washers, and brackets need attention now and then to prevent larger problems later.
Keep Your Tanks Leak-Free For Longevity
Leaks in above ground tanks are like warning signs – easy to brush off at first, yet loaded with consequences if not handled soon. Spotting the source early, applying quick fixes when needed, and following up with strong, lasting repairs is the smart way to manage your tank system.
What keeps a tank healthy over time is habit. Regular check-ups, thoughtful care, and timely fixes. Whether your tank holds water, chemicals, or anything in between, staying on top of its condition helps protect what’s inside and everything around it. A tank that doesn’t leak is more than a container – it’s a dependable part of your setup, worth defending through steady upkeep and solid repair work.
To keep your tanks in top condition and avoid future leaks, trust the professionals at ATM Tanks. Our skilled team is ready to handle any tank repairs you might need, ensuring your system stays efficient and reliable for years to come. Don’t let small problems become big headaches—reach out today for expert assistance and peace of mind.
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