concrete strengthening and protection with frp tank linings

Concrete Strengthening and Protection via FRP Lining and Waterproofing Coatings

Concrete is a wonderful building material, especially for water tanks. It is cost effective, relatively durable, and versatile. However, even concrete wears out over time. This article looks at what causes concrete to degrade, how to prevent that degradation from occurring in water tanks, and other considerations to keep in mind about water tank maintenance and concrete strengthening for water tanks.

Causes of Damage

Ironically, one of the causes of concrete damage comes from a concrete-strengthening measure. Concrete is often reinforced with steel in the form of bars threaded through the concrete. Steel is an effective strengthener, but it can also lead to problems. Over time, steel may corrode, which in turn can lead to cracking and spalling in the surrounding concrete. (Spalling occurs when small chips or flakes break off.)

Internal steel corrosion isn’t the only problem that may lead to a need for concrete water tank repairs. Harsh weather, corrosive chemicals, and the freeze/thaw cycle can also damage concrete over time.

Different types of water tanks may be more susceptible to different types of damage. For instance, outdoor tanks will face more challenges from the weather, especially in harsh climates. Tanks in areas with greater temperature variance from season to season will suffer more from the freeze/thaw cycle. Tanks that hold wastewater will come into contact from more damaging, corrosive chemicals than tanks that hold drinking water.

Preventing Damage

All of the causes of water tank deterioration can be counteracted and slowed down. For instance, in the case of reinforcing steel bars, a corrosion inhibitor can be sprayed onto the concrete. This inhibitor eventually reaches the steel bars within, providing protection from corrosion.

A countermeasure for weather damage is to apply a coating to the exterior of the tank. This can slow down the damaging effects of wind, humidity, and temperature changes.

The freeze-thaw cycle causes damage to concrete when water freezes and thaws within the tank. It may sound difficult to prevent damage from this at first, but a protective coating inside the tank itself can serve as a protective feature. Coatings that act as tank liners can also serve as a countermeasure to damage from corrosive chemicals.

Other Considerations

Beyond damage prevention, water tank liners and coatings can offer other benefits. Coatings can be a cost-effective way to repair leaks, and they can also extend the service life of a cracked tank by temporarily patching the damage, acting as a waterproofing agent. Over the course of a water tank’s time in service, it is more cost effective to slow damage down with coatings and linings than to let problems fester to save money in the short term.

Water Tank Repairs and Tank Liners Company in California

Whether you’re installing protective measures on a water tank for the first time, want to set up a long-term maintenance plan, or are seeking to repair a damaged tank, a professional water tank service can help.