As a contractor, you are usually faced with the dilemma of whether to install an inground or above ground water tank. There are several factors to consider before making such a decision. Such factors include the costs of each alternative, customer preferences, space available for construction and security. This article will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of having inground water tanks.
Advantages of inground water tanks
They are effective in space management. In a situation where there is limited space for construction, inground tanks are the appropriate option. You can always install inground tanks under lawns or driveways.
Inground tanks are hidden from view. In places where above ground water tanks may not be aesthetically pleasing, underground water tanks can be installed without tampering with the scenic beauty.
Inground water tanks are relatively safe from tampering of any kind. Because the tanks are installed a few feet below the ground, they cannot be accessed easily by vandals. Such tanks are important in places where there is lax security.
Underground tanks are protected from natural disasters and fires. Disasters such as hurricanes cannot affect in ground tanks, making them appropriate for areas prone to such eventualities.
In a wildlife or agricultural setting, inground tanks are safe from damage by animals that may rub against it, a likely occurrence in above ground water tanks.
Disadvantages of inground water tanks
The main disadvantage of inground water tanks is that they are relatively expensive as opposed to above ground tanks. Underground tanks are rugged and specially constructed making them more expensive than above ground tanks.
Underground tanks also need extra resources to install them below the ground, resulting in additional costs for installation compared to above ground tanks.
Another downside to underground water tanks is their need for pumps for water extraction. Above ground tanks usually rely on gravity to provide adequate pressure for water supply. The pumps in underground water tanks will have to be separately purchased, and, in most cases, require a source of power, resulting in more additional costs.
Although you may find inground tanks expensive to install, in some instances their superiority over above ground tanks is definite, and the extra effort needed for installation becomes worthwhile. Depending on available resources, location, and security, you should decide which type of tank to install because a wrong decision could be quite costly in the long run even if it was the cheapest option during installation. For more information, see http://www.bettacrete.com.au.