leaking rainwater tank

[macklin]

A couple of months ago there was a couple of white built up streaks down the rainwater tank. Now there is 4. What can i do to remove the build up ( also what is it) and what do I patch it with. Tried a wire brush (no good) next i will try a 4inch angle grinder). Also any helpfull sites regarding cleaning the interior of same, (just what is involved). Tried googling but there was nothing specific on cleaning interior.

thank you

john macklin

[RETIRED]

Plastic, fibreglass, corrugated iron, earth or concrete??

[macklin]

It is made of concrete



thanks

john macklin

[Clinton1]

there is a concrete tank crack fixing kit that you can buy. With it you inject an epoxy into the crack, which then sets. They work well.

[Gumby]

It is made of concrete



thanks

john macklin

Naturally.
A plastic tank would just float away wouldn't it ?

[macklin]

Thanks for your reply will get the kit

how about the inside cleaning. how much does it cost any info on a web site for example, The top consists of a small hole (about 12 inches in diam) possibly to measure how much water ??????? and of course 2 holes that the downpipes go to. If I do it myself it looks like I have to remove a rib that goes around the top, and unscrew the bolts that tie the top down. It looks like a lot of work. Then of course I have to get inside, It holds 15 thousand litres

any further help would be appreciated

thanks

john macklin

[ozwinner]

The white stuff on the outside is the concrete repairing itself.
I think it is calcium (?) and it sort of works like how staligmites/tites are formed, so I wouldnt go cleaning it off as you may make the leak worse.

Al

[echnidna]

Down our way we have a tank cleaning contractor who will clean the sludge out of the tank without draining the water. You might find a similar contractor if you go through the yellow pages.

[journeyman Mick]

Thre's a product made for leaking concrete tanks and pipes. I think it's called zypex? It grows crystals in the cracks of the concrete which will eventually seal any leaks. The good thing about it is that you don't need to empty the tank or work inside it. Safe for potable water too.

Mick

[Bob38S]

Repaired our tanks years ago [crack between base and wall] with a product called Silasec. You mix it with raw cement and force it [like putty] into the crack - can be used inside or outside of the tank - the crack should be wet - the wetter the better as it actually helps rather than hinders. It can also be mixed with raw cement into a paste consistency and then painted onto a surface - inside or out. This product has been out for many years and does work - most plumbing/hardware stores carry it.
regards,
Bob