Mr Crystal’s "Tall Tank Tales"
We have built over 4000 tanks and repaired and maintained more than 20,000 tanks and troughs. We have heard it all! And have tried most of it in formal controlled conditions. Most people start their tank stories with "I reckon"!
"I reckon throwin' cement in the water is the go!"
When hydrated, raw cement attaches itself to other particles. As it cures, these attached particles, form into a permanent unified bond. When cement is thrown into solution, each tiny particle has a chemical reaction all by itself with "nothing whatsoever" to attach with. The result – dust ... mud ... contaminated water. Fire ash, baby powder, flour or pepper have the same result. Better kept for the baby or the stew!
"I reckon I'll pour a new floor in the tank and be done with it!"
Concrete cracks to find relief from movement. Of course, it will crack at the weakest point. Obviously, the weakest point will be where the existing cracks are. It is guaranteed to crack in the same place! Save your time and money.
"Well, I reckon' I'll pour a real thick floor in it!"
Whether 1mm or 1 metre thick, concrete will crack at the weakest point. Save even more of your time and more of your money.
"I reckon the blokes stopped for lunch halfway through the pour!"
Maybe they did. Concrete waits for no-one. To stop without finishing the job would make it so difficult on the workers that they would probably have a heart attack trying to finish it after lunch. Having operated at the forefront of this industry for decades, we have never, ever seen it happen.
"I reckon there has never been a decent concrete tank made!"
After the first world war, to create employment for returned soldiers, grants were made to build town water supplies in rural towns. These concrete tanks have successfully supplied thousands of townships with cool lean water. Despite cracks and dribbles, they continue to give excellent service with a little well designed maintenance. Concrete is an excellent choice for: design life, water quality, fire resistance, heat and light exclusion, robustness.
"I reckon I'll purchase a new tank!"
Most concrete tanks and troughs can be easily and cheaply rehabilitated making them fit for purpose. You have already purchased a tank. Save thousands on replacement.
