For the likes of Facilities Managers, ensuring the smooth operation of building systems is a significant priority. Amongst these systems, a cold water storage tank plays a crucial role in providing safe and reliable water supply. Over time, wear and tear can compromise the efficiency and integrity of these tanks, leading to the decision: should you reline or replace your cold water tank? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into this frequently-asked question and highlight the key factors you should be considering.
Relining and Replacements: The Basics
Before diving into the decision-making process, let's first understand what relining and replacing a cold water tank entail:
Reline: Relining refers to the process of refurbishing the interior lining of the tank. For us here at Titan, this involves applying two new layers of polyurethane to protect the tank's surface from corrosion, rust, and other forms of degradation.
Replace: Replacing a cold water tank involves completely removing the existing tank and installing a new one in its place. This is often necessary when the existing tank is beyond repair or when significant structural issues are present.
Water Tank Relining Vs Replacement
Age and Condition: The age and condition of your cold water tank are crucial factors. If your tank is relatively new and only shows minor signs of wear, relining might be a more viable option. On the other hand, if the tank is old and severely corroded, a replacement might be the more practical choice.
Extent of Damage: Assess the extent of damage to the tank. If the damage can be effectively addressed through relining, this could save you the cost of a full replacement. However, if the damage is widespread, compromising the tank's structural integrity, replacing might be safer in the long run.
Cost Considerations: Both relining and replacement come with associated costs. Relining is generally more cost-effective than replacement, making it an attractive option for those on a tighter budget. However a replacement, whilst costlier upfront, may prove more cost-effective in the long term if your existing tank's lifespan is nearing its end.
Water Quality: Consider the quality of water you receive. If your water source is known to be corrosive or contains minerals that could accelerate tank deterioration, relining might not provide as much of a long-lasting solution. In such cases, replacing the tank with a more resistant material might be a better choice.
Regulations and Standards: Be aware of any local regulations and standards pertaining to water tanks. If your tank doesn't meet current safety standards, replacement might be the only viable option to ensure compliance. On the other hand, contemporary guidelines like WRAS and DWI have distinct standards that a relined tank will conform to, which a newly replaced tank might not necessarily meet.
Disruption and Downtime: A water tank replacement often requires more significant work and may result in water supply disruptions. If minimising disruption is a priority for you, then relining might be a quicker and less disruptive solution. However, at Titan, we're skilled in installing temporary water tanks for both relining and replacement projects.
Future Plans: Consider the future plans for your facility. If you're planning to relocate or renovate in the near future, a relining would be a more suitable option. However, if you're aiming for a long-term solution, a replacement could be more suitable.
Seek Help Through Our Nationwide Experts
At Titan Mechanical Services, our survey-based approach takes the guesswork out of this decision, providing you with insights to help you make the most informed choice for your facility. Following your enquiry, we're able to send a skilled member of our Engineering team to inspect your cold water storage tank, utilising over 50 years of water management experience. Whether you opt for the cost-effective approach of relining or the more lasting solution of a tank replacement, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Your cold water tank's efficiency, safety, and longevity are our priority – visit our cold water storage tank service page today or simply call 01704 335800 to speak with a member of our advisable planning team.
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