![](https://www.practicalsustainability.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/plasstic-tanks-large-1024x785.jpg)
Traditional purpose-built water or rain storage tanks come in all shapes and sizes, from a variety of materials.
![One style of plastic tank](https://www.practicalsustainability.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Variety_of_water_storage_tanks_and_rainwater_harvesting_equipment_4481564110.jpg)
Plastic Tanks
- 15 – 30 year lifespan
- Efficient use of space
- Can be made using recycled plastic
- UV stabilized
- All shapes and sizes
- Easy to install / place
- Durable
- Can be recycled
- Not recommended for high temperatures or direct sun
![](https://www.practicalsustainability.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/imgres.jpg)
Treated Steel Tanks
Traditional galvanized steel tanks aren’t very effective, and are susceptible to corrosion quite quickly in adverse conditions.
Proper treatment can extend this period significantly – materials such as color-bond can last significantly longer.
- 15 – 25 year lifespan
- Old and proven material, with modern technologies applied
- Cheap
- Durable
- Can be recycled
![](https://www.practicalsustainability.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/simple-concrete-tank.jpg)
Concrete Tanks
- Durable
- Load bearing
- Additional thermal mass
- Requires internal plastic lining
- Energy Intensive to transport and install
- Large amount of environmentally unfriendly material required
![](https://www.practicalsustainability.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Milwaukee_tanks.jpg)
Fiberglass Tanks
- Corrosion resistant
- Chemical Resistant
- Slightly Brittle – prone to cracks if impacted
- Semi translucent -must be painted or coated