Concrete versus plastic rainwater tanks

Because of the long-running drought, many home owners are deciding to install rainwater tanks on their properties. A rain tank is typically made from concrete or plastic, and both have their pros and cons.

If you're planning on having your rain tank installed underground, concrete might be the best way to go. "Concrete rainwater tanks are relatively inexpensive in comparison to plastic if they are located underground," says Alistair Le Plastrier from Taylex Rainwater Tanks.

If you're adding a rain tank to an existing home and want to install it yourself, it's easier to go with a plastic rain tank than a concrete one. "A plastic tank is a lot easier, as they can be moved around the back of the house easily," says Alistair. "Concrete tanks are heavy and cumbersome and are more difficult to install for the average home owner."

If you're thinking about longevity, concrete tanks have the advantage, as they generally last a lot longer than plastic tanks. The maximum lifespan of a good-quality plastic rain tank is about 25 years, while concrete tanks generally last around 50 years.

When it comes to selecting a plastic rain tank, the old adage of 'Buyer beware' should be at the forefront of consumers' minds, as recently there has been a proliferation of too-light plastic tanks produced by not-so-reputable companies.

Alistair explains: "For a 5000 litre rainwater tank we'd generally use 112 kilos of plastic powder, but there are lots of guys who are down to about 80 kilos now. These tanks won't last, so people need to make sure they pick a very reputable manufacturer who will be there for the long term."