Purchase a plastic water tank Plastic water tanks are often constructed of polyethylene and are used to store water for commercial, residential, agricultural irrigation, wastewater and fire fighting applications. Because they're molded, plastic water tanks are one piece and seamless. Plastic water tanks should be a dark opaque color to prevent natural growth of algae and bacteria.

I recommend:  Order a freshwater polyethylene storage tank from American Tank Company. The water tank provider offers UV-stabilized, black opaque tanks that stand up to harsh environmental conditions. Browse the company's water tank list for a variety of sizes. Bailiff Enterprises offers plastic water storage tanks ranging in size from eight gallons to 12,000 gallons. The company's water tanks are available in a variety of colors.

Get low-maintenance durability with a steel water tank Most traditional water tanks are constructed from steel. These tanks are ideal for storing water because their construction material is corrosion and rust resistant. Steel tanks tend to be one of the least expensive options during the construction and installation phases, as well as on-going maintenance. Steel water tanks have a lifespan of several decades when properly maintained.

I recommend:  Buy a cylindrical, sectional steel tank for cold water storage at CST Industries. These tanks are modular and can be easily assembled with limited installation knowledge. Purchase an elevated steel water tank from Pittsburg Tank & Tower. The tank manufacturer offers a leasing program for municipal and industrial customers.

Order a fiberglass water tank Fiberglass water tanks are an excellent choice for underground water storage. Fiberglass is corrosion and rust resistance and requires little maintenance. These tanks are ideal for long-term storage of potable water, fire-protection water, emergency supply water, gray water, rainwater, storm water and irrigation water.

I recommend:  Purchase a Xerxes fiberglass water tank for long-term water storage. Find water tank information on the company's website. Darco offers underground fiberglass water tanks ranging in size from 10,000 gallons to 75,000 gallons. The company's tanks can be interconnected for additional storage.

Find custom water tank manufacturers Custom water tank manufacturers fabricate tank shapes and sizes that aren't typically available, as well as customize standard tanks to your specifications. Ordering water tanks from a custom manufacturer is also recommended if your storage system requires several interlocking tanks. In addition to fabricating the tanks, a custom manufacturer's design team can engineer a storage system that works best for your application.

I recommend:  Order a custom water tank from BH Tank. The custom manufacturer specializes in stainless steel designs. Interstate Products offers custom portable water tanks for potable and gray water storage. The company provides expert on-site installation. For additional custom water tank manufacturers, see the Industrial Quick Search water tank directory.