How to Prepare a Solid Base for Your Slimline Tank
Posted on: 8 January 2018
With space at a premium in most urban settings, slimline tanks are mainly the go-to option for most urban dwellers. Because they are tall and narrow, they can fit into tight spaces where traditional tanks can't squeeze in, for example, along the side walls or between your fence and wall. Now that your preferred slimline tank has been delivered to your home, the next important thing is to prepare the base where the tank will sit. Slimline tanks, due to their tall and narrow shape, carry the risk of turning over if the base or foundation is not solid.
Concrete Base
Concrete foundations are arguably the most suitable type of base to set up for your slimline tank system as they are free of any erosion possibility. Moreover, a strong concrete base eliminates the risk of your tank warranty being declared null and void because it can support the weight of your full slimline tank without causing any ruin to your tank system. Here's a step by step guideline on how to prepare the foundation for your new slimline water tank.
1. Construct the retaining walls
Having chosen the best installation spot, measure out the length and width of the tank on the ground. Allow an extra 100mm on either end. Based on these measurements, cut and nail the pieces of timber squarely to construct the formwork or retaining walls around the area.
2. Excavate the area
Move the retaining walls out of the way and excavate the area for the slab. Allow an additional 5 cm of depth for the slab bedding. Get the retaining walls firmly set in place.
3. Prepare the slab base
Place crusher dust or roadbase in the dugout area, and tamp it down tightly. This guarantees a strong foundation for the concrete slab
4. Insert the reinforcing mesh
Cut the reinforcing mesh and fit it inside the formwork. Ideally, the reinforcement should be a few centimetres on top of the compacted base and a few centimetres below the summit of the slab.
5. Pour the concrete mix
Before pouring the slab, drench the compacted base with water to reduce moisture loss. Pour the concrete and spread it using a shovel to make sure the entire formwork or retaining wall is filled. Add more concrete all the way to the zenith of the formwork. Use a screed to level the concrete on top of the formwork.
6. Cure the slab
Pour water on the slab at least twice a day to moisten the slab's surface and boundaries. Curing protects against moisture loss and should begin right after concrete surface completion. The formwork may be removed after a day.
It will take a couple of days before the slab can completely dry. Afterwards, you can place your slimline tank on the slab base and call in a plumber to connect the tank to your downpipe.
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