Buried and old oil tank is one of the major concerns for most of the individuals these days. Here in this article, we will throw light on some of the major problems that are found in underground oil tanks.
Underground storage tanks are large containers located underground to hold big amounts of liquids or gases. These are known for causing a wide range of safety, legal, environmental and economic concerns for homeowners and home buyers these days. Many cases have been reported showing a huge loss to life and property caused by these structures. Such structures cause groundwater and soil contamination, which is one of the key concerns related to environment. Not only this, cost and dangers associated with testing, tank removal and site cleaning is also very high.
An old and buried oil tank is undoubtedly a big threat to homeowner’s security. Here in this article, we will throw light on some of the problems that might arise in these structures if left unattended for a longer time. These include:
Corrosion
Corrosion is one of the major problems found in these structures. But what exactly is the cause of corrosion?
It is mainly caused by the intrinsic inclination of iron based metals present in these structures to relapse to a steady form. This stable form is rust. As far as the speed and time of steel turning into rust is concerned, it depends on factors including backfill material, physical location of the tank, pH acidity, amount of water present in the tank, thickness of the tank, soil moisture, age of the tank and on the way it has been installed.
Leaks
Another major problem that a buried structure encounters is that of leaks. Leaks mainly develop because of rusting. If the tanks are not protected from rusting, the structures soon develop leaks. In case, you observe a sudden increase in your home heating oil use, it is the time to get your vessel checked against leaks. Even little and slow-moving leaks can pose a severe threat to you, your family members, neighbors and the environment if left unattended for a long time. Damaged pipe, stained soil, shine in the groundwater, etc. are some of the indications of leaks.
Foul smell
Also if the structures are very old, these start producing foul odor that can cause a huge inconvenience to the family members and neighbors.
Thus, it becomes clear from the above discussion that old and buried oil tanks can prove extremely dangerous for a property and property owner. Getting them removed on time can save you from various dangers. Removal task is tough and impossible to be carried out by a homeowner itself. That is why, it is always suggested to take professional help in this regard.
West Coast Tank recovery is a Vancouver oil tank removal Company that provides oil tank removal and detection services to the clients. Important services include the detection and removal of exterior oil tanks, interior oil tanks, underground fuel storage tanks, above ground fuel storage tanks and heating oil tanks.
