Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks provide dependable performance for drinking water, storm water, and fire protection. Storage systems can be designed with single or multiple chambers. For example, a 20,000-gallon FRP tank may include a 6,000-gallon drinking water compartment that is fully separated from 14,000 gallons allocated for fire protection.
Why Choose a Darco Fiberglass FRP Underground Tank
Visual and Site Benefits
- Improved aesthetics
Above ground tanks are difficult to hide and often appear intrusive. Even with landscaping or color matching they disrupt natural views and can resemble a billboard or tower. - Secure and unobtrusive design
Underground FRP tanks include lockable hatches. They stay out of sight and out of mind, which reduces the risk of vandalism or attracting unwanted attention.
Performance and Longevity Advantages
Superior Durability
- Corrosion resistance
Steel tanks will eventually rust and corrode whether coated or uncoated. FRP tanks do not rust or corrode at any point in their service life. - Leak protection
Concrete tanks often develop hairline cracks over time which may allow untreated groundwater to infiltrate. FRP construction eliminates this risk when properly installed. - Pressure tested prior to delivery
Every fiberglass tank is pressure tested at the factory. There is no need for dangerous on-site air pressure testing before installation.
Safe Storage for Drinking Water
- Food-grade resin options
FRP tanks can be manufactured using food contact grade fiberglass resin approved for temporary storage of potable water.
Thermal and Environmental Performance
Freeze Protection and Temperature Stability
- Reliable year-round performance
Properly buried FRP water tanks do not freeze. This removes the need for insulation or electric heating, even in northern climates and high elevations. - Stable temperatures
Underground water typically remains near 50 degrees. This environment is less likely to support algae or bacterial growth.
Thermal Storage Capabilities
- Efficient energy management
Insulated fiberglass thermal storage tanks can store hot or cold water to support heating and cooling systems in commercial or industrial buildings.
Transportation and Installation Benefits
Easy Handling and Delivery
- Lightweight construction
Fiberglass tanks are easy to transport and position. A 15,000-gallon tank can be hauled on a flatbed trailer behind a one-ton pickup. Larger units can be shipped on extendable drop-deck trailers across the continental United States.
Flexible Installation Options
- Adaptable system layouts
Multiple tanks can be arranged to match site requirements, including compact or irregular shapes such as an L-shaped excavation footprint. - Simple bedding and backfill
FRP tanks may be bedded and backfilled using common pea gravel or crushed rock chips. - Traffic-rated performance
When installed under an approved concrete slab, FRP tanks can support the weight of automobiles and trucks.
Fire Protection and Regulatory Compatibility
Fire Protection Standards
- NFPA compliance
FRP cisterns meet NFPA 299 rural fire flow criteria, which are often required for insurance coverage in remote forested areas.
FRP tanks also meet core structural and capacity guidelines in NFPA 1142 and NFPA 22.
Wastewater Applications
- Multi-compartment capability
FRP tanks make effective single or multi-chamber septic or sewage holding tanks. Local Department of Environmental Conservation approval is required before installation.
Moving Forward With a Reliable FRP Solution
Underground fiberglass systems deliver dependable performance with flexible configurations for drinking water, storm water, and fire protection. FRP construction provides long-lasting durability, lighter installation, stable temperatures, and alignment with key fire protection and environmental standards.
With options ranging from compartmentalized designs to traffic-rated installations, an FRP system can be matched to your project needs and site conditions. Start your project with confidence. Contact our knowledgeable staff to discuss your storage requirements and get the right solution in motion.
