Will water tank rust?

[soulstar11]

My Dad has a galvanised steel water-tank in his loft which has been there for at least 35years. He is worried that this will need to be replaced as the tank will eventually rust through - or worse, burst due to corrosion. The tank has never sat empty for any period of time, therefore I thought the inside would not rust as it has always been submerged in water. Can anyone offer an opinion on this? Thanks.

[Ewood27]

It will rust. Mine did, after some 30 years! It wasn't too bad though. It went by way of several tiny holes, so the leakage wasn't too heavy. He's do well to have it replaced by a plastic tank though, as he can do it in cold blood, as it were, at a convenient time.

[sddsddean]

Agree with Ewood. My Mum and Dads old tank burst when a 6" diameter bit dropped out. The mess was incredible. Luckily we were home, so we could turn the water off. Change it for a plastic tank before the inevitable happens.

[Drewhound]

I think a lot depends on the quality of the tank. I've seen much older ones in good condition but they may well have been built better than one 35 years old I'd certainly take a good look at it, it just isn't worth the trouble of it leaking

[Uriah Heep]

Best to have a close look at the tank. It very much depends on the type of water in your area. The hot water cylinder is also at risk. I have had to replace 2 in 15 years. Look at the cost of replacing with a plastic tank. It is much cheaper than the bill for a flood. It is a much simpler job than you think and should only take a few hours.

[soulstar11]

Thank you all very much.

[blakerica]

you may also look into cathodic protection for future metal tanks, for rust prevention. it's a reverse corrosion process, but dosen't make rust go away.