Omar Khalid
Painting a plastic water tank can be a tricky task. While some people suggest using paint, others recommend alternative methods to prevent algae build-up, such as chlorine tablets or black rubberized undercoating. If you decide to paint your tank, you must first remove any release agents used in the moulds. You can do this by wet sanding by hand and washing the tank with an enamel reducer. It's also important to use a good primer to help with adhesion. Some recommended paints include Krylon, automotive Urethanes, and exterior paint. However, it's crucial to keep the paint out of the inside of the tank to avoid flaking.
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What You'll Learn
Use a roller or spray paint
If you're looking to paint a plastic water tank with a roller or spray paint, there are a few things to keep in mind for a successful paint job. Firstly, consider the size of your tank and the time available. Roller painting is ideal for larger tanks with flat, even surfaces, and it's a quicker method if time is of the essence. It's also more efficient than brush painting as it covers larger areas in less time. However, for detailed or hard-to-reach areas, you might need to combine roller painting with brush painting.
If you opt for roller painting, start by priming the tank's exterior surface. Once the tank is completely dry, apply a coat of plastic primer, ensuring an even coverage without applying it too thickly. If necessary, apply a second coat after the first one has dried to the touch. Allow the primer coat to dry overnight before painting.
For the paint application, use a high-quality exterior latex paint. Keep in mind that dark colours will warm the water inside the tank, while light colours will reflect sunlight and keep the water cooler. Apply the first coat of paint and let it dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before applying the second coat.
Spray painting is another option, especially if you're looking for a quick and smooth finish. Sprayers atomize paint into tiny droplets, creating a fine mist that coats the surface evenly. However, it requires more preparation and cleanup, as you need to protect nearby areas from overspray. When spray painting, work in a well-ventilated area, follow the manufacturer's instructions, and wear protective equipment like gloves, goggles, and a mask. Apply several thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat for the best finish.
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Choose the right paint colour
When choosing the right paint colour for your plastic water tank, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide if you want a light or dark colour. Light-coloured tanks will contain cooler water than darker-coloured tanks, as darker colours absorb more heat from the sun. If you plan to drink the rainwater, a lighter colour might be preferable for cooler, more refreshing water. However, if you require warm water, a dark-coloured tank would be a better choice.
Another important consideration is algae contamination. Algae thrive in sunlight, so a light-coloured tank with inadequate pigmentation can allow enough sunlight for algae to multiply. Certain types of algae are toxic to humans and animals, so choosing a colour that inhibits algae growth is crucial. You can also consider using copper sulphate or bluestone, added directly to the water, to prevent algae growth. Alternatively, you could opt for a black rubberized undercoating spray, which some users have suggested helps prevent algae.
The colour of your tank can also depend on aesthetic preferences and your surrounding environment. You may want your tank to match the colour of your shed, house, or landscape. Polyethylene tanks offer the widest range of colours, making it easier to find a shade that complements your space. Additionally, consider the finish of the tank; a high-gloss shine often indicates that the tank is UV-stabilized, which can help prevent discolouration caused by photo-oxidation.
Finally, when choosing a paint colour, keep in mind that not all paints are suitable for plastic water tanks. Some paints may react negatively with the material, so it is essential to select a paint specifically compatible with plastic. Latex paint is often recommended for plastic tanks as it blocks UV rays and prevents degradation of the polymer over time. It is also crucial to use a suitable primer to ensure the paint adheres well to the plastic surface.
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Prepare the surface
To prepare the surface of your plastic water tank for painting, start by draining the tank completely and moving it to a workspace. If your tank is large, you may need assistance to move it safely. Once the tank is in your workspace, clean the exterior surface thoroughly. You can use a mixture of mild soap and water, or a specialised plastic cleaner, to ensure the surface is free of dirt, grime, and algae. Rinse the tank with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
Next, you'll need to sand the surface of the tank. This step is crucial as it helps create a rough texture that will allow the paint to adhere better. Use fine-grit sandpaper, around 400-grit, and sand the entire exterior surface by hand. Take your time with this step, as it will impact the final finish and durability of your paint job. Wipe down the tank with a damp cloth to remove any dust from the sanding process, and ensure the surface is completely dry before proceeding.
Additionally, you may want to consider using a primer. A primer will further enhance the adhesion of the paint to the plastic surface. Choose a primer that is suitable for plastic surfaces, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the painting stage.
Finally, before you begin painting, protect your workspace and surrounding areas from paint splatter. Lay down drop cloths or old sheets to catch any paint drips or spills. Ensure you have adequate ventilation during the painting process, especially if you are using spray paint. Now, you're ready to begin painting your plastic water tank!
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Prime the tank
To paint a plastic water tank, priming the tank first is essential to ensure the paint adheres well to the plastic surface. Here is a detailed guide on how to prime your plastic water tank effectively:
Before priming, it is important to clean the tank thoroughly. Use a mild detergent or a suitable cleaning solution to remove any dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of the tank. Rinse the tank with clean water after cleaning to ensure no soap residue is left behind. Allow the tank to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Once the tank is clean and dry, you need to remove any release agents that may be present on the plastic surface. These agents are commonly used in the moulding process to prevent sticking. You can use a process called wet sanding for this. Use 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper and sand the surface of the tank by hand. Wet the sandpaper and sand in a circular motion, covering the entire tank surface. This process helps create a slightly rough surface for better paint adhesion.
After wet sanding, wash the tank with an enamel reducer. Enamel reducers, such as Northern Paint or similar commercial products, will help prepare the plastic surface for painting. Follow the instructions on the product you choose for dilution ratios and application methods. Wash the tank a couple of times with the enamel reducer and then wipe it clean with a cloth or towel.
Now you are ready to apply the primer. Choose a primer that is suitable for plastic surfaces and compatible with the type of paint you plan to use. Automotive Urethanes with flex agents, for example, can be a good option but may be more expensive. Apply the primer evenly to the entire surface of the tank, following the instructions on the product for the best application method (spray, roller, or brush). Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Remember, priming is a crucial step in painting your plastic water tank. It will help ensure that your paint job adheres well and lasts longer. Take your time during this process, and don't be afraid to reach out to paint suppliers or professionals for advice on the best products and methods for your specific tank and conditions.
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Avoid painting the inside of the tank
When painting a plastic water tank, it is important to avoid painting the inside of the tank. This is because paint applied to the interior of a plastic water tank will inevitably flake off into the water over time. This can be dangerous, as it may contaminate the water and make it unsafe for drinking or other uses.
There are alternative methods to prevent algae build-up in your water tank without painting the interior. One option is to use chlorine tablets, which are easy to use and effective at preventing algae growth. Another option is to cover the tank with a roof or tarp to keep the sun off and prevent algae from growing due to sunlight exposure.
If you are set on using paint to address the algae issue, consider painting the exterior of the tank. Painting the outside of the tank can help prevent light from penetrating the tank and encouraging algae growth, without the risk of paint flakes contaminating the water. You can also try painting a small strip on the inside of the tank to keep track of the water level, but be sure to choose a paint that is safe for this purpose.
Before painting the exterior of your plastic water tank, it is important to prepare the surface properly. This includes removing any release agents used in the moulds to keep the plastic from sticking. Wet sand the surface by hand with 400-grit wet/dry sandpaper, and wash it down a few times with an enamel reducer for air-dry enamel. Be sure to wipe the tank clean before you start spraying the paint. Even with proper preparation, the paint may not adhere as well to plastic as it would to metal, so be aware that flaking may still occur over time.
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Frequently asked questions
Krylon paint is often recommended for painting plastic water tanks as it is designed to bond with plastic molecules and stick very well. It comes in a rattle can and can be sprayed on.
It is important to get rid of the release agents used in the moulds to keep them from sticking. Wet sand the tank by hand with 400 grit wet/dry and wash it down a couple of times with an enamel reducer for air-dry enamel. Wipe it clean before you start spraying.
If you are painting your water tank to prevent algae and scum buildup, it is recommended to paint it black as it keeps the sun off, and the water stays cooler, leading to less algae growth.
