DIY Repair for Leaking Galvanized Water Tanks

Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.
A leak doesn't have to mean the end for a galvanized water tank.

Galvanized water tanks are relatively sturdy and cheap, making them useful for such applications as watering livestock and storing large amounts of water. The tanks are covered in a coating of zinc, which protects the underlying metal from rust and corrosion. Over time, though, galvanized tanks can still develop leaks. Rather than discarding a leaking galvanized tank, fix small holes easily and inexpensively using simple tools and items from the hardware store.

Advertisement

Repairing Pinhole Leaks in Stock Tanks

Video of the Day

Step 1

Hammer flat any sharp edges which are protruding into the inside of the tank around the leaking hole.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Place a small block of wood adjacent to the pinhole leak on the outside of the tank. Scraps from two-by-fours work fine.

Advertisement

Step 3

Hammer a 1 1/2-inch threaded roofing nail with a rubber washer through the pinhole leak, from the inside of the tank. Drive the nail into the block of wood until the rubber washer on the nail is tightly seated against the metal of the tank, plugging the leak.

Repairing Leaks in Enclosed Water Tanks

Step 1

Drain the tank below the level of the leak.

Advertisement

Step 2

Drill the leaking hole to make it smooth and regular. Use a drill bit at least 3/8-inch in diameter.

Step 3

Insert a boiler repair plug into the hole. The toggle bar should be on the inside of the tank and the rubber washer, on the outside. Once in place, the toggle bar will spring back into an open position, securing the plug in place.

Step 4

Tighten the nut on the boiler repair plug until the rubber washer is tightly seated, sealing the leak.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...