How to Build a Ferrocement Tank

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Ferrocement water tanks are durable, inexpensive, and easy to build. Keep reading for tips on how to take on this project yourself!

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Wall Construction Directions

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  1. The tank size will dictate the necessary sizes of the mesh. [1]
  2. The tank size will dictate the necessary sizes of the mesh. [2]
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  3. The layering should be as follows: 2 layers of chicken wire, 1 layer of electro-welded mesh, 2 layers of chicken wire. [3]
  4. [4]
  5. Know that once the mesh layers are securely fastened, roll one end of the mesh to the other and attach the two ends together using the wire ties. This will create the circular body structure of the tank walls.
  6. Stand the mesh frame upright on the tank foundation and attach, using the wire ties, the frame to rebar protruding from the tank foundation.
  7. Be sure that the wire is in tension. This will prevent the walls from buckling during the construction and concrete curing stages. Four reinforcement wires around the perimeter of the frame are sufficient.
  8. [5]
  9. The mortar should be applied so that the holes of the mesh are completely filled. [6]
  10. [7]
  11. Use a ladder when climbing in and out of the tank structure.
  12. Keep the walls wet during the curing process. Once all the mortar has been applied, the walls will be about 2 inches (5.1 cm) thick.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Roof Construction Directions

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  1. This can be done while the tank walls are curing. The tank size will dictate the necessary sizes of the forms.
  2. One log will be the center pole sticking up vertically from the center of the foundation. Two logs will be cross bars near to the top of the walls to support the wooden roof forms. Additional vertical logs will also be used to support the wooden roof forms; these logs should be placed along the inside circumference of the walls.
  3. The wood will create a domed roof form. [8]
  4. [9]
  5. This will provide the tank lid opening. [10]
  7. The wires should run from the dome center down to the base of the roof. [11]
  9. Be sure that enough concrete gets below the rebar circles.
  10. Keep the concrete wet during this process.
  15. Paint the walls and roof of the ferrocement tank with any desired color.
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  • Question
    What type of sealant is used inside the tank?
    Community Answer
    Cement and ferro-cement are used.
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      Warnings

      • Caution: When working with concrete, the necessary safety precautions must be taken. Gloves, safety goggles, and face masks should be worn.
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      Things You'll Need

      Equipment

      • Wire Cutters
      • Bolt Cutters
      • Trowels
      • Wheelbarrow
      • Ladder
      • Drill
      • Pliers
      • Hand Saw
      • Electric Circular Saw (if electricity is available)
      • Hammers
      • Paintbrushes
      • Shovels

      Materials

      • Chicken/Hexagonal Wire Mesh
      • Electro-welded Mesh
      • Wire Ties
      • 12 gauge Reinforcement Wire
      • Cement/Mortar Mixture
      • 12 mm Rebar
      • Wood Boards
      • Assorted Wood Beams (Logs)
      • Plywood Sheets
      • Metal Lid
      • Sika-1 Waterproof Sealant
      • Nails

      For a ferrocement tank to be highly effective, the materials should be available locally. This allows for proper maintenance and tank sustainability.

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      References

      1. ↑ http://hydro.engr.scu.edu/files/shared/ferrocement_water_tanks.pdf
      2. ↑ http://hydro.engr.scu.edu/files/shared/ferrocement_water_tanks.pdf
      3. ↑ http://hydro.engr.scu.edu/files/shared/ferrocement_water_tanks.pdf
      4. ↑ http://hydro.engr.scu.edu/files/shared/ferrocement_water_tanks.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.permaculturenews.org/2017/06/08/ferro-cement-water-tanks-affordable-diy-solution/
      6. ↑ https://www.permaculturenews.org/2017/06/08/ferro-cement-water-tanks-affordable-diy-solution/
      7. ↑ http://hydro.engr.scu.edu/files/shared/ferrocement_water_tanks.pdf
      8. ↑ http://www.cuvewaters.net/fileadmin/edit/Downloads/RFWH_Toolkit/5_CM1_Ferrocement-Tank_E.pdf
      9. ↑ https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/publications/operations/49d089a62/large-ferro-cement-water-tank-design-parameters-construction-details.html
      1. ↑ http://www.cuvewaters.net/fileadmin/edit/Downloads/RFWH_Toolkit/5_CM1_Ferrocement-Tank_E.pdf
      2. ↑ https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/publications/operations/49d089a62/large-ferro-cement-water-tank-design-parameters-construction-details.html
      3. This document was written for technical writing class at the University of Maryland, College Park.

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