Underground Storage Tank Closure Options

Two scientists in protective suits taking water samples from the river.

Procedure: Complete Tank Removal

Advantages

  • Allows for visual inspection to ensure no leaks have occurred.

  • Provides peace of mind.

  • Provides less liability for the property owners.

Disadvantages

  • Most expensive option.

  • Accessibility may be a problem.

  • May impact landscaping. 

Procedure: Concrete (or Slurry) Fill

Advantages

  • No excavation usually needed.

  • Less expensive than removing the tank.

  • Prevents collapse.

Disadvantages

  • May shrink leaving void spaces which water can enter.

  • Added weight makes removing the tank in the future a more complicated and expensive procedure.

  • You cannot ensure that no leaks have occurred from the tank.

Procedure: Sand Fill

Advantages

  • No excavation usually needed.

  • Less expensive than removing the tank.

  • Prevents collapse. 

Disadvantages

  • Added weight makes removing the tank in the future a more complicated and expensive procedure.

  • You cannot ensure that no leaks have occurred from the tank.

Procedure Foam Fill

Advantages

  • No excavation usually needed.

  • Less expensive than removing the tank.

  • Prevents collapse.

  • Adds much less weight than that of concrete or sand filling.  

Disadvantages

  • You cannot ensure that no leaks have occurred from the tank.