Options for Closing an Underground Storage Tank

 
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.