C& L

A bunded tank has an integral outer skin that captures the full contents of the inner tank should it leak or fail, which is a legal requirement for many chemicals and fuels stored above ground. Non-bunded tanks rely on a separate containment area or drip tray. If you're storing anything hazardous to watercourses or drains, bunded is almost always the safer and often the only compliant choice.

Most chemical storage tanks are moulded in polyethylene (MDPE or HDPE) or GRP, but concentration, temperature and additives all affect resistance — a tank rated for dilute acid may not suit a stronger solution. Always check the manufacturer's chemical resistance chart against the exact product and strength you're using before ordering. If you're unsure, get in touch with our technical team with the chemical's data sheet and we'll confirm suitability.

Yes, the majority of our chemical and liquid tanks are UV-stabilised for outdoor use and designed to cope with UK weather conditions year-round. That said, some chemicals degrade faster at high temperatures, so a shaded position or additional insulation is worth considering for sensitive contents. Fittings, vents and gauges should still be checked periodically for weathering or UV embrittlement.

As a rule of thumb, size the tank for your maximum expected volume plus headspace — most tanks shouldn't be filled beyond around 90-95% capacity to allow for expansion and safe filling. For bunded tanks, regulations typically require the bund to hold at least 110% of the tank's capacity. If delivery quantities or usage rates vary, it's often more cost-effective to size up rather than risk topping up too frequently.

Most installations need at minimum a fill point, vent, outlet valve and some form of level indication so you're not guessing contents by eye. Depending on what's stored, you may also need a bund alarm, spill kit, or lockable access to meet site safety or COSHH requirements. We can supply tanks with fittings pre-fitted to your specification rather than leaving you to retrofit on site.

Smaller standard tanks are often available from stock, but larger or bespoke chemical tanks — particularly bunded units — can take longer as they're built to order. Delivery is typically via kerbside drop on a flatbed or crane-offload vehicle, so you'll need a clear, accessible unloading point and manpower or plant to move the tank into final position. Get your site access and offloading equipment confirmed before booking delivery to avoid delays.