Building Skids for Your Rainwater Tank

Rainwater tanks are a fantastic way to conserve water and reduce your reliance on municipal supplies. But before you can start collecting rainwater, you need a sturdy and reliable base for your tank. That’s where skids come in.

Skids are essentially platforms that support the tank, providing a stable and level base. They are essential for several reasons:

• Stability: Skids prevent the tank from sinking into soft ground or uneven surfaces.
• Leveling: They allow you to adjust the tank’s height and ensure it’s level, which is crucial for proper drainage and functionality.
• Mobility: Skids make it easier to move the tank if needed, for example, to access the bottom for cleaning or maintenance.
• Protection: They elevate the tank, preventing direct contact with the ground and reducing the risk of corrosion or damage.

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s a list of materials you’ll need to build skids for your rainwater tank:

• Timber: Choose durable and rot-resistant timber like treated pine or hardwood. The size and quantity will depend on the size and weight of your tank.
• Fasteners: Galvanized screws or bolts are recommended for long-lasting durability.
• Level: To ensure the skids are level and the tank is properly supported.
• Measuring tape: For accurate measurements.
• Saw: To cut the timber to size.
• Drill: To pre-drill holes for screws or bolts.
• Safety gear: Wear safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear during construction.

Steps for Building Skids

Follow these steps to build skids for your rainwater tank:

1. Determine the Size: Measure the width and length of your rainwater tank. Add a few inches to each dimension to allow for a comfortable fit and clearance.
2. Cut the Timber: Cut the timber into pieces based on the dimensions you’ve determined. You’ll need four pieces for the base and four pieces for the sides.
3. Assemble the Base: Lay the four base pieces of timber parallel to each other, spaced apart according to the width of your tank. Secure them together using screws or bolts.
4. Attach the Sides: Position the side pieces of timber vertically and perpendicular to the base. Ensure they are aligned with the edges of the base pieces. Use screws or bolts to attach the sides to the base.
5. Check for Level: Use a level to ensure the skids are level in all directions. Adjust the timber pieces as needed to achieve a perfectly level base.
6. Reinforce the Structure: For added stability, consider adding cross-braces to the skids. These can be made from smaller pieces of timber and attached to the sides and base using screws or bolts.
7. Prepare the Site: Once the skids are built, prepare the site where you’ll place the tank. Ensure the ground is level and compacted.
8. Position the Skids: Carefully position the skids on the prepared site, ensuring they are level and in the desired location.
9. Install the Tank: Lower the tank onto the skids, ensuring it’s centered and sits securely.

Tips for Building Durable Skids

• Use treated timber: Treated timber is resistant to rot and decay, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
• Pre-drill holes: This prevents the timber from splitting when screwing or bolting.
• Use galvanized fasteners: Galvanized fasteners are resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring a long lifespan.
• Check for level regularly: Over time, the ground may settle, so it’s essential to check the level of the skids periodically and make adjustments as needed.

Building skids for your rainwater tank is a relatively simple DIY project that can significantly enhance the stability and functionality of your tank. By following these instructions and tips, you can ensure your tank is properly supported and ready to collect rainwater for years to come.