Fiberglass Underground Storage Tank Repairs and Relines: What Every Facility Manager Should Know

Underground storage tanks (USTs) are the unseen workhorses of fuel stations, municipal facilities, and industrial sites across the country. Over time, exposure to fuels, chemicals, and soil conditions can lead to corrosion, delamination, or leakage, making regular maintenance and professional relining critical for both safety and environmental compliance.

That’s where Plastech Services Inc. brings decades of expertise. As an ISO 9001 Certified Company, we specialize in fiberglass and composite tank systems and provide repair, relining, and modification services that restore and reinforce USTs for long-term reliability.

Whether your dealing with a UST that was damaged during transport, a deteriorating tank in need of repair, or an existing tank that needs FRP modifications, we can help.  Learn more about our Underground Storage Tank Repair & Reline Services.

Why Fiberglass Relining Is Essential for Underground Storage Tanks

Modern fiberglass underground storage tanks are designed for strength and longevity, but even these systems degrade over decades of service. Issues like resin breakdown, fuel incompatibility, and water intrusion can cause gradual damage.

A professional fiberglass reline restores structural integrity, creating a new, corrosion-resistant barrier that:

• Prevents leaks and product seepage

• Meets environmental compliance standards (EPA, DEQ)

• Extends service life by 20+ years

• Reduces costly downtime compared to full tank replacement

A full tank replacement can cost significantly more than a professional reline. A reline delivers like-new performance without excavation.

How the Underground Storage Tank Repair & Reline Process Works

At Plastech, the process begins with a comprehensive inspection using surface profiling, spark testing, and thickness checks. Based on findings, we follow a proven five-step method:

1. Tank Preparation – Remove residuals, clean surfaces, and perform grit-blast sanding.

2. Damage Assessment – Identify cracks, delamination, and corrosion points.

3. Structural Repair – Apply fiberglass mat and resin composites to restore strength.

4. Relining Application – Install a multi-layer fiber-reinforced polymer liner for total interior protection.

5. Final Testing & Certification – Pressure testing, inspection, and documentation for compliance.

All work is performed by licensed and insured specialists in accordance with ASTM and UL standards.

When Should You Repair or Reline a Fiberglass Underground Storage Tank?

It’s important to monitor signs that your UST may require repair or relining:

• Evidence of resin blistering or delamination

• Changes in fuel quality or contamination

• Loss of vacuum or pressure readings

• Past 20 years since initial installation

• Scheduled regulatory inspection deadlines

Routine inspections every 3-5 years can prevent environmental hazards and keep systems in compliance with EPA 40 CFR Part 280.

Frequently Asked Questions (UST Relining FAQs) – Add these to page content

Q1: Can any fiberglass tank be repaired or relined?

In most cases, yes. If the tank structure remains sound and free of severe deformation, relining can restore full functionality. Plastech can perform detailed evaluations before any service recommendation.

Q2: How long does the relining process take?

Typical repair and reline projects take 3-5 days per tank, depending on condition and size. Downtime can be minimized with proper scheduling and pre-inspection.

Q3: Is relining approved by regulatory agencies?

Yes. Fiberglass reline systems are EPA and UL compliant, and when performed by certified contractors like Plastech, they maintain full regulatory acceptance for UST use.

Q4: How long does a fiberglass reline last?

A properly installed fiberglass reline can last 20-30 years, providing the same chemical resistance and performance as a new tank installation.

Q5: Can relining fix leaks or only prevent them?

Relining can repair small leaks and prevent future failures by sealing the interior with a new fiber-reinforced barrier system. Severe structural cracks may require additional composite reinforcement before relining.

Benefits of Choosing Plastech Services Inc.

Plastech’s decades of field experience and engineering expertise ensure:

• ISO 9001 Certified composite repair processes

• Proven track record with leading tank manufacturers like Xerxes and Tanks Direct

• Nationwide service coverage for fuel stations, municipalities, and industrial clients

• Long-term warranty and lifecycle support

Our goal isn’t just to repair tanks, it’s to rebuild confidence in your underground systems.

Partner with Plastech for Certified UST Relines and Repairs

Whether you manage a gas station, municipal fuel depot, or industrial chemical storage site, proactive tank maintenance protects your investment and the environment.

✅ Extend the life of your tanks

✅ Stay compliant with EPA standards

✅ Prevent costly replacements

For expert underground storage tank relining and repair services, visit  Plastech Underground Storage Tank Repair & Reline or contact our certified team to request an inspection.