Cistern Coating Recommendations

Any advice on how frequently a cistern should be cleaned?  

Posted by: @jaldeborgh

Any advice on how frequently a cistern should be cleaned?  

I'm only cleaning mine because I know there's a small leak. Otherwise, I would bother.

Look into xypex. Also should advise that anyone doing DIY cistern cleaning or repairs should be extremely careful.  The space needs to be highly ventilated because of the high risk of Asphyxiation.  Make sure you never do it alone and with the proper safety rigging if you are entering a cistern.  It’s a job better left to the pros.   

@stjohnjulie 

Thank you so much for recommendation and safety tip...I do appreciate it.

Can Xypex be purchased locally?

I always used Thoroseal. 

It is recommended to clean your cistern following a major hurricane. Lots of salt and other contaminants get into your system then and need to be cleaned out. The materials used to recoat are tricky and require a professional's skill.  The wrong product or right product used wrong in your cistern can be deadly if it leaches into your water.

We cleaned and recoated following Maria and our insurance paid for this. Unfortunately, the guy who did this for us is now deceased.

@vicanuck

I used Clearwater Roof and Cistern Coating 340-643-7903 last year to repair what turned out to be several leaks in the cistern and a re coat. The process went exactly as explained and was done in about four days start to finish. I was happily surprised with the finished cost and the job came with a guarantee. Couldn't be happier.

@rsdream Agree. We have used Clear Water for both roof and cistern

Posted by: @rsdream

@vicanuck

I used Clearwater Roof and Cistern Coating 340-643-7903 last year.

I'm certain the Clearwater guy was busted for some sort of ongoing sexual molestation of a teen a few months ago.

Nonetheless, my cisterns are quite small and I think I can handle it. Especially since they do have liners that I plan to replace.

The Xypex is to fix the crack.   Thoroseal to seal things.  Sorry I’m not much help on where to purchase since I always purchase in bulk, wholesale, shipped in from the states.  I work with WaterWorx on STJ who does all of this and many other water related things. They have this system that will vacuum (drone style) your cistern without emptying it which is pretty cool.   

@gators_mom 

I always disconnect the downspouts first...

@cruzaniron 

We too disconnected our downspouts prior to Maria.

However, that does not stop salt, sand and dirt left on a potable roof by a storm from getting in a cistern.

There are reasons insurance companies include roof and cistern cleaning/recoating as part of post-storm claims.

Here's a side that has a list of several sealers you can use:

https://www.harvestingrainwater.com/rainwater-harvesting-inforesources/suppliers/sealers-approved-for-contact-with-potable-wate/

Make sure whatever you use is approved for potable water.

@gators_mom 

I rinse my roof off first. 

@cruzaniron 

my roof is covered with solar panels. Definitely makes it trickier.