Bunded Oil Tanks—Is a Cover Really Necessary?

When you choose a bunded oil tank, you benefit from a secure double-layer design that helps protect both your fuel and the environment. But one question comes up often: should the tank also be covered? Some homeowners and businesses like the idea of a cover for extra protection, while others see it as unnecessary. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks, alongside some practical care tips, so you can decide what’s right for your setup.

Why Covering Can Be Useful

UV protection
Sunlight is one of the biggest environmental challenges for tanks. Over time, exposure to UV rays can degrade plastics, fade finishes, or weaken paints. Adding a cover or positioning the tank where it has some shade can help prevent premature ageing. The UKIFDA highlights that protecting tanks from harsh conditions is an important part of getting the longest lifespan from them.

Discouraging tampering
Unfortunately, heating oil tanks can sometimes attract unwanted attention. A cover makes the tank less obvious, reducing visibility to passers-by and lowering the chance of opportunistic theft or vandalism. Even something as simple as obscuring the view from the street can make a difference.

Limiting algae and lichen
Another advantage is cleanliness. Sunlight can encourage algae or lichen to grow on or around the tank. Covering it reduces direct light, helping the tank and its surroundings stay cleaner for longer.

Why a Cover Might Be a Hassle

Restricted access
Routine maintenance is vital for keeping your tank safe and efficient. Covers can sometimes make it awkward to access gauges, inspection points, or fill connections. If an emergency arises or a delivery needs to be made quickly, a bulky cover may get in the way.

Poor airflow
Good ventilation is crucial. If a cover traps moisture or heat, it can create condensation, speed up corrosion, or encourage rust in steel tanks. Plastic tanks may also suffer if warm, damp air lingers too long. The Health and Safety Executive stresses that tank design and containment are the real priorities when it comes to safe storage—factors more important than simply covering the tank.

Modern resilience
Most modern bunded tanks are built with UV-stabilised materials or durable coatings. These design improvements mean the tank is already prepared for exposure, reducing the need for a separate cover. In many cases, a well-installed tank in a suitable position will remain in good condition without any additional shielding.

Practical Tips for Everyday Care

Even if you decide not to use a cover, there are plenty of steps you can take to protect your tank and keep it in top condition:

• Stable base: Ensure the tank sits on a strong, level surface. A proper base reduces strain and prevents movement that could lead to cracks or leaks.

• Clear surroundings: Keep plants, debris, or structures away from the tank so you can easily check it and ensure ventilation.

• Routine checks: Inspect the tank every few weeks for damage, discolouration, or rust. Catching issues early can save money and prevent spills.

• Security features: Fitting a lockable cap or a secure fill point adds peace of mind, especially if the tank is in an exposed location.

• Regular servicing: Arrange professional inspections and servicing as part of your home maintenance schedule to make sure everything is functioning properly.

Seasonal Care

Covers aren’t the only way to protect a tank. Seasonal adjustments also help:

• Summer: Higher UV exposure and hotter temperatures can stress materials. Positioning the tank in natural shade or adding light screening can be just as effective as a cover.

• Autumn: Falling leaves and damp conditions can gather around the tank. Keep the base clear to reduce trapped moisture.

• Winter: Cold weather brings frost and ice. Make sure water doesn’t pool around the base, and clear snow that may block access.

• Spring: A good time for a full inspection, cleaning, and arranging any maintenance after winter.

Myths vs. Facts About Covers

Myth: Every bunded tank should be covered.
Fact: Many modern tanks are UV-stabilised and durable without additional protection.

Myth: Covers solve all maintenance problems.
Fact: Covers can actually create issues by restricting access or airflow. Regular checks are more effective than simply covering the tank.

Myth: Covers improve compliance.
Fact: Compliance is about installation standards, containment, and safe positioning. A cover has little impact on meeting safety or environmental requirements.

Conclusion

Covering your bunded oil tank can bring benefits such as UV shielding, reduced algae growth, and added security. But it isn’t always necessary. In many cases, a tank that is well-placed, made from UV-resistant materials, and regularly maintained will remain in excellent condition without a cover. Think about your property’s layout, your access needs, and the level of protection already built into your tank before making a decision.

Want to See More?

Looking for a reliable, low-maintenance oil tank solution? Explore our range of bunded oil tanks or visit Oil Tank Supermarket to find the right option for your property.