If you are comparing Texas Metal Tanks models, the most important differences come down to material and configuration. While many of these tanks share a similar vertical, above-ground design, the tank material, interior finish, fittings, warranty, and intended setup can vary from one model to another.

Texas Metal Tanks offers both galvanized steel and stainless steel cisterns for above-ground, stationary, non-pressurized water storage. Both options are suitable for potable water storage when used as specified by the manufacturer, but they are built differently and have different expected service life and warranty coverage.

Galvanized Steel Tanks

Texas Metal Tanks galvanized vertical water tanks are manufactured from G-90 galvanized steel and built with a 20 gauge body and bottom and a 22 gauge top. After construction, the interior receives a paint/epoxy lining that creates a protective barrier between the stored water and the galvanized steel. The manufacturer states this lining is FDA approved for potable water applications and ANSI/NSF 61 certified, and each tank is factory tested for watertightness.

Galvanized tanks are a dependable option for above-ground water storage and are commonly selected for rainwater, well water, and general water storage applications. Texas Metal Tanks lists galvanized models with an expected life span of 20 to 30 years and a 1-year manufacturer warranty.

Stainless Steel Tanks

Texas Metal Tanks stainless steel vertical water tanks are manufactured from Type 304 stainless steel and feature a 20 gauge sidewall and bottom with a 22 gauge top. The manufacturer states that stainless models use stainless steel rivets in the construction process and an FDA-approved, NSF 61 certified interior sealant on the inside.

Stainless steel tanks are designed for buyers who want longer service life and stronger corrosion resistance in an above-ground water storage tank. Texas Metal Tanks lists stainless models with an expected life span of 50+ years and a 5-year manufacturer warranty.

WS and RW Configurations

Texas Metal Tanks models are commonly offered in two configuration types: WS and RW.

WS: Water Storage Configuration

WS models are configured for water storage and include two poly bulkhead fittings on the same side of the tank:

• one lower fitting near the bottom of the tank
• one upper fitting positioned higher on the sidewall

This setup is designed for general above-ground water storage applications.

RW: Rainwater Collection Configuration

RW models are configured for rainwater collection and include:

• a basket inlet
• a 3-inch or 4-inch overflow
• a 3/4-inch female NPT bulkhead outlet

This setup is intended for rainwater harvesting applications where inlet and overflow management are part of the installation.

Fittings and Connections

Texas Metal Tanks models use bulkhead-style fittings, including poly bulkhead fittings, rather than welded metal couplings. That distinction is important when comparing these tanks to other metal tank designs. Depending on the configuration, the tank may include either two sidewall bulkhead fittings for water storage or a basket inlet, overflow, and outlet setup for rainwater collection.

Potable Water and Interior Finish

Both galvanized and stainless steel Texas Metal Tanks are described by the manufacturer as suitable for potable water storage when used as specified. The interior treatment differs by material:

• Galvanized tanks use an interior paint/epoxy lining
• Stainless tanks use an interior NSF 61 certified sealant

These interior finishes are part of the tank construction and should be considered when comparing models.

Above-Ground, Stationary, Non-Pressurized Use

All Texas Metal Tanks metal cisterns in this product family are intended for:

• above-ground installation
• stationary use
• non-pressurized water storage

These tanks are designed for storage applications and should not be considered pressurized vessels.

How to Choose the Right Texas Metal Tank

When selecting a Texas Metal Tank, start with these key decisions:

• Material: galvanized steel or Type 304 stainless steel
• Configuration: WS for water storage or RW for rainwater collection
• Fittings: lower and upper sidewall bulkhead fittings, or basket inlet/overflow/outlet setup
• Interior finish: lined galvanized interior or sealed stainless interior
• Warranty and life span: 1-year / 20–30 years for galvanized, 5-year / 50+ years for stainless
• Dimensions: confirm the exact diameter and height for the model you are considering

Choosing the right tank comes down to matching the material and configuration to your application. If you need a tank for general water storage, a WS model may be the right fit. If you need a tank configured for rainwater collection, an RW model may be the better choice. If longer service life and corrosion resistance are priorities, stainless steel may be worth the upgrade over galvanized steel.