Wood holding tank?

Don't they use wooden water tanks on top of buildings in New York City?
I can't see it being practical in a RV. If nothing else it would be heavier.

bgum wrote:
A wood boat keeps water out why would not keep water in?

Never been around wood boats have you.

Typically upon launch, you leave the boat hanging in the slings overnight.

Why? Because initially, it will leak like a sieve until the boards swell up and close the joints. Even after that, you will get a bit of weeping but the bilge pump should be able to keep up with it.

To the original post: It's an interesting solution but probably more hassle than it's worth.

You can get plywood rated for continuous contact with water. 20yrs ago, we had a basement with wood walls. During the buying process, we did some research and if it's the correct type of wood, it should hold up for a very long time.

As mentioned, the joints are problematic If you really felt the need to do this, I would go fiberglass with some wood stringers to provide the structural support for the camper sitting on top. This would be a relatively simple layup and much less likely to spring a leak.

A wood boat keeps water out why would not keep water in?

I'd never make a holding tank out of wood. The owner painted the interior with RedGard, a flexible, thick "paint" that is used in 2 coats on top of cement board behind the tiles in showers. It keeps water from seeping through cracks in grout through to the porous wall. Theoretically, if that layer stays 100% intact, the contraption should remain watertight. However, I think all the flexing at the joints and pipe junctions would eventually crack the RedGard.

How long do wine barrels last?

It's a cleaver idea. Seems like a good proof of concept prototype that will need to be replaced as leaks start and dry rot sets in. Also thinking the baffle openings need to be much larger as "stuff" starts to clog them. On the next version the inside could be covered with fiberglass to water proof the concept. Perhaps add several flush fittings to help with cleanout.

Not really a fan of the magazine but can't think of any reason you'd make a holding tank of wood, or have a "contest".

It would be different if perfectly good holding tanks weren't available.

A wooden holding tank will always STINK !