Water reservoirs are made from various materials and come in sizes and shapes to suit specific situations. Reservoirs are typically identified as:
- steel reservoirs
- reinforced concrete reservoirs
- impoundment reservoirs
- synthetic material tanks (polyethylene and fibreglass)
Pressure is exerted from the inside of a reservoir by the weight of the water; therefore, steel reservoirs tend to be cylindrical in shape.

Reinforced Concrete Reservoir
Reinforced concrete reservoirs can be designed for cylindrical, rectangular, or box shapes.

Impoundment Reservoir Lined and Covered in Plastic
Impoundment reservoirs are formed from the earth, which resists the pressure with sloped sides.