When you look up in New York City, past the fire escapes, the flashing lights, and the steel towers, you’ll spot something surprising: wooden water tanks perched on rooftops, looking like relics from another time. And yet, they’re still very much part of the city’s present.
So why are rooftop water tanks still in use in New York? Let’s explore the fascinating story behind these overlooked giants of the skyline.
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Why Are Rooftop Water Tanks Used in New York City?
New York is a vertical city, dozens of floors stacked sky-high. But here’s the challenge: water pressure from city mains can only push water about six stories up. Beyond that? Gravity just can’t help you. That’s where rooftop water tanks come in.
The process
- Water is pumped to the top of the building into a tank.
- From there, gravity feeds it downward, providing water pressure to every floor.
This gravity-fed system is incredibly efficient and reliable, even during power outages. For more see here.
900 Broadway, Manhattan, New York County, 10003Why Are they Made of Wood?
If you’re thinking, “Why not metal?” you’re not alone. But wood is actually the perfect material for the job. It’s:
- Insulating (keeps water from freezing or overheating),
- Cost-effective, and
- Quick to assemble (a tank can be built in a day!).
And with proper maintenance, a wooden tank can last 30–35 years. The tanks are often cedar or California redwood, and are held together by iron hoops. Isseks Bros. Inc., established in 1890, became the world’s first water tank company, shaping New York City’s skyline for 134 years
A Hidden Feature of the NYC Skyline
Most locals walk by without giving rooftop tanks a second glance, but photographers and urban explorers know better. These tanks add character, tiny wooden castles in a city of glass and steel. They’ve been part of the city’s infrastructure since the 1800s and have quietly endured as icons. They make such an interesting photo. If you’re coming to New York as a tourist and looking unique things to see, this is it. An NYC skyline view looks great on your wall at home, plus it’s a good excuse to visit a rooftop bar.
They’re legally required. NYC building code mandates rooftop tanks for buildings taller than six stories.
They refill at night. To reduce demand on the city’s water system, tanks typically refill between 2–4 a.m.
Three companies dominate the industry. Rosenwach Tank Company is the most well-known, and has been making them for over a century.
Final Thoughts
Rooftop water tanks are more than plumbing—they’re part of New York’s soul. Oh, and they just look cool too. They’re a quirky, practical, and oddly beautiful piece of a city that always finds a way to mix old with new. So next time you’re exploring the city, don’t just look around, look up.
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Brett Williams
Brett Williams is the founder of Ylore Travel, a platform dedicated to making self-guided travel accessible to adventurers worldwide. With experience exploring over 50 countries and living in four, Brett’s passion for discovering new places and immersing himself in diverse cultures inspired the creation of Ylore Travel. Based in New York, he continues to seek out unique experiences and empower others to explore the world at their own pace.