Choosing the right location for a storm shelter can make a life saving distinction during tornadoes, hurricanes, and extreme wind events. A properly placed home storm shelter presents protection from flying debris, collapsing structures, and excessive pressure changes. The best spot depends on your home’s layout, local weather risks, and building type.
Basement Storm Shelters
A basement is commonly considered the safest place for a residential storm shelter. Being below ground level provides natural protection from high winds and airborne debris. An in ground storm shelter put in in a basement will be reinforced with concrete or metal to create a highly secure space.
However, basements will not be preferrred in areas prone to flooding or high water tables. Water intrusion throughout heavy storms can make an underground shelter dangerous. Proper drainage, sump pumps, and waterproofing are essential if this is your chosen location.
Garage Floor Shelters
Garage shelters are a popular option, especially in homes without basements. These shelters are typically installed below the concrete slab and covered with a flush mounted steel door. This allows vehicles to remain parked over the shelter when not in use.
A garage storm shelter affords quick access during emergencies, which is critical when warning occasions are short. Reinforced designs can withstand extreme wind forces. Make positive the surrounding garage construction doesn’t collapse in a way that blocks the shelter door. Professional installation is key to ensuring proper structural support.
Interior Ground Floor Rooms
An interior room on the bottom level of the home can function an effective above ground storm shelter location. Spaces like bathrooms, closets, or storage rooms close to the center of the house are ideally suited because they’re surrounded by a number of walls and are far from windows.
These rooms can be upgraded with reinforced walls, steel doors, and impact resistant supplies to fulfill safety standards. This option works well in regions the place underground set up is troublesome due to rocky soil or high groundwater levels.
Under Staircase Spaces
The area beneath a staircase is commonly overlooked however will be transformed into a compact residential storm shelter. This location is typically near the center of the home and already has structural framing that may be reinforced.
While space may be limited, under stair shelters can still provide strong protection for small households. Reinforcing the walls with concrete or metal panels significantly improves safety during severe storms.
Closet or Pantry Shelters
Giant walk in closets or pantries positioned in the interior portion of the home are one other practical choice. These spaces might be retrofitted with prefabricated safe room kits designed to withstand tornado level winds.
Closets are easy to access and may double as on a regular basis storage areas. Keep away from closets with exterior partitions or windows. Central placement will increase the level of protection from flying debris.
Outside Above Ground Shelters
For homes without suitable interior space, an outside storm shelter put in in the yard or near the home may be the very best solution. These shelters are anchored into the ground and built from reinforced metal or concrete.
Out of doors shelters have to be placed close enough to succeed in quickly throughout extreme weather. They should even be elevated slightly in flood prone areas to stop water accumulation. Proper drainage around the structure is essential for safety.
Key Factors to Consider
Earlier than selecting a location, evaluate these important factors:
Soil and drainage conditions
Poor drainage can turn an underground shelter right into a hazard. A professional assessment helps forestall water issues.
Ease of access
Storm shelters needs to be attainable within seconds. Avoid locations blocked by heavy furniture or complex locks.
Structural energy
Shelters have to be anchored to a stable foundation to withstand uplift forces caused by high winds.
Local building codes
Comply with guidelines from organizations like Federal Emergency Management Agency and the International Code Council to make sure your shelter meets safety standards.
Household dimension
The shelter must provide enough space for everybody within the home, including pets if possible.
Deciding on the correct storm shelter location improves safety, increases home value, and provides peace of mind throughout extreme climate seasons. Proper planning and professional set up guarantee your shelter performs when it matters most.
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