The Perils of Building Storm Shelters: A Cautionary Tale
Edmond, a city in Oklahoma, is in the heart of the Tornado Alley, where tornadoes can strike at any time. It's imperative to have a storm shelter in place to ensure safety during a storm. There are various types of storm shelters, but EF5 tornado shelters in Edmond stand out among them.
However, building a storm shelter requires extensive time, effort and investment. Therefore, opting for pre-built storm shelters is a more convenient and secure option.
A Holistic Approach to Building Your Storm Shelter
Gathering the Necessary Documents
Several documents are required to build EF5 tornado shelters. These include a permit from FEMA 320 and ICC 500, ICC/NSSA, site plan, elevation drawings, structural engineering report, foundation plan, framing plan, electrical plan, plumbing plan, HVAC plan and other related documents. Gathering these documents is time-consuming and challenging and failure to obtain these documents can lead to fines and legal issues.
Determining the Location
Choosing the right location for your storm shelter is critical. The ideal location is accessible, has good drainage and is away from trees or structures that could fall on the shelter during a storm. Considering the local zoning and building codes before constructing a storm shelter is essential.
Construction Structure
EF5 storm shelters come in various structures, including underground, above-ground and safe rooms. Underground shelters offer the highest level of protection against storms. Above-ground shelters are usually steel and you can place them in garages or basements. Safe rooms are also popular and installation is possible in existing homes. They offer the added benefit of serving as a multi-purpose room when not in use. A few structures are in demand:
Reinforced concrete block construction.
Wood with steel sheathing.
Poured concrete.
Choosing the Entry Door
The entry door of a storm shelter is another critical component. It must withstand the high winds and debris associated with an EF5 tornado. Steel doors are a popular choice, as they are robust and durable. In addition to the door's material, it's essential to consider its size and location.
Lock Pattern
The lock pattern on the door of a storm shelter is vital to ensure safety during a storm. The lock should be easy to use but also provide a secure fit. Some popular lock patterns include the deadbolt, latch lock and padlock.
Emergency Exits
An emergency exit is another critical component of a storm shelter. It should be easily accessible and large enough to allow for quick evacuation. In addition, it's crucial to ensure that flying debris during a storm does not obstruct the exit.
Check for Sufficient Ventilation
Adequate ventilation is necessary for the occupant's safety and comfort during a tornado. The sturdy EF5 tornado shelters should have proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide build-up and allow for fresh air to circulate. The ventilation system should prevent high winds and debris from entering the shelter.
Power Backup & Light
During a storm, power outages are typical. A backup power source is essential to keep the shelter operational. In addition, proper lighting is crucial to ensure safety during a storm. LED lights are a popular choice, as they are energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Safety from Flooding
Storms often bring heavy rainfall and flooding can be a significant concern. Ensuring the storm shelter location is not prone to flooding is essential. In addition, the shelter should have proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating.
Prebuilt EF5 Tornado Shelters: Unearthing the Advantages
Prebuilt Shelter
Prebuilt shelters can provide maximum safety during a storm. They are constructed off-site and then delivered and installed at the desired location. That eliminates the need for a storm shelter's lengthy and complex building process from scratch.
Made from Sturdy Steel
Tornado shelters are made from sturdy steel, which provides excellent protection against high winds and debris. Steel structures are durable and bear the most severe and harsh storms.
Portable Solution
These shelters are often portable, which makes them an ideal solution for people who move frequently. Portable shelters can be easily transported and installed at the new location, providing continuity of safety for the occupants.
Certified Products from Reliable Manufacturers
Prebuilt tornado shelters are certified by various agencies, including the National Storm Shelter Association (NSSA), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Tornado Shelter Association (ATSA). These certifications ensure the shelters are designed and constructed to the highest standards.
Affordable Choice
These tornado shelters are affordable compared to building a storm shelter from scratch. Building a storm shelter from scratch involves numerous expenses, including materials, labor and obtaining necessary documents. In contrast, prebuilt shelters are available at a fixed cost and no additional expenses are involved.
Ease of Installation
They can be installed quickly and efficiently, often within a day. It eliminates the need for a lengthy construction process and allows the occupants to start using the shelter immediately.
EF5: Our Sturdy Storm Shelters Keep You Safe
If you are looking for a reliable, durable and affordable solution to protect your family from the dangers of tornadoes, choose EF5 Tornado Shelters.
"Built to withstand the strongest gale,
Tornado shelters, where safety must prevail."
Our pre-built shelters are designed and constructed to the highest standards, ensuring maximum safety and protection during a storm. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.