7 Features Every Above-Ground Tornado Shelter Should Have

Life-threatening storms like tornadoes are increasing in both severity and frequency across the United States, including in Alabama and Tennessee. As a result, many homeowners throughout the nation are embracing above-ground tornado shelters, but some are better equipped than others. There are eight key features that help to distinguish the best from the rest. Our experienced above-ground tornado shelter professionals at Valley Storm Shelters welcome the opportunity to help.

Compliance with Code

In order to offer the same level of protection as an underground storm shelter, your above-ground tornado shelter must meet all applicable codes. This includes offering wind resistance of at least 250 mph. Your unit must also be certified to withstand high-speed projectiles, which generally involves being tested with 15-pound 2x4 boards that are shot at 100 mph. 

Secure Anchoring

Secure anchoring is essential when it comes to well-constructed above-ground tornado shelters. This involves using closely spaced high-grade bolts that are at least four inches long all the way around the base to securely anchor the shelter to the reinforced concrete slab. This helps to prevent all the following:

• Lifting off the base
• Sliding around on or off the base
• Flipping over under the pressure of dangerously high winds

Turn to a knowledgeable above-ground tornado shelter pro for the help you need.

A Steel Floor That’s Integrated

Having a solid steel floor that’s welded to the shelter’s walls offers considerably more protection than simply relying on the concrete slab it’s secured to. This adds the kind of weight that can make a difference and helps to ensure resistance to uplift.

Overall Heavy-Duty Construction

To offer your family serious protection, your above-ground tornado shelter must be solidly built. This translates to thick steel construction instead of bolted panels. When the seams are welded, it helps to ensure that there won’t be any weak points and limits any structural damage under even extreme pressure.

A Reliable Locking Mechanism

Standard locks and electronic keypads can jam, malfunction, or otherwise fail as a result of the immense impact generated by a tornado. Further, the stress of having to punch in a number or use a key can waste precious time. Multi-pin steel latch systems are a much better option.

A Door That Opens Inward

When your above-ground shelter’s door opens inward rather than outward, you bypass the concern that storm-driven debris or wreckage will block your family’s safe passage out of the shelter.

Cross-Ventilation

Maintaining adequate oxygen is essential. Incorporating at least two baffled wall vents at both the top and bottom offers greater protection in the event that a vent becomes fully or partially blocked during a tornado.

Give our Experienced Above-Ground Tornado Shelter Experts a Call Today

Our dedicated above-ground tornado shelter pros at Valley Storm Shelters serve homeowners throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and beyond. And we have earned a solid reputation for affording families the peace of mind they’re looking for. Learn more by contacting us online or giving us a call at 256-890-4265 today.