What kind of steel do you use in your tornado storm shelters? How does that compare to plate steel, cold rolled, or other types of steel used in storm shelters? (2024)

FAQs

What kind of steel do you use in your tornado storm shelters? How does that compare to plate steel, cold rolled, or other types of steel used in storm shelters? ›

Unlike nearly all other manufacturers, we use HOT ROLLED ASTM 1011-CS Type B 10-gauge (0.135), a tempered steel. It performs entirely different than the commonly-used A36 COLD ROLLED plate steel, which has to be much thicker since it hasn't been heat treated.

These shelters should be able to withstand high winds and flying debris, the two primary dangers posed by tornadoes. Tornado shelters should be constructed using reinforced steel or concrete and anchored securely to resist overturning or uplift. (Or alternatively, they should be underground.)

Steel, one of the strongest building materials around, is the best material for storm shelters in today's unpredictable and extreme weather events. This is why Survive-a-Storm Shelters uses 10 gauge steel for all of its residential units and 1/4" steel plate for its community safe rooms.

The strongest above ground tornado shelters are usually made of steel, reinforced concrete, or both materials.

Shelters may be made of concrete, steel, fiberglass, or other materials. Each one has its advantages and disadvantages, for both installation and long-term use.

Long Lasting. Another advantage of steel tornado shelters is that they have an extensive lifespan. While concrete becomes brittle and can crack, steel is a very strong material that remains durable even after extreme weather.

F5 Storm Shelters of Nixa, Missouri, is the world's foremost manufacturer and distributor of tornado shelter safe rooms. Our industry leading designs are cost effective and individually tested at the National Wind Laboratory, exceeding the industry standard by 50%.

Above ground storm shelters are not only capable of surviving F5 tornadoes but can provide a level of protection that meets and exceeds expectations. With our shelters, you can rest assured knowing that you're prepared for whatever nature throws your way.

Many people assume that underground structures provide better protection from the strong winds that come with a tornado. But the truth is that above-ground safe rooms are just as secure as their underground counterparts.

The most affordable and weather-resistant tornado shelter material is concrete, but it's brittle and can crumble in the face of extreme weather. Though costlier, steel is a lightweight and durable option best for protecting you from flying debris.

Can you make a homemade storm shelter? ›

Building a simple, small above-ground storm shelter using concrete or steel materials can be more cost-effective than purchasing pre-made shelters or constructing elaborate structures. However, it's crucial to ensure that the shelter meets safety standards and is capable of protecting against severe weather events.

The exterior storm shelter wall panel system typically measures 14" thick and is comprised of an 8" interior layer, a 3" insulation layer, and a 3" exterior layer. These three layers are tied together with the manufacturer's standard to make them a fully composite wall panel.

Installing a dehumidifier can significantly help the storm shelter reduce moisture and dampness.

Concrete Homes

Concrete is another material commonly used in tornado-resistant homes. These homes feature walls made of reinforced concrete, which can withstand the high winds and flying debris associated with tornadoes. Concrete walls can be poured in place or set as pre-cast panels manufactured off-site.

While steel offers better physical properties than Fiberglass, it's ability to rust and absorb moisture, chemicals and elements from the ground, make the maintenance of a steel Tornado shelter something that requires a full time staff.

An above-ground tornado shelter is 100% capable of withstanding the force applied by even an EF5 tornado. If you live in a place where tornadoes are common, it's important that you have a place to go when a storm strikes.

Building a simple, small above-ground storm shelter using concrete or steel materials can be more cost-effective than purchasing pre-made shelters or constructing elaborate structures. However, it's crucial to ensure that the shelter meets safety standards and is capable of protecting against severe weather events.