Texas Storm Shelters Design Options for Homes and Businesses

Living in Texas, with its volatile weather patterns and frequent severe storms, means you must have adequate preparations to ensure the safety of families and employees. Installing a storm shelter is one of the most effective ways to protect against tornadoes and other severe weather events. In this article, we will explore various Texas storm shelters design options for homes and businesses, helping you choose the best solution to ensure maximum safety and peace of mind.

Importance of Storm Shelters

Storm shelters are essential for providing a safe haven during extreme weather conditions; in Texas, where tornadoes and severe storms can strike with little warning, having a designated shelter can be a lifesaver. These structures are designed to withstand high winds and flying debris, offering a secure space for occupants.

Above-Ground Storm Shelters

One of the popular Texas storm shelters design options is the above-ground storm shelter. These shelters are typically constructed from reinforced steel or concrete and can be installed in various locations such as garages, basements, or standalone units in your backyard. Above-ground shelters offer the advantage of being easily accessible, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues. 

Below-Ground Storm Shelters

Below-ground storm shelters are another Texas storm shelters design options. These shelters are typically installed underground, either in basements or in the yard. The primary advantage of below-ground shelters is their ability to provide maximum protection against high winds and flying debris, as they are less likely to be damaged during a severe storm. However, they require more extensive installation efforts and may not be as easily accessible as above-ground shelters.

In-Garage Storm Shelters

In-garage storm shelters are an innovative Texas storm shelters design option that combines the benefits of above-ground and below-ground shelters. These shelters are typically installed in the floor of your garage, providing easy access while still offering substantial protection.

Dual-Purpose Storm Shelters

Dual-purpose storm shelters are an excellent choice for those looking to maximize the use of their space. These shelters are designed to serve as both a storm shelter and an additional room, such as a home office, storage room, or even a wine cellar. This Texas storm shelters design option allows you to integrate the shelter into your daily life, making it a more practical investment.

Key Features to Consider

When exploring Texas storm shelters design options, it’s important to consider several key features to ensure the shelter meets your needs:

1. Material

The most common materials for storm shelters are steel and reinforced concrete. Both offer excellent protection, but the choice may depend on your specific requirements and budget. Forever Safe shelters are built using welded panels that are secured to a sturdy concrete foundation. Each wall panel consists of a rectangular structure made from 4 steel channels, reinforced with an internal 4 rebar system. 

After the addition of high-strength concrete, the panels undergo a curing process lasting 30 days before they are installed. The roof panels follow a similar construction method but utilize a more robust 4-channel system featuring an internal 5-rebar framework. To anchor the entire structure to your slab, you can either choose steel plates embedded in the concrete or attach welded 2×2 angles to our wall panels that can then be drilled and anchored into your slab. The total weight of the shelters is approximately 600 pounds per linear foot.

2. Size

Consider the number of people who will need to use the shelter. Ensure that it is spacious enough to accommodate everyone comfortably. Forever Safe Shelters provides options “ranging from 8’8″ wide x 8’0″ long to 8’8″ wide x 16’0″ long or in any other 4’0″ wide additional increments necessary to meet your needs.” 

3. Accessibility

Easy access is crucial, especially for individuals with mobility issues. Ensure that the shelter design includes features such as wide doors and ramps if necessary.

4. Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential to prevent suffocation and ensure a supply of fresh air during an extended stay in the shelter. All Forever Safe shelters have airflow and conduit provisions in the walls for air supply ventilation, while the roof panels include openings for HVAC systems. Additionally, an electrical conduit sleeve can be added if needed.

5. Emergency Supplies

Consider adding storage for emergency supplies such as water, food, first aid kits, and communication devices.

6. Exceeds Testing Requirements

Ensure that the shelter meets or exceeds testing standards. Forever Safe Shelters exceeds every existing standard and code set in the ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters. The Texas A&M Engineering department tested the static pressure of Forever Safe Shelters commercial shelters, and they performed higher than satisfactorily. Also, these commercial shelters were successfully tested in other ways, such as debris testing, ballistics testing, and impact testing via a car drop. 

Forever Safe Shelters Is the Right Choice for Texas Storm Shelters Design Options

Choosing the right Texas storm shelters design options for your home or business is a critical step in ensuring safety during severe weather events. Forever Safe Shelters is here to help provide you with top-quality shelters that will withstand the worst of storms. With Forever Safe Shelters to help, you can make an informed decision that provides peace of mind and protection for you and your loved ones.