Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to U.S. Tornado Shelter’s Frequently Asked Questions. In this section, we will discuss some of the more common customer inquiries about storm protection.
What is an EF5 Tornado Shelter?
An EF5 tornado shelter is a reinforced steel structure capable of withstanding 250-mile-per-hour winds and flying debris. Each tornado shelter is subjected to rigorous third-party testing to ensure lasting protection under extreme duress. We fabricate each community aboveground storm shelter with solid 1/4″ steel paneling. Each shelter features multi-point locking doors for enhanced security. Prospective clients can customize purchased shelters with additional options, including segregated toilets, extra benching, and other creature comforts. Our shelters are rapidly-deployable. Clients, depending on their need, can lease of buy shelters with an industry-leading turnaround.
Are Your Shelters FEMA 361 & ICC 500 Compliant?
Yes. All U.S. Tornado Shelters meet FEMA 361 & ICC 500 compliance standards. FEMA P-361 establishes guidelines for safe room construction. The International Code Council regulates ICC 500 standards for safe room design and construction. Federal safety standard compliance is a prerequisite for most building permits and reimbursement allocation, if applicable. Consult your county’s planning department for more details.
What is the Best Tornado Shelter Location?
Current site plans and need determine tornado shelter location. Many entities place tornado shelters near easily-accessible corridors or behind facility operations. All tornado shelter egresses and pathways should be free of debris and obstacles. All shelters should be within a short walking distance of operations and personnel.
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What is the Most Cost-Effective Tornado Shelter?
Tornado shelter pricing varies by customer, dimensions, features, and structural components for securing the foundation. Our detail-oriented building advisors will provide timely quotes following an in-depth project assessment. The most cost-effective tornado shelter is only a phone call or click away.
Are Tornado Shelters Safe?
Yes. Our safe tornado shelters meet all third-party testing and certification requirements. No building or annex surpasses an EF5 tornado shelter. Although inner corridors, closets, or bathrooms provide basic protection against twisters, only reinforced steel bracing maintains structural integrity. Our aboveground community safe rooms can withstand 250-mile-per-hours and flying debris.
Does FEMA Offer Safe Room Funding?
Yes. FEMA offers safe room funding for qualified applicants. Note: We cannot file on your behalf.
Can a tornado pull a shelter out of the ground?
No. Tornado shelters, comprised of heavy gauge steel, are heavy by design. A tornado can only lift a shelter if space is allowed underneath. Solid concrete bases or additional steel anchors firmly affix the shelter to the ground, negating this widespread fear and misconception.
Do I Need a Tornado Shelter Building Permit?
Depends. Certain municipalities require tornado shelter building permits before installation. Although the federal government doesn’t require community safe rooms, many states developed rigorous safety standards for tornado shelter construction. Consult your town’s building inspections office for additional information.
What is the Best Tornado Shelter?
The best tornado shelter is a relative, but pertinent question. What constitutes as safe for one community would be a hazard in another. For example, underground bunkers are a poor choice for flood-prone areas. An aboveground shelter is unwise for Midwestern areas with limited floorspace, requiring bunker installation. Other installs necessitate indoor placement. We can accommodate any safety need and population with steel-gauge protection.
Do Above-Ground Tornado Shelters Really Work?
Yes. An aboveground safe room really works by protecting occupants against 250-mile-per-hour winds and flying debris. We subject each U.S. Tornado Shelter to rigorous testing and building stress modeling to ensure the safe room’s unique profile is wind-sail resistant and cannot be lifted off the ground. Furthermore, our shelters can safely accommodate all populations and applications, including factories, remote operations, schools, shopping center, neighborhoods, and more.
