Build Storm Shelter In Basement

A storm shelter in your basement can provide you and your family with a safe haven during severe weather. While no shelter can guarantee complete protection, a well-built storm shelter can significantly increase your chances of survival.

Planning Your Storm Shelter

The first step in building a storm shelter is to plan its location and size. The shelter should be located in the lowest level of your home, which is typically the basement. It should be large enough to accommodate all of the occupants of your home, plus any pets.

Once you have determined the location and size of your shelter, you need to decide what materials you will use to build it. Concrete is the most common material used for storm shelters, but you can also use steel or wood.

Building Your Storm Shelter

Once you have gathered your materials, you can begin building your storm shelter. The construction process will vary depending on the materials you are using, but the following steps are general guidelines:

Excavate the area where you will be building the shelter. The excavation should be large enough to accommodate the shelter and a small entryway.
Build the foundation of the shelter. The foundation should be made of concrete and should be at least 6 inches thick.
Erect the walls of the shelter. The walls can be made of concrete, steel, or wood.
Install the roof of the shelter. The roof should be made of a strong material such as concrete or steel.
Install the door of the shelter. The door should be made of a strong material such as steel and should be airtight.
Ventilate the shelter. The shelter should have a ventilation system to provide fresh air.
Stock the shelter with supplies. The shelter should be stocked with supplies such as food, water, first aid kits, and flashlights.

Maintaining Your Storm Shelter

Once you have built your storm shelter, it is important to maintain it regularly. This includes inspecting the shelter for any damage, cleaning the shelter, and restocking the supplies. By maintaining your storm shelter, you can ensure that it will be ready to protect you and your family when you need it most.