Above Ground Storm Shelters vs Below Ground Storm Shelters

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No above-ground shelter that has passed the rigorous testing at Texas Tech has ever failed during a tornado. While working in the aftermath of the storms in Joplin and Moore, we witnessed numerous above-ground shelters still standing even as entire homes were completely swept away. These shelters have proven to be lifesavers.  

Larry Tanner, a research associate at the National Wind Institute at Texas Tech University, noted that during the May 20, 2013, Moore, OK tornado, researchers found 16 above-ground safe rooms in or near the damage path. He highlighted that during the 2011 Joplin tornado, which claimed 158 lives, all 11 above-ground shelters that had been tested in the lab performed excellently, even when situated in the heart of the storm.  

Ernst W. Kiesling, Ph.D., P.E., a former civil engineering professor at Texas Tech and Executive Director of the National Storm Shelter Association, toured the tornado-damaged areas in Moore and expressed concern over the perception that underground shelters were the only safe option. He emphasized that his career has focused on developing safe places above ground, and he firmly believes they can provide reliable protection.  

At Tri-State Storm Shelters, we design our shelters to withstand the immense forces of EF5 storms, ensuring that your family has a secure refuge during severe weather. Your safety is our commitment. 

When storms approach, meteorologists often urge us not to go outside. Yet, for those with backyard storm shelters, the reality is that you must brave the elements to reach safety. This can expose you to dangerous flying debris along the way. High winds, hail, and lightning can make it tempting to wait until the storm is nearly upon you to seek shelter.   

The most effective shelter is one that’s easily accessible and one that you are likely to use. That’s where Tri-State Storm Shelters comes in. We can construct your shelter in a convenient location within your home—whether in a bedroom, bathroom, stairway, or another area of your choosing. This way, you can quickly and safely reach your shelter without stepping outside, ensuring you and your loved ones stay protected during severe weather. 

As we age or if we've undergone knee or hip surgery, navigating narrow and steep stairs can become a significant challenge, especially in emergencies. With our aging it is essential that we accommodate our needs with physical challenges. Tri-State Storm Shelters provide a great solution for individuals with limited mobility, ensuring safety and accessibility during severe weather events.

Many people have shared their regrettable experiences with underground shelters, often citing issues like standing water, unpleasant odors from mildew, and unwelcome spider infestations. While not all below-ground shelters suffer these problems, the concerns are significant enough that many wish they had opted for a different solution. In contrast, Tri-State Storm Shelters are designed to be mounted above ground, effectively eliminating the risk of flooding and ensuring a safer, more reliable refuge during severe weather. 

While the likelihood may be low, the potential danger of debris obstructing the door of an underground shelter cannot be overlooked—it can render escape not just difficult, but impossible. Tree limbs, pieces of structures, and various other items can easily land atop shelter doors. In designing our above-ground storm shelters, we ensured the doors swing inwards. This crucial feature means that even if an entire roof falls, it won't prevent us from accessing safety. 

Additionally, we cannot ignore the unfortunate incidents where individuals have found themselves trapped in below-ground shelters due to malfunctions. Numerous accounts from around the world highlight the risks and negative experiences associated with inground shelters. Choosing a safer, above-ground solution can truly make a life-saving difference. 

Water, oil, and gasoline instinctively seek the lowest level, and as a homeowner, I understand the risks of storing these hazardous materials in my garage. The thought of being beneath that space, with the potential for harmful substances to seep into where I’m standing, is truly alarming. Storms can wreak havoc, causing extensive damage and putting lives at risk. There are countless stories of individuals trapped in below-ground garage shelters, forced to endure standing in pools of oil or gasoline. This is why investing in Tri-State Storm Shelters is crucial—they are meticulously designed to ensure your safety and keep you completely dry even in the face of a storm’s fury. 

In some cases, rock formations or groundwater make building underground shelters a significant challenge for homeowners. We’ve encountered numerous customers who initially sought underground options, only to face the harsh reality of solid rock or excessive water during excavation, leading to costly delays and complications. 

While this isn't a widespread issue, it poses a real obstacle for many. Our above-ground storm shelters offer a practical and effective solution, especially for those with shallow bedrock or beautifully landscaped lawns. Don’t let geological challenges stand in the way of your safety—choose a shelter that fits your landscape and needs perfectly.   

We provide a range of above ground shelters that families are proudly using as secure gun safes and panic rooms. Equipped with a robust deadbolt lock, our shelters offer a reliable way to protect your important documents and valuables. In the face of a crisis, our shelters allow homeowners to swiftly lock themselves inside, ensuring safety from intruders. Whether you need a storm shelter or a panic room, Tri-State Storm Shelters delivers unparalleled protection and peace of mind. 

Our shelters and safe rooms are designed with mobility in mind, allowing you to disassemble and move them as needed. While most people don't anticipate relocating, circumstances can change in an instant. With our innovative panelized shelters, you have the incredible option to either enhance your home's value by keeping the shelter in place or seamlessly take it with you to your next residence. 

Our expert crews are trained to efficiently disassemble and re-install the shelter, ensuring a hassle-free transition to your new home. Plus, our clever panelized design allows for assembly within existing closets, making it an ideal solution for homes where garage space is at a premium. Experience the peace of mind that comes with a shelter that adapts to your life’s journey! 

There was a time when below ground was the only option. Now a structure can be built, tested, and certified to withstand the forces of an EF5 tornado. I have seen certified shelters work. Our structural engineers have done wind load tests and certified them to be safe. We’ve passed the tests at Texas Tech on impact resistance. If I didn’t believe that above ground shelters were safe, I would not sell and install them when lives would be in danger.