Customers of Storm Shelters of Iowa

The Case for 1/4″ Steel Storm Shelters Over 3/16″ Steel

When it comes to protecting your family from the devastating power of tornadoes and severe storms, choosing the right storm shelter is paramount. One of the critical decisions homeowners face is selecting the appropriate steel thickness for their shelter. While both 1/4″ and 3/16″ steel shelters are commonly available, there are compelling reasons to opt for the thicker 1/4″ steel, despite the additional cost.

Safety First: The Strength of 1/4″ Steel

The primary function of a storm shelter is to provide a safe haven during extreme weather events. The difference in steel thickness might seem minor—just 1/16″—but it has significant implications for safety. A 1/4″ steel storm shelter offers superior resistance to impact compared to its 3/16″ counterpart. This added thickness can make all the difference when debris, such as a two-by-four or even heavier objects, are propelled at high speeds during a tornado.

Understanding Deformation and Safety Standards

Current safety codes for storm shelters, such as those outlined by FEMA, allow for up to 3 inches of deformation, or denting, in the steel walls of a shelter during a storm. If the shelter experiences this level of deformation and still remains structurally intact, it technically passes the safety standard. However, this standard has raised concerns among experts.

A renowned professor at the National Wind Institute at Texas Tech University, has expressed serious concerns about the potential risks associated with this allowable deformation. According to the professor, if someone is leaning against the wall of a storm shelter when it sustains a 3-inch dent, the force could result in serious injury or even death. This risk is heightened in shelters made from thinner steel, where the material is more likely to deform under impact.

Why 1/4″ Steel is Worth the Investment

Choosing a 1/4″ steel storm shelter minimizes the risk of significant deformation under impact. The added thickness provides greater structural integrity, reducing the likelihood of the walls denting inward and causing harm to those inside. While it’s true that a 1/4″ steel shelter comes with a higher price tag, the enhanced safety it offers is a crucial investment in your family’s well-being.

In the event of a tornado, you want to be confident that your storm shelter will perform its intended function without compromise. The extra peace of mind that comes with knowing your shelter has a thicker, more resilient barrier between you and the forces of nature is invaluable.

Tested and Certified: Storm Shelters of Iowa’s Commitment to Safety

At Storm Shelters of Iowa, we take safety seriously. Our storm shelters undergo rigorous testing at the prestigious National Wind Institute at Texas Tech University. This facility is renowned for its expertise in wind engineering and is the gold standard for testing storm shelters. Our shelters have successfully passed these stringent tests, demonstrating their ability to withstand the most severe conditions.

But we don’t stop there. Our shelters not only meet but exceed the FEMA 320/361 and ICC 500 guidelines, which set the benchmark for storm shelter safety and performance. These guidelines cover everything from structural integrity to impact resistance, ensuring that your shelter provides maximum protection.

In addition to our in-house testing and FEMA compliance, our shelters are also third-party engineering certified, offering an extra layer of assurance that they meet the highest industry standards. We are proud to be listed by the American Tornado Shelter Association (ATSA), an organization dedicated to promoting the highest levels of storm shelter safety and quality.

When you choose a storm shelter from Storm Shelters of Iowa, you’re choosing a product that has been thoroughly vetted and certified to provide the utmost safety for you and your family.

When it comes to storm shelters, the choice between 1/4″ and 3/16″ steel should not be taken lightly. While both options meet current safety standards, the thicker 1/4″ steel provides an extra layer of protection that could be life-saving in a critical moment. Investing in a 1/4″ steel storm shelter is a decision that prioritizes safety over cost, ensuring that your shelter is truly a safe haven when you need it most.