Are the storm shelters easy enough to install myself?
Yes. Most homeowners can install these shelters with basic tools like wrenches, a hammer drill, masonry bit, and a rubber mallet. Each model has its own simple tool list, and we also offer professional installation if you’d prefer.
Why do some above-ground storm shelter doors swing outward while others swing inward? Will I get trapped if the door swings outward?
Storm shelter doors can safely swing either inward or outward depending on the shelter’s design and engineering. Outward-swinging doors are common because tornado winds and pressure help force the door tighter against the frame, creating a strong seal while also maximizing interior space inside the shelter.
Inward-swinging doors require clearance inside the unit for the door to open, which can reduce usable square footage and limit how many people can comfortably fit inside the shelter. Outward-swinging doors help preserve that interior space, which is one reason many above-ground shelters use them.
A common concern is whether debris could trap someone inside an outward-swinging shelter. While debris can accumulate around any structure after a tornado, properly engineered shelters are designed with this in mind and are built to maintain their structural integrity during extreme weather. Many shelters are also installed inside garages or protected areas where heavy debris buildup against the door is less likely.
Both inward- and outward-swinging doors can provide excellent protection when part of a properly engineered FEMA-compliant shelter system.
Can I return my unit after I have purchased it?
Once we have received your payment to order the unit, all sales are final and non-refundable. The Buyer understands and agrees that once the payment for the Product has been made, no returns or refunds will be granted under any circumstances, except as required by applicable law. This includes, but is not limited to, cases where the Buyer experiences a change of mind, a change in circumstances, or if the Product is found to be unsuitable or unnecessary after the purchase.
Can above-ground tornado shelter actually survive a tornado?
Yes — properly engineered above-ground storm shelters are specifically designed and tested to survive even the most violent tornadoes. Many above-ground shelters are built to meet or exceed FEMA and ICC 500 standards, which require shelters to withstand extreme wind speeds and impacts from flying debris generated by powerful tornadoes.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that only underground shelters are safe during a tornado. In reality, modern above-ground shelters are heavily reinforced with steel and anchored into concrete foundations to provide life-saving protection during severe weather. FEMA-compliant shelters must also pass rigorous impact testing, including resistance to a 15-pound 2×4 traveling at speeds exceeding 100 MPH.
Above-ground shelters also offer several advantages, including easier accessibility for elderly individuals, people with mobility concerns, families with small children, and pet owners. They can be installed inside garages, homes, shops, or even outdoors depending on the model.
What testing do the storm shelters undergo?
Our storm shelters are engineered and tested to meet or exceed FEMA and ICC 500 standards for tornado shelters. This testing is designed to ensure the shelters can provide life-saving protection during extreme weather events, including violent tornadoes.
One of the most important tests is the debris impact test, where shelters must withstand a 15-pound 2×4 traveling at speeds of over 100 MPH — simulating the dangerous flying debris produced by tornadoes. Shelters are also evaluated for structural strength, door performance, anchoring systems, and their ability to resist extreme wind pressures.
In addition to laboratory and engineering testing, the shelters are designed with heavy-duty steel construction and reinforced anchoring systems to help ensure they remain secure during severe weather conditions.
Do you do any concrete work?
No. Storm Shelters of Iowa does not perform concrete work. However, we’ll provide you with the minimum concrete specifications needed for your storm shelter and can recommend trusted concrete contractors in your area. You’re also free to use any concrete company you prefer to pour the slab.
Does the door lock on the storm shelter?
Yes — our storm shelter doors are designed with secure latching systems to help keep the door safely closed during severe weather. The shelters are engineered so the door remains secure under extreme wind pressure and flying debris impacts associated with tornadoes.
Most shelter models also include the ability to lock the shelter from the outside when not in use for added security and to help prevent unauthorized access. However, occupants inside the shelter are always able to open the door from the inside.
The exact locking and latching system may vary depending on the shelter model, but safety, accessibility, and structural performance are always top priorities.
Where would I put one of these storm shelters?
Most commonly, shelters are needed when the homeowner does not have a basement. These shelters require at least four inches of concrete in order for the shelter to be properly anchored down. A common area that people often install their storm shelter is in their garage because they can accommodate the space, and it also provides the needed concrete needed to install the shelter.
Can I put a storm shelter in the basement?
If your basement is a walkout basement, it is possible to install a storm shelter in the basement. If your basement is not a walkout, it is very difficult to get the metal panels down basement stairs due to the weight and size of each panel. While it can be done, it typically involves lifting straps and spa sliders as needed.
On the Stationary Unit, why are there extra/empty holes in the bottom of the storm shelter where the unit is attached to the concrete?
This is a great question! In the bottom of each panel, there are three holes. To be compliant with FEMA standards, only two concrete anchor taps need to be placed through the bottom of every panel. The extra hole is in case we encounter an issue, like rebar, in the concrete that prevents us from using that hole. So while it may look like there is missing hardware, fear not!
Do you offer financing?
Yes, we work with US Bank. If you are interested in financing, you can typically get better terms through your personal bank or credit union. Loans typically come in the form of a home equity loan or a personal loan.
Are the storm shelters grounded?
Our units can be grounded. It is strongly encouraged to ground the unit if it is going to be outdoors. However, this is something that a certified electrician would have to do. Storm Shelters of Iowa cannot ground the unit. A certified electrician will connect a grounding wire from any bolt hole on the unit and will run the proper grounding to ground the unit.
Is there any fabrication while installing the unit?
Almost all of the time, installation of our units is as simple as putting bolts through holes and tightening down the nuts. However, every now and then a unit may require a little grinding due to a piece of metal being a hair too long. A metal file or grinder will help shave down the edge just enough to cause the bolt holes to line up. If you are self-installing and have any concerns, contact Storm Shelters of Iowa.
Are your units waterproof?
Units like the TwisterPod and Extreme Unit are pre-manufactured, one-piece shelters, making them the most water-tight options we offer. Shelters such as the Panelized, Stationary, and Corner Units are assembled from multiple panels and sections, so they are not considered fully waterproof.
All of our shelters are powder-coated and designed to withstand outdoor elements, making them suitable for exterior installation. However, if you are looking for a shelter that offers the best protection against water intrusion from the ceiling or seams, the TwisterPod or Extreme Unit would be the recommended choice.
Does all of the hardware come with the storm shelter?
Yes! If you are ordering one of our storm shelters as a DIY project, all of our shelters come with a box of all of the hardware that you will need.
Do your storm shelters have a warranty?
Yes. Every storm shelter we sell comes with a manufacturer warranty. You can find specific warranty details on each product page of our website. If you have questions, we’re always happy to help.
Can you ship the unit to me?
Yes, we can ship the unit to anywhere in the United States. We ship to the nearest freight center to your location for customer pick-up via a freight carrier (FedEx, Saia, ect.). Pricing of shipping is dependent on unit size and location of where the unit will be shipped to.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, we do. However, there is a 3.5% fee applied at checkout.
How long does it take to get the unit?
Production of our units can range from 3 to 6 weeks, but all depends on the amount of orders in production. We will inform you of the current production time when we put your unit into production. If you are having us install the unit, installation will then be scheduled once the unit has arrived at our installers. Installation is typically scheduled within a 2 to 3 week period after the unit arrives.
Do you sell just a steel door?
Due to liability reasons, we do not sell just the steel door if you are constructing your own concrete storm shelter. Our door must be installed with our trademarked steel shelter design for safety reasons.