Choose a location above ground if you’re concerned about flood risking from severe storms such as hurricanes. Basement shelters are more effective protection against tornadoes than above-ground shelters. A bathroom, closet, or corner of the garage are also suitable locations for your storm shelter.
Move any items far enough that they won’t get in your way while you’re working. Make sure there’s a clear path to the storm shelter area and it can be accessed quickly.
For example, if you have a family of 4 people, then you would need a space that covers an area of 28 square feet (2. 6 m2). Consider adding an additional person or two into your calculations in case you need more space.
A square shaped shelter will provide the strongest protection against a storm.
You can also measure your walls and purchase pre-cut boards that fit your measurements. Ask an employee at the hardware or home improvement store that you purchase your boards from to cut them to size for you.
The holes will be needed so you can attach the anchor bolts. Start the drill slowly and bring it up to full speed to drive through the boards and into the foundation. You can rent hammer drills from home improvement stores.
Use a wrench to tighten the bolts as much as you can so the boards are securely fastened.
You’ll need the boards in the ceiling in order to install your wall studs. Make sure the boards are secure in the ceiling.
Install at least 2 screws for each end of the stud.
Use 1 hurricane tie for each stud to make the walls strong enough to withstand strong winds. You can find hurricane ties at hardware stores, at home improvement stores, and online.
You can find 14-gauge steel sheets at roofing supply stores, at home improvement stores, and online. Do not install metal sheeting over the wall where you plan to install the door at this point.
Storm shelter doors are heavy and expensive, but common steel doors that are often used in residential and commercial construction can’t withstand the impact of tornadoes and hurricanes. You may be able to find storm-rated doors at home improvement or hardware stores, but you may need to go online to order a specialized storm room door.
Make sure the door frame is at least 7 feet (2. 1 m) tall so you can fit through it.
You can lightly sand the cut edges of the studs with 180-grit sandpaper if they’re jagged or uneven.
Use any screws or nails that are included in the door assembly. Open and close the door to make sure it’s working properly. Use a level to make sure the frame of the door is even.
