How to Build a Storm Shelter (Concrete)

How to Build a Storm Shelter (Concrete): Complete Guide

Building a storm shelter requires strict specifications for safety. Walls must be 8-inch thick reinforced concrete. Roof must be tied to walls with bent rebar. Door must be FEMA rated. Understanding these requirements is essential for a safe, code-compliant shelter.

Wall Requirements: 8-Inch Thick Reinforced Concrete

Walls must meet strict specs:

• 8-inch thickness: Minimum 8 inches thick
• Reinforced: Must have rebar reinforcement
• Structural strength: Provides protection from debris
• Code requirement: Required for storm shelters

Roof Connection: Bent Rebar

Roof must be properly tied:

• Bent rebar: Rebar bent to connect roof to walls
• Creates connection: Ties roof and walls together
• Prevents separation: Roof won't separate from walls
• Critical for safety: Essential structural connection

Door Requirements: FEMA Rated

Door must meet FEMA standards:

• FEMA rated: Must meet FEMA specifications
• Impact resistant: Designed to withstand impacts
• Proper installation: Must be installed correctly
• Safety requirement: Critical safety component

Construction Steps

1. Excavate: Dig shelter location
2. Form walls: Build forms for 8-inch walls
3. Install rebar: Place rebar in walls
4. Pour walls: Pour 8-inch reinforced concrete walls
5. Form roof: Build roof forms
6. Install bent rebar: Place bent rebar connecting roof to walls
7. Pour roof: Pour reinforced concrete roof
8. Install FEMA door: Install FEMA-rated door

The Bottom Line

Build storm shelters with 8-inch thick reinforced concrete walls, roof tied to walls with bent rebar, and FEMA-rated door. These specifications are required for safety and code compliance. Storm shelters must meet these strict requirements to provide proper protection during severe weather.

Need help building a storm shelter? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We build storm shelters to FEMA specifications for maximum safety.