Storm Shelter Essentials: Why You Need One at your Oklahoma Home
In regions like Oklahoma, severe weather is more than just a seasonal concern. It is a persistent reality. As weather patterns shift, the intensity of storms continues to rise. For many homeowners, the question is no longer whether they should prepare, but how they can best protect their loved ones. Investing in a residential storm shelter is one of the most proactive steps you can take.
This article explores the critical reasons why adding a storm shelter to your property is a vital decision for your safety, your finances, and your peace of mind.
The Economic Impact of Severe Storms
The financial toll of severe weather in the United States is staggering. In 2019, AccuWeather estimated that storms caused a total of $22 billion in damage across the country. This figure includes the combined destruction from hurricanes, tornadoes, and localized severe weather events.
The economic loss often stems from structural damage to homes that are not equipped to handle high-velocity winds. When a storm system moves through a residential area, unreinforced structures are the first to fail. A home storm shelter provides a “hardened” point in your property that remains standing even if the main structure is compromised.
The Trend of Increasing Destruction
Data suggests that hurricanes and tornadoes are becoming more destructive year after year. Larger storm systems and higher wind speeds are being recorded more frequently. This trend makes traditional “interior room” sheltering less reliable than it was in the past. A dedicated storm shelter is designed specifically to meet these evolving threats.
Safety and the Pandemic Context
The recent global pandemic changed how we think about public safety. Traditionally, many residents relied on community storm shelters located in schools or municipal buildings. However, the pandemic introduced new risks to crowded public spaces.
Benefits of Sheltering in Place
Having a storm shelter at your own home allows you to “shelter in place.” This offers several advantages:
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Immediate Access: You do not have to drive through dangerous winds to reach a community center.
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Health and Hygiene: You can maintain social distancing and avoid exposure to illnesses found in crowded public areas.
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Privacy and Comfort: Your home shelter can be stocked with personal items, blankets, and medications specific to your family’s needs.
Boosting Your Property Value
Many homeowners view a storm shelter solely as a safety expense. However, in the Oklahoma real estate market, a shelter is a significant financial asset. It is one of the few home improvements that offers both life-saving utility and a tangible return on investment.
Higher Resale Value
Real estate agents in Oklahoma consistently report that a safe room or tornado shelter increases the marketability of a home. Buyers in the Midwest prioritize safety features. Estimates suggest that a professionally installed shelter can increase the value of a house by up to $2,000.
A Competitive Edge in the Market
When two similar homes are for sale, the house with a pre-installed storm shelter will almost always sell faster. It removes a major item from the buyer’s “to-do” list. For families moving from out of state, the presence of a shelter provides immediate relief from “storm anxiety,” making your property much more attractive.
Engineered to Withstand 200 MPH Winds
The primary function of a high-quality storm shelter is to provide a debris-resistant environment. During a major tornado, such as an EF4 or EF5, wind speeds can exceed 200 mph. At these speeds, common objects like 2×4 lumber, bricks, and even vehicles become deadly missiles.
Debris Impact Resistance
Standard home construction is not designed to stop high-speed projectiles. A 200 mph wind can drive a wooden board through a brick wall. A high-quality tornado shelter, however, is built with reinforced steel or high-density concrete. These materials are impact-tested to ensure they do not breach when struck by flying debris.
Structural Anchoring
A common misconception is that the weight of the shelter keeps it in place. In reality, the anchoring system is what provides safety. Professional installers use heavy-duty bolts to secure above-ground safe rooms to a reinforced concrete slab. Underground units are engineered to resist “buoyancy,” ensuring they do not shift or lift during heavy rain and high winds.
Choosing the Right Shelter for Your Home
Oklahoma Shelters offers a variety of solutions tailored to different home layouts and family needs. Understanding your options helps you make the best choice for your property.
Underground Garage Shelters
These units are installed flush with your garage floor. They provide maximum protection without taking up any extra space in your home. You can even park your car over them. They are ideal for homeowners who want to keep their yard and garage floor clear.
Above-Ground Safe Rooms
Above-ground safe rooms are perfect for individuals with limited mobility. They are installed on the garage floor or inside a closet. These units feature reinforced steel walls and multiple locking bolts. They provide the same level of protection as underground units but are easier to enter and exit.
Outdoor Concrete Cellars
For larger families or properties with ample yard space, a concrete cellar is a classic choice. These are partially buried and provide a large interior area for people, pets, and emergency supplies.
Peace of Mind Is Priceless
Beyond the statistics and the structural engineering, the most important benefit of a storm shelter is the peace of mind it provides. In Oklahoma, the sound of a weather siren can cause immense stress. Knowing that you have a dedicated, reinforced space just steps away changes your relationship with the weather. You no longer have to worry about “getting lucky” or finding a place to hide at the last minute.
Take Action Today
Severe weather is an inevitable part of living in the South and Midwest. The damage caused by storms in 2019 serves as a reminder that we must be prepared. By adding a storm shelter to your property, you protect your family, increase your home’s value, and secure a safe haven that can withstand winds of 200 mph.
Don’t wait for the next storm season to begin. Take the proactive step to secure your home today.
Contact Oklahoma Shelters Today
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