Oklahoma is synonymous with severe weather. When you live in a high-risk area for tornadoes, owning a storm shelter is one of the most important investments you will ever make. However, once you decide to protect your family, you face a new question: which type of shelter is right for your property?
Choosing the perfect storm shelter depends on several factors, including your budget, the number of people you need to protect, your home’s layout, and any mobility concerns. At Oklahoma Shelters, we specialize in the three most effective types of protection: underground garage shelters, above-ground safe rooms, and underground concrete storm shelters.
This guide will break down the features of each to help you make an informed decision for your safety.
1. Above-Ground Safe Rooms: Accessibility and Strength
Above-ground safe rooms have become increasingly popular in Oklahoma. These units are typically constructed from heavy-duty reinforced steel and are engineered to withstand the extreme forces of an EF5 tornado.
The Benefit of Immediate Access
One of the primary advantages of an above-ground shelter is its location. Small above-ground shelters can be bolted directly to a concrete slab inside a garage. This allows you and your family to stay secure during a storm without ever having to step outside into the rain or hail.
Ideal for Mobility Concerns
Above-ground safe rooms are the “gold standard” for accessibility. Because they sit at ground level, there are no stairs or ladders to navigate. This makes them the perfect choice for:
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Individuals using wheelchairs or walkers.
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Seniors with limited mobility.
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Families with small children or pets.
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Homeowners with health conditions that make climbing difficult.
Engineering and Durability
Despite being above ground, these rooms are incredibly strong. They are anchored with specialized industrial bolts that can withstand thousands of pounds of uplift pressure. They are also impact-tested to ensure that flying debris—like 2×4 timbers traveling at high speeds—cannot penetrate the walls.
2. Underground Garage Shelters: Discretion and Space-Saving
If you want the maximum protection of being below ground but don’t want to lose yard space, an underground garage shelter is an excellent option.
Saving Your Yard Space
Unlike traditional cellar-style units, underground garage shelters are installed beneath your existing garage floor. This is a “space-saving” miracle for homeowners with small lots or those who want to maintain their landscaping. Once installed, you can still park your vehicle over the shelter, moving it only when a storm warning is issued.
Stealth and Security
These units are often preferred by people who want to keep their shelter discreet. Since the unit is tucked away in the garage, it remains out of sight.
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Quick Entry: You can move from your living area to your garage and into the shelter in seconds.
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Protection from the Elements: You won’t be exposed to falling debris or heavy rain while trying to reach safety.
Ventilation and Design
Modern underground garage units feature sliding lids and specialized ventilation systems. Even if a vehicle or debris ends up on top of the lid, these units are designed with secondary exit paths or lids that can withstand significant weight while still allowing airflow.
3. Underground Concrete Storm Shelters: The Traditional Stronghold
For many Oklahomans, the “storm cellar” is the classic image of tornado protection. Modern underground concrete storm shelters are the evolved version of these traditional bunkers.
Maximum Capacity and Durability
Concrete shelters are often the go-to choice for larger families or small businesses. Because they are installed in the yard, they are not restricted by the footprint of a garage. We offer these in various sizes, including:
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Slope Top Units: These sit slightly above the ground, making them easy to spot and providing extra headroom.
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Flat Top Units: These sit flush with the ground, providing a clean look for your backyard.
The Ultimate Shield
There is a unique sense of security that comes with being surrounded by thick, reinforced concrete and several feet of earth. The soil acts as a natural shock absorber and shield against debris. These units are incredibly heavy, meaning they are not going anywhere, even in the strongest winds.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
When you are looking for a strong storm shelter, evaluate your specific situation using these four criteria:
Number of Occupants
How many people—and pets—do you need to protect? Above-ground safe rooms and concrete shelters often offer more “breathing room” for larger groups. Garage units are typically more compact.
Soil and Water Table
In some parts of Oklahoma, the water table is high or the soil is particularly rocky. Our professionals can help determine if your yard is suitable for a deep concrete burial or if an above-ground unit is a safer bet to avoid “floating” or water seepage.
Budget and Installation Time
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Garage units and above-ground rooms are often the fastest to install.
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Concrete units may require more extensive excavation and yard work.
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Each type has a different price point, but all are long-term investments in your family’s safety.
Future Mobility
Even if you are mobile now, consider the long term. A storm shelter is a permanent addition to your home. An above-ground safe room ensures that you will be able to use the shelter easily for decades to come, regardless of age or physical ability.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Regardless of which type you choose, the installation is just as important as the structure itself. A shelter is only as strong as its anchors or the quality of the concrete seal.
At Oklahoma Shelters, we ensure that every unit we install meets the highest safety standards. We follow FEMA guidelines and use the best materials available to ensure your safe haven is truly safe.
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Expert Anchoring: We secure above-ground units to slabs with precision.
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Precision Excavation: We ensure underground units are level and properly backfilled.
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Quality Latching Systems: We verify that every door is easy to operate but impossible for the wind to open.
Get Protected Today
The time to choose your shelter is now—not when the sirens are sounding. Whether you prefer the accessibility of a safe room, the convenience of a garage unit, or the classic protection of a concrete bunker, we have the solution for you.
Looking for a strong storm shelter?
Our team is ready to help you navigate these choices and find the perfect fit for your Oklahoma home. We pride ourselves on providing reliable, durable, and life-saving structures for our neighbors across the state.
Contact Oklahoma Shelters Today
Oklahoma Shelters: Your Safety is Our Top Priority.
