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A steel safe room being transported on a truck

Concrete Vs. Steel: Which Storm Shelter Is Better?

Deciding the kind of safe room or storm shelter you want to build is one of the most important decisions you’ll take for your family’s safety. That’s why it’s best to be informed on what options you have given your unique requirements, i.e., number of family members, whether anyone has special needs, etc.

This blog will discuss the two most common materials used to build safe rooms across Oklahoma: concrete and steel storm shelters. After the comparison, you’ll know which shelter works best for you.

Deciding Your Specifications

To choose the right type of safe room, ask yourself the following three questions:

  1. Do I need an above-ground shelter or an underground one?
  2. Do I want my shelter to be installed indoors or outdoors?
  3. Do I want to save costs by buying cheaper materials?

Depending on your answers, we can recommend the type of material that would work best for your storm shelter. Keep reading to learn which material would suit your needs better.

Concrete

Concrete is generally considered a heavy material and is readily used in construction because of this feature. As a result, it can withstand harsh winds without being too reliant on anchorages. Additionally, the density of concrete also makes it ideal for the outdoors as well as underground environments. And what’s more, is that it’s cheaper in comparison to other materials.

However, there are some serious downsides to using concrete in your storm shelters. For one, it’s a porous and brittle material which means water can seep through. This also makes it vulnerable to cracks, worsening the seepage issue. Due to this, using concrete to build your safe rooms oklahoma might not be the best idea if your area sees regular heavy flooding.

Steel

On the other hand, steel, while more expensive, is ultimately more durable due to its non-porous properties. Using steel to construct your storm shelter can thus be a desirable long-term investment, given its moisture resistance. Installing steel rooms is also relatively easier, takes up less space, and works for both outdoor and indoor spaces!

That’s why you can install a steel Storm Safe Shelters OKC underground or above ground.

A concrete safe room built with a slope

 

Have you decided on which kind of safe room you’d like installed? Call Oklahoma Shelters for concrete or steel Storm Shelter Expert OKC services and get the process started with a  free shelter quote on your property! We’ll take a quick assessment of where you’d like to install the Storm Safe Shelters OKC, take down the measurements, and get to installing. We can also build a custom shelter for you upon request.

For more information about our services, visit our FAQ page.

 


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white wooden house

4 Essential Safety Tips Homeowners in Moore Should Follow

In 2013, Moor saw the worst tornado to have hit the region in years. The roaring EF5 tornado caused nearly $2billion worth of damage and destruction, devastating families and communities across its 14-mile trajectory.

From damaging schools and public spaces to nearly 300 homes, and a death toll of 24 people, the tornado caused destruction like never before. This is especially tragic given the frequency of tornadoes in Oklahoma, to begin with.

With dozens of tornadoes hitting the region each year, and 2019’s tornado season being the worst in terms of volume and frequency, it goes to show that there’s never enough precaution that homeowners can and should take.

When building, renting, or renovating a house, consider the following safety tips to keep your family safe:

1. Find a house with a basement or lower level.

This is always a helpful tip for people looking to buy or build homes. Basements are more than just extra space for storage or to convert into a bedroom in Moore, OK. They could be the difference between safety and danger when ta storm hits, leaving you and your family vulnerable. Having a basement gives you a safe space to seek shelter and hide while you wait for things to calm down. It’s also where you can install a proper safety room.

2. Invest in a storm shelter as soon as possible

Speaking of safety rooms, if there’s one investment you need to make right away, whether you’re moving homes or staying put, it’s a storm shelter. Oklahoma Shelters offers high-quality, tried, and repeatedly tested shelters that are engineered to provide the utmost protection.

cement shelter on grass

These shelters can be installed in your garage, basement, backyard, or as standalone shelters in your home. Reach out to us to know more about our concrete storm shelters and other products if you’re in Oklahoma.

3. For vulnerable homes, keep access to community shelters.

However, if you do not have space for storm shelters or live in vulnerable homes such as mobile homes, never take the chance of remaining there during a storm. Instead, make sure your home is within reach of community shelters, and if there isn’t one around, push to have one put in place. Oklahoma Shelters also provides community shelters.

couple outside a shelter

4. Ensure your pets accommodations are safe

Pet parents, this is especially if you keep your pet outdoors. Your fur babies need protection too. Try to make sure their accommodation is sorted before a storm warning, keeping them in safety with you. The loud sounds might overwhelm them, so if you require toys, snacks, or even medication that might help soothe or calm them, keep that with your other supplies.

The only way to stay as safe as possible during a tornado is by paying attention to warnings, alerts, and predictions, following all necessary precautions, and seeking shelter. For residents across Moore, it’s crucial that you take proactive measures for the well-being of yourself and your loved ones.


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tornado over a sea

Safety Precautions Crucial For Post-Tornado Survival

Tornados are severe thunderstorms with high-speed winds that can reach up to 100 mph. They can travel dozens of miles, causing  damage everywhere they go. Each year, about 56 people lose their lives due to tornados in the US.

People living in areas affected by tornados should take necessary precautions to ensure minimum loss and distress. They should be extra vigilant during the tornado season which is between March and June.

It’s better to be safe than sorry. You should start by keeping tornado survival kits and canned foods in your homes. To survive a tornado, a storm shelter should be present in houses. This will ensure the maximum safety of your family.

Even after the tornado has passed, it’s advisable to be cautious. Here are a few precautions you should take to ensure your safety post-tornado.

Stay Informed

You shouldn’t go outside immediately after the tornado has passed. Instead, it’s always better to stay inside concrete storm shelters and wait for the orders from the authorities. Stay informed about the outside world through TV, radio, or the internet.

It can be nerve-wracking to wait inside for an update, but it’s good for your own safety.

Look for Injuries

Once the storm has passed, make sure that every family member sheltering with you is safe. Look for injuries and give basic first aid. Don’t try to move anyone who has broken bones or has been stabbed by a sharp object.

Call 911 and let them take the lead.

Be Extra Careful During Rescue Missions

If you’ve volunteered for post-tornado cleanup and rescue, be extra vigilant. There are a lot of reported mishaps during post-tornado rescue missions.

Be aware of your surroundings, look for loose bricks or windows, and wear appropriate safety gear.

tornado over a sea

Seek Help for Stress and Anxiety

It’s okay to be a little shaken up after a tornado. Make sure you and your family are not going through PTSD. Get professional help if necessary.

It’s always a good idea to build storm shelters in your homes. They provide a lot of safety from blowing winds and flying debris.

Contact Oklahoma Shelters if you want to build in your home storm-safe shelters or underground cement shelters in Oklahoma. We make custom storm shelters that exceed FEMA standards.

For more information visit our website.


Storm Shelters

Underground Slope Top Shelter

Concrete Shelter

Underground Garage Shelter

Garage Shelter

Installing Steel Safe Room

Steel Safe Room

Underground Bunker

Underground Bunker

 

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