Garage vs. Backyard: What’s the Best Spot for Your Storm Shelter in Norman?

Being a resident of Norman, Oklahoma, right in the middle of Tornado Valley—investing in a storm shelter guarantees the safety of your family. The weather is always unpredictable and proper prep can be the thing that stands between you and danger. With many options available in the market, it can be confusing to decide where to place your shelter, the garage or the backyard. As storm shelter experts in OKC, we’re here to make the decision easier! Here are some pros and cons to look at before getting a storm shelter installed.

Garage Storm Shelter

Pros

• Ease of Access: Going outside in a storm is never a good option. Garage shelters are easily accessible from within the house in emergency situations. Especially when you are accompanied by the elderly, pets, etc., ease of access is an important factor to account for.
• Protection from Debris: Since a garage shelter is situated within the four walls of your home, there is extra debris protection in comparison to a backyard storm shelter.
• Accounting for Space: For people with limited indoor space and no outdoor areas, garage shelters are the option to go for since they can be built in limited spacing.

Cons

• If your garage storm shelter in Norman gets flooded during a storm, or heavy stuff from your garage falls on the opening, or heavy debris, or even the garage itself falls on the storm shelter, then it might be difficult to get out.

Backyard Storm Shelter

Pros

• Space Flexibility: You have more space when installing a backyard storm shelter. The structure is built from ground up, so it can essentially be situated anywhere. You can also consider an above-ground shelter, which would not usually be feasible for garages.
• Cost-effective: Since backyard shelters are built with a new concrete foundation, you don’t have to pay for the extra cost of cutting into the existing structure of the house that you would have to for a garage. It also doesn’t interfere with your existing home structure.
• Maintenance: The maintenance of a backyard shelter is generally easier since it is not blocked by storage or cars like in the garage.

Cons

• Accessing the shelter might be difficult in a storm. Since it resides outside the roof of your house, you will be at risk of being hit by hail, strong winds, debris or even a tree falling just to get to safety.

Make the Right Choice With Oklahoma Shelters

Safety is always the priority. The location of your Oklahoma storm shelter is dependent on many factors such as space, customization, strength of your house’s infrastructure, cost, etc.

Whether it be a garage storm shelter in Norman or a backyard one, our experts at Oklahoma Shelters are here to help you make the decision and provide state-of-the-art, engineered and tested, FEMA approved safe rooms. From inspection to installation, we understand the need for perfection when it comes to protecting your family. Don’t take risks when it comes to value—contact us now for a free consultation.