Differences Between Safe Rooms and Storm Shelters
Tornadoes and other natural disasters can hit with little warning, leaving you only moments to act. Investing in a reliable protection solution, like a safe room or a storm shelter, can ensure the safety of your loved ones or employees.
But when comparing a safe room vs storm shelter, how do you decide which option is better suited to your needs?
This blog will guide you through the specifics of each option by discussing:
What Is a Storm Shelter?
A storm shelter is a specialized structure designed to withstand the powerful winds and debris caused by tornadoes and hurricanes. These shelters can endure EF5 tornadoes, which can have wind speeds of up to 250 mph.
Storm shelters are designed to be durable and protect against natural elements. They are equipped with basic ventilation systems and often have emergency communication devices.
Understanding what is a storm shelter will help you decide if this dedicated weather protection is better for you than a safe room.
This leads us to our next section: What is a safe room?
What Is a Safe Room?
A safe room is a fortified room designed to protect you from various threats, including natural disasters, home invasions, and more. Safe rooms are built with reinforced materials like concrete and steel, making them resistant to high winds, debris, and even bullets.
These rooms are typically integrated into a home or building, such as within a closet, under stairs, or in a garage. Equipped with communication devices, security systems, and ventilation, safe rooms provide comfort and safety during emergencies.
Safe Room vs Storm Shelter: Which One Is for You?
The United States experiences more tornadoes annually than any other country, with 1,376 reported in 2021 alone, an increase from the 1,075 tornadoes recorded the previous year. The government recognizes both safe rooms and storm shelters as protection against natural disasters.
Here are the key differences to help you make an informed decision between the two:
1. Location and Construction
One of the main differences between a safe room and a storm shelter is their location and materials.
Storm shelters are made of reinforced concrete or heavy-duty steel, making them highly durable. They are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions like tornadoes and come in two main types:
- In Ground Shelters: These are dug into the ground, offering a deep level of protection from flying debris and strong winds. However, they can be costly due to excavation and may require maintenance to remain waterproof.
- Above Ground Shelters: These are typically installed in garages, basements, or other spaces within a home or business. Made of heavy-gauge steel, above ground shelters are an excellent option for areas where in ground shelters may not be feasible due to flooding risks.
Safe rooms are generally built inside the home or business and can be integrated into an existing structure, such as a closet, or designed as a free-standing unit. They are made with reinforced concrete or steel and offer similar wind resistance and safety as storm shelters.
2. Cost
The price difference between a storm shelter and a safe room varies depending on the type of size, materials used, and installation complexity. Here’s a cost comparison of the two:
For storm shelters:
An in ground shelter typically costs between $4,200 and $30,000, depending on the size of the excavation. Additional expenses may arise from waterproofing the shelter, which is essential to keeping it functional and safe during heavy rains.
In contrast, an above ground storm shelter generally costs between $2,600 and $15,000, making it a more budget-friendly option for many families.
For safe rooms:
Safe rooms are typically integrated into structures like closets or under-stair spaces, making them more affordable than storm shelters. Depending on the size and materials used, a safe room generally costs between $3,000 and $10,000.
3. Accessibility
Getting into a safety zone quickly is crucial during an emergency, and accessibility ensures everyone can reach safety zones in time.
Safe rooms are more accessible during storms, as they are typically part of your home or business. This means you can quickly reach them without walking outside or descending into the ground.
Meanwhile, storm shelters, especially in ground ones, may require a short walk to the shelter or even a descent into the ground, which can be challenging for the elderly and those with mobility issues.
4. Comfort and Ventilation
Both safe rooms and storm shelters are designed to protect you during emergencies, but they differ in comfort and amenities.
Safe rooms are built with comfort in mind and often include features like ventilation systems, lighting, and seating to make longer stays more manageable. They are ideal for families who may need shelter for extended periods.
While some storm shelters include ventilation and basic amenities, they prioritize sturdiness and safety over comfort. As a result, they may lack features that make safe rooms more comfortable for extended use.
5. Capacity
You must ensure your safety zones accommodate everyone in your household, workplace, or group. Otherwise, you risk limited ventilation, physical discomfort, and difficulty accessing emergency supplies.
Safe rooms are often designed to accommodate smaller groups, such as a family or a few employees. They are typically compact, making them ideal for individual or small-group safety within a home or business.
On the other hand, storm shelters can vary widely in size, with options available to house larger groups. For example, community storm shelters are built to protect multiple families or groups of people during emergencies.
Choose the Best Safety Solution for Your Needs
While there isn’t a definitive right or wrong answer between a safe room and a storm shelter, the decision comes down to your specific needs. But if you want a versatile and accessible solution that provides protection from various threats, a safe room might be the ideal choice.
Lone Star Safe Rooms offers customizable, affordable safe rooms designed to fit seamlessly into any closet, understairs, or garage area. All of our safe rooms come with a lifetime warranty, so you can rest assured that you’ll be protected for years to come.
Learn more about our pricing options or contact us to start planning for your and your loved ones’ safety today.