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Storm Shelter Purchasing Tips

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A storm shelter is an expensive investment. Depending on the size and location of the shelter you want and (if you want to add the shelter onto your home), the foundation of your house, you can usually spend $2,500 to $6,000 on a shelter. To pay these costs, you can likely take out a home improvement.

There are several companies that manufacture storm shelters, but many of them will also sell you their plans and allow you to hire a private contractor to do much of the work. If you use a shelter manufacturer, it can take a few weeks to build and/or ship a shelter, but installation might only take a few hours.

When you contact a storm shelter manufacturer, there are several questions you can ask to determine the quality of the shelter and the manufacturer.

Do the shelters meet FEMA suggested specifications?
Is there a warranty?
Is there any chance of shelter occupants becoming blocked in?
Does the shelter include seating? What about lighting and ventilation? Does it have designated space for emergency supplies?
Will the manufacturers test underground to make sure there is no danger of the water table affecting the shelter?
Will the shelter be impacted by sub-freezing weather?
Will animals, including insects, be able to enter the shelter?
Will you need to do any regular maintenance on the shelter?

Ask about the thickness of the walls and the way in which you will enter the shelter. If you know other people who have purchased a storm shelter, ask them about their experience and go inside their storm shelter. The more you know when you talk to a shelter manufacturer, the more wisely you can make your decision.

Next Page: How do I use a storm shelter?

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