Homes with Basements

Shelters should be built in the basement of a new home that have is going to have a basement.

In new construction:

The most economical basement saferoom is a lean-to built in the corner of the basement utilizing two existing basement walls because it requires fewer materials and the least amount of labor than other types of basement saferoom construction.

However, if you do use existing basement walls, they will have to be specially reinforced, since typical reinforcement in basement walls will not provide sufficient protection. During new home construction, the builder can reinforce the walls near the shelter.

Separate reinforced ceilings on the basement saferoom are a necessity to prevent falling debris from penetrating the rooms envelope. First floors of the typical home are not strong enough to serve as the ceiling of a basement saferoom.

Basic saferoom design with concrete blocks, traditionally cast concrete, and for 4- and 6-inch flat ICF walls and 6-inch waffle grid ICF walls may be found in the FEMA publication Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building A Safe Room Inside Your House, which includes construction plans, materials, and construction cost estimates. It's available from FEMA at no charge by calling toll free (800) 480-2520.

Existing homes with basements:

In most cases, it will be more practical to purchase an in ground shelter or a shelter that attaches to the house.

Sample of in ground shelter

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