Fiberglass Shelter 320 Specifications
We strongly encourage anyone shopping for a storm shelter is aware of FEMA testing. Our shelters are tested with FEMA’s 320 guidelines. Testing includes all storm shelters, doors and components that meet these specifications. Ask for the test results!
Tested Storm Shelters Certification
Our fiberglass storm shelters are tested at the Debris Impact Test Center at Texas Tech’s wind science and engineering department. The actual test consisted of 2 x 4 “missiles” fired at a force to equal a 250 mph tornado. These strategically, laser-guided projectiles were impacted at designated targets considered to be the most vulnerable. Critical areas such as hinges, door latches, and walls are severely impacted and tested to their limit of strength.
Wind Engineer Evaluation
Next, the storm shelter is evaluated by a wind engineer to determine the structural integrity of the shelter as a whole. Questions are evaluated like, “Will it actually withstand all the violent forces that occur in an EF-5 tornado?” To determine how much stress and strain the shelter can withstand, the top rated wind engineers in the world, Dr. James R. McDonald, PHD. and Dr. Kishor Mehta, PHD. of McDonald-Mehta Engineers, LLP., then do their intense evaluation.
McDonald & Mehta are the two wind engineer scientists hired by the National Weather Service to create the new rating scale for tornado intensity. It is formerly known as the “Fujita Scale” or “F-Scale”. Recently, it has been upgraded and has replaced the new “Enhanced Fujita Scale” or “EF-Scale”.
Texas Tech’s Wind Science Engineering
The Refuge storm shelters are tested and certified by the Debris Impact Test Center at Texas Tech University’s wind science and engineering department.
Once the storm shelter has passed the test and the evaluation analysis, the National Storm Shelter Association then deems it a suitable shelter worthy of certification by meeting or exceeding all of FEMA 320 standards and guidelines.
The certified shelter now qualifies for a seal of certification, which is attached to the shelter with a designated serial number. The owner of the shelter receives a certificate of certification and the storm shelter is then registered with the National Storm Shelter Association.
The purpose is for consumer protection and for setting an industry standard for safety and quality in design and manufacture.
One Pour Crete Above Ground Specifications
NSSA (National Storm Shelter Association) compliant and FEMA compliant. Our precast concrete storm shelters are made with 4000psi concrete and reinforced with 6 gauge wire mesh, #4 rebar and cable. The storm shelter door is double plated steel and equipped with three heavy-duty hinges and three latches. Our shelters are painted and lined with indoor/outdoor carpet and they are set up to hook up electricity with conduit and electrical outlet already in place. All of our shelters are designed to meet or exceed the requirements of FEMA 320 and ICC 500. These shelters are especially practical for higher-density areas such as trailer parks.
2 Piece Above Ground Concrete Safe Room Specifications
Meets or exceeds FEMA 320/361 and ICC-500 Standards.
Impact tested at Texas Tech Wind and Science Institute
No special requirements. These shelters can sit right on the ground. Little or no site preparation is needed.
Concrete is 5,000 psi
Reinforcing: Grade 60, equal to #4 rebar @12’ O.C.E.W.
No ladder or stairs, solid steel door opens to the inside.
4 anchors 2an1/2 feet into the ground to secure metal straps over the shelter