Storm Cellar In Garage Floor

A storm cellar in the garage floor is an excellent way to add safety, security, and peace of mind to your home. Here's everything you need to know about storm cellars in garage floors, including what they are, how they are built, and the benefits they offer.

What is a Storm Cellar?

A storm cellar is a small, underground room that is used for protection during severe weather events such as tornadoes. Storm cellars are typically built below ground level and are accessed by a hatch or door. They are often reinforced with concrete walls and ceilings.

Benefits of a Storm Cellar in the Garage Floor

There are several benefits to having a storm cellar in your garage floor, including:

Safety: Storm cellars provide a safe place to shelter during severe weather events. They are designed to withstand high winds, debris, and even earthquakes.
Security: Storm cellars can also be used for security purposes. They can be locked from the inside, making them a secure place to store valuables or firearms.
Peace of mind: Knowing that you have a safe place to go in the event of a storm can provide peace of mind.

How to Build a Storm Cellar in Your Garage Floor

Building a storm cellar in your garage floor is a complex project that requires professional help. The following steps will provide a general overview of the process:

Excavation: The first step is to excavate the area where the storm cellar will be located. The excavation should be deep enough to accommodate the height of the storm cellar plus a few inches for drainage.
Foundation: Once the excavation is complete, a foundation must be poured. The foundation should be made of concrete and should be reinforced with rebar.
Walls: The next step is to build the walls of the storm cellar. The walls can be made of concrete blocks, cinder blocks, or poured concrete.
Roof: The roof of the storm cellar should be made of concrete or steel. The roof should be sloped to allow water to drain away.
Entrance: The entrance to the storm cellar should be made of a sturdy material such as steel or concrete. The entrance should be located in a convenient location in the garage.
Ventilation: It is important to provide ventilation for the storm cellar. Ventilation can be provided by installing a fan or by using a passive ventilation system.
Lighting: The storm cellar should be equipped with lighting. Emergency lighting is a good option in the event of a power outage.
Supplies: The storm cellar should be stocked with emergency supplies such as food, water, first aid kits, and a battery-powered radio.