When tornadoes or severe storms strike, every second counts. Having a reliable storm shelter can make all the difference—but deciding which type of shelter is right for your property can be just as important.

While underground shelters were once the standard, above-ground storm shelters have quickly become the preferred option for many homeowners and business owners. Built to meet FEMA and ICC-500 standards, they offer powerful protection—along with a host of practical advantages.

Are Above-Ground Storm Shelters Safe?

Yes—extremely. Modern above-ground storm shelters are engineered and tested to withstand winds exceeding 250 MPH, the equivalent of an EF5 tornado. They’re anchored directly into your concrete slab and built with reinforced steel and impact-rated doors.

Contrary to outdated myths, these shelters are just as safe as underground options—and often safer when you factor in ease of access and rescue.

Top Benefits of Above-Ground Storm Shelters

1. Accessible for Everyone

No stairs, no ladders—just easy, ground-level entry.
Above-ground shelters are ideal for families with small children, elderly individuals, or anyone with mobility issues. In an emergency, fast and safe access is critical.

2. Less to Install – No Excavation Needed

One of the biggest advantages? Above-ground shelters require no digging or major site prep.

That means:

• Lower installation costs
• Faster setup
• No need for heavy excavation equipment
• Minimal disruption to your home or business

If your property is built on a slab, has limited space, or simply doesn’t allow for underground installation, an above-ground option is the perfect solution.

3. Multi-Use Functionality

When it's not protecting you from storms, your shelter can serve other purposes:

• Safe room or panic room
• Gun or valuables safe
• Secure storage space

Many of our customers use their Stronghold shelter year-round for peace of mind—not just during storm season.

4. Built to Fit Your Space

Whether you want it in the garage, next to your house, or as a stand-alone structure, we can customize your above-ground storm shelter to suit your needs. Choose from a variety of sizes and finishes that match your property.

5. Easier Maintenance & Faster Rescue

Above-ground storm shelters are simple to inspect, clean, and maintain. And in the rare event of debris or structural damage, emergency responders can access them more easily than underground units.

Ideal for Homes and Businesses

Whether you're protecting your loved ones or your employees, an above-ground storm shelter offers reliable, code-compliant protection with less hassle and more flexibility. From rural properties to urban storefronts, they're a smart investment in safety.

Stronghold Safe Rooms: Nationwide Custom Shelter Solutions

At Stronghold Safe Rooms, we’re proud to be a national distributor of premium above-ground storm shelters. Every unit is custom-built, delivered to your property, and installed with care and precision.

• No excavation required = faster, more affordable installation
• Custom-built to fit your space and use-case
• Delivered to homes and businesses nationwide
• Engineered to FEMA/ICC-500 standards for tornado safety

Ready to Protect What Matters Most?

Let’s build a storm shelter that fits your life. Whether you're securing your home or business, Stronghold Safe Rooms delivers custom, above-ground storm shelters that are built to last—and built for you.

Call today for your free quote
Nationwide delivery available
Custom options. No excavation. Fast installation.

Get started now with Stronghold Safe Rooms