Indianapolis Tornado and Storm Shelters

In the heartland of America, Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, exudes a unique blend of charm and vibrancy. Known for its fervor for sports, the Indy 500, and its thriving cultural districts, Indianapolis is a bustling city that also bears the climatic hallmarks of its Midwestern location. Tornadoes are part of this weather tapestry, and their occurrences have shaped the city's disaster management strategies, community response, and structural resilience.

A Few Facts About Tornadoes in Indianapolis:

• A pivotal moment in Indianapolis's history with tornadoes happened on September 20, 2002, when an F3 tornado tore through the city. The storm caused substantial damage to the southeast part of the city, but the robust early warning system and effective disaster response minimized the loss of life.

• Indianapolis is not a stranger to tornado activity, averaging 1 to 2 tornadoes per year. These tornadoes range in intensity, with a majority being EF0 to EF2, but more potent storms can occur, emphasizing the need for preparedness and respect for these powerful forces of nature.

• One of the most memorable tornado events to impact the broader Indianapolis area was the Super Outbreak of April 3-4, 1974. While Indianapolis was spared a direct hit, several violent tornadoes, including multiple F5 tornadoes, occurred in Indiana, leading to significant loss of life and damage. This event significantly influenced the city's approach to tornado preparedness and public safety measures.

Delivery and Installation Options for Above-Ground and Below-Ground Tornado Shelters in Indianapolis

Tornadoes are devastating and unpredictable natural disasters that can cause extensive damage to homes and properties. One of the best ways to stay safe during a tornado is to have a tornado shelter. Tornado shelters come in different types, with above-ground and below-ground tornado shelters being the most common.

We offer delivery and installation in various regions of the U.S. but if you prefer to conduct the installation yourself or our outside our installation area, here are some of the steps you will need to take.

For above-ground shelters, it's important to note that the concrete slab is not included in the package.

As for below-ground shelters, they are delivered on a standard truck with a flatbed.

Above-Ground Tornado Shelter Installation for Indianapolis

1. Finding a Local Contractor for Installation
   Search for local contractors in your area, who will need to be hired to pour the slab. Look for contractors with high-rating reviews.
2. Selecting Contractors
   Find a couple of companies in the search results to inquire about installation.
3. Calling a Contractor for Installation
   Call a contractor and ask them for a quote on installing an above-ground tornado shelter.

   The installation process can be performed by anyone who is competent in drilling (concrete company, concrete installer, contractor) into concrete can install. We have a built-in template in all of our shelters that shows exactly where to predrill and sink wedge bolts. All hardware and instructions are shipped with the shelter. We will even speak with any general contractor to make sure they understand what the job requires.

   The concrete slab should be at least 4" thick with a minimum psi of 3000. No wire mesh is required, but the pad size should be a minimum of 14' x 12' for a 4" thick slab, or 12' x 10' for a 6" thick slab.

   You can download the installation instructions for the tornado shelter: TwisterPod, Extreme, Panelized.

4. Preparing for Installation
   Survive-A-Storm will have a third-party shipper deliver the shelter to your location and offload it at the end of your driveway. Your installation time can depend on a few factors that include, temperature and humidity that can affect the cure time for the concrete. Pouring the concrete for above ground shelter installation is your responsibility and should be allowed to cure for two weeks. Installation time after the concrete is poured should be less than four hours.

   Rent equipment like pallet jacks, forklifts, or small tractors with forks to maneuver the shelter to your desired location. If you can arrange for an installation to be done on the same day, your contractor may be able to move the shelter for you.