Fort Wayne Tornado and Storm Shelters

Des Moines, the lively capital city of Iowa, blends an eclectic mix of urban sophistication and rural charm. With its shimmering skyline reflecting off the Des Moines River, a flourishing arts scene, bustling farmer's markets, and renowned music festivals, the city embodies the spirit of the Midwest. Despite its cultural and economic vibrancy, Des Moines also grapples with the realities of its geographical location: squarely within Tornado Alley. Numerous tornadoes have made their way to the city over the years, testing its mettle, influencing its urban development, and fostering a resilient spirit among its community. These powerful storms, while disruptive, serve as a reminder of the dynamic interplay between urban growth and the might of nature.

A Few Facts About Tornadoes in Des Moines:

• On June 29, 2018, Des Moines experienced a significant tornado event. A series of tornadoes struck central Iowa, with one particularly potent EF3 tornado making a direct hit on areas within and near the city limits. The tornado caused extensive damage, reminding the city of the sheer power these natural phenomena can possess.

• Another prominent event in Des Moines' history with tornadoes took place on April 14, 1961. On this day, a powerful F4 tornado tore through the heart of the city, resulting in significant destruction and several fatalities. This tornado is remembered as one of the most destructive in the city's history.

• Most tornadoes that impact Des Moines are not high-intensity, but the city still experiences an average of 2 to 3 tornadoes per year. With the potential to do a lot of damage in a highly populated area and the potential for stronger storms, preparedness and vigilance remain vital aspects of life in Des Moines.

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

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 Des Moines

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.