Above-Ground vs. Below-Ground: Which Is the Best Storm Shelter?

Tornadoes can strike anywhere in the U.S. One of the best ways to prepare for them, as well as other dangerous storms, is to install a storm shelter. The best storm shelter is one that fits your budget, works with your home, and provides adequate protection. 

You typically have two options when choosing a storm shelter: above-ground and below-ground shelters. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks. This guide will walk you through the differences and help you choose the best shelter for your needs.

Difference Between Above-Ground and Below-Ground Storm Shelters

Regardless of which option you choose, both above- and below-ground shelters offer protection against tornadoes, hurricanes, and other types of extreme weather. But there are some characteristics to keep in mind when deciding between an above- or below-ground shelter. 

Above-Ground Storm Shelters

As the name suggests, above-ground storm shelters are built above ground. You can install one of these structures in a room in your house, the garage, a closet, or even under your bed in a Vortex Vault shelter bed. Above-ground shelters are easily-accessible because they’re located in the home, making them ideal for houses where underground shelters aren’t an option. 

Though some outdated shelters might not be as secure as below-ground shelters, professionally installed, above-ground storm shelters can be as strong as their below-ground competitors. 

Below-Ground Storm Shelters

For homes that can accommodate an in-ground shelter, you can save on space with a storm shelter that’s underground. These shelters are extremely durable and typically reinforced with steel or concrete for added security, making them ideal for places with the most extreme weather conditions. However, some dangers come with below-ground shelters, such as flooding, cave-ins, or even entry point obstruction.

Above-Ground Storm Shelter Pros and Cons

Above-ground storm shelters generally cost less than below-ground shelters, but each structure is different. Here are the pros and cons of above-ground storm shelters.

Pros

There are several advantages to choosing an above-ground shelter for your home. These include:

• Typically more affordable

• More flexible location sites

• Easy to enter when storms hit

• Unlikely to flood without you knowing

• Accessible for people with disabilities or mobility issues

• Protects you from home invasions

• Adds value to your home

Cons

But there are some cons to consider about an above-ground shelter.

• Takes up space in your home

• May not be large enough to accommodate your entire family

• Less flexibility for the shelter’s size

• Doesn’t hold up as well to extreme winds

Below-Ground Storm Shelter Pros and Cons

Below-ground storm shelters tend to offer the most protection against powerful storms. Here’s a look at a few more of their advantages, as well as their drawbacks.

Pros

As you research your options, you’ll also want to consider the advantages of a below-ground shelter. 

• Strongest structures for high-risk areas

• Ideal for homes with less indoor square footage

• Flexible in size to accommodate more people

• May include basement or in-ground garage space

• Adds home value

Cons

There are many potential cons to an in-ground shelter worth keeping in mind. 

• Tend to cost more than above-ground structures

• Not ideal for locations with a low water table

• Less accessibility

• More likely to leak and flood

• Can be obstructed, trapping you inside

• Might be geographically hard to install

• May be hard for people with mobility issues to access

• Can be dangerous to access during an active storm

Which Storm Shelter Is the Best for Tornadoes?

The best storm shelter is one that is easily accessible, well-built, equipped with inward-opening doors, budget-friendly, and spacious enough to accommodate your entire household. For some homeowners, this may be an in-ground storm shelter, while for others, an above-ground shelter is best. 

Overall, an above-ground storm shelter built by a professional storm shelter builder near you is the safest option. Though above-ground shelters were once considered less strong, well-built ones will withstand extreme weather conditions while providing you and your family with fewer flood and obstruction risks.

Cost Differences Between Above-Ground and Below-Ground Storm Shelters

Another factor to consider is the cost to install a storm shelter. The national average cost for a storm shelter is around $6,300, but some shelters cost as little as $2,600 or as much as $10,200 to install. The cost depends on the size of your shelter, though the type of shelter also plays a role in how much the project will cost. 

Since below-ground storm shelters typically require excavation and grading, you might need to hire a local excavation company and pay an additional $1,500 to $5,500 to install a below-ground shelter.

FEMA Safe Room Funding

Prices alone may have you searching for ways to save on the cost of your storm shelter. Thankfully, both above- and below-ground storm shelters may qualify for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding. You might be able to save up to 75% on the cost of your shelter depending on your state’s requirements, so contact your State Hazard Mitigation Officer to ensure your project is eligible for funding.

Allie Ogletree contributed to this piece.