In recent years, more and more people have been looking for creative ways to turn everyday items into functional objects. One item that has been gaining a lot of attention is the shipping container – and it’s no wonder why. Not only are they incredibly durable, but they can also be transformed into practically anything!
One idea that’s becoming increasingly popular is converting shipping containers into storm shelters. A storm or tornado shelter is designed to protect you from strong winds and flying debris if a powerful storm or tornado occurs. But before you start buying supplies to convert your storage container into an underground storm shelter, there are some things you should keep in mind:
1. Structural Integrity - Can it withstand strong winds and other natural disasters?
Before you start converting your shipping container into an emergency shelter, it’s essential to ensure that the structural integrity of the container is up to standard. It should be made of heavy-duty corten steel with thick walls and doors that are securely fastened in place with bolts or welds. Additionally, check for any corrosion or rusting on the interior or exterior too – if the container isn’t structurally sound, then it won’t provide adequate protection during high winds and strong storms.
2. Properly Reinforce The Container - Strengthen Your Container for Better Protection
Once you’ve confirmed that your container meets all safety requirements, you can begin reinforcing it for extra protection against extreme weather conditions. This involves adding additional strips of steel alloys along each joint and corner as well as installing a steel roof overtop of the entire container. Bolting these reinforcements together will help to keep everything secure during strong winds or even earthquakes.
3. Location - Make Sure to Place Your Shipping Container Storm Shelter Nearby
Choosing the right location for a shipping container storm shelter is important. It is advisable to select one that is as close as possible to your home or business. This will allow you to quickly access the shelter in the event of an emergency. Additionally, remember to check local building codes to ensure that your shelter meets any necessary regulations for safe installation.
4. Insulation & Safety Features - Securing Shelter Against Heat and Potential Water Damage
Adding insulation to your shelter is essential to prevent excessive heat buildup. Additionally, waterproof membranes installed around the base can help create an airtight seal while providing extra insulation.
Safety features such as window shutters, locks, and carbon monoxide detectors can also bring your shelter up to code and give you peace of mind in emergencies. This further ensures that the people inside are safe and secure.
5. Add Essential Supplies
When stocking an emergency storm shelter, it is essential to include the right supplies. This should include items such as:
- Non-perishable food
- Extra blankets and clothing
- A first-aid kit
- Flashlights and batteries
- Water bottles
- A radio with extra batteries
- Whistles or other means of signaling help if necessary
It is always a good idea to stock up on items that could be used in the event of an emergency. Taking the time to prepare ahead of time means that you won’t have to rush around at the last minute if an emergency arises. This will give you peace of mind and make it easier to manage the situation.
Transforming a Cargo Container Into a Storm Shelter is Easier Than Expected
Turning a shipping container into an underground shelter may seem like a hard task at first. However, with the right materials and tools, it can be quite easy to do.
Conclusion
In conclusion, transforming a shipping container into a storm shelter offers a low-cost and secure option for protection during extreme weather events. By ensuring structural integrity, reinforcing the container, selecting a suitable location, adding insulation and safety features, and stocking essential supplies, you can create a functional and reliable shelter. With proper preparation and adherence to safety measures, converting a cargo container into a storm shelter is a feasible and practical solution to enhance emergency preparedness.
Stay Prepared for Emergencies with a Steel Shipping Container from On-Site Storage Solutions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, shipping containers can be transformed into robust storm shelters with careful modifications and thorough preparation. By reinforcing the structure and implementing necessary adjustments, these containers offer a reliable and secure refuge during intense weather events like tornadoes or hurricanes.
The frame of a shipping container can withstand the impact of winds produced by weak or moderate-strength tornadoes. However, the windows and doors may be more vulnerable. Shipping container storm shelters can endure tornadoes if properly secured and reinforced.
It’s possible to bury a shipping container and use it as a storm shelter but generally not recommended without professional modification. Shipping containers are designed to bear weight on their corners and not on their roofs or sides.
Shipping containers can be anchored securely by bolting ground plates into a concrete foundation and aligning the corners with twist locks. Alternatively, concrete footings at each corner or heavy gauge steel chains wrapped through anchor points can be used, especially in storm-prone or windy regions, ensuring stability and safety.
To attach a shipping container to a foundation, bolt ground plates into a concrete base, aligning corners with twist locks or using concrete footings. Securely anchor it with heavy gauge steel chains through anchor points for stability, especially in storm-prone areas.
