Installation

Our installation procedures are quite different than any other shelter company in the market today.  In our installation, we include 5000-7000 lbs of concrete, depending on water table and site, with auger anchors in four places.  We then strap across the top of the unit for added safety and prevention of shifting, lifting and destabilization due to ground pressure and water table.  When backfilling the shelter, we compact (by hand) the backfill at 1 Foot intervals, leaving minimal settling. 

Our installation procedures are stringent, but the end result is worth the extra time and money we put into each customer’s site while remaining competitive in the Southeastern storm shelter market.  Our shelters, installed by us, can resist water tables as high as 2’ from the lip of the unit and not “float”.
Our reputation for the highest quality both in product and the installation of our units is unrivaled in the industry and we look forward to proving that to you!”

Things to consider when pre-planning and determining the location of your shelter.

1. Consider locations of underground wires, utilities, and piping. Make sure you find an area free of any obstructions. Check with local contractors on water table levels.

2. Consider quick and easy access from your home as you select a site
(Approximately 11 ft. X 10 ft.)

3. Make additional plans to arrange for concrete delivery at time of installation, or you may use prefabricated concrete blocks.

Installation Steps

	1.	Dig a hole 11ft. long, 10ft. wide, and 5 1/2 ft. deep. < Make sure that you use a qualified and experienced contractor for the installation.
	2.	Insert three steel pipes into the prefabricated slots on the bottom of the shelter. Make sure the shelter is level before pouring concrete over steel pipes or secure with concrete blocks distributed evenly over the pipes. < Preparing for anchoring with steel tubing
	3.	Make sure the shelter is level then backfill with clean fill dirt taking care to pack around the shelter. < Prefab cement anchoring blocks are placed on top of steel tubing.
	4.	Complete the backfilling, hand filling top soil for the last 4 - 6 inches to cover the top of the shelter completely. Make sure that water drains away from the door opening area.  < Back fill around shelter making sure to use top soil on the last 4" to 6".
	5.	Allow backfill to settle several days. Add any additional soil prior to landscaping and sodding. < Be sure water drains away from door opening.
	6.	Final landscaping can be done after soil has settled. You may choose to sod with grass or use pine bark with shrubs for decoration. Your "THE REFUGE" is now ready for use.

Once installation is complete - No longer live in fear or worry of the next storm season. You have made a purchase of peace of mind. Your "THE REFUGE" will now provide a place of safety and protection to your family for a lifetime.