I’m claustrophobic and concerned about being able to get fresh air and being able to breathe while inside a Tornado Alley Armor above ground storm shelter. Where are the vents and how does that work?

We have two methods of ventilation in our tornado shelters. The first is primarily ornamental, for folks who want to see something that looks like ventilation. It’s a grid punched in the lower portion of the door, covered by a protective shield bolted to the door. It provides enough air supply for 3-4 occupants. The real ventilation is a ¼” “S”-path gap around the entire door perimeter. The door frame has a flange that protrudes out, and the door had a flange that faces inward. The door overlaps the frame when closed, creating a ¼” path where air can flow freely around the path but debris can’t. It also creates a soothing glow of outside light around the door perimeter when you’re latched securely inside. That winding path is referred to as a “torturous path”, and the gap provides enough ventilation for 20 additional people indefinitely, so no one has to take turns breathing.    😉

For our larger units, we simply add a second door or perforated and shielded wall panels. Give us a call if you have any questions. We’d love to hear from you!

www.tornadoalleyarmor.com                                  918-518-1551