FAQS
Here are just a few questions that are frequently asked by our customers. Feel free to contact us if you have any other questions about our safe rooms.
How large should my safe room be?
The size of your safe room depends on the number of occupants. According to FEMA 453 guidelines, a minimum of 5 square feet per person is recommended for standing room and 6 square feet for seated space. If you require additional room for emergency supplies, pets, or other needs, we can provide a customized solution through a consultation.
Where should the safe room be installed?
Safe rooms should always be installed indoors to ensure maximum protection during storms, quick access, and protection from the elements. Popular installation locations include garages, large walk-in closets, and, our personal favorite, under the stairs—one of the safest areas in most homes.
Why choose an above ground safe room?
Underground shelters come with risks such as flooding, poor ventilation, and debris blocking the exit, potentially trapping occupants inside. They were once the standard for storm protection simply because no other options existed. However, research and real-world events have shown that above-ground safe rooms can be even safer in some instances. They also provide additional benefits, such as secure storage for emergency supplies and firearms, as well as quick access during home invasions or burglaries—features that underground shelters cannot easily offer. Our goal is to provide a secure, multifunctional solution for every member of your family.
What prevents the safe room from blowing away?
Each room is bolted down to your concrete slab by Installing Simpson Strong-Tie Wedge-All anchors around the perimeter of the safe room. This ensures the safe room stays in place even if the rest of the house is torn away during a tornado.
Have your safe rooms been tested?
Patriot Safe Rooms are designed to withstand intense tornadoes and keep your family safe . Our safe rooms have been tested at Intertek-ATI and Science Institute to exceed FEMA 320/361 standards as well as ICC 500 building code requirements.
​Should my door swing outward or inward?
At Patriot Safe Rooms, ALL of our doors are designed to open inward for safety. In the event of a tornado or other disaster, debris can pile up outside, potentially blocking an outward-opening door and trapping occupants inside until help arrives. By opening inward, our doors ensure you can always exit safely. Additionally, they are engineered to be larger than the outside frame, preventing them from being pulled open by extreme winds.
Will I be able to breath?
Patriot Safe Rooms exceed FEMA ventilation requirements with a top and bottom vented door design. This ensures continuous airflow while maintaining security which keeps occupants safe and comfortable during use.
