FAQs Page
Shelter FAQs for North AL Homeowners
Choosing a storm shelter is an important decision, especially in North Alabama where severe weather is a real concern. This FAQ page answers the most common questions homeowners ask about SteelSafe Shelters, including safety standards, shelter options, installation, service areas, and long-term reliability. All information is based on real installation experience and nationally recognized storm protection guidelines.
What areas does SteelSafe Shelters serve?
SteelSafe Shelters serves homeowners across North Alabama, including Athens, Huntsville, Madison, Decatur, and surrounding communities within approximately 60 miles of Athens, Alabama. Service availability is confirmed during the consultation process to ensure proper installation conditions.
Are SteelSafe storm shelters FEMA and ICC-500 compliant?
SteelSafe storm shelters are engineered to meet FEMA 320 / FEMA 361 and ICC-500 guidelines, which define performance standards for residential storm protection. These standards address wind resistance, debris impact, anchoring, and occupant safety.
What types of storm shelters does SteelSafe offer?
SteelSafe manufactures and installs several storm shelter options, including in-garage shelters, above-ground safe rooms, below-ground shelters, and safety closets for new construction. Each type is designed for specific placement, accessibility, and household needs.
What is the difference between above-ground and below-ground shelters?
Above-ground shelters are installed inside the home or garage and provide quick access during severe weather. Below-ground shelters are installed underground, typically outside or in garages, and provide below-grade protection. Both options offer effective protection when properly engineered and installed.
Can storm shelters be installed in existing homes?
Yes. Many SteelSafe shelters are installed in existing homes, including retrofits for garages and exterior installations. Site conditions such as slab thickness, access, and soil type are reviewed before installation.
How long does installation usually take?
Most residential storm shelter installations are completed in one day, depending on the shelter type and site conditions. More complex installations or new construction projects may require additional time.
Does SteelSafe manufacture its own storm shelters?
Yes. SteelSafe designs and fabricates its shelters using high-strength steel, allowing for consistent quality control and engineering oversight throughout the manufacturing process.
How are SteelSafe storm shelters anchored?
Storm shelters are anchored using engineered anchoring systems designed for concrete slabs or foundations. Proper anchoring is critical to shelter performance and is addressed during installation planning.
Do storm shelters require regular maintenance?
SteelSafe storm shelters require minimal maintenance. Homeowners are encouraged to periodically check door hardware, ventilation openings, and interior condition to ensure readiness.
Will installing a storm shelter increase my home’s value?
While resale value varies by market, storm shelters are widely viewed as a valuable safety feature in tornado-prone areas like North Alabama. Many homeowners appreciate the added protection and peace of mind.
Are SteelSafe storm shelters customizable?
Yes. SteelSafe offers custom sizing and configuration options based on available space, occupancy needs, and installation type. Customization is discussed during the consultation process.
How many people can fit inside a storm shelter?
Shelter capacity depends on the model and size selected. SteelSafe shelters are designed in accordance with occupant space guidelines to ensure safe use during severe weather events.
Are storm shelters safe for children, seniors, and pets?
Yes. SteelSafe shelters are designed to be structurally secure and accessible for families, elderly individuals, and pets, when used according to guidelines.
What happens during a storm shelter consultation?
A consultation includes reviewing property conditions, discussing shelter options, answering safety questions, and determining installation feasibility. This helps ensure the recommended shelter is appropriate for your home and location.
Does SteelSafe work with builders and new construction projects?
Yes. SteelSafe works with builders and contractors to integrate storm shelters into new residential construction, including safety closets and custom installations.
How do I get started with SteelSafe Shelters?
Homeowners can begin by requesting an estimate or consultation through the website or by phone. A member of the SteelSafe team will review your information and explain next steps.
Why choose SteelSafe Shelters?
SteelSafe combines engineered design, in-house manufacturing, professional installation, and regional experience. The focus is on long-term safety and proper installation—not shortcuts.
Are SteelSafe shelters designed for North Alabama conditions?
Yes. Shelter designs and installation methods account for local weather risks, soil conditions, and building practices common in North Alabama.
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Overview: SteelSafe Shelters
*No concrete is included for new construction installation. It is suggested, not required, that the client order out 1 yard of concrete to keep shelter in place until slab is poured.
Order, Delivery, and Shelter Installation Process
- As the client, you will go to your nearest Lowe's store and order your shelter. You will pay Lowe's for the shelter only, plus applicable sales tax.
- Next comes the delivery and install. Your shelter will be delivered directly to the store in which it was ordered from, typically within 10 business days. It is your choice on how you wish to handle the install process of your shelter. You can install the shelter yourself or arrange for a local contractor in your area to install it. In either case, the factory will provide you a full color install manual, complete with pictures and instructions, upon your request. Should you be in a market that has an installer currently in place, the factory can assist you with arranging the install. To find out if your area is currently serviced by an installer already in place, go to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . In the subject line type “install inquiry”. Be sure to include your city and state, along with the style/model of the shelter to be installed. If your area is serviced by an installer, the information will be passed along to you, along with install costs. Regardless if you install the shelter, if you arrange the install with a local contractor, or if the factory assists with the install, Lowe's does not assist with installs in any way. Any install agreement is between you (the client) and the installer and the factory can provide a contract to be utilized between you and the installer upon your request. You will pay the installer directly for the install, once it is completed.
- Once the install is arranged, and the install date is confirmed, you will contact the Lowe's store where the shelter was purchased and schedule the shelter to be delivered to the install site, prior to the install date.
- Once your local Lowe's store has delivered the shelter, the installer can typically complete the install in a single day. At completion of the install you then pay the installer for the install, which is a contract price agreed upon prior to the install date. When the install is complete and the concrete has had 24 hours to cure, you have the peace of mind knowing that you and your family will be safe during the next severe weather outbreak.
For general questions or to ask about a factory certified installer in your area or specific lead times, please email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or use the form below.
Meet Our Team at SteelSafe Shelters
Chris P. Wood
Chris is the owner and President of Steelsafe Shelters and is the fire under the company’s hind end! Chris is 100 mph most of the time and all with one goal in mind: to make Steelsafe better in some way. Chris gives 150% of his time and energy into growing the company effectively and making sure we remain the best in the industry along the way. Chris sets the standard for customer service, always seeing to it the customer understands every step of the process and is extremely satisfied at the completion of their shelter install. He built the company from an idea on a napkin in 2010 to the #1 shelter provider to homebuilders in the Southeast, the shelter provider with an A+ rating with the BBB, and the company who still always makes sure the customer is happy, above all else. Chris started the company all on his own, with very little savings, and learned hard life lessons along the way, all to which he can attribute his desire and motivation to be the best storm shelter company in the U.S. Chris started with one shelter model and saved every dime earned to expand his line to 9 models! He began driving 3 hours a day to Huntsville to attempt a meeting with any builder who would listen for 5 minutes. He put the time and the hard work in, and it paid off! To this day, Chris continues to personally handle the accounts of the local homebuilders who took a chance on him when he just started getting his feet wet years ago. He means business to his core, but he isn’t fooling anyone when he says “he hasn’t golfed in a while...”Yeah, ok, Chris...
Brittney L. Neely
Brittney is the company Vice President and manages operations as well as corporate accounts. She is involved in everything from day-to-day operations, to individual and builder sales. She coordinates the schedule for our local install crew and manages all purchase orders. She has been with the company since 2014 and plays a key role in handling our large corporate accounts. Brittney is a GIRL BOSS and gets the job done! She understands the importance of great customer service and works closely with most every customer from the beginning prospect stages until complete installation of their shelter to ensure they are satisfied and want to refer us to their friends, neighbors, and family. She also understands the urgency of the construction industry and puts her builder clients first! Brittney works first hand with our homebuilders and dealers and understands the needs of each builder and their requests. Don’t let the blonde hair fool you, this lady has a degree from UAH, and makes it a point to understand the construction industry lingo, standards, and expectations. We are always striving to be better here at Steelsafe, and Brittney is our biggest cheerleader, always remaining positive when faced with challenges, and always encouraging the team to keep up the good work! Three Words: You. Go. Girl.Phillip Dooley
Phillip is our Vice President of Sales over the South Region, and if anyone can rise to a challenge, it’s Phillip. With his service to our great country in the United States Air Force as an Armament Systems Specialist on F-15 fighter jets, and as a Desert Storm Veteran, any word other than LOYAL just wouldn’t be good enough. From the beginning of his time with Steelsafe Shelters, Phillip has led his region in sales and continues to expand our company nationally, setting up new accounts several times a week. Having a background in Building Material Sales over the past 22 years allows Phillip an advantage as he works diligently with new clients to assist in the setup and management of new accounts across the Southern Region. He and his beautiful wife have been married for over 23 years and have two lovely daughters together. As if he wasn’t a force to be reckoned with already, Phillip also builds handmade acoustic guitars in his spare time and is an accomplished musician!SteelSafe Company History
