Quick Answer:
Our storm shelter installations typically require about 10 feet of width access, 14 feet of vertical clearance, and 20-25 feet of overhead space for crane operations. Sprague’s Backhoe can set shelters over fences in some cases, but may require fence panel removal for equipment access in Oklahoma.
Installing a storm shelter is a big step toward protecting your Oklahoma family, and ensuring proper access to your installation site is one of the most important parts of the process. We get frequent questions about space requirements, especially in neighborhoods with fences, trees, and tighter yards throughout Oklahoma City, Norman, and Moore.
Here’s exactly what you need to know before your installation day to ensure a smooth, damage-free process that meets FEMA safe room guidelines.
How Much Space Does Our Crane Equipment Need?
Our crane truck handles the heavy lifting for every installation. It delivers your storm shelter and uses precision crane operation to set it exactly where you want it.
Minimum Access Requirements for Our Equipment
- About 10 feet of width for straight-line access to the installation area
- About 14 feet of vertical clearance along the entire path, including under trees, carports, eaves, or HVAC units
- About 4-5 feet on each side for outrigger stabilization once positioned
- About 20-25 feet of overhead clearance above the truck for safe lifting and placement
We lift your shelter directly off the back of our truck, not from the side. The outriggers extend automatically to stabilize the truck during lifting, so side clearance is essential.
Important: Our crane truck setup does not support side-set installations. All shelters must be placed from the rear of our crane truck.
Can We Set Your Shelter Over a Fence?
Yes, in many situations, Sprague’s Backhoe can install your storm shelter over an existing fence without requiring panel removal. This saves Oklahoma homeowners time, effort, and potential repair costs.
Over-fence placement works when we can position our crane truck directly against your fence line and the shelter site is immediately on the other side. Our crane boom can extend over standard 6-8 foot residential fencing without difficulty.
However, our crew may still need yard access for site preparation and leveling. If your gate opening is less than about 10 feet wide, you’ll typically need to remove 1-2 fence panels to accommodate our equipment. When you work with us, all of these access requirements will be discussed during your initial phone call so you can prepare accordingly.
Tree Clearance and Overhead Obstacles
Oklahoma’s mature trees add beauty but can complicate installation. Proper clearance protects both your property and our equipment.
Our above ground storm shelter installations throughout Oklahoma require careful attention to overhead clearance for successful completion.
Why Tree Trimming Matters
- Hydraulic protection: Tree limbs can snag or damage the hydraulic lines that power our crane
- Shelter integrity: Branches can scratch your new shelter during placement, including the ventilation turbine
- Safety and efficiency: Clear access prevents delays and ensures precise placement
We require trimming branches to achieve about 14 feet of vertical clearance along access routes and about 25 feet of clearance over the installation area. This protects our equipment and prevents damage to your new shelter.
Gate Width Solutions
Many Oklahoma homes have standard gates that work for lawn equipment but aren’t wide enough for storm shelter installation equipment.
| Gate Width | Equipment Access | Solution Required |
|---|---|---|
| About 10+ feet | Full access | No modifications needed |
| About 8-9 feet | Limited access | May work for smaller equipment |
| Under 8 feet | No access | Remove 1-2 fence panels |
Most Oklahoma homeowners find that temporarily removing fence panels is straightforward. We provide advance notice so you can prepare accordingly.
Success in Tight Spaces
Sprague’s Backhoe has successfully installed storm shelters in virtually every type of Oklahoma residential setting, from spacious rural properties to compact city lots in Oklahoma City’s neighborhoods.
In our experience, we’ve completed installations in backyards with as little as 12 feet between house and fence, properties with overhead power lines (with utility coordination), and locations requiring creative access solutions throughout Moore, Norman, and Bridge Creek.
Watch Our Crane in Action
Our Priority: Damage-Free Installation
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we treat every Oklahoma home like our own. With over 20 years of experience serving central Oklahoma communities, we understand the importance of protecting your property while delivering quality storm shelter installation.
If you’re uncertain about access requirements, reach out before your scheduled installation. We can review photos of your setup and provide clear guidance on any preparations needed.
Real Installation Access Examples
See how we navigate tight spaces across Oklahoma
These photos show actual Sprague’s Backhoe installations in challenging access situations throughout central Oklahoma. From narrow gates to overhead obstacles, we find solutions that work.
See how we navigate tight spaces across Oklahoma
Real Installation
Access Examples
These photos show actual Sprague’s Backhoe installations in challenging access situations throughout central Oklahoma. From narrow gates to overhead obstacles, we find solutions that work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you charge extra for fence panel removal?
We do not provide fence panel removal services. It’s the homeowner’s responsibility to remove and reinstall fence panels as needed for equipment access. However, we don’t charge extra fees related to properties that require fence modifications.
Can you work around overhead power lines?
Yes, with proper utility coordination. Sometimes the utility company may need to temporarily disconnect lines for safe installation.
What if my yard doesn’t meet minimum requirements?
We work with challenging situations regularly and sometimes alternative locations within your property offer better access. However, if your property simply doesn’t have adequate space for our equipment, we may not be able to complete the installation. In those cases, we can suggest alternative contractors or installation methods that might work for your specific situation.
How far ahead should I trim trees or modify fencing?
Complete preparations at least one week before installation. This allows time for adjustments and ensures installation day goes smoothly.
Can weather affect access requirements?
Yes, wet conditions can make soft ground unsuitable for heavy equipment. We may reschedule during Oklahoma’s rainy seasons to prevent property damage.
Key Takeaways
Note: Access requirements can vary depending on the installer and equipment used. The dimensions listed here reflect what is needed for our crane truck setup.
- Plan ahead: Our installations typically require about 10 feet width, 14 feet vertical clearance, and 20-25 feet overhead space
- Over-fence possible: We can often set shelters over fences, but may need yard access for preparation
- Tree trimming helps: Proper clearance protects equipment and prevents damage
- Gate modifications: Openings under about 10 feet typically require temporary fence panel removal
- Solutions exist: We’ve successfully installed shelters in challenging Oklahoma locations with proper planning
Ready to protect your Oklahoma family? Our experienced team makes installation straightforward, even in challenging access situations.
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