When you live in Oklahoma, you get used to watching the skies. But when those skies turn dark and warnings roll in, the one thing that matters most is knowing you have a safe place to go. That’s why tornado shelter testing isn’t just a technical detail—it’s a life-saving science.
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we’re committed to offering shelters that go beyond basic requirements. In this post, we’re breaking down how tornado shelters are tested, why it matters, and how our shelters exceed FEMA standards to keep Oklahoma families safe.
🧱 Why Tornado Shelter Testing Matters
Tornado shelters are designed to protect you from extreme winds, flying debris, and structural collapse. But not all shelters are created equal. Without proper testing, even a shelter that looks sturdy might fail under pressure.
That’s why storm shelter testing exists—to ensure shelters live up to the task. Testing identifies structural weaknesses, helps manufacturers make improvements, and gives families peace of mind knowing their shelter can perform when it counts most.
🎓 Tested to the Limit at Texas Tech University
One of the most respected tornado shelter testing sites in the country is the National Wind Institute at Texas Tech University. Their team has developed a testing process that simulates the effects of an EF5 tornado, including:
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💨 Winds up to 250 mph
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🚪 Impact testing using 2×4 wooden missiles
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🧪 Repeated pressure simulations on shelter doors and walls
The video below shows this process in action—and it’s intense. Doors that don’t hold up under these tests don’t make the cut.
📺 Watch the video:
🏗️ What Sets Our Tornado Shelters Apart
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we only install precast concrete tornado shelters that meet or exceed FEMA 320 and ICC-500 guidelines. But we don’t stop there.
Here’s what makes our shelters stand out:
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Engineered Strength: Doors and hardware are tested to withstand up to 250 mph winds
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Heavy-Duty Materials: Reinforced concrete and powder-coated steel built to last
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Expert Craftsmanship: Manufactured by professionals who specialize in storm-resistant structures
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Proven Performance: We’ve helped thousands of Oklahomans install shelters that hold up to the worst Mother Nature can throw at us
Whether you’re interested in above ground storm shelters or below ground storm shelters, we have options for every family size and every yard.
🧰 Testing Isn’t Just for Structures—It’s for People, Too
While shelter testing often focuses on materials and impact resistance, there’s another important piece: people.
Knowing how to use your shelter properly during an emergency is just as critical as having one. That’s why we encourage:
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✅ Practicing shelter drills with your family
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✅ Keeping your shelter stocked with emergency supplies
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✅ Making sure your shelter entrance stays clear and accessible
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✅ Registering your shelter with your local emergency management office (here’s how)
💬 Final Thoughts: Tornado Safety is a Science and a Strategy
Tornado shelter testing is one of the many behind-the-scenes ways we help protect Oklahoma families. From rigorous impact testing at Texas Tech to careful engineering by our manufacturers, your safety is always front and center.
Don’t wait for a warning siren to start thinking about shelter. Be proactive. Invest in a shelter that’s been tested, trusted, and proven to protect.
📞 Contact us today to explore your options or schedule an installation.
🛡️ Explore storm shelters: See Our Above Ground & Below Ground Options
📸 View past installations: Check Out Our Gallery
