Which Tornado Shelter Is Best for Your Tennessee Home? Above-Ground or In-Ground?
- Xena Carr
- Nov 26
- 3 min read
If you have been Googling tornado shelters you have probably realized there are two main types: In Ground and Above Ground. And if you are like most homeowners in Tennessee the big question is: “Which one is best for my house and my family”.
The good news: you cannot go wrong. There are just different benefits depending on your lifestyle and home layout. Let’s break it down calmly without the overwhelm and without fear-tactics!
First Things First – Both Are FEMA Rated and Built to Protect You
Before we get into the differences, you need to know this upfront:
✔ Both above ground and in ground shelters are engineered to protect from flying debris
✔ Both are anchored to stay in place even in extreme winds
✔ Both give you a real safe space during tornado warnings
So if you are worried that one is “weaker” take a deep breath…you are already choosing safety!
In Ground Tornado Shelters (Garage Install)
Best Fit For:
Homeowners with garages with little floor room or those who want the shelter hidden from view.
Why People Love Them
Walk in from inside: You do not have to go outside during storms which is a huge deal when it is pouring sideways.
Low visibility: Installed below the garage floor so your neighbors will not even know it is there.
Superior impact protection: The earth and concrete around it help absorb debris forces and sound.
Saves yard space: No structure above ground to work around.
Considerations
You must be able to step down a few stairs
Not as accessible for mobility concerns
If you want the strongest protection + zero outdoor exposure this is a top pick.
Above Ground Safe Rooms (Garage or Outdoor Install)
Best Fit For: -Handicapped accessibility.
-Anyone who needs easy walking access. -People who are scared of being underground.
Why People Love Them
Mobility friendly: No stairs. Kids and grandparents can get inside fast and safely.
Indoor or outdoor installation: Inside the home or on a concrete pad outside.
Great for pets: Because wrangling the dog during a tornado warning is a whole separate emergency
Visible access point: Sometimes that reassurance in plain sight helps ease anxiety.
Considerations
Takes up visible space
Needs to be anchored to an existing slab or pad
If accessibility and ease are the priority this is your girl!
Which Option Is Best for Tennessee Weather
Here in Middle Tennessee storms pop up FAST and often without a lot of warning. So the number one factor to consider is: How quickly can your family get into the shelter?
Garage installs are extremely popular in Clarksville because they check all the boxes:
Weather protection
Super fast entry
No running outside in the dark
Fits most typical local home layouts
But if your home is slab-only or you do not want digging, above ground may be the better solution. There is no wrong choice. Only the right choice for your family.
Cost Comparison
Pricing depends on size and style but here is a general idea:
Our in ground garage installs start at $6,500.
Above ground units start at $7,500 if you do not need a concrete pad.
Either way most families pay monthly through financing…not all at once!
Financing Makes It Easy for Clarksville Families
We partner with Enhancify so you can:
Apply online in minutes
See your monthly payment up front
Get approved without visiting a bank
Move forward faster when storms are coming
How We Help You Choose
A quick consult solves most questions!
We look at your:
home layout
family size
mobility needs
location
And then we give you our honest expert opinion on what we think would be the best fit for you and your specific needs. You will not be stuck guessing and we will never push the “bigger one” just because! We care more about keeping your people safe and your stress levels low.
Final Recommendation – Think About Entry Not Aesthetics
The number one reason to get a shelter is obviously to keep you safe, not for looks....But if you DO care about aesthetics, you've come to the right place! We have all of the best interior decorating tips for your storm shelter to be cute AND cozy if that is important to you like it was to me.
Whether you want it:
✔ Hidden in your garage
✔ Right inside your home
✔ Easily accessible in your yard
There is a solution that fits your home your family AND your budget!
Let us know if you have any questions! We are always happy to help.
📍 Service Area
We proudly serve homeowners in:
Clarksville TN
Montgomery County
Sango
Woodlawn
Adams
Springfield
Dickson
Murfreesboro
Nashville
Cookeville
and more Middle Tennessee communities!
👉 Contact us today to see if we can service your area!
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