Why Concrete Masonry Storm Shelters?

Tornado Protection

• 2015 IBC requires tornado storm shelters for all new Metro     St. Louis K-12 schools with more than 50 students
• Shelters must be designed per the 2014 ICC 500
• Concrete masonry storm shelters provide:

          –  High vertical load strength
          –  Wind reinforcement resiliency
          –  Strong roof, wall and foundation connections
          –  Code compliant debris impact resistance

Economy and Endurance

• Concrete masonry walls provide the lowest first-cost and life-cycle maintenance costs
• Concrete masonry walls are energy smart, provide long term durability, and naturally resist fire, moisture, and sound
• Loadbearing reinforced concrete masonry walls provide cost-effective storm shelter upgrading over normal construction loading

Industry Support

• Free design assistance, current market pricing and education available through the

                                                                          Masonry Structural Coalition

• National Concrete Masonry Association  storm shelter case study  downloads

                        Case Study (1 MB)    Commentary (0.1 MB)    Drawings  (9 MB)

For additional  information please use the Contact Us page