Dome Technology is fielding more requests than ever for information on storm shelters and how to acquire FEMA funding for these projects.
According to Dome Technology sales manager Daren Wheeler, increased interest has a lot to do with education. “People are being educated that these products are out there and have the potential to save lives and property,” he said. Wheeler sits on the National Storm Shelter Association board and said their group is experiencing a similar uptick in engagement with potential customers.
Today more businesses, schools, and government agencies are partnering with Dome Technology to construct storm shelters, and it’s no surprise why: Domes are stronger, more versatile, and more cost effective than conventional structures. Dome Technology’s steel-reinforced concrete dome is weatherproof, natural-disaster proof, and climate controlled, meeting or exceeding FEMA 361 and ICC-500 standards. Windborne debris, projectiles, and 250-mph wind speeds are no match for a dome engineered to combat weather events.
Because Dome Technology storm shelters cost less to build and operate—the concrete shell mitigates temperature changes inside—city and school officials who value wise spending and investment are selecting Dome Technology to build storm shelters ranging in size from 3,000 to 80,000 square feet. The free-spanning interior makes every square foot accessible. Many clients opt to finish the inside as a gymnasium or event center.
Here are a few more key benefits of building a storm shelter with Dome Technology:
• Meets FEMA 361 criteria and ICC 500 specifications
• Tested for missile impact (FEMA 32 and ICC 500, Protocol 4, Tornado)
• Built with all-weather, type-1 (fire-resistant) construction
• Meets IBC seismic criteria
• Designed according to Nuclear Regulatory Commission guidelines for withstanding 482+
kph (300+ mph) winds (ASCE Paper 3269 and ASCE 7-10 codes)
During the past few years Dome Technology has built dozens of storm shelters in the United States’ tornado alley and in areas prone to hurricane. For more information on a few of these projects, click the links below.
Lumberton Performing Arts Center