Shelter Types

In-Ground Storm Shelter

Also known as: in-floor shelter, flush-mount shelter, recessed shelter

In-ground vs yard-buried underground

Both sit below grade, but an in-ground garage shelter requires only a saw cut and excavation of 6 to 8 cubic yards of dirt. A yard-buried shelter needs full excavation, drainage tile, and a weatherproof entry hood. The cost gap is typically $1,500 to $4,000.

Drainage matters

Garage in-grounds rarely take standing water because the slab sheds it. Yard burials almost always need a sump pump and gravel pit at the floor.