Among the most destructive forces on the planet, tornados have been responsible for an average of 62 deaths annually in the United States during recent years. 2011 proved to be the deadliest year for tornados since 1953, when 519 people were killed (according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and 2012 is already shaping up to be just as active.
U.S. residents in 26 states live in High Risk Wind Zones, with tornados and hurricanes producing winds in excess of 200 miles per hour.
Above-Ground protective structure storm shelters constructed with ArmorCore® panels can provide critical protection from the primary danger of tornados: debris picked up by strong winds with enough force to perforate even masonry walls.
ArmorCore® fiberglass panels offer unique benefits over traditional construction materials used for storm rooms and storm shelters:
- Tested to resist storm projectiles at category 5 (EF-5) force
- Fire resistant
- Installation can be completed using basic tools
- Easily integrated into construction – within doors and behind drywall or millwork
- Ideal for both new construction and retrofit/remodeling
Tested by National Experts
Test results of ArmorCore® Level 3 panels by the Wind Engineering Research Center at Texas Tech University indicated that the fiberglass panels can withstand a 15 lb. 2×4 wood board cannon fired at 100 miles per hour – a force consistent with a “large missile” typical of an EF-5 tornado.
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