How to Build a Root Cellar / Storm Shelter 

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If you’re looking for a natural way to store produce or create a safe haven during a storm, building a root cellar that can double as a storm shelter is a practical and rewarding project. Root cellars have been used for centuries to keep food fresh by leveraging the earth’s consistent temperature, and with some modifications, they can also serve as a secure place to shelter during severe weather. The image provided is a perfect example of a traditional root cellar design, blending seamlessly with the landscape and offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Step 1: Planning Your Root Cellar/Storm Shelter

Site Selection

• Elevation: Choose a site on slightly elevated ground to prevent water accumulation. Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding.
• Accessibility: Ensure the location is convenient and accessible year-round.
• Soil Type: Loam or sandy soils are ideal for drainage, whereas clay-heavy soil may need additional drainage solutions.

Design Considerations

• Size: Determine the size based on your storage needs. A typical root cellar might be 8×8 feet, but if you plan to use it as a storm shelter, consider additional space for people.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain humidity and temperature, especially for food storage. Include an air inlet at the bottom and an outlet at the top.
• Door: A solid, insulated door is essential. As shown in the image, the door should be sturdy and fitted to withstand weather elements.

Step 2: Gathering Materials and Tools

Materials Needed

• Treated lumber for framing
• Stone, bricks, or concrete blocks for walls
• Heavy-duty plastic or rubber membrane for waterproofing
• Gravel for drainage
• Soil and sod for the roof
• A sturdy door with appropriate locks
• Ventilation pipes
• Tools: Shovel, level, saw, hammer, nails, concrete mixer (if needed), and measuring tape.

Step 3: Excavation and Foundation

1. Excavate the Area: Dig out the area for your root cellar. The depth should be at least 6-8 feet to maintain a cool temperature, but deeper if you plan to use it as a storm shelter.
2. Create a Foundation: Lay a gravel base at the bottom of the excavation for drainage. On top of this, pour a concrete slab or place concrete blocks for the foundation walls.
3. Install Drainage: Ensure that there is a drainage system in place to prevent water accumulation. Perforated pipes leading away from the cellar can help divert water.

Step 4: Building the Walls and Roof

1. Wall Construction: Build the walls using stone, brick, or concrete blocks. As shown in the image, stone walls give a rustic look while providing excellent insulation and stability.
2. Waterproofing: Apply a heavy-duty plastic or rubber membrane around the exterior walls to prevent moisture infiltration.
3. Roofing: Construct a sturdy wooden roof frame, then cover it with waterproof material. For added insulation and to blend with the environment, cover the roof with a layer of soil and sod, as shown in the image.

Step 5: Door and Ventilation

1. Install the Door: Attach a solid, insulated door. The image shows a simple but effective design with a slanted roof to shed water and prevent leaks.
2. Ventilation System: Install a ventilation pipe that enters near the floor and exits near the ceiling to allow for natural airflow. This helps regulate humidity and temperature inside the cellar.

Step 6: Final Touches and Safety Features

1. Interior Shelving: Add shelves for storing produce. Use wood or metal, ensuring the shelves are strong and well-ventilated.
2. Lighting: Consider adding a battery-operated or solar-powered light for convenience.
3. Storm Shelter Features: If using the cellar as a storm shelter, ensure the door can be securely locked from the inside, and consider adding an emergency escape hatch if possible.
4. Camouflage: The design shown in the image blends seamlessly with the landscape. Cover the roof and sides with grass, plants, or moss to make the structure less conspicuous.

Conclusion

Building a root cellar that can also serve as a storm shelter is a project that combines traditional methods with modern safety considerations. The structure shown in the image is an excellent example of how you can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing addition to your property. Whether you’re storing fresh produce or seeking refuge during a storm, this dual-purpose building will serve you well.

Additional Resources

• For more detailed guides, Mother Earth News offers excellent resources on root cellar construction.
• The Prepared provides insights into building storm shelters with modern materials and techniques.