About Sprague's Backhoe
A family-owned storm shelter installation company protecting Oklahoma families since 2013.
Our Story
Sprague’s Backhoe was founded in 2013 after the storm shelter company Jack Sprague was working for shut down. Rather than walk away from work he believed in, Jack and his wife, Stacey, bought a backhoe and a truck and started their own business—built on experience, accountability, and doing things the right way.
At the time, Jack brought more than 20 years of hands-on experience in storm shelter installation, septic systems, and excavation. Like many small businesses, we initially offered multiple services. Over time, one thing became clear: Oklahoma’s severe weather wasn’t slowing down, and the need for properly installed, dependable storm shelters was only growing.
Focusing on storm shelters wasn’t just a response to demand — it was a deliberate decision. Installing storm shelters requires precision, experience, and focus. Treating it like “just another job” leads to rushed work and divided attention. We believe this is work that deserves care, preparation, and consistency — because when a storm hits, the installation matters just as much as the shelter itself.
Today, storm shelters are what we do best. Jack personally installs every storm shelter, and Stacey manages communication, scheduling, and coordination from the first call through installation day. From the first conversation to installation day, you work directly with the owners. That means clear communication, consistent expectations, and real accountability — not handoffs between departments or disappearing points of contact.
While storm shelters remain the primary focus of the business, Sprague’s Backhoe also provides septic system installation and excavation services backed by the same hands-on experience, attention to detail, and commitment to doing the job right. Whether we’re installing a storm shelter, septic system, or completing site work, the goal is the same: providing dependable service Oklahoma property owners can trust.
Meet the Owners
Jack Sprague — Owner & Installation Manager
Jack installs every storm shelter we put in the ground. There are no rotating crews and no subcontractors — when installation day arrives, Jack is the one operating the equipment and making sure the shelter is installed correctly.
With over 20 years of hands-on experience in storm shelter installation, septic systems, and excavation, Jack has worked in just about every site condition Oklahoma can throw at a job — from tight access and rocky soil to unpredictable spring weather. That experience matters when challenges come up onsite, because he knows how to adapt and keep the job moving without compromising quality.
His approach is simple: show up when he says he will, work efficiently, communicate clearly, and leave the property clean and respected.
Stacey Sprague — Office Manager & Customer Communication
Stacey handles everything that happens before and after installation day. When you contact Sprague’s Backhoe, you’re communicating directly with her every time.
She manages scheduling, communication, utility locates through OKIE811, and provides the documentation homeowners need for permits, tribal storm shelter assistance programs, FEMA-related rebates, and storm shelter loans.
Stacey also oversees our website, online resources, and social media — making sure homeowners can find clear, accurate information before they ever pick up the phone.
She’s been part of the business since day one and understands both the installation process and what families need in order to feel confident and informed every step of the way.
Who We Work With
We work with homeowners across Oklahoma who are tired of wondering “what if” every time the sirens go off. These are families who’ve lived through close calls, followed storm coverage out of places like Moore and El Reno, and decided their loved ones deserve real, reliable protection.
You might be:
- A young family with small children who can’t move fast enough to get everyone to safety during a nighttime warning.
- Parents or grandparents concerned about elderly family members or pets who struggle with stairs and need easier shelter access.
- A homeowner who’s requested quotes before but walked away frustrated by high-pressure sales tactics, unclear pricing, or unanswered questions.
- Someone who values quality and wants to work directly with the person installing the shelter — not a salesperson who disappears after the paperwork is signed.
- A homeowner in a neighborhood where other companies said a storm shelter couldn’t be installed — and wants an honest evaluation of what’s possible for their property.
If this sounds like you, you’re exactly who we built our business for.
Why Work With Us
Our goal isn’t to be the biggest storm shelter company in Oklahoma — it’s to be the best. We focus on quality, clear communication, and detailed work that larger companies can’t consistently provide. Customer satisfaction matters more to us than volume.
- Owner-Operated Installation - You work directly with the owners. Stacey handles communication and coordination, and Jack installs every shelter — no rotating crews or subcontractors.
- No Upselling, No Pressure - We don’t sell what you don’t need. We answer questions honestly and help you choose the shelter that fits your family and property.
- Transparent Pricing - Clear quotes. No hidden fees. No deposits. Payment is due after installation is complete.
- Quality We Put at Our Own Home - We install the same shelters, materials, and anchoring systems we trust for our own family — because we do.
- Clear Communication - You’ll know what to expect before installation day and who to contact if questions come up. No call centers. No guessing.
Serving Oklahoma Since 2013
We serve homeowners across Oklahoma, with storm shelter installation availability based on shelter type and location.
Above ground storm shelters are delivered and installed statewide.
Below ground storm shelters are installed within central Oklahoma, allowing us to provide timely service and warranty support when needed.
Rather than over-promise or stretch ourselves thin, we structure our service area to ensure consistent quality, clear communication, and long-term support for every customer.
Our Commitment to Your Safety
Storm shelter installation isn’t just construction work — it’s life-safety work. When severe weather hits, your shelter needs to perform exactly as designed. We take that responsibility seriously.
Every storm shelter we install meets or exceeds FEMA guidelines for wind resistance and impact protection. These standards are based on decades of tornado research and real-world testing, not marketing claims.
We install with long-term performance in mind. That means proper site preparation, correct placement, secure anchoring, and attention to details that affect how a shelter performs over time — not just how it looks on installation day.
We’re known for working efficiently because we’re experienced and prepared — not because we rush. Safety, quality, and consistency come first on every installation.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re considering a storm shelter and want honest answers, we’re happy to help. Whether you’re just starting to explore options or ready to get on the schedule, you can reach out anytime.