Quick Answer:
EPRO storm shelter coating is an added protective layer applied by the manufacturer to every below-ground storm shelter installed by Sprague’s Backhoe. It helps protect the exterior concrete from moisture in the surrounding soil and is included at no extra cost. It does not make the shelter completely waterproof or prevent normal condensation.
Below-ground storm shelters spend their entire lives surrounded by soil, so extra moisture protection is a useful feature.
Every below-ground shelter installed by Sprague’s Backhoe comes from the manufacturer with EPRO coating already applied to the exterior. It is included as a standard feature, not a paid upgrade.
What Is EPRO Storm Shelter Coating?
EPRO is a protective coating applied to the exterior of our below-ground storm shelters during manufacturing, before the shelter ever arrives at your property.
Once installed, the coating provides an added layer of protection between the buried concrete and moisture in the surrounding soil.
Because it is applied during manufacturing, homeowners do not need to schedule another contractor or pay an additional charge for the coating.
Benefits of EPRO Coating
- Added moisture protection: Helps protect the exterior concrete from moisture in the surrounding soil.
- Exterior barrier: Adds another protective layer between the concrete and underground conditions.
- Manufacturer applied: The coating is already in place before Sprague’s Backhoe receives the shelter.
- Included as standard: There is no additional charge for EPRO coating on our below-ground shelters.
What EPRO Coating Does and Doesn’t Do
EPRO coating adds moisture protection to the exterior concrete, but it does not make a below-ground storm shelter completely waterproof.
Below-ground shelters are exposed to changing soil and water conditions. Water can still enter around the door or other openings, especially during heavy rain or when drainage around the shelter is poor.
EPRO is an added layer of protection. It should not be viewed as a guarantee that water will never enter the shelter.
EPRO Does Not Prevent Condensation
Water intrusion and condensation are two different things.
Underground concrete can stay cooler than the warm, humid Oklahoma air outside. When humid air reaches the cooler surfaces inside the shelter, condensation can form.
EPRO is applied to the exterior, so it does not prevent normal interior condensation. If moisture develops inside, opening the shelter on a dry, sunny day can help it air out and dry completely.
Drainage and Placement Still Matter
Even with EPRO coating, choosing a good installation location is important.
Sprague’s Backhoe considers drainage, underground utilities, septic systems, equipment access, and other property conditions when evaluating placement for a below-ground storm shelter.
Areas where water naturally collects can create more moisture problems around an underground shelter, so site conditions should always be considered before installation.
Is EPRO Coating an Extra Upgrade?
No. EPRO coating comes standard on every below-ground storm shelter installed by Sprague’s Backhoe.
The manufacturer applies it before delivery, so there is no additional coating appointment or upgrade charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does EPRO coating make the shelter waterproof?
No. EPRO coating provides an added layer of moisture protection to the exterior concrete, but it does not make the entire below-ground storm shelter completely waterproof. Some water intrusion can still occur depending on rainfall, drainage, and site conditions.
Do all Sprague’s Backhoe below-ground shelters include EPRO coating?
Yes. EPRO coating is applied by the manufacturer and included on every below-ground storm shelter installed by Sprague’s Backhoe.
Does EPRO coating cost extra?
No. It is included as a standard feature at no additional charge.
Will EPRO coating prevent condensation?
No. Condensation forms because of temperature and humidity differences inside the underground shelter. Exterior EPRO coating does not prevent normal condensation.
Can water still get inside a below-ground storm shelter?
Yes. Below-ground storm shelters are not completely waterproof. Heavy rain, drainage conditions, and water around the shelter can contribute to water intrusion.
Does EPRO coating affect tornado protection?
No. EPRO coating provides additional exterior moisture protection. Sprague’s Backhoe installs below-ground storm shelters designed to meet or exceed FEMA safe room guidelines for tornado protection.
Key Takeaways
- EPRO coating is applied to the exterior concrete by the manufacturer.
- It comes standard on Sprague’s Backhoe below-ground storm shelters at no extra charge.
- The coating adds protection against moisture in the surrounding soil.
- It does not make the completed storm shelter completely waterproof.
- EPRO does not prevent normal condensation inside the shelter.
- Proper placement and drainage considerations still matter.
Considering a below-ground storm shelter? Contact Sprague’s Backhoe to request a quote and discuss below-ground storm shelter options for your property.
