Easy Access Storm Shelter with Metal Stairs
$5,250
Customer Rating:
Professional installation included.
Here in Oklahoma, some homeowners need a storm shelter that’s easier to enter quickly and safely during severe weather. Our Easy Access storm shelter is designed with more gradual steps and a taller door opening, making entry simpler compared to traditional below-ground shelters.
This shelter is ideal for households that want the added protection of a below-ground storm shelter without steep stairs, while still maintaining a compact footprint above ground. Professionally installed on your property, it provides reliable storm protection with improved accessibility when every second counts.
For homeowners who prioritize the easiest possible access, above ground storm shelters are often the better fit.
Important Installation Note: Installation is included with every storm shelter we sell. We do not sell storm shelters without installation, and we are unable to install shelters in customer-dug holes. All excavation and installation is performed by our team to ensure proper placement, safety, and long-term performance.
Important Installation Note: Installation is included with every storm shelter we sell. We do not sell storm shelters without installation, and we are unable to install shelters in customer-dug holes. All excavation and installation is performed by our team to ensure proper placement, safety, and long-term performance.
Is the 6x8 Easy Access Storm Shelter Right for You?
Not every storm shelter is the right fit for every household. The 6×8 Easy Access storm shelter is a below-ground option designed to make entry and exit easier than traditional slope-front shelters, while also offering increased interior headroom.
Who is this Shelter For?
The 6×8 Easy Access model is best suited for homeowners who want a below-ground shelter with more gradual metal steps and a taller interior ceiling.
This style is often chosen by families who want improved comfort when stepping into the shelter, along with extra interior height once inside.
While entry is easier than traditional slope-front designs, the taller door opening means the door itself is heavier. Some elderly users or individuals with limited upper-body strength may find the door more difficult to open without assistance. We take time to discuss household needs so you can determine whether this style is the right choice for your family.
Below-ground installations are available within approximately 60 miles of our Blanchard-area service base, allowing us to provide consistent installation quality and support.
Sizing Specifications & Capacity
The 6×8 Easy Access storm shelter features a 6×8 footprint and provides approximately 48 square feet of interior space. This model offers an interior height of 6′10″ — making it the tallest below-ground shelter we install. For comparison, our other below-ground models have an interior height of 6′2″.
Based on FEMA space guidelines, the minimum safety capacity is typically up to 8–10 people standing. For more comfortable use, most homeowners plan for fewer occupants to allow room for seating, pets, or emergency supplies.
Because this model includes a more gradual metal stair system, the stair footprint occupies additional interior space compared to traditional slope-front shelters. Capacity guidelines reflect minimum safety recommendations versus everyday comfort, and many families choose this model for easier entry and additional headroom rather than maximum headcount.
Warranty
This storm shelter includes a manufacturer-backed warranty covering structural components and workmanship. Full warranty details are provided in your storm shelter agreement prior to installation.
Design & Premium Features
The Easy Access storm shelter features reinforced concrete construction with a stamped concrete exterior designed to integrate naturally into residential landscapes. Entry is through a more gradual stair design compared to standard slope-front shelters, helping reduce the effort required when entering and exiting.
The shelter includes a powder-coated steel door designed to resist corrosion and weather exposure. Each unit is equipped with an 8-inch turbine and a 3-inch vent, and the door itself is vented to promote airflow during occupancy. The bottom of every below-ground shelter is coated with a water-resistant protective coating for added durability.
FEMA & ENGINEERING SPECIFICATIONS
Our below-ground storm shelters are designed to meet and exceed FEMA 320 and ICC 500 guidelines for storm shelter construction. FEMA does not “approve” individual shelters; instead, these guidelines outline design and performance standards intended to provide protection during extreme weather events.
Each Easy Access storm shelter is constructed using 5,000 PSI reinforced concrete with ½-inch rebar on 12-inch centers and features a heavy-duty triple-latch steel door system engineered for extreme wind resistance. When properly installed, these engineering standards are intended to withstand extreme tornado conditions, including EF5-level wind forces.
These construction standards are consistent across our below-ground storm shelter models and are specifically suited for Oklahoma soil conditions and severe weather.
How Installation Works
We handle the 6×8 Easy Access installation process from start to finish so you know what to expect before installation day.
Scheduling & Communication
Agreement & Preparation
On-Site Placement & Installation
After Installation
Why Homeowners Choose Sprague’s Backhoe
Established Oklahoma Contractor
Serving Oklahoma families since 2013, Sprague’s Backhoe is a locally owned company with deep experience working in Oklahoma soil, weather, and residential properties.
Installer-Led, Not Sales-Driven
We are the installer — not a reseller or sales company. Every shelter we install is handled by our own team, from placement to final installation.
Consistent, Proven Install Standards
We use standardized installation methods and proven shelter designs rather than custom structural modifications. This ensures consistency, safety, and long-term reliability across every install.
Transparent Agreements & Expectations
Your storm shelter agreement clearly outlines pricing, warranty information, and installation expectations before installation day — no surprises or fine print after the fact.
Strong Local Reputation
We’re proud of the trust we’ve earned through years of work across Oklahoma, with hundreds of local installations and consistent five-star customer feedback.
Focused on Long-Term Safety
We don’t rush installs or cut corners. Our focus is on proper placement, durable installation, and shelters built to be relied on when it matters most.
Financing Available
We work with Tinker Federal Credit Union to offer low-APR financing options for qualifying homeowners. Many customers choose financing to make storm shelter installation more manageable without delaying protection.
Financing is optional, and we’re happy to provide information if it’s something you’d like to explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions: 6x8 Easy Access Storm Shelter
What’s the difference between the 5×11 and 6×8 Easy Access storm shelters?
The primary difference is stair design and interior height.
The 5×11 Easy Access model features full-width concrete stairs that extend wall-to-wall across the entry. The longer 5×11 footprint allows for a more gradual descent and stable footing across the entire stair width.
The 6×8 Easy Access model uses a metal stair system and offers a taller interior height of approximately 6′10″, while the 5×11 maintains a traditional 6′2″ interior height.
Homeowners typically choose the 5×11 for its extended concrete stair system, and the 6×8 for additional interior headroom.
What financing options are available for easy access storm shelters?
We do not offer in-house payment plans, but we do work with Tinker Federal Credit Union to offer low-APR financing options for qualifying homeowners. Learn more about how to finance your storm shelter.
What access is required for installation?
We need clear access for delivery and installation equipment, which typically includes adequate driveway or yard access for a crane truck. A minimum of 10 feet wide and 14 feet tall clearance is required, with all obstacles such as fences, vehicles, low-hanging branches, or overhead lines cleared prior to installation. Access requirements are reviewed during scheduling so there are no surprises on installation day. Learn more about storm shelter installation access.
What’s the difference between the 6×8 slope front and easy access storm shelters?
Both shelters are below-ground designs, but the Easy Access model features more gradual stairs and a taller door, making entry and exit easier compared to the traditional slope front design.
However, because the Easy Access door is approximately 8 inches taller, it is also heavier. While many homeowners find the entry more comfortable, the added door weight may be more difficult for some elderly users or those with limited upper-body strength to open without assistance.
What is the interior height of the 6x8 easy access storm shelter?
The interior height from the floor to the peak of the ceiling is approximately 6 feet 10 inches. Because of the sloped roof design, the height is slightly lower along the edges where the walls meet the ceiling, which is typical for below-ground storm shelters.
Does the easy access shelter need to be installed in a slope?
No. Despite the name, the easy access shelter does not require a naturally sloped yard. It can be installed in flat or gently graded areas. The term “slope front” refers to the entry design, not the yard conditions.
How much dirt is left after installing a below-ground storm shelter?
Some excess soil is expected with any below-ground installation. With the easy access shelter, there is typically about one dump-truck load (approximately 10–12 tons) of dirt remaining after installation and backfill.
The dirt is usually placed near the installation area for the homeowner to spread, use elsewhere, or haul off. Dirt haul-off is available for an additional charge, which is discussed during scheduling if needed.
Will my easy access storm shelter flood or have water problems?
Proper placement and drainage are critical for any below-ground storm shelter. We evaluate site conditions before installation to help minimize water concerns.
Every shelter includes a water-resistant protective coating on the bottom. While the shelter itself is not designed to flood, it is normal for some water to enter around the door during heavy rainfall, which can be inconvenient but does not indicate structural failure. Condensation is also normal, especially shortly after installation.
How long does installation take, and what should I expect on installation day?
Installation typically takes about 3–4 hours. Sprague’s Backhoe handles the excavation, placement, and backfill.
Placement is confirmed on site with the homeowner before installation begins, and the entire process is completed efficiently using proven methods. We remain available to answer questions before, during, and after installation.
Do Easy Access storm shelters meet FEMA safety guidelines?
Yes. Our Easy Access storm shelters are designed to meet and exceed FEMA 320 and ICC 500 guidelines for underground storm protection.
They are constructed using 6,000 PSI reinforced concrete with reinforced steel and feature a heavy-duty triple-latch steel door system engineered for extreme wind resistance. These engineering standards are intended to withstand extreme tornado conditions, including EF5-level wind forces.
Is the Easy Access shelter truly easy access?
The Easy Access storm shelter is designed to be easier to enter and exit than traditional below ground slope-front shelters. It uses a gentler stair layout that many homeowners find more manageable.
However, it is still a below ground storm shelter with stair entry.
If quick, comfortable, walk-in access matters most, an above ground storm shelter may be the better choice for your family.
Which Easy Access model is easiest for seniors?
That depends on the person. Some prefer dual handrails and gentler stairs, while others prefer solid concrete steps. If true step-free access is needed, an above ground storm shelter is often the best option.
Are Easy Access shelters easier than above ground shelters?
No. Easy Access shelters are easier than many traditional below ground models, but above ground shelters are typically the easiest overall because there are no stairs to climb down.
Ready to see if the 6x8 Easy Access storm shelter is the right fit for you?
Request pricing or take our short storm shelter quiz to compare options and find the best match for your household.