Survival Bunkers

Survival bunkers are usually built underground so the term survival bunkers is sometimes used to mean the same thing as underground bunkers.

Bunkers don't have to be underground but it is usually the safest place to build one, unless you have some natural feature on your land such as a cave.

Underground or survival bunkers have become increasingly popular in recent years, as people seek to protect themselves and their families from potential disasters such as nuclear attacks, bombings or other emergencies, natural or man-made.

However, building an underground bunker is not something that should be taken lightly. Proper planning is crucial to ensure that the bunker is equipped with everything necessary for survival or you could end up with your own personal disaster due to poor planning and inexperience.

If you aren't some sort of a survival expert, it's essential to acquire professional information, so you will end up with a survival bunker that will provide not only all you need to survive in an emergency, but also survive with a good level of comfort. For example, you don't want a sore back from a bed that will wreck your back after a few nights.

Also, if you have a place removed from prying eyes, you may not need to worry about permits or local building regulations, but, if you are subject to that, make sure you check your local building code requirements.

Camouflaged-bunker

Above ground survival bunkers are OK if you have a property that is out of the way and not easy to access.

Most survival bunkers are built underground so they aren't easy to see and much safer in case of explosions or fire. With an underground bunker, if you camouflage  entrances/exits well, it can be almost impossible to find you.



Factors to Consider for Building
Survival Bunkers

There are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, the location of the bunker should be carefully chosen. Ideally, it should be situated in a place where pressure from outside forces will be minimized. The location should be easily accessible but not too close to your home or other buildings.

A roof structure that can take the weight of a couple feet of earth on top and also, a location that isn't overly wet. 

Your plan should include everything from lighting and power sources to ventilation systems and storage space. It's also important to consider things like water filtration systems, waste disposal methods, and emergency communication devices.

Another idea is to create a root cellar as part of your bunker. The root cellar should be partitioned from the main bunker to better control heat and humidity, but your root cellar could also be used on a regular basis for food storage.

While it may seem like a crazy idea at first glance, your basement can also serve as an effective alternative if you do not have access or resources required for building an underground shelter and basements are ideal places to set up a root cellar.

The size of your facility is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a floor plan. You need to determine how much square footage you require for each room in your bunker. This includes living spaces, storage areas, and emergency exits. It's essential to have enough space so that everyone can move around comfortably without feeling cramped or claustrophobic.



Specific Needs 

When designing your bunker's floor plan, it's vital to think about the number of bathrooms required and how they will be incorporated into the layout. You want to make sure that there is enough space allocated for each bathroom so that they don't feel cramped or overcrowded.

You may want to consider installing low-flow toilets and faucets to conserve water or a composting toilet, which can make dealing with waste much easier for you regarding set up, as compared to installing regular plumbing.

Composting toilets break down waste into nutrient-rich compost that can be used to fertilize plants while incinerating toilets burn waste at high temperatures, leaving only ash behind.

If you are installing a septic tank, it must also be prepared properly so you don't have problems when it's in use and immediate service access isn't possible.

Proper ventilation and air circulation are critical in an underground bunker. Without adequate ventilation, carbon dioxide levels can rise rapidly, leading to serious health problems such as headaches, dizziness, and even death. When designing your floor plan, make sure that there are enough vents placed strategically throughout the facility so that fresh air can circulate freely.

Every underground bunker has specific needs or requirements depending on its intended use. For example, if you're building a bunker for long-term survival purposes, you'll need ample storage space for food and supplies. If you're planning on using your bunker as a safe haven during natural disasters or emergencies, you'll need more than one exit in case one becomes blocked.

Bunk style beds are a common feature in underground bunker floor plans as they allow for maximum use of space while providing comfortable sleeping arrangements. These beds are typically designed with steel frames and reinforced mattresses to ensure durability and safety during an emergency situation.

Root Cellar

Example of an old time root cellar.

But it's an excellent way to build  survival bunkers too!

Some landscaping, such as trees, high grass, etc. could be used to hide the entrance.



Standard Needs for Any Type of
Survival Bunkers

These include force resistant doors, air filtration systems, and stainless steel fixtures. Resistant doors are crucial because they provide protection against forced entry and natural disasters such as hurricanes or tornadoes. Air filtration systems ensure clean air circulation inside the bunker, while stainless steel fixtures offer durability and resistance to corrosion.

Concrete or steel construction?

Steel or concrete construction is another important specification to consider when building your underground bunker. They both can provide strength and durability against natural disasters such as earthquakes or heavy storms, and also protection against potential intruders who may try to break into the bunker.

Whether steel or concrete, the outside should be waterproofed. If not waterproofed, concrete walls may always be damp to the touch, encouraging mold, rust, etc. and steel containers will rust through eventually, if not waterproofed.

Some people use steel shipping containers to build their survival bunkers, although reinforcing is necessary for the roof the hold the weight of the soil on top and if concrete walls are used with a metal or wood roof, the roof structure must be stronger than usual too.

Survival-Water

A source of water is essential, whether a lake, stream or accessing groundwater.

If groundwater is within 30 feet of the surface, it's not too hard to drill and setup your own water system.

You can drill deeper yourself with the right setup but it gets more complicated.

Plan for Building Survival Bunkers here!

Most people don't consider it, but you may even be able to drill and access ground water if you live in town. Just be sure to have it tested before use.


Water Source for Your Survival Bunker

Before building your survival bunker, it's crucial to determine your water source. You need a reliable source of fresh water to sustain yourself and your family during an emergency situation. Ideally, you should have access to a natural spring or well on your property. If not, you can consider installing a fresh water inlet that connects to the municipal water supply.

However, keep in mind that municipal water systems may be compromised during a disaster or emergency situation. It's essential to have backup options for accessing clean water. You can install rainwater catchment systems or drill a well if feasible. Storing extra water is always a wise decision.

Having access to clean and safe drinking water is critical when living in an underground bunker. Installing a reliable filtration system ensures that the water you're consuming is free from harmful contaminants and bacteria.

There are various types of filtration systems available on the market today, ranging from simple gravity-fed filters to more complex reverse osmosis systems. The type of system you choose will depend on factors such as budget, space availability, and personal preferences.

It's also important to note that filtration systems require maintenance and replacement of filter cartridges periodically. Make sure you have enough spare parts and tools for maintenance purposes.

If you are fortunate enough to have a natural spring water source, a simple gravity filter man be all you need or want. If you do have a natural water source, get it tested by your local authorities to make sure it's safe. Unless you live in the mountains, many natural water ground water sources can have some contaminants.

Survival Tool

These types of tools are very popular for survival, but don't cheap out. A low quality tool can break and let you down.

A more expensive brand name tool is better quality steel and can save the day for you!



Using A Solar Generating Charging System

To maintain proper pressure throughout your bunker's plumbing system and air filtration system, you need consistent power supply for your water pressure pump and air compressor. One solution is using solar generating charging system which harnesses energy from sunlight to charge batteries that power these devices.

Also, if you include some sort of water reservoir in your bunker, have it constructed so that it is at maximum height possible inside your bunker structure. Then water can feed into your system via gravity if your water pump quits. It's even possible to use only gravity feed if you want to eliminate a water pressure system and keeps things more simple.

High-quality storage containers can also help extend the shelf life of your food supply. Consider using vacuum-sealed bags or Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers to keep moisture out and prevent spoilage.


Other Important Points to Consider for 
Building Survival Bunkers

Other important points to consider:

  • Pressure Valves And Air Filtration Systems
  • Your own solar or wind power using a 12 or 24 volt system since utilities can stop in emergencies
  • Planning for the right number of occupants
  • Adding a root cellar
  • Know what essentials to stock in your bunker so you are ready, even if your power source goes out. Camp stove, candles, batteries and battery operated items such as flashlights and radios and a first aid kit.

Investing in an underground bunker requires careful planning and preparation, but it can provide peace of mind knowing that you have a safe place to retreat in times of crisis. Whether you're looking for protection from natural disasters or societal collapse, a well-designed bunker can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Even if you don't want to or can't afford to build it all right away, plan out the basic structure you will need and do it a step at a time. Then add whatever you want - make it like home or keep it basic and simple.

Using pro advice from an experienced builder for building your survival bunker can save you hours of time and a lot of money. No mistakes or doing things twice.

Plans for Survival Bunkers here!



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