What is a bomb shelter?

A bomb shelter is an abode built to withstand disaster. Bomb shelters may refer to a space or bunker that can protect inhabitants through a hypothetical nuclear attack, apocalypse, or any other massive crisis. People usually build bomb shelters underground and stock them to live there a few days to a month at a time. Doomsday bunkers accommodate long-term living rather than just through a short crisis.

How do you build your own bomb shelter?

Builders construct bomb shelters with reinforced steel, box culvert, concrete, or other durable materials (but many professionals do not recommend shipping containers, as they’re not designed to live underground. If building underground, you’ll first have to excavate land before building the actual structure. You’ll have to implement air and water filtration systems, septic systems, and power supply. It takes a lot of experience to safely and legally construct a bomb shelter, not to mention make sure it’s fit to live in for extended periods of time. It’s best to talk to a residential structural engineer near you for proper guidance.

How do you filter air in a bomb shelter?

The current standard filtration systems require filtering both air and water. For air, you’ll want an NBC filter system, which both domestic and international producers make. NBC stands for Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical, which filters out all three. If you’re only building your shelter for natural disasters, chemical attacks, and biological attacks, you may opt for the less expensive HEPA filter system. Water filtration requires the same level of care. You’ll likely want to have a large water storage capacity to survive short-term disasters. For long-term living, you’ll want to have a water filtration system.

What are Rising S bunker prices?

Rising S bunker prices depend on the size, ranging anywhere from $20,000 to $9 million . Their least expensive model is 96 square feet while their most expensive model has a gym, swimming pool, hot tub, and bowling alley. Mini: $45,500 Standard Bomb Shelter: $67,500–$109,500 Silver Leaf: $140,000–$182,500 Admiral: $180,000–$500,000 Xtreme: $450,000–$780,000 Xtreme Bunker Complex: $840,000–$1,830,000 Luxury Series: $3,800,000–$9,600,000

Do you need a permit to build a bunker?

You almost always need a permit to build a bunker on land with any type of public utilities running through it. You’ll want to check with your local building code enforcement agency to see if this is the case for your area. Because you’re building a structural component that often requires electricity, water, and sewage services, you’ll need to apply for permits to attach these utilities to your new property. However, off-grid-only units in rural areas may not need all or any of the permitting you’d normally find in more urban settings.

How deep underground should a bunker be?

To survive a nuclear blast, you’ll need to have your bunker at least three feet underground. However, it’s usually advisable to put it further underground. To survive a close strike, you’ll want to have the bunker at least 10 feet down and with five-foot thick reinforced concrete. However, knowing exactly how deep to build depends on the size of the blast you’re trying to avoid. Most bunkers don’t need to be more than 5 feet below the ground.

Top-Rated Shelter or Outbuilding Building Services Experts in Madison, WI

Kool View Co

4701 Triangle St

4.38(

21

)

•

Approved Pro

Kool View Co

4701 Triangle St

4.38(

21

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

81 local quotes requested

52 years of experience

SERVING SOUTHERN WISCONSIN AND THE FOX VALLEY AREAS Kool View began business in 1973 selling glass coatings to save energy and stop furniture fading. In 1979 we were awarded a US. Department of Energy grant to study the "honeycomb" concept of window insulation. In 1982 we were granted a patent on our very own "Seal-A-Shade" product. We also began selling passive solar rooms. Over time passive solar sunrooms became our main product. We have built over 2000 sun room, patio room and room additions. Our construction focus has always been saving energy, improving the home environment and adding long term value to your home. If you have a unique design in mind or a challenging job site you have come to the right place! With with our trained staff of designers and craftsmen, Kool View is in the position to make your dream room an energy efficient reality. Kool View offers you the best of the "High Tech" corporate world while remaining a locally owned and operated business. We never forget that our customers are also our neighbors. Drop into our showroom or call us for a free, in-home estimate. We'd love to hear from you!

"The final product is good and the price was good. The structure all seems to be high quality and with double pane windows it can hold the climate or out well as needed. With screens all around we can let the air move through when we want. The design process was a good experience, but we were not warned that our decisions in dimensions would result in difficulties with regulations and the electrical work. The lack of communication between sub-contractors during the process resulted in several delays. There were times when we were told there would be hand-off and it didn't happen until we prodded them. We kicked it off in the early spring and it didn't complete until August. Early on, the delays were unavoidable due to weather and ground conditions but after the foundation was in it took to long to complete the structure. The problem is not specifically the total time to complete but being left with very little time to replace the yard and driveway before winter."

Adam C on September 2018

SERVING SOUTHERN WISCONSIN AND THE FOX VALLEY AREAS Kool View began business in 1973 selling glass coatings to save energy and stop furniture fading. In 1979 we were awarded a US. Department of Energy grant to study the "honeycomb" concept of window insulation. In 1982 we were granted a patent on our very own "Seal-A-Shade" product. We also began selling passive solar rooms. Over time passive solar sunrooms became our main product. We have built over 2000 sun room, patio room and room additions. Our construction focus has always been saving energy, improving the home environment and adding long term value to your home. If you have a unique design in mind or a challenging job site you have come to the right place! With with our trained staff of designers and craftsmen, Kool View is in the position to make your dream room an energy efficient reality. Kool View offers you the best of the "High Tech" corporate world while remaining a locally owned and operated business. We never forget that our customers are also our neighbors. Drop into our showroom or call us for a free, in-home estimate. We'd love to hear from you!

"The final product is good and the price was good. The structure all seems to be high quality and with double pane windows it can hold the climate or out well as needed. With screens all around we can let the air move through when we want. The design process was a good experience, but we were not warned that our decisions in dimensions would result in difficulties with regulations and the electrical work. The lack of communication between sub-contractors during the process resulted in several delays. There were times when we were told there would be hand-off and it didn't happen until we prodded them. We kicked it off in the early spring and it didn't complete until August. Early on, the delays were unavoidable due to weather and ground conditions but after the foundation was in it took to long to complete the structure. The problem is not specifically the total time to complete but being left with very little time to replace the yard and driveway before winter."

Adam C on September 2018

Kool View Co.,Inc.

1860 Bud Dr #104

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

Kool View Co.,Inc.

1860 Bud Dr #104

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

93 local quotes requested

52 years of experience

Serving Southern Wisconsin and the greater Fox Valley area Kool View began business in 1973 selling glass coatings to save energy and stop furniture fading. In 1979 we were awarded a US. Department of Energy grant to study the "honeycomb" concept of window insulation. In 1982 we were granted a patent on our very own "Seal-A-Shade" product. We also began selling passive solar rooms. Over time passive solar sunrooms became our main product. We have built over 2000 sun room, patio room and room additions. Our construction focus has always been saving energy, improving the home environment and adding long term value to your home. If you have a unique design in mind or a challenging job site you have come to the right place! With with our trained staff of designers and craftsmen, Kool View is in the position to make your dream room an energy efficient reality. Kool View offers you the best of the "High Tech" corporate world while remaining a locally owned and operated business. We never forget that our customers are also our neighbors. Drop into our showroom or call us for a free, in-home estimate. We'd love to hear from you!

Interiors by JW

603 West Main Street

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

Interiors by JW

603 West Main Street

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

27 years of experience

Free onsite estimate

At JW, we’ve been providing our customers with quality craftsmanship and innovative solutions since 1998. We’ve built our reputation on a solid foundation of integrity and trust, the cornerstones of our company’s values. Choosing to work with JW means you’re in good hands. We provide a 2-year warranty on all of our work, and you’ll receive manufacturer warranties on all the products we install. Our detailed estimating software ensures that you receive a fair quote that is accurate the first time and won’t escalate during the course of your project. We strictly adhere to all city and state requirements for licensing and insurance regulations, ensuring that we are compliant at all times. JW provides a full range of remodeling services including a full-time interior design team, to make your remodeling process as seamless as possible.

Steele Home Remodeling LLC

4873 Felland Road

4.67(

33

)

•

Approved Pro

Steele Home Remodeling LLC

4873 Felland Road

4.67(

33

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Super punctual

279 local quotes requested

14 years of experience

Steele Home Remodeling LLC is a Family owned and operated company that focuses on Kitchen, Bathroom, Basement Remodeling and Home Repairs. Steele Home Remodeling LLC provides quality workmanship and customer service with over 25 years of experience. Based in Madison, WI. Working with trusted, skilled tradesman and vendors our company provides top notch Remodeling and Repair service. We specialize in getting clients through projects both large and small. Steele Home Remodeling LLC is a full-service contracting company that can handle all of your properties needs. We bring integrity, reliability and expertise to every project, substantiated by the testimonials of our many satisfied customers. Whether its a large or small project, we will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your it is completed to your satisfaction with the highest quality, efficiency and within your budget.

"We really appreciated working with Steele Home Remodeling. His bid was comprehensive and detailed. He provided unique design ideas for our space and helped us get the most out of our basement. Phill and his team provide quality work with an eye for small details that make the project and space come to life. I have already recommended him to family and friends looking for basement remodels."

Brett M on February 2025

Steele Home Remodeling LLC is a Family owned and operated company that focuses on Kitchen, Bathroom, Basement Remodeling and Home Repairs. Steele Home Remodeling LLC provides quality workmanship and customer service with over 25 years of experience. Based in Madison, WI. Working with trusted, skilled tradesman and vendors our company provides top notch Remodeling and Repair service. We specialize in getting clients through projects both large and small. Steele Home Remodeling LLC is a full-service contracting company that can handle all of your properties needs. We bring integrity, reliability and expertise to every project, substantiated by the testimonials of our many satisfied customers. Whether its a large or small project, we will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your it is completed to your satisfaction with the highest quality, efficiency and within your budget.

"We really appreciated working with Steele Home Remodeling. His bid was comprehensive and detailed. He provided unique design ideas for our space and helped us get the most out of our basement. Phill and his team provide quality work with an eye for small details that make the project and space come to life. I have already recommended him to family and friends looking for basement remodels."

Brett M on February 2025

Catalyst Custom Construction

1580 Liatris Dr.

4.50(

8

)

•

Approved Pro

Catalyst Custom Construction

1580 Liatris Dr.

4.50(

8

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quality work

297 local quotes requested

10 years of experience

Established in 2015, Catalyst Custom Construction is the local leader in home construction, home additions, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, and basement finishing. We spec in homes that you can live in forever. We build new executive homes for you and your whole family with your families touches. We know Madison homes and understand when you want to keep the character in your old home with new flair. We are a building contractor that is ready to make your vision into a reality. We pride ourselves on the quality, integrity and craftsmanship that goes into every job. Give us a call or send us an email to set up a consultation about your next project!

"When Mike came out to give me a quote, he told and told me he would get back to me in a week and could probably finish part of the work in the next two weeks and start the full remodel within a month. That was in January, and I'm writing this review at the end of March. I called him several times and finally caught up with him about a month ago, when he said he had had some family issues and would get back to me soon. But he never did. I spent time cleaning my house, speaking with him, writing him an email with all the details of my project, calling references, and waiting months for an answer. The very least he could have done was said he wasn't interested in the project."

Kate V on March 2021

Established in 2015, Catalyst Custom Construction is the local leader in home construction, home additions, kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels, and basement finishing. We spec in homes that you can live in forever. We build new executive homes for you and your whole family with your families touches. We know Madison homes and understand when you want to keep the character in your old home with new flair. We are a building contractor that is ready to make your vision into a reality. We pride ourselves on the quality, integrity and craftsmanship that goes into every job. Give us a call or send us an email to set up a consultation about your next project!

"When Mike came out to give me a quote, he told and told me he would get back to me in a week and could probably finish part of the work in the next two weeks and start the full remodel within a month. That was in January, and I'm writing this review at the end of March. I called him several times and finally caught up with him about a month ago, when he said he had had some family issues and would get back to me soon. But he never did. I spent time cleaning my house, speaking with him, writing him an email with all the details of my project, calling references, and waiting months for an answer. The very least he could have done was said he wasn't interested in the project."

Kate V on March 2021

Kaiser Construction

5.00(

1

)

•

Approved Pro

Kaiser Construction

5.00(

1

)

•

Approved Pro

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

44 local quotes requested

Kaiser Construction is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"They did a great job of talking to me about my ideas, and planning out my remodel just the way I wanted it. They were on time, and got the work done right!"

Chris S s on November 2024

Kaiser Construction is committed to excellence in every aspect of our business. We uphold a standard of integrity bound by fairness, honesty, and personal responsibility. Our distinction is the quality of service we bring to our customers. Accurate knowledge of our trade combined with ability is what makes us true professionals. Above all, we are watchful of our customers' interests, and make their concerns the basis of our business.

"They did a great job of talking to me about my ideas, and planning out my remodel just the way I wanted it. They were on time, and got the work done right!"

Chris S s on November 2024

Crownover Construction, LLC

W284N814 Cherry Ln

4.82(

22

)

•

Approved Pro

Crownover Construction, LLC

W284N814 Cherry Ln

4.82(

22

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 95% of Angi customers

Recommended by 95% of HomeAdvisor customers

698 local quotes requested

We are a family owned company that specializes in custom work. From small remodeling jobs to large new structures, we handle all of it. Kitchens, baths, rec rooms, and additions are the bulk of our work. We also do painting, windows, doors, decks, flooring, etc. Almost any remodeling project. Small enough company to offer personalized service, and experienced enough to handle any project at a competitive price.

"Matt was professional and customer focused. He was very pleasant to work with and knowledgeable about all the work I requested. He quickly provided a quote and worked with me through the entire process. I thought it would be challenging because I live out of state and needed work done in my home 2,000 miles away. Being a Veteran I'm accustomed to working long distance with contractors and it has never seemed to go smoothly. Matt made the entire process easy! Matt, Not only was a pleasant to work with and provided excellent customer service, the quality of his work was amazing. During the time that he was working I would occasionally check in on the cameras mounted around the house and Matt was on the job from start to finish. The look and quality from just the appearance was amazing. I had my brother inspect everything and was told that the quality was even better than it looked, which already looked amazing. I plan on using Matt for any work I need done large or small."

Darnell W on June 2025

We are a family owned company that specializes in custom work. From small remodeling jobs to large new structures, we handle all of it. Kitchens, baths, rec rooms, and additions are the bulk of our work. We also do painting, windows, doors, decks, flooring, etc. Almost any remodeling project. Small enough company to offer personalized service, and experienced enough to handle any project at a competitive price.

"Matt was professional and customer focused. He was very pleasant to work with and knowledgeable about all the work I requested. He quickly provided a quote and worked with me through the entire process. I thought it would be challenging because I live out of state and needed work done in my home 2,000 miles away. Being a Veteran I'm accustomed to working long distance with contractors and it has never seemed to go smoothly. Matt made the entire process easy! Matt, Not only was a pleasant to work with and provided excellent customer service, the quality of his work was amazing. During the time that he was working I would occasionally check in on the cameras mounted around the house and Matt was on the job from start to finish. The look and quality from just the appearance was amazing. I had my brother inspect everything and was told that the quality was even better than it looked, which already looked amazing. I plan on using Matt for any work I need done large or small."

Darnell W on June 2025

Smart Decks

Based In

5.00(

4

)

•

Approved Pro

Smart Decks

Based In

5.00(

4

)

•

Approved Pro

Customers say: Quick response

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

2 years of experience

At Smart Decks LLC, we transform outdoor spaces into stunning, functional extensions of your home. With over 20 years of experience, our team of skilled craftsmen specializes in designing and building custom decks and patios. Whether you envision a cozy, secluded retreat or a spacious entertainment hub, we bring your dream outdoor space to life with quality materials and exceptional workmanship. Our Services: Custom Decks: Tailored to fit your style and needs, using a variety of materials including wood, composite, and PVC. Deck Repairs & Maintenance: Ensure your deck remains safe and beautiful with our comprehensive repair and maintenance services. Pergolas & Gazebos: Add shade and structure to your outdoor space with our custom-built pergolas and gazebos. Why Choose Us: Experience & Expertise: Over two decades of deck building experience. Quality Materials: We use only the finest materials to ensure durability and longevity. Customer Satisfaction: Our priority is your satisfaction. We work closely with you to ensure your vision is realized. Licensed & Insured: Peace of mind knowing your project is handled by licensed and insured professionals. Transform your outdoor space with Smart Decks LLC. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start building your dream deck!

"Our deck looks amazing! I would HIGHLY recommend Kyle and his staff from Smart Decks to install a deck. Kyle is very thorough from start to finish and really cares about his clients and wants them to be happy with the end results. He is great at keeping you informed and finished our project when promised even though there were some issues that came up that were out of his control. If you want someone who is honest, caring and hard working, I would definitely hire Kyle and his staff at Smart Decks!!"

Karen K on July 2025

At Smart Decks LLC, we transform outdoor spaces into stunning, functional extensions of your home. With over 20 years of experience, our team of skilled craftsmen specializes in designing and building custom decks and patios. Whether you envision a cozy, secluded retreat or a spacious entertainment hub, we bring your dream outdoor space to life with quality materials and exceptional workmanship. Our Services: Custom Decks: Tailored to fit your style and needs, using a variety of materials including wood, composite, and PVC. Deck Repairs & Maintenance: Ensure your deck remains safe and beautiful with our comprehensive repair and maintenance services. Pergolas & Gazebos: Add shade and structure to your outdoor space with our custom-built pergolas and gazebos. Why Choose Us: Experience & Expertise: Over two decades of deck building experience. Quality Materials: We use only the finest materials to ensure durability and longevity. Customer Satisfaction: Our priority is your satisfaction. We work closely with you to ensure your vision is realized. Licensed & Insured: Peace of mind knowing your project is handled by licensed and insured professionals. Transform your outdoor space with Smart Decks LLC. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start building your dream deck!

"Our deck looks amazing! I would HIGHLY recommend Kyle and his staff from Smart Decks to install a deck. Kyle is very thorough from start to finish and really cares about his clients and wants them to be happy with the end results. He is great at keeping you informed and finished our project when promised even though there were some issues that came up that were out of his control. If you want someone who is honest, caring and hard working, I would definitely hire Kyle and his staff at Smart Decks!!"

Karen K on July 2025

Pratt Building Company

5.00(

2

)

•

Approved Pro

Pratt Building Company

5.00(

2

)

•

Approved Pro

Recommended by 100% of Angi customers

Recommended by 100% of HomeAdvisor customers

8 years of experience

We redefine Home remodeling & construction by programming sustainable and cost effective systems into our company’s principles. We bring over 3 decades of expertise and award winning service across residential development types, at all scales under all procurement models. We are innovative solution creators and construction specialists; we leverage our expertise to tailor the proper method for projects to exceed your expectations. Collaborative, dedicated and continually improving - we're focused on making the best decisions and exceeding your expectations.

"My dealings with Pratt Building Company overall was good. They completed my job in a matter of days. The few concerns I had were addressed to Mr Hayden Pratt along the way and he immediately addressed my questions to my satisfaction. I feel I was fairly charged and now my garage has a nice insulated ceiling."

Larry L on June 2025

We redefine Home remodeling & construction by programming sustainable and cost effective systems into our company’s principles. We bring over 3 decades of expertise and award winning service across residential development types, at all scales under all procurement models. We are innovative solution creators and construction specialists; we leverage our expertise to tailor the proper method for projects to exceed your expectations. Collaborative, dedicated and continually improving - we're focused on making the best decisions and exceeding your expectations.

"My dealings with Pratt Building Company overall was good. They completed my job in a matter of days. The few concerns I had were addressed to Mr Hayden Pratt along the way and he immediately addressed my questions to my satisfaction. I feel I was fairly charged and now my garage has a nice insulated ceiling."

Larry L on June 2025

Stout Construction

340 MAIN ST

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

Stout Construction

340 MAIN ST

New on HomeAdvisorNew on HomeAdvisor•

Approved Pro

482 local quotes requested

1 years of experience

Licensed & Insured LLC. Third-Generation Contractor Serving the Greater Sauk County Area. Find my page on Facebook to see current reviews! We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service. Check out our services offered and call or click to schedule an estimate today.

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Shelter or outbuilding builders in Madison

Kool View Co

Kool View Co

Kool View Co.,Inc.

Kool View Co.,Inc.

Interiors by JW

Interiors by JW

Steele Home Remodeling LLC

Steele Home Remodeling LLC

Catalyst Custom Construction

Catalyst Custom Construction

Kaiser Construction

Kaiser Construction

Crownover Construction, LLC

Crownover Construction, LLC

Smart Decks

Smart Decks

Pratt Building Company

Pratt Building Company

Stout Construction

Stout Construction

FAQs for shelter or outbuilding building service projects in Madison, WI

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Shelter or outbuilding builders in Madison

Kool View Co

Kool View Co

Kool View Co.,Inc.

Kool View Co.,Inc.

Interiors by JW

Interiors by JW

Steele Home Remodeling LLC

Steele Home Remodeling LLC

Catalyst Custom Construction

Catalyst Custom Construction

Kaiser Construction

Kaiser Construction

Crownover Construction, LLC

Crownover Construction, LLC

Smart Decks

Smart Decks

Pratt Building Company

Pratt Building Company

Stout Construction

Stout Construction

FAQs for shelter or outbuilding building service projects in Madison, WI

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