Just wanted to drop you a line to say hey...Afterall, you are my only INGO friend. Did that sound too "Forest Gumplike". . No seriously, I have been researching a vault/saferoom, which will be entered via "hidden" vault door. As my basement is already finished, a friend of mine (who manages a kitchen/bath/closet custom material company) is finishing up some 3d images of possibilities. In order to make the most of our space, I am going to possibly use a steel container box (one similar to what is hauled out of chicago daily), which is entered through the hidden vault door and attached to our existing concrete block basement foundation. Ive seen this on ebay in chicago for less than 2500, and they are roughly 700sf (though narrow). Backhow to dig down a "safe" depth biohazard wise, rented bobtail and dolly to pickup container (as well as possibly extra lead plates to help block possible radiation from above). I think I am going to setup the interior as a stainless vault/gun room. In addition, other than the necessary family members and contractors, im keeping this under wraps. Although I am a christian, my (retired) neighbors get upset when "my" leaves blow on their lawn. I dont really think I need to be labeled as NOAH by my homeowners assocation just yet .
THE BEST PART, when discussing it with my wife, she actually was very excited that I am planning for the future of our family (6yr old boy, 2 bulldogs, and soon to be arriving baby girl) just in case. I was very surprised as she was a much sheltered "city girl" before we got married. Therefore, she doesnt really put alot of thought into these matters. But, it reminded me of how lucky I am, to be married to my bestfriend and biggest supporter. There are few things as wonderful as a wife who supports her man, no matter what. Especially when they often have no idea how heavy these shoes can get.
Hope all is well for you, and the traffic keeps rolling.