How to make an anderson shelter
The Anderson shelter was an air-raid shelter developed in the United Kingdom during World War II. Named after Sir John Anderson, the then-right Honourable Member for Combined English Universities and the Home Secretary at that time, it was designed to provide a safe place for citizens to seek refuge during air raids.
If you are interested in history or want to create your own shelter for any reason, learning how to make an Anderson shelter can be a fascinating and educational project. While it may not be as necessary today as it was during the war, understanding the processes and techniques involved can give you an appreciation for the resourcefulness and resilience exhibited during that time.
To make an Anderson shelter, you will need some basic materials and tools. The main components of the shelter include corrugated iron sheets, steel or iron beams, wood boards for the frame, and sandbags for additional support and insulation. Follow these steps to create your own Anderson shelter:
Step-by-step guide on building an Anderson shelter
Materials you will need:
- Heavy-duty corrugated iron sheets
- Bolts and nuts
- Steel reinforcing bars
- Sand
- Bricks
- Tarpaulin or waterproof material
- Shovel
- Wire mesh
- Tools such as a saw and hammer
Building process:
- Choose a suitable location for your Anderson shelter.
- Dig a rectangular hole that is 6.25 feet (1.9 meters) long, 4.25 feet (1.3 meters) wide, and 6 feet (1.8 meters) deep.
- Construct the base of the shelter using bricks or concrete blocks. This will provide stability.
- Position the steel reinforcing bars in the hole for added strength.
- Place the corrugated iron sheets over the bars, forming an arched shape.
- Bolt the sheets together securely, making sure there are no gaps.
- Fill the gaps between the iron sheets and the walls of the hole with sand, compacting it firmly.
- Cover the roof of the shelter with tarpaulin or a waterproof material to prevent water from seeping in.
- Using wire mesh, create a ventilation hole near the top of the shelter to allow air circulation.
- Secure the tarpaulin or waterproof material to the sides of the shelter with wire or nails.
- Finally, cover the shelter with soil and vegetation to camouflage it and provide additional protection.
Following these steps, you will have successfully built an Anderson shelter, which will provide you and your family with a safe place during air raids and bombings.
Gathering the necessary materials
Before you start building an Anderson shelter, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Here is a list of what you will need:
Tools:
- Shovel
- Spade
- Hammer
- Tape measure
- Pliers
Building materials:
- Corrugated iron sheets
- Wooden beams
- Sandbags
- Bolts and nuts
- Angle brackets
- Tarpaulin
In addition to these materials, you will also need a suitable location for building the shelter. It should ideally be a flat area with enough space to accommodate the size of the shelter.
Preparing the construction site
Before you begin building your Anderson shelter, you need to make sure that you have a suitable location for it. Follow these steps to prepare the construction site:
1. Choose a flat and level area
- Find an area in your yard that is flat and level.
- Make sure there are no trees, large rocks, or other obstacles that could interfere with the construction.
- If necessary, remove any debris or vegetation from the area.
2. Check for underground utilities
- Contact your local utility companies to check for any underground utilities, such as gas or electrical lines, in the area where you plan to build.
- It is important to avoid digging in areas where there may be underground utilities to ensure your safety.
3. Mark the boundaries
- Use stakes and string to mark the boundaries of the Anderson shelter construction site.
- This will help you visualize the space and ensure proper placement.
4. Consider the drainage
- Take into account the natural drainage pattern of your yard when choosing the location for your shelter.
- Avoid areas that are prone to flooding or where water tends to accumulate.
- If necessary, consider creating a drainage system, such as a trench or French drain, to divert water away from the shelter.
By following these steps to prepare the construction site, you will ensure that you have a suitable location to build your Anderson shelter.
Building the Structure
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials and tools, it’s time to start building your Anderson shelter. Follow these steps to construct the structure:
1. Clear the Ground
Choose a suitable area in your garden where you want to set up the shelter. Make sure the ground is level and free from any obstacles such as rocks or tree roots. Clear any debris or vegetation from the area to create a clean working space.
2. Mark the Dimensions
Using chalk or stakes, mark the dimensions of the shelter on the ground. The standard size for an Anderson shelter is 6 feet (1.8 meters) deep, 4 feet (1.2 meters) wide, and 6 feet (1.8 meters) high. Adjust the dimensions according to your preferences, but ensure that the structure remains sturdy and protective.
3. Dig the Trench
Start digging a trench according to the marked dimensions. The trench should be around 2 feet (0.6 meters) deep. Clear the soil and rocks from the trench, creating a level surface for the shelter.
4. Install the Base Frames
Place the prefabricated base frames inside the trench. These frames will serve as the foundation for your shelter. Align the frames properly, making sure they fit snugly and securely in the trench.
5. Erect the Walls
Attach the corrugated iron panels to the base frames to create the walls of the shelter. Use bolts or screws to secure the panels firmly. Ensure that the panels overlap at the corners to provide maximum strength and stability.
6. Assemble the Roof
Construct the roof by attaching the roof panels to the tops of the walls. Again, use bolts or screws to secure the panels in place. Make sure the panels are tightly sealed to prevent any water leakage during rainy weather.
Note: Anderson shelters were often covered with soil for additional protection against bomb blasts. If you wish to add this extra layer, carefully pile the excavated soil onto the shelter’s roof and sides.
Once the structure is complete, it’s important to reinforce its stability by filling the gaps between the shelter walls and the ground with sandbags or soil. This will provide better insulation and prevent flooding.
Now that you have finished building the Anderson shelter structure, you can move on to furnishing it and making it comfortable and safe for occupancy.
Finishing touches and additional considerations
Once you have completed the basic construction of your Anderson shelter, there are a few finishing touches and additional considerations you can think about to ensure its durability and effectiveness.
1. Reinforce the joints
One important step is to reinforce the joints of the metal sheets, especially where they overlap. You can achieve this by using metal brackets or screws to secure the sheets together and strengthen the structure. This will help to ensure that your shelter remains sturdy and can withstand any potential impact.
2. Waterproofing
It is also important to consider waterproofing your shelter to make it more resistant to rain and moisture. You can do so by applying a waterproof sealant or paint to the exterior of the shelter. Additionally, you can install a rubber or waterproof membrane on the roof to prevent any leaks. This will help to keep the interior of the shelter dry and comfortable.
3. Ventilation
Proper ventilation is crucial to maintain air circulation inside the shelter. You can install vents or perforations in the walls to allow fresh air to enter and reduce the buildup of condensation. This will help to keep the air inside the shelter fresh and prevent any potential health issues.
4. Ground preparation
Before setting up the Anderson shelter, ensure that the ground is level and free from any debris or vegetation. Clear the area and lay down a layer of gravel or sand to create a stable and even surface. This will help to prevent the shelter from sinking or shifting over time.
5. Surroundings
When choosing the location for your Anderson shelter, consider the surroundings as well. Make sure it is placed away from any potential hazards such as trees, power lines, or unstable structures. Additionally, consider landscaping around the shelter to provide a protective cover and camouflage it from view.
By taking these finishing touches and additional considerations into account, you can create a well-built and effective Anderson shelter that will serve you and your family well during times of need.
Harrison Clayton
Meet Harrison Clayton, a distinguished author and home remodeling enthusiast whose expertise in the realm of renovation is second to none. With a passion for transforming houses into inviting homes, Harrison's writing at https://thehuts-eastbourne.co.uk/ brings a breath of fresh inspiration to the world of home improvement. Whether you're looking to revamp a small corner of your abode or embark on a complete home transformation, Harrison's articles provide the essential expertise and creative flair to turn your visions into reality. So, dive into the captivating world of home remodeling with Harrison Clayton and unlock the full potential of your living space with every word he writes.
