13d attic sprinklers
13d attic sprinklers
(OP)
What are some of your thoughts on uprights in attics in 13d systems?
Some AHJ's are requiring these heads along with patio heads in some situations like limited fire truck access "hillside lots etc."
I think it is dangerous to ask a sprinkler system to do what it wasn't designed to do as there is no science involved in this installation.
We all know a 13d system will buy time to escape a fire, but could it really control a fire in an attic with CPVC piping? Wouldn't you lose your pendant density if even 1 or 2 attic heads activated?
Some AHJ's are requiring these heads along with patio heads in some situations like limited fire truck access "hillside lots etc."
I think it is dangerous to ask a sprinkler system to do what it wasn't designed to do as there is no science involved in this installation.
We all know a 13d system will buy time to escape a fire, but could it really control a fire in an attic with CPVC piping? Wouldn't you lose your pendant density if even 1 or 2 attic heads activated?





RE: 13d attic sprinklers
And, to answer your question, you could very well lose your pendent density if heads in the attic activated. It is not guaranteed, but probable.
Good luck working in AZ. It can be the "wild west" in some areas. But, overall, the AHJs are good to work with and will assist you in many ways where it is possible.
Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC
www.mfpdesign.com
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
What is the problem with that???
Normaly there will be two risers
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC
www.mfpdesign.com
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
have not seen a 13"D" system with heads in the attic
got my d's and r's mixed up
that would be interesting. along with do not think the plastic is listed for use as attic protection, would have to check the listing
yea putting your name on something not tested, even as an ahj seems to be taking a big leap
have they had any attic fires??? and if so waht is the track record??? as far as control or extinguishment of the fire??
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
"Fire suppression is a failure in prevention"
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
Again, this jurisdiction has a long history of residential fire sprinklers and is well known for their report on the history of residential fire sprinklers since it was made mandatory in their jurisdiction many years ago. I don't know what the rate of fires in the attic has been shown to be. But, they do have a nice record of what residential sprinklers can do. However, you have to remember that the requirements in that jurisdiction are above and beyond NFPA 13D in a few areas. As such, one should not necessarily point this jurisdiction when looking to the effectiveness of 13D.
Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC
www.mfpdesign.com
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC
www.mfpdesign.com
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
Just so we are clear, we are talking about Scottsdale Arizona, I take it? Can't argue with their track record, that is something to be proud of.
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
I think they have a relatively good thing in place - minus the CPVC in the attic with standard spray pilot heads at the ridge.
Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC
www.mfpdesign.com
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
I was told at the SFPE conference that a new trend in home structure fires is when a fire on the back porch spreads into the attic. A by the book 13D would not protect against that.
Interesting topic. I guess from an AHJ's perspective, this is a story of, "two heads are better than none" lol
RE: 13d attic sprinklers
Travis Mack
MFP Design, LLC
www.mfpdesign.com
RE: 13d attic sprinklers