When you think of fire sprinklers, chances are you envision exposed pipes, ugly metal sprinkler heads and a system that sprays water anywhere – and everywhere.
But that was then; this is now. Home fire sprinkler systems have evolved into recessed, barely noticeable, high-tech devices that get the job done while specifically targeting only the area in flames.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 80 percent of all fire deaths occur in homes. In studies across the country, those homes that have home fire sprinkler systems installed report far fewer incidents of loss of life. Remodelers should consider offering their clients sprinkler systems as part of their remodeling projects—especially since the sprinklers are now much more compatible with the aesthetic effect the homeowners undoubtedly want.
Dispelling Myths
The Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition is working to dispel some of misconceptions associated with them, including the perception that the actuating devices or sprinkler heads look to o industrial for residential use. But that, says Gary Keith, HFSC chair, has changed with new technologies and smaller, more aesthetically pleasing hardware.
In fact, with some of profiles in the market, the heads almost disappear into ceilings and sidewalls. Some units have sprinkler heads concealed in what looks like white ceiling speakers. There are also flush-mounted heads that go flat into the ceiling and domed pendants that resemble a modern but much smaller light fixture.
"Today's residential sprinklers were specifically designed to provide the best available protection while maintaining aesthetic appeal," says Russ Fleming, executive vice president of the National Fire Sprinkler Association. "Sprinkler manufacturers have taken these functional devices and packaged them with a variety of product profiles and finishes to allow fire sprinkler systems to blend in unobtrusively with almost any room
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