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building house plan water sprinkler systems

Fire Sprinkler Systems; Design Advice for Builders

building house plan water sprinkler systems

When builders, architects and developers start making plans for a brand-new building, they sometimes don’t consider fire sprinkler systems. Commercial and residential water sprinkler systems are the most effective form of fire prevention for properties; they activate at the first sign of heat from a fire, and only the sprinkler heads in the near vicinity of the fire will operate, saving on both fire and water damage. When builders are working on plans, sprinkler systems should be considered, and need to be included in certain buildings. However, we have some advice for architects and developers alike…

Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we are often approached by developers who have little to no experience in handling domestic and commercial fire sprinkler systems. Sometimes, they aren’t even aware that sprinkler systems can be installed in residential properties, such as private homes and care homes. By providing such useful knowledge, architects can incorporate life-saving sprinkler systems into their designs, but there are still challenges that they may face.

 

The Benefits Water Sprinkler Systems Have

When designing a property, there are various obstacles that architects and builders can encounter. Fire sprinklers can alleviate a number of issues, especially if the property is built to certain dimensions. For instance, if there is limited access for a fire tender when a property is 45 meters above curt-ledge level or there is a lack of alternative escape when a property is more than 7.5 meters high. You can find out more on our dedicated page for architects and developers here.

Every aspect of a water sprinkler system, from the sprinkler heads to the sprinkler system installation, works together to provide great safety in any property. When residents are aware that there is a fire sprinkler system in place, they can feel more comfortable in their space. Domestic properties often use concealed sprinkler heads to benefit the design even more, so they won’t hinder the overall look of the property you are envisioning. Installation can also be quick and simple, so there won’t be any extreme time or financial costs to the development of the property.

Fire sprinklers are only a requirement in all new builds in Wales. However, that isn’t to say that properties in England and Scotland can ignore the crucial benefits they bring. And, it all starts with incorporating sprinklers into the design.

 

Key Design Factors to be Aware Of

When designing a property, it is important to remember some key factors about sprinklers to make sure you are fully compliant throughout the entire process. For example, there are relaxations in boundary distances between any properties that have fire sprinkler systems fitted. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about ensuring it is the right distance away, as these measurements can be edited. Other important notes to take include:

  • In care homes, the number of beds can be increased and self-closing doors are not a necessity when sprinklers are fitted. This can help you create a larger space that benefits the local community.
  • An additional, separate staircase is not required in a property over 4.5m high from the ground unless they have sprinkler fitted
  • Fire separations between a shop front and the salesroom can be modified if sprinklers are fitted

These design benefits aren’t very well known, so it is important to arm builders with the correct information before they believe misconceptions about water sprinkler systems.

 

Our Installation Process

Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we take great care when installing all of our water sprinkler systems. Like the process that electricians and plumbers follow, sprinkler system installation is incredibly straightforward. We can design and install sprinklers to fit the dimensions of your building, so if you’re struggling to fit sprinklers into your design, we’re here to help. We have worked with many architects and developers over the years, and have a good scope of knowledge to help you incorporate these life-saving systems into your design.

To find out more, or to receive a bespoke quote, please get in touch with us today by calling 01892 680 090. Alternatively, you can fill out our online form here.

Brilliant company, Gadi and the team were always responsive, professional and very knowledgeable.It was our first time installing a mist system and we thought it might be tricky but they did it all completely hassle free.Will use again and would recommend.
Luis Garcia de Andoin
20:08 24 Aug 22
Mist system was a great solution for our renovation needs and them team at RAD have been great. Always communicated clearly and been on hand to discuss over the phone as needed. Would highly recommend!
David
09:32 17 Jul 22
I have used RAD for a couple of projects and found them to be good to deal with. They did a pair of 3 storey open plan houses and seven three and four story town houses. The sprinklers were to improve fire safety, allow more flexible space and comply with building regulations. The sprinklers were far more cost effective than the mist type systems and look very discrete when installed.
Paul Jeary
15:50 11 Jul 22
It has been a pleasure to deal with RAD for installation of fire sprinklers at our site is Sevenoaks. They were fast, professional, working to time and quote, which made it easy to work with them.
Katrina Horobin
12:03 29 Jun 22
My requirement was a bit unusual for RAD in that I wanted a mist system in one room of a rented house. I had no drawings or technical back up. RAD were very helpful and repositioned the unit after the initial installation. Luckily with the help of Sonny, the engineer it all worked out very well.
Simon Gurney
16:16 12 May 22
I have used RAD for the last 10 years for all of my housing developments in need of a sprinkler system. Easy process from start to finish and no issues or problems throughout. Always someone at hand to answer a querie and we have a great working relationship with the team at RAD. Would highly recommend.
Roxy
15:33 12 May 22
Diligent & a very professional team. A joy to deal with. Will certainly be calling on them to help with many more future schemes.
Jason Tema
22:17 08 Jul 19
Great team, fitting sprinklers, saving lives & property... What more could you wish for!!!
Colin P
17:53 01 Jul 17
Excellent company & great service... This company rocks! They sprinkle fires & save lives!!!
Music N Videoz
07:15 16 Dec 16
As somebody who feels that it should be a necessity for all properties to have fire sprinkler systems, I am a big fan of this company. I have used them numerous times to service my home system and they are very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend their service.
Kate Fraser
09:25 30 Mar 15
One look at Rad Fire Sprinkler's website will tell you that these guys know exactly what they are talking about when it comes to Fire Sprinklers and the legislation surrounding fire safety. A very trustworthy company.
Adam Hudson
16:45 15 Nov 13

Our Services Cover London and the South East

RAD Fire Sprinklers Map

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RAD Fire Sprinklers Ltd.
58A St John’s Road
Tunbridge Wells, TN4 9NY

Mon – Fri: 8AM – 5PM

Tel: 01892 680 090

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