If you’re looking for ways to enhance your property’s fire protection efforts, you need to make sure your fire sprinkler system installation is the best there is.
In today’s post, we’ll give you a handy guide on fire sprinkler system installation costs, as well as the factors that affect the rates. For references, the National Fire Protection Association conducted its own fire sprinkler cost evaluation.
We hope you’ll find this information helpful as you venture into installing fire sprinklers in your property.
Building and Floor Plan Requirements
In order for a fire sprinkler installation company to give a cost-effective and ideal sprinkler system for your establishment, they’ll need to do a proper assessment of your building and floor plan requirements.
An experienced and professional installation company will:
- Ensure the system is compliant with the codes laid out by the NFPA.
- Assess the pipe routes and sprinkler system requirements and maintenance.
- Conduct hydraulic testing of the system.
- Make a comparison of multiple fire sprinkler system designs.
- Determine the best design and installation that fit your building’s requirements.
Completing all these steps ensure that your property, resources, employees, and customers will have the best fire protection available within your premises.
Type of Building
There are three main types of buildings that fire sprinklers companies consider before starting the installation project: new construction, retrofits, and historic buildings.
New Construction
The most practical and ideal time for a fire sprinkler system installation is at the initial construction stage of the building. The estimated pricing for a new construction sprinkler system is around $2 per square foot with a sprinkler. This estimate includes the device and the installation.
Retrofits
If you already have an existing residential or commercial property that needs a sprinkler system, it may cost you up to $7 per square foot with a sprinkler. If it’s a high-rise building, the installation cost for this type of establishment is up to $4 per square foot with a sprinkler.
Historic Buildings
Historic buildings must adhere to strict guidelines when it comes to maintaining and upgrading them – this includes a fire sprinkler system installation.
The installation cost for a historic building is up to about $10 per square foot with a sprinkler.
Piping Material
Another factor that influences the cost of the sprinkler system is the materials used and the design of the piping. Most property owners prefer plastic pipes because of their versatility and affordability. While there are some areas of the building that using plastic is not ideal, it’s still a fantastic option if you’re working on a budget.
You should use metal piping for unfinished areas throughout the property that are at high risk.
Lastly, copper is another material used for piping and the most expensive one.
Piping Design
As for piping design, it can either be a standalone design or a multipurpose design.
Standalone Design: In this design, the pipes are built to supply water to the sprinkler heads. This is the most common sprinkler system design.
Multipurpose Design: In this design, the sprinkler system uses a water supply for the sprinkler and a set of piping for water used domestically. This type of piping system design is less expensive because it doesn’t require a lot of piping.
Additional Expenses
The following are the additional upgrades you can include in a fire sprinkler system installation. These upgrades ensure that you’re adding another layer of protection to your fire safety efforts.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers can cost anywhere between $100 and $500. As for the required inspection and maintenance, and upkeep the cost is between $30 and $100.
Carbon Monoxide Alarms, Heat Sensors, and Smoke Detectors
Carbon monoxide alarms, heat sensors, and smoke detectors are vital components to your property’s overall fire alarm system.
Expect to pay between $10 and $65 for smoke detectors, $60 and $100 for heat sensors, and $15 and $150 for carbon monoxide detectors.
Fire Blankets
Fire blankets are used to cover a person up in case of a fire or even to put out a small fire. They are made of highly fire-resistant material and can withstand up to 900 degrees. They cost between $10 and $100 and can last for up to seven years. Unlike fire extinguishers or heat sensors and smoke detectors, fire blankets don’t require any maintenance or upkeep.