Hire a plumber so the roof, the roof, is never on fire
We tend to think of plumbers when it comes to installing new sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. But for some reason—even though it's a water- and plumbing-related job—we don't automatically think of hiring a local plumber to install new fire sprinklers.
More often than not, though, a plumber with fire sprinkler installation experience is your best bet for tackling this job in both residential and commercial buildings. In many states, new sprinklers are required when a new commercial property is being built.
Outsourcing your fire sprinkler project to an experienced plumber comes with the following benefits:
Ensures your job meets fire codes and ordinances
Can be installed for an affordable price (about $0.80 to $7 per square foot, or at least $2,000 for a 2,500-square-foot home)
Better protection of your home and assets from fires
Can tackle other sprinkler projects (like lawn irrigation sprinklers) simultaneously
Some fire sprinkler contracts come with maintenance plans or discounts for future service
You can, but it's not the easiest project, and only homeowners with experience installing new plumbing should tackle this job. DIY fire sprinkler installation could be dangerous if you're drilling holes in the wall or floor or working with electrical components.
Fire sprinklers are a pivotal component of fire safety in a residential or commercial building, which is why each state has its own fire code and ordinances for the installation of new sprinklers. DIY installation that isn't done properly may lead to your work being turned down during inspection, or you could incur fines. A building permit from your town or city may be required, and some municipalities require that a certified professional pull those permits..
Fortunately, increased mandates at the state level have helped make fire sprinkler installation more affordable than it used to be. In some states, you may pay less than $1 per square foot.
The same logic applies here as tackling the job yourself. You certainly can hire a handyperson to install fire sprinklers, especially if you can find someone in your area who's up to snuff on local ordinances and fire codes. However, it’s better to hire someone with experience and a plumber’s license, even if it costs a little more on the front end.
After installation, though, you may be able to hire a handyman to test valves, check water pressure, and flush the pipes every six to twelve months to save money while keeping your building safe.
How a professional local plumber installs fire sprinklers depends on the project. For example, in an older building, the plumber may need to fit additional pipes into the existing plumbing before attaching sprinkler heads. Whereas on a new commercial property, it may be as simple as hooking up the sprinkler system to the water main.
Generally speaking, the process involves the following steps in a residential home:
Checking the water pressure in the home, then turning the water off
Installing the home sprinkler system in the basement (if there's no basement, you may need to install it outside and cover it)
Running pipes from the basement through the walls upstairs
Installing sprinkler heads
Concealing pipes in walls by patching drywall (if necessary)
Testing the system
Supplies needed for this project include CPVC piping, screws, and insulation for your pipes if you live in a cold-weather area. Tools required include a power drill and drill bits, a utility knife, a stud finder, and a hacksaw.
It’s technically possible in some areas to install your own fire suppression system, but it’s usually not a good idea. Your system must conform to the fire code in your area and will need to pass a rigorous inspection before being activated and deemed safe. Installing a fire suppression system is a complicated job, and making mistakes as a DIYer is likely. Those mistakes can cause you to fail your inspection, which means you’ll have to spend more time fixing the issues or money to have a certified plumber do the work for you. It’s best to hire a professional.
A plumber can sometimes install a simple fire sprinkler system in as little as four hours, but larger buildings and more complex systems might take a few days for the installation. You can always ask your local plumber for an estimate on how long the installation will take. If you’re waiting on the fire system to conduct business in your building, make sure you allot enough time to have the post-installation inspection done as well, as that can take a few days to schedule.
