It is important for designers, specifiers, installers and building owners to know how CPVC may be used when it comes to combustible concealed spaces – defined as areas in retrofit and new construction not normally considered to be “living space.” These include areas such as small closets, bathrooms or attic areas.
The American standards NFPA 13, 13R and 13D provide a good rule of thumb for such applications.
Combustible concealed spaces that do not require sprinkler protection by NFPA standards 13R and 13D may be outfitted with CPVC-based sprinkler systems.
However, combustible concealed spaces that require sprinklers – such as attics with open wood truss construction or crawl spaces – may be outfitted with CPVC-based sprinkler systems that utilize UL-listed sprinkler heads specifically created for this application to provide void protection, with installation adhering to the sprinkler head manufacturer’s listing and instructions.
CPVC’s Advantage Over Steel
CPVC sprinkler systems may be used in combustible concealed spaces that do not require sprinklers, such as small closets or bathrooms and/or to attic areas that may then be sprinklered using approved sprinkler heads.
It can also be run in these areas and sprinklered by way of a sidewall to a living space.
For example, envision a retirement home as a branch line loop enters into each suite from a corridor run. Assume that the first space the line encounters is a closet – which requires no sprinkler – and may be used as a chase. The run may then continue to the plenum for ceiling sprinklers, or, the closet may include a sidewall head into the living space.
When an attic installation must be sprinklered, attic sprinklers specifically listed for use with CPVC must be installed. CPVC piping and fittings must be protected with 152 mm (6”) of non-combustible insulation atop the pipe in this installation.
Isn’t It Easier to Just Spec Steel?
Here are three great reasons why you should consider CPVC in combustible concealed spaces:
- Lower initial cost. Steel pipe will always be more expensive than CPVC, and fluctuating prices make it difficult to budget.
- Faster, easier installation. Steel is heavy. Special equipment is needed to move it around a job site. It typically requires two or more installers. In tight, cramped spaces, steel is even more difficult to manoeuvre. Steel sprinkler system installation requires torches and threading machines to fabricate and join the system. CPVC is light by comparison and may be quickly installed by one person using cutting tools and solvent cement. Bottom line: CPVC sprinkler systems mean installation savings.
- Long term maintenance savings. Steel pipe is subject to corrosion from harsh water conditions and scaling from hard water. That can lead to system leaks and failures and/or reduced flow. That means that the fire sprinkler system’s ability to perform the tasks for which it was designed – save lives and protect property – may be inhibited.
Should you ever have a question about BlazeMaster CPVC and its use in combustible concealed spaces, do not hesitate to contact us. We can help you save time and money by providing the most cost-effective, reliable fire protection system available.
