Online News--CDA Cites Reasons Why Copper Fire Sprinkler Systems Essential for Restoration/Remodeling Projects
The need for installing all-copper fire sprinkler systems when renovating high-value residential and commercial properties was underscored at a seminar held recently at the Restoration & Renovation Conference in Baltimore. Invited speakers from the Copper Development Association cited numerous reasons why copper systems are critical for remodeling or restoring structures with historic value and for buildings that contain furnishings or collections that cannot be replaced following a disastrous fire.
"Copper is not just the preferred material for fire sprinkler systems in structures with particular importance, it's often the only plumbing material that should be used," explained Andrew Kireta, Jr., CDA's national program manager for Tube, Pipe & Fittings. "Copper is flexible and lightweight, so it's less intrusive than steel pipe systems, which are ugly to look at, difficult to work with and can result in considerable structural and interior damage during installation. And when fires do happen, copper systems deliver clean water, even if the system has never been flushed-unlike the rusty, sometimes black water from steel pipe systems that can ruin interiors and furnishings . For valuable or historic buildings or museums, that can be a disaster in itself."