How much should people expect to pay for a fire sprinkler system?

If installed during new home construction, home fire sprinklers often cost no more than 1 to 11/2 percent of the total building cost, which is about what they would pay for an upgrade in carpeting. The investment in a family's fire protection may be slightly lower or higher, depending on the location and complexity of the home.

How long should installation take? Can other construction work continue while the sprinklers are going in?

Fire sprinkler installations are like electricity, plumbing or any other operational system in a home. The total time involved will depend on the size and complexity of the home.

Certain portions of the system (i.e. water piping) are more easily and cost-effectively installed in the earliest stages of construction, while the actual finish (i.e. installing the fire sprinkler devices, testing the system, etc.) will take place after the house is framed. Fire sprinkler systems are often completed prior to the other systems in a home, but other mechanical trades may work along side the sprinkler contractor if necessary.

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