Window sprinklers, water curtains, sprinkler protected glazing: What is the difference

Window sprinklers and water curtains are similar in appearance, but quite different. A water curtain is used in an exterior wall that is required to have up to a 1hr fire rating based on FSD (Fire Separation Distance).  They include roughly adding standard sprinkler heads at 6′ on center, 6″ from the wall.  Adding the water curtain allows for unlimited openings […]

2021 Codes and Barrel Storage

As mentioned in a previous post, there were some major changes to the 2021 and new codes affecting distilleries. One of these major changes were how barrel storage is classified and treated. IFC Chapter 40 2021 IFC (International Fire Code) added a whole new chapter 40 , Storage of Distilled spirits and wines. The chapter […]

Sprinklers In Single Family Residential

Sprinklers in Single Family Homes, say what???? I don’t believe I have ever seen a fire sprinkler system in a stand alone, single family home. Unlike large office buildings, apartment buildings, or warehouses, where fire sprinkler systems are common, I always assumed that single family homes were exempt from needing sprinklers. So, when I went […]

Outdoor Portions of Buildings & Code Considerations

This article will cover which “outdoor” building portions are or aren’t considered part of the building and which are or aren’t subject to varying codes. What is part of the building area? Any area that is covered by a roof covering. So, this could include entryways/ driveway overhanging, covered patios, canopies, decks, porte-cocheres, other projections, […]