Fayetteville Commercial Water Damage

10/28/2022 (Permalink)

Fire sprinkler system activated in a commercial building

Fire sprinkler systems are designed to limit the harm fires cause people and property.  But there’s a chance of “accidental discharge”.  That happens when sprinkler heads are activated when there is no fire. This “accidental discharge” covers all kinds of events, like carelessness and vandalism.  In hospitals, schools, hotels and apartments, it’s a common problem.  These accidental discharges cause entire buildings to flood, which can lead to mold, mildew, damaged carpets and walls, along with a host of other expensive issues.  If your commercial property has a sprinkler system activation, contact SERVPRO of Fayetteville, Springdale, and South Washington County.

Today’s sprinkler heads are heat activated.  The two most common types are a liquid-filled bulb designed to burst at a given temperature, or a soldered metal link designed to melt.  These small heat-sensitive components hold back hundreds of gallons of water.

NFPA 13D (National Fire Protection Association), the industry standard for residential sprinkler systems, recommends systems that flow 13 gallons per minute per sprinkler head.  Activating one sprinkler head will release 260 gallons of water in only 20 minutes.  Waiting for the maintenance department or fire department to arrive and shut off the water supply will cause extensive damage to carpet, walls, and ceilings.

Water damage restoration is an involved and costly process.  Building materials, furniture, clothing, and other items must be dried, or replaced.  Extractors, air movers, and dehumidifiers remove standing water and dry affected materials. Damaged drywall, carpeting, and other building materials must be inspected and repaired or replaced. Estimates place damage from accidental sprinkler activation at over $1,000 for each minute water discharges.

SERVPRO of Fayetteville, Springdale, and South Washington County should be your first choice for any residential or commercial water damage.  Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage, identify potential threats, respond quickly to restore your property to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of Fayetteville, Springdale, and South Washington County is available 24/7 by calling 479-419-5544.