Concealed Sprinklers

What are concealed sprinklers and are they allowed?


Concealed sprinklers, as part of a fire sprinkler system, feature a flat cover plate designed as an architectural feature to conceal the sprinkler head. Whether installed in a suspended ceiling or monolithic ceiling, they must be installed and maintained in compliance with the manufacturer listing and the applicable standards of the National Fire Protection Association. Absence of the cover plate assembly may delay sprinkler operation in a fire situation. When properly installed, there is a manufacturer preset (nominal 3/32-inch) air gap between the lip of the cover plate and the ceiling. This air gap is necessary for proper operation of the sprinkler. If the ceiling is to be repainted after the installation of the sprinkler, care must be exercised to ensure that caulking and the new paint DOES NOT seal off any of the air gap. Factory painted cover plates MUST NOT be repainted. They should be replaced, if necessary, by factory painted units.