Is Pre-Action Valve Permitted to be on a Roof?

8/31/2020

Would it be permitted by code to place a pre-action valve on top of a roof of a two-story building?

It would be protected from mechanical damage, and there's no regular man movement at the roof. The roof area is warm, but there would be no covering as it currently stands. I'm looking for code requirements pertaining to this situation that would allow or disallow such an arrangement.

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5 Comments

Dan Wilder

8/31/2020 10:17:30 am

my thoughts and a couple conditions need to be met for this to work:

1. All portions of the system (riser in this case) needs to be in a location that is maintained above 40°F. Your indication of "warm" does not cover it. - 13-19' - 16.4.1.1

2. Mechanical damage - seems you have that covered 13-10' - 16.5

3. Listing of components - The valve is likely OK, make sure the pressure switches are all listed for outdoor applications. The compressor should also be listed for outdoor use. The releasing panel is another aspect to not be overlooked. 13-19'16.11.7.3

4. Manual override/releasing needs to be addressed as to accessibility. A discussion with the owner about the ability and process to actuate the system manually.

Even here in Metro Phoenix, other than wet systems and backflows, exterior installation of dry or preaction risers is rare.

Glenn Berger

8/31/2020 10:23:26 am

Your question did not indicate what is being protected. Is the system riser for space inside the facility at a lower elevation?

Typically being on the roof is not allowing protection from the elements. Where is the Control Panel located?

Jonathan Joseph

8/31/2020 01:29:53 pm

Dan has explained the code side. But define protection from mechanical injury/damage. My opinion without a covering, it is not enough protection. A lightning strike could occur.

Mark Harris

8/31/2020 07:48:42 pm

Agree with prior comments. Also could be high pressure fluctuations from baking in the sun or low night temperatures. .

Franck

9/1/2020 10:47:36 am

I an see another issue: accessibility.
It is normally a recommended good practice to have access to the valve, even in case of fire (as you may need to manipulate the valve).
In this situation, would the roof be accessible in case of fire within the building?

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Is Pre-Action Valve Permitted to be on a Roof?

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