Sprinkler Height & Put Above a Sloped Ceiling?

5/27/2025

I have sloped steel decking on Glulam Beams 11" wide x 26" deep to 36" deep. They range from 2'-2" to 6'-0 wide in a light and ordinary hazard community center setting. I have areas with ceilings below as well.

Do I need above and below sprinklers due to the wood beams?

Do I need to have heads between the beams up to a 12" deflector distance in areas without ceilings?

The 22" deflector depth doesn't make a difference in this instance. Thanks in advance.

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3 Comments

Pete H

5/27/2025 08:15:05 am

I can't think of any likely reason you wouldn't have to protect any combustible wood structural component in a building that size.

Is this wood treated to be considered limited combustible or noncombustible?

Dan Wilder

5/27/2025 08:19:02 am

References are to 13-19' Edition

Based on the description and picture, yes, due to combustible nature of the Glulam within the space (9.2.1), protection within interstitial spaces (above ceilings) will be required.

As to the deflector distance, that is dependent on the depth of the Glulam (26"-36" so they are capable of trapping heat), their spacing (assumption of the 2'-2" to 6'-0" between - indicated as "wide") and again yes, creating pockets where heat can get trapped - 3.3.41.1. Other item to consider is the steel decking depth for the deflector distance start location (greater than 3" is to the top of the flute, less than 3" is to the bottom of the flute - 9.5.4.1.2) and if it does not create too large an opening where attaches to the Glulam (Panel Construction).

The deflector distance, based on description and use of a standard spray upright or pendent, can be up to 22" below the deck as allowed for Obstructed Construction - 10.2.6.1.2.

The sloped nature of the roof will also play into sprinkler spacing - 10.2.4.2.1 and hydraulic remote area increases - 19.3.3.2.4.

Glenn Berger

5/27/2025 10:31:05 am

Project definitely has "combustible construction" and also "obstructed construction." Just need to follow the rules that apply.

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Sprinkler Height & Put Above a Sloped Ceiling?

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