How Do You Survey Existing Sprinkler Systems?

2/28/2019

For projects where you have to survey and/or trace existing sprinkler systems for modifications, what tools/methods do you use? Just a 25' measuring tape and a ladder? Point and shoot laser? Laser scans?

I generally measure locations of sprinklers and pipe off of walls or structure using a point-and-shoot laser measure and a laser plumb bob so I know I'm right beneath my measurement point. That being said I'm very interested in learning about how other people do takeoffs.

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2 Comments

Wayne Ammons

2/28/2019 08:33:57 am

A similar question was posted on 12/5/18, you might checkout those responses as well.

Honestly, it all depends on the scope of the project for me, whether it requires a detailed layout of the existing sprinkler system for a lot of modifications, just a portion of the sprinkler system for an isolated modification, or if I just need to trace down the hydraulically remote area for a hydraulic analysis. It also depends on the type of building (don't use an ink pen if you're surveying inside a freezer for great lengths of time).

Survey techniques for existing work can be much different than if surveying for new construction. I typically use a 25 ft. Fat Max tape measure (helps with taking greater measurements if surveying alone), a distance laser, and a plumb bob laser. Ladders and even scissor lifts are sometimes necessary. Try to pull measurements off of primary structural components or walls.

I make sure I develop a strategy before I go and bring drawings that I think will benefit me most. That might be a floor plan that shows existing walls to be demolished (as long as they haven't been demolished yet), a floor plan that shows only columns or structure, or a blank floor plan/blank paper if I have no information to begin with. If the conditions allow for it, I may take my laptop and draw as I go.

Pictures, take a lot of pictures if the facility will allow. Mark on your plan where you take the pictures or take them systematically so you know where you are looking if you need to refer to them in the future.

A lot could be written on this subject...

Kevin Clay

2/28/2019 11:23:15 am

When exact locations aren't necessary, I use drop ceiling grids to estimate locations. Best helpful with 2x2 grid.

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