Our Blog
Technical articles and practical guidance from Swanson Fire Protection's leadership team covering fire sprinkler system design, code requirements, and coordination challenges that affect commercial and multifamily construction projects across our operating footprint.
Commercial / Preconstruction EducationMarch 2026
Fire Sprinkler Cost Drivers in Multifamily Construction: What Impacts Budget and Schedule Most
Understand the primary fire sprinkler cost drivers in multifamily construction, including system classification, height interpretation, water demand, standpipe requirements, and coordination risk.
By Jacob Terherst
Educational / Fire Protection BasicsMarch 2026
How Fire Sprinkler Systems Work (And Why They Don't All Go Off at Once)
Learn how fire sprinkler systems work, why only the sprinkler closest to the fire activates, and why targeted activation makes sprinklers one of the most effective life-safety technologies.
By Bill Brown
Commercial / Preconstruction EducationMarch 2026
NFPA 13 vs 13R vs 13D: Key Differences, Height Limits & Cost Impacts
Learn the key differences between NFPA 13, NFPA 13R, and NFPA 13D and how fire sprinkler system classification impacts hydraulic demand, standpipe requirements, permitting complexity, and schedule risk across commercial and multifamily projects.
By Jacob Terherst
Educational / Fire Protection BasicsMarch 2026
Wet Pipe vs Dry Pipe vs Pre-Action Fire Sprinkler Systems: What's the Difference?
Learn the differences between wet pipe, dry pipe, pre-action, and deluge fire sprinkler systems, including how each system works, where they are used, and how fire codes determine system selection.
By Chad McCloskey
Educational / Fire Protection BasicsMarch 2026
What Triggers a Fire Sprinkler? (And Why They Don't All Go Off)
Learn what triggers a fire sprinkler system, why smoke does not activate sprinklers, and why most fires are controlled by only one or two sprinkler heads.
By Chad McCloskey
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