Where fire sprinkler systems are being installed or retro-fitted in tower blocks and flats, Encasement’s ‘Versa’ pipe boxing range provides a cost effective, durable and easy-fit solution for concealing sprinkler pipework in flats and communal areas, such as corridors and lift lobbies.
As sprinkler system pipework needs to be surface mounted for most retro-fit projects in existing residential blocks, concealing it with Versa pre-formed boxing provides a more aesthetic finish, which can help avoid complaints from tenants about unsightly exposed pipework.
Manufactured from 5mm thick pre-formed plywood with a durable white melamine finish, ‘Versa 5’ pipe and fire sprinkler boxing is already installed in countless social housing projects across the UK and is suitable for use with standard sprinkler heads or ‘pop-out’ units with cover caps.
An 8mm thick option, ‘Versa 8’, is also available and the ‘Versa’ range can be manufactured from FSC® ‘Chain of Custody’ certified plywood to comply with relevant sustainability and procurement policies.
Where flame retardant sprinkler boxing is required, ‘Versa FR’ is also included in the range, which is designed primarily for use on high-rise residential projects and is manufactured from flame retardant Euroclass B compliant board.
As there’s no need for fabrication or painting on site, the ‘Versa’ range helps save on installation time. All that’s required is for the boxing to be cut to length and holes drilled for the sprinkler heads before securing to the wall or ceiling with wood battens, screws and caps.
Encasement’s Managing Director, Martin Taylor, commented: “Our fire sprinkler boxing has already been installed on a large number of high-rise refurbishment projects, as they’re cost effective, quick and easy to install. From our experience of working with contractors on a wide range of social housing projects, Versa boxing solutions can be fitted in less than half the time of site made alternatives, which saves time and cost on-site.”