Remodeling may bring fire trucks

I had a customer call today about this, so I thought it would be a good time to remind everyone.  If you are doing remodeling of any kind you should cover the smoke detectors and put your system on test while sawing, soldering, etc.  Here are some of the worst construction by-products that create false alarms:

- Soldering smoke

- Drywall dust (very fine)

- Hardwood dust (like oak, maple, cherry, etc.) used for trim/cabinets

- Final cleanup dust (which in commercial spaces usually includes drywall and concrete dust.)

Capping with the original dust covers will help some, but may not prevent all false alarms.  Bagging and taping is probably best, if the detector is very near the source of the dust/smoke.  Customers just need to make sure these items are removed before a city official inspects for occupancy.