Question 1

What are the different types of irrigation systems?

Accepted Answer

• In-ground sprinkler systems are the most common and feature sprinkler heads connected to underground pipes.
 • Drip irrigation distributes water directly to plants through tubing on the surface.
 • Above-ground irrigation uses sprinklers connected to hoses on the surface and is typically a DIY project.

Question 2

How does an irrigation system work?

Accepted Answer

An irrigation system works by sending a specified amount of water through underground pipes to sprinkler heads in planned zones throughout the yard. An electronic controller signals the valves in each zone to open when scheduled, releasing water into the pipes and forcing sprinkler heads to pop above ground

Sprinklers – to deliver water to your lawn and plants. They will be sized and directed to distribute the correct amount of water.
Valves – to release water through a series of underground pipes to the sprinklers. The number of valves used will depend on the number of zones required for your system.
Controller – to activate the water flow to various zones. Your controller will be automated to turn valves on and off on a schedule, so that your lawn will receive optimal watering coverage and time.

Question 3

What factors influence the cost of an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

Sprinkler system costs depend on the property's size and shape, type of system, number of zones, soil conditions, and more.
 • Lawn size and shape – Larger or irregular-shaped properties require more materials and increase labor costs.
 • Number of zones – Each additional zone adds complexity and requires more labor and materials.
 • Landscaping design – Multiple design features with different watering needs increase the cost.
 • Yard slope – Sloping ground takes longer to trench and requires more water flow and pressure to prevent flooding and pooling.
 • Soil condition and obstructions – Rocky soil and tree roots are more difficult to trench.
 • Quality of parts – Professional-grade sprinkler heads cost more than sprinkler heads from home improvement stores.
 • Automation – Smart and wifi-enabled controllers add $60 to $300 to the system's cost but reduce long-term water and energy costs.
 • Water pressure and source – Homes with smaller diameter water supply lines and lower water pressure require more zones and may require low-pressure sprinkler heads.
 • Location – Irrigation systems cost 10% more in regions that experience sustained freezing temperatures.
 • Water main connection – Sprinkler companies may be required to hire a licensed plumber to connect the sprinkler system to the water main.

Question 4

What are the pros and cons of an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

Pros: Properly installed irrigation systems maintain lawns and landscapes with precision and efficiency that hand watering and hose placement cannot. With accurate management of your watering timetable, you are sure that the correct amount of water is going where it is needed, when it is needed.

A well-maintained landscape with an in-ground sprinkler system increases a home's property value by 7% to 15% on average. An automated irrigation system maintains curb appeal and conveys convenience to potential home buyers.

Cons: High upfront cost and require annual maintenance. These high upfront costs may outweigh the benefits for smaller properties.

Question 5

Is there any planning involved?

Accepted Answer

Our professional installers provide detailed maps showing irrigation zones, sprinkler head types and locations, water pressure and flow rates, underground water supply lines, valves, and controllers.

Want to do it yourself? Keep these steps in mind when planning a new sprinkler installation:

• Make a map – Indicate the house location, turf, planter beds, trees, driveways, walkways, sheds, swimming pools, and other structures. A land survey costs $380 to $540 and may be required before installation.
 • Label zones – Separate the yard into zones based on areas with different watering needs and sun exposure. Avoid putting lawn and flower bed areas in the same zone.
 • Choose sprinkler heads – Select sprinkler heads with the optimal spray pattern and intensity for each zone. Avoid placing different sprinkler head types in the same zone.
 • Locate underground pipes and buried utility lines – Contact local utility companies to mark buried lines before digging.
 • Measure water pressure and flow rate – Use a pressure gauge on an outdoor faucet to find the water pressure (PSI). Use a 5-gallon bucket and a timer to find the flow rate in gallons per minute (GPM). Make sure no water is running inside the home during each test.
 • Select a location for the controller and sensors – Choose the best location for a rain sensor, soil moisture sensor, indoor or outdoor controller, and the water shutoff valve.

Question 6

What to consider when installing new zones?

Accepted Answer

We follow these steps when creating zones:

1. Separate sunny and shady areas into different zones.
2. Don't mix grass and flower beds in a single zone. They have different watering requirements.
3. Use pop-up sprinkler heads for lawn zones and smaller spray heads or bubblers for flower zones.
4. Never put different sprinkler head types in the same irrigation zone. They have different flow rates and water application rates.

Question 7

When is the best time to install an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

The best time to install an irrigation system is in early spring or late fall when the ground is not frozen. We like to book installations several weeks in advance to ensure enough time for planning, design, and permit approval.

Question 8

How long does it take to install an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

Installing an irrigation system takes 1 to 3 days on average, depending on the property size and number of zones.

Question 9

How much water does an irrigation system use?

Accepted Answer

On average, irrigation systems use 623 gallons of water per 1,000 square feet when in use.

Question 10

What are the main differences between Professional Installation vs DIY?

Accepted Answer

• DIY sprinkler system installation is a time-consuming and labor-intensive project.
 • Improper design may result in wasted water or system failure.
 • Professionally installed systems come with warranties.
 • Some states only allow licensed installers to connect the system to the city's water supply.

Irrigation & Landscaping

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