Are you thinking about installing a sprinkler system but unsure of what to do before the installation process begins? We’ve put together a detailed checklist to ensure that your sprinkler system installation goes as smoothly as possible. Taking the time to prepare can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your lawn gets the best possible watering system from the start.
Tip 1: Mark Property Lines
The first step to preparing for a sprinkler system installation is to clearly mark your property lines. It’s crucial that the installer knows exactly where the boundaries of your property are to avoid any issues, such as pipes being installed on your neighbor’s land. Moving lines after they’ve been installed can be a time-consuming and expensive process. Marking the corners of your property with stakes or flags before installation helps the installer place your system correctly, preventing any potential problems down the road.
Tip 2: Mark Any Future Plans
Are you planning to build a shed, add a deck, or put in some landscaping in the near future? If so, it’s a good idea to spray paint or flag the areas where you plan to add these features. While it’s not typically difficult to move a sprinkler head or adjust the system later, providing your installer with a clear idea of where future structures will go will help them design a system that works with your long-term plans. This way, you won’t have to worry about obstacles interfering with the sprinkler coverage down the road.
Tip 3: Mark Any Private Lines
When you schedule an irrigation installation, Gopher State One Call will mark all public utilities like natural gas lines, phone cables, and electrical wires. However, they won’t mark any private lines that you may have had installed, such as personal irrigation systems, dog fences, or power lines for outdoor lighting. Many homeowners unknowingly have underground lines that could be at risk during the sprinkler system installation process.
To avoid accidentally damaging these lines, it’s important to have any private systems, such as propane gas lines, septic systems, or underground wires for outdoor outlets, clearly marked. If you’re unsure of where these private lines are located, it’s always better to make an educated guess or have a professional locate them for you before installation begins. Having these lines identified upfront will prevent costly repairs and avoid the frustration of dealing with damaged systems later.
Tip 4: Water Your Grass Prior to Installation
If you already have an established lawn, make sure to water your grass thoroughly in the days leading up to the installation. This may seem like a small step, but it can make a significant difference. Wet soil is much easier for your installer to work with, as the pipe will go into the ground more smoothly and with less disruption to your existing lawn. Additionally, watering your grass will help promote quicker recovery once the installation is complete, giving your yard the best chance to bounce back and look great in no time.
Tip 5: Level Off Your Yard
If you have a yard with black dirt or uneven ground, it’s important to level it to the final grade before the sprinkler installation begins. The reason for this is that your sprinkler heads will be adjusted to the grade of your yard. If the grading is done after the system is installed, some heads may end up being too high or too low, resulting in uneven water distribution. While it doesn’t need to be absolutely perfect, doing a rough leveling will ensure that the heads are set at the proper height, giving your sprinkler system the best chance for even coverage.
Remember that after the sprinkler system is installed, the soil will likely need a final smoothing out to cover any trenches made by the installation process. This final touch will ensure that your lawn looks great and that the sprinklers function as they should.
Tip 6: Know If You Are Seeding or Sodding
Before the installation process begins, it’s essential to inform your sprinkler system installer whether you plan to seed or sod your yard. The type of lawn installation you choose will affect the depth at which the sprinkler heads and valve boxes are set. For example, if you plan to seed your lawn, the heads will need to be set at a slightly higher level to accommodate the growing grass. If you’re laying sod, the heads and boxes may need to be placed a bit lower to ensure the system works properly once the sod is in place.
Being clear with your installer about your plans will help them adjust the system to fit your needs, whether you’re seeding or sodding, ensuring the best results for your lawn.
Final Thoughts
By taking these steps ahead of time, you can ensure that your sprinkler system installation will go smoothly and that the system will be set up efficiently. Proper preparation is key to avoiding problems and ensuring that your system is designed for both your immediate needs and future plans. Once everything is marked and ready, your installer will have a clear roadmap to follow, making the process easier and faster for everyone involved.
Ready to get started? If you’re looking for a professional sprinkler system installation, reach out to us today for a consultation and free estimate. We’re here to help make your lawn care easier and more efficient!
