What do I need to know before installing a sprinkler system?

5 Things to Know Before Installing an Irrigation System

• Different Types of Sprinkler Heads. There are a wide range of sprinkler heads that are used in irrigation systems.
• You May Need a Building Permit.
• Different Types of Irrigation Systems.
• Cost of an Irrigation System.
• Excavating Your Yard.

How do you find out where your sprinkler lines are?

You can tell (roughly) where the pipes will be for that zone by finding the shortest path from the valve box that connects all the sprinklers in a zone. As long as you dig carefully, you shouldn’t have too much trouble. The pipes are usually pretty tough and are usually buried about a foot or so under the ground.

Can you install a sprinkler system yourself?

Many homeowners choose to hire a contractor to install a sprinkler system, as constructing a DIY sprinkler system can be a challenging project for someone to complete on their own. However, with the right supplies and a little know-how, you can construct your own sprinkler system and save some money on labor costs.

How much value does a sprinkler system add to a house?

Will a sprinkler system add value to your property? A study conducted by the University of Alabama and the University of Texas at Arlington found that properties with attractive exteriors and grounds were likely to sell 7\% higher than those comps lacking curb appeal.

Are sprinkler systems worth it?

An often overlooked benefit to irrigation systems is potential monthly utility savings with reduced water usage. A properly automated and timed irrigation system, coupled with well-matched sprinkler heads and hoses by plant zones, can be a great way to help homeowners reduce overall water usage and utility costs.

How deep are underground sprinkler lines?

Dig for Your Sprinkler System The trenches will be relatively shallow, usually 6 to 12 inches deep, depending on your area’s freeze cycles and frost severity. The trench must also be deep enough to allow the sprinklers to retract underground to prevent breakage from lawn machines.

How can I find my sprinkler lines without digging?

If you prefer to locate the lines and heads of your system without digging, rent a valve locator or even a metal detector and mark areas once found – better yet, call call 811, a federally mandated service, and ask someone to come out and locate the system for you.

How deep do sprinkler lines need to be?

Is installing a sprinkler system worth it?

Benefits of getting a sprinkler system Sprinkler systems make lawn and yard maintenance easy and convenient. Without one, you’ll need to manually water your grass to keep it from drying out. Along these lines, a sprinkler system can help you reach areas of your lawn you may not easily be able to access yourself.

What is the difference between an irrigation system and a sprinkler system?

When it comes down to it, there is really no difference between lawn irrigation systems and lawn sprinkler systems. Irrigation is what a sprinkler system does, meaning a sprinkler irrigates your lawn. Don’t be confused when you here one vs. the other, they are exactly the same, a system to water your lawn.

How long do sprinkler systems last?

20 years
How long is the life expectancy of the average sprinkler system? This system can last up to 20 years, but you’ll likely experience minor breakdowns every 3-10 year, depending on how much you invest in the quality of your sprinkler system. You should also be sure to inspect your sprinkler system as least once a year.

Does a sprinkler system add value to your home?

A sprinkler system indirectly increases a home’s market value by enhancing the home’s overall curb appeal. Since attractive landscaping requires sufficient watering, an automatic sprinkler system ensures the protection of your investment.

Ask to see the sprinkler system design before installation begins. Ensure a backflow device is installed, inspected and insulated (code). Ensure a cut-off valve is installed and know the location of it (code). Make sure that your grass and beds are watered by separate zones. Make sure a rain sensor is installed (code).

Is installing an underground sprinkler system worth it?

Installing an underground sprinkler is a great way to conserve water and save money on irrigation. This type of lawn irrigation system can be a complicated installation project, but with the right preparation and materials, it can be within your reach.

How do you design a house plan in sprinkler?

SPRINKLER SYSTEM PLANNING Plot, Plan, and Design 1. The first step in designing a residential system is to measure the property and indicate the location of the house. On a separate piece of paper, sketch out your property and place your measurements on the sketch. Be sure to include all concrete or brick walks and patios, driveways, and fences.

What happens if you don’t have sprinklers in your commercial building?

A fire in a commercial building that does not have sprinklers will force the local fire department to react, and their lines will drop up to 1,200 gallons of water per minute on your fire. The NFPA says that fire departments will use up to 8.5 times the amount of water on a fire than a sprinkler system will.