This article was reviewed by Don Chouinard, a smart sprinkler expert and contractor with Irrigreen.
A well-maintained lawn can significantly enhance your home’s curb appeal. An efficient way to reach that goal is to install a sprinkler system. The investment will offer returns by saving time, conserving water, and keeping your lawn consistently hydrated. You’ll want to start the process by understanding the requirements, the costs, and your choices in installing a sprinkler system.
What Do You Need for Installing a Sprinkler System?
The installation requires these components:
- Pipes: They create the underground system that transports the water to the sprinkler heads.
- Valves: They control water flow to specific zones. Different sections of the lawn require different amounts of water.
- Sprinkler heads: These are in the ground and distribute water over designated areas. Critical points to understand are the requirements for gallons per minute and pounds per square inch for each sprinkler head in a traditional sprinkler system. GPM tells you how much water is available to your system every minute. PSI indicates how far each sprinkler can throw water. These two numbers will determine the available flow rates and pressure, and directly affect how many zones are needed, how many heads can run at a time, and how well the system will perform.
- Timer/controller: Cities and municipalities have different rules about when and how long you can water your lawn. Additionally, you don’t want to overwater or underwater. Timers and controllers allow you to automate the process based on those factors.
- Backflow prevention device: This required component prevents water from flowing backward in the system, which protects the water supply from contamination. Check with your local water municipality, because almost all jurisdictions require an approved backflow prevention assembly for irrigation systems. The device type depends on the risk and the local code.
The components require proper planning, high-quality materials, and solid installation. “Without a proper layout, you can waste thousands of gallons of water over the course of a season,” says Tammy Sons, founder and CEO of TN Nursery near Nashville, Tenn.
Should You DIY or Hire a Pro to Install a Sprinkler System?
Now that you know the basic components and before you plan your budget and the project specifics, you’ll need to think about whether to install the sprinkler system yourself or hire a professional. You may think a DIY sprinkler system installation will save you money, but experts advise factoring in the complexity of the project and the time needed to do it right.
Experience is key, because the installation involves understanding factors including water pressure, slope, and zoning, says Denis McCausland, a landscaper at Denver Landscaping Lynx in Denver.
If you aren't skilled in some other areas — including plumbing, drainage, electrical work, and construction — and don't have experience programming electronics, consider calling in a professional installer, Sons says.
What Is the Cost to Install a Sprinkler System?
”Sprinkler systems can range from about 30 cents to 50 cents per square foot for installation and materials,” McCausland says. ”Sprinkler system installation starts at around $2,500 for small yards and is directly correlated to the size of your yard, the complexity of the installation, and the types of sprinkler heads.”
Factors That Affect the Cost to Install a Sprinkler System
Your neighbor may have paid a certain price for their sprinkler system, but that doesn’t mean you’ll pay the same. Your yard size and shape and watering needs could differ from theirs.
You’ll need to consider those factors and the following ones when estimating your cost. An expert consultation can come in handy.
- Size of your lawn: The larger your lawn, the more materials and labor you’ll require.
- Slopes in your yard: ”If the system is being installed on a hillside or rocky terrain, allow for roughly an additional 40 cents per square foot,” advises Sons.
The Type of Sprinkler System You Choose
Traditional spray systems, rotor systems, and drip irrigation vary in cost and efficiency. The following outlines pros and cons and approximate costs to install each sprinkler system type:
- Traditional spray systems use installed heads to spray water over a set area and distribute water evenly over large areas. The main drawback is inefficiency, especially in windy conditions where water may evaporate or drift. These systems tend to cost less than other options and typically range from $2,500 to $3,500 for an average yard.
- Rotor systems rotate to distribute water with more control. The rotation helps them better target specific areas based on water needs. They're suited to medium to large lawns and minimize water waste. Expect to pay $3,000 to $4,500, depending on yard size and complexity.
- Drip irrigation sends water directly to the base of plants through a network of perforated tubes. These systems are highly efficient, using minimal water while preventing runoff and evaporation. They’re ideal for hot or dry climates, Sons says. Plan on costs from $4,000 to $6,000 depending on yard specifics.
Customized Sprinkler System Based on Watering Zone Requirements
Dividing your yard into zones means you’ll water plants optimally based on their needs. You can customize your sprinkler system needs based on what each zone requires. “Zones like lawn, garden, and slopes require different sprinkler heads and distribution strategies,” McCausland says.
Number and Placement of Sprinkler Heads
You’ll need a detailed layout of the sprinkler system to calculate the number of sprinkler heads needed. “Key to the layout is spacing out the sprinkler heads so every spot in your yard is covered by at least two (heads),” Sons says. “Each head should spray water far enough to at least reach, if not overlap slightly, the spray of the next one.”
Durability of Sprinkler System Parts
Investing in high-quality parts might be more expensive at the outset but will pay off over time by reducing maintenance and replacement costs.
Whether your sprinkler system installation is a DIY or relies on a pro, the cost and other benefits can be worthwhile. You can not only save time and water but also improve your yard and curb appeal.