Your Lawn Irrigation Questions—Answered!

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all guide to lawn care, but our sprinkler experts are always happy to share their knowledge and recommendations when you’ve got questions. Read through the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) from our customers, covering everything from irrigation details and water types to post-installation lawn mowing. Then if you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Should I install an irrigation system if I’m concerned about water conservation?

Yes! A landscape irrigation system is proven to be water-efficient. It uses just enough moisture to maintain a healthy, lush landscape while actually helping you conserve water. There’s no wasted water, so it saves money, too. We care about water conservation, too—that’s why we work in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Water Sense Program, which is dedicated specifically to this important issue.

Will an irrigation system really save me time?

An automatic irrigation system means you never have to spend another minute of your valuable time wrestling with hoses, dragging sprinklers around the yard or hand-watering your lawn or plants. Your new system does it all for you—even when you’re away from home—so your plants will be healthy and safe, even during the hottest summer days or droughts.

Can well water or lake water be used with my irrigation system?

We install irrigation systems that draw from all types of water sources, including wells, lakes and ponds, and city water supplies. When using well water, the size of the system is based on the amount of water the well can provide. With our lake water systems, we utilize a pump to move and evenly distribute water. Depending on where your home is located, you may have options as to which water source you’d like to use.

Can I have an irrigation system installed if I have an existing landscape?

Yes! We install irrigation systems with little to no disturbance to your existing landscape. Our specialized machinery installs pipes without digging a trench, and our crews are experienced at restoring your landscape to its original condition.

Can I water my flower beds, vegetable gardens, shrubs, trees and potted plants, too?

Irrigation systems can be set up with different zones, each with its own watering schedule. We can accommodate your lawn, flower beds, vegetable gardens, shrubs and more with in-ground irrigation, and also service special areas like a rooftop garden, window boxes and potted plants with drip irrigation lines.

How far in advance of installation should I contact you?

Contact us as early as possible so we can help you plan your landscape and/or irrigation system. Whether you are building a new home or modifying an existing landscape, we can guide you through the process and answer your questions. And when you call us in advance of your project, we can coordinate with your other contractors to make sure your installation is timed properly and runs smoothly. It’s never too early to call!

Will you work with my landscaper or builder?

Yes! In fact, we’d prefer it. We have extensive experience in subcontracting and many long-standing relationships with local landscapers and builders. As fellow members of the building and landscaping industry, we speak the same language. That means good communication and a better end-product for you.

How long does it take to install an irrigation system?

An average-sized residential system takes one to three days to install. Commercial systems can take longer—timelines vary based on the size and complexity of the system.

Can you help me understand the local laws and get the necessary permits related to installing an irrigation system?

Yes—we will handle it all for you! This includes calling Diggers Hotline, obtaining a plumbing permit and following all city and state codes to ensure safety and compliance.

Will I be able to change or add on to my system in the future?

Absolutely! Your needs may change and your system can be adjusted to keep up. Whether you’re making additions to your home, changing your landscape or putting in a swimming pool or a new driveway, we can renovate your system accordingly.

Is the system easy to use?

The system comes with a controller that is designed for ease of use. It allows you to make adjustments to your watering schedule for each zone of your system from a single location. After installation, we will walk through the steps of programming your system and teach you how to use the controller.

How much maintenance does the system require?

In the fall, we will need to winterize your system to prevent freeze damage. In spring, we will turn your system on and adjust it as necessary in preparation for the coming year.

How often should the system be watering?

On average, your system should be running one to three times per week. The goal is to water as infrequently as possible, because allowing the lawn, plants, shrubs and more to dry out a bit in between watering helps promote proper root growth and saves water.

Do I need to turn off my system when it rains?

A rain sensor, standard on all of our systems, will do this for you. You can also opt for a small weather station that will adjust the watering further based on local climate data such as temperature, humidity, wind and solar radiation.

Can I use a lawnmower even though there are sprinkler heads in my lawn?

Yes! The sprinkler heads are designed to fully retract below ground, so they’re out of the way and cannot be damaged by lawnmowers.