What this covers
An irrigation system delivers water through buried pipe to sprinkler heads for lawn and drip lines for beds, divided into zones by sun, plant type and slope. The installer maps the yard, checks water pressure and flow, trenches the lines, sets valves in boxes and heads at grade, and installs backflow protection where the code requires it. The controller is programmed for each zone, often with a rain or weather sensor. Careful work aims every head so water lands on plants rather than walls and pavement. Repairs cover broken heads, leaking valves and damaged lines.
When to call
- A new lawn or landscape that needs regular watering.
- Dry patches, puddles or water spraying onto the house or the street.
- Broken heads or lines after construction, a removal or a storm.
- An old system that wastes water or runs on a simple timer.
What to expect
- DesignThe yard is mapped, pressure tested and divided into zones.
- Trench and pipeLines are trenched or pulled in with minimal disturbance to the lawn.
- Heads and dripValves, heads and drip lines are installed and the trenches restored.
- ProgramEach zone is tested, the heads adjusted and the controller set.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What is drip irrigation?
Small tubing with emitters that deliver water slowly at the base of plants. It suits beds and shrubs and loses far less water to wind and evaporation than spray.
What is backflow protection?
A device that keeps irrigation water from flowing back into the drinking water supply. Many local codes require it and periodic testing.
Does the system need seasonal service?
In cold climates, lines are blown out before freezing weather and started up again in spring. Elsewhere, a yearly check of heads and the controller is usual.
Related: Sod installation · Landscape design · All landscaping and yard
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.