New systems
Irrigation system installation
A new irrigation system is designed around your lawn, beds and water pressure, with zones for sun, shade and plant types.
What a design usually covers
- Zones for lawn, beds and trees
- Spray, rotor and drip choices
- Controller and rain or soil sensors
- Backflow preventer and connection
Planning
Ask about the design, how they protect existing landscaping, and whether permits are needed where you live; check with your local government.
Methods, parts and prices vary by company. Ask each one what's included and whether parts are extra.
Typical installation steps
| Step | What happens |
|---|---|
| Design | Zones planned by sun, shade, slope and plant type |
| Utility marking | Underground utilities marked before digging (811) |
| Trenching | Narrow trenches or pulled pipe to limit lawn damage |
| Heads, valves, controller | Installed and wired |
| Testing and adjusting | Each zone run and heads aimed |
| Walkthrough | Controller set up and explained |
Design choices that matter
- Rotors vs. sprays: rotors suit larger lawns; sprays suit small areas.
- Drip for beds: waters roots with less runoff.
- Smart controller: adjusts for rain and season.
- Zone count: enough to water sun and shade differently.
Related guides
Planning tips before you request quotes
Sketch your yard with the house, driveway, beds, trees and slopes, and note sunny and shady areas. Decide whether you want lawn only or beds and gardens too. Think about where the controller can go, ideally a garage wall near an outlet with Wi-Fi. Ask each company to show the zone plan so quotes are comparable.
Questions
How long does installation take?
Many residential systems take one to a few days. Ask for a schedule.
Can you add zones to my existing system?
Often yes, depending on the controller and water supply. Ask the company.
How much lawn damage does installation cause?
Trenches usually settle within weeks. Ask how the company restores the lawn.
Can a system be added to an existing landscape?
Yes. Designers work around existing plants and hardscape.
Sprinklers acting up?
Send the details once and hear back from local irrigation companies.