Improving Your Landscaping

Posted on: 16 August 2022

There are several types of irrigation systems to choose from, and each has its own set of irrigation system installation requirements. However, many homeowners who choose to install irrigation systems on their own often make some mistakes that can cause long-term damage to their property.

Here are three irrigation system installation mistakes to avoid.

Installing Irrigation Systems Too Close to Trees or Other Plants

One of the most common irrigation system installation mistakes is installing irrigation systems too close to trees or other plants. This can damage plant roots and cause long-term problems for your landscaping, especially if the trees or plants are sensitive to saturation.

The irrigation system installation process often involves trenching, which can damage plant roots if you're not careful. If you're installing an irrigation system near trees or other plants, use root barriers to protect the roots from damage.

In addition, accidental irrigation system blowouts can cause serious damage when they leak water, which can drown nearby plants or encourage the growth of mold and mildew. To avoid these problems, keep irrigation systems a few feet away from the irrigation heads and any sprinkler systems.

Not Installing a Backflow Prevention Device

While it might not seem like a big deal, irrigation backflow can contaminate your water supply with harmful chemicals and pollutants. Most irrigation systems are interconnected with the main water supply, so backflow can be a serious issue, especially if the pipes are inclined.

To avoid irrigation backflow, install a backflow prevention device in your irrigation system. This device prevents irrigation water from flowing back into your home's potable water supply. It has a one-way valve that allows water to flow in only one direction, preventing it from flowing back into your home.

A professional should install backflow prevention devices, as they require regular maintenance and testing. So, if you're not sure how to install a backflow prevention device, consult a professional irrigation specialist to get the job done right.

Installing Sprinklers Too Close to Each Other

Many people often make the mistake of installing sprinklers too close to each other. While it might seem like a good idea to water your lawn more evenly, this problem can cause water waste and over-saturation, leading to problems like puddling, runoff, and soil erosion.

In addition, most of the water will only end up in one area and starve some plants of water, especially those furthest from the sprinklers.

To avoid this, consult an irrigation specialist to determine the best spacing for your sprinklers. In general, it's best to space sprinklers at least 25 feet apart to ensure even watering and prevent water waste. This way, you can ensure that the water is evenly distributed and that no one area of your lawn is getting too much or too little water.

In addition, be sure to install irrigation heads at different heights to account for different plant sizes. This will ensure that all your plants get the water they need without wasting any water.

For additional information, contact an irrigation system service such as Pacific  Sunscapes.