Putting in a new lawn sprinkler system requires some planning when it comes to the basic layout and functionality of the system. There are a few key things that will impact the layout design.

1. Lawn Area

One of the first things to know when planning a new installation is the size of the area to be serviced. The size in relation to the shape will help guide planning, such as choosing emitter styles and spray patterns. Further, the size also may provide some guidance on how many sprinkler zones must be installed so that water pressure can be maintained during an irrigation cycle. 

2. Existing Structures

There are things that are already present in your yard that will impact a sprinkler installation project. The most obvious is the location of underground utilities and structures, such as gas lines, sewer lines, and storm drains. Above-ground structures can also impact installation, as you may have line layouts taking into account paving and the locations of buildings. 

3. Plant Needs

The types of plants in your yard will help you determine the type of sprinklers that are best suited to the job. For example, lawns are typically served by above-ground emitters, while flower beds or shrubs may be better irrigated with subsurface irrigation or drip emitters. When planning the installation, your sprinkler service may ask you about plant water needs or if there are future plans for adding different plants to the landscape.

4. Line Accessibility

Being able to access the area to install the sprinkler lines and later to service them is an important consideration. If the lines must run underneath a shed, installation will be difficult and any possible line damage in the future will be difficult to repair. In most cases, your installer will avoid placing lines and controls in hard-to-access areas, so part of the layout design involves plotting out ideal line routes.

5. Climate Impacts

There may be climatic impacts on your system. In areas with freezing winters, the system must be designed so that valve boxes don't flood in winter and also so lines can be drained to avoid freeze damage. In some climates, such as those that can have unexpected heavy rainfall, a soil moisture sensor is useful so that you don't overwater the lawn. Your installer can help you determine what allowances would benefit your system.

Contact a sprinkler system installation service for more help when it comes to designing your lawn's irrigation system.

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