Professional Sprinkler System Installation in Salt Lake City Area

With proper maintenance and normal usage patterns, most sprinkler systems in the Salt Lake Valley will last around 20 years, but the various components of the irrigation system have different lifespans, and components like sprinkler heads and nozzles need more frequent replacement, while other components can last longer. Properly maintained pipes may last 30-40 years. Sprinkler valves may last 10-15 years depending on the valve. 

The assumption of proper maintenance is a big caveat: a sprinkler system in Utah that isn’t properly winterized can go south quickly.  PVC pipe can crack with water is left in the pipes. And a sprinkler system that isn’t regularly used and maintained can develop enough problems that the cost to repair the system may exceed the cost to replace it.  

The other major factor when considering the life expectancy of a sprinkler system is how effectively it’s able to conserve water.  An older system may remain functional for a long time, but the cost to operate it may be much higher than a new system and its efficiency at actually irrigating your landscaping may be poor. New technology, not just in controllers but in drip systems, valves and sprinkler heads, continues to improve efficiency and ease of use, and optimized irrigation system design can translate into much lower water bills and far more effective irrigation patterns across the range of landscaping you have. Watering zones matched to the lawn size and other system components can conserve water and maintenance costs.

Making a repair or replace decision on a sprinkler system has to take into account the total cost of maintaining and operating the sprinkler system over time.  When either: (1) the cost to replace the system exceeds the cost to repair it, (2) the high cost to operate the irrigation system over the next 3-5 years exceeds the cost of a modern replacement system, or (3) the sprinkler system is no longer effectively irrigating your landscaping, it’s time to replace it.

Catastrophic events, such as a sprinkler system that wasn’t winterized and has multiple burst pipes or valves is usually a situation where a replacement is clearly the best move, since repair costs will be high and a new system would be more water efficient and so have a lower operating cost.  Increasing frequency of repairs, especially related to leaks on the mainline or post-valves are another scenario arguing for sprinkler system replacement.

And if you have or plan to make significant changes to your landscaping layout that require more sprinkler heads, an additional zone, or adjustments to irrigation patterns, it makes sense to replace the irrigation system.

And some automatic sprinkler systems that were never installed correctly in the first place are really just better off to be replaced, given the whole picture of future repairs, water loss and cost due to inefficiency and lost landscaping impact. A handyman or DIY sprinkler system installation on sloped yards that never had complete coverage in the first place, where the water flow rate is off, or PVC pipe is improperly installed or sprinkler heads are situated improperly, are all situations where the hard truth is, replacement is the best move.

Pop up sprinkler heads that fail to come up, or are even that are cracked off, aren't sufficient reason to install sprinklers. A failed backflow preventer can be replaced.

Because of continuing improvements in the efficiency of water utilization of available technology and components, some technically functional sprinkler systems would justify being replaced taking into account the total cost of water to operate an inefficient system relative to the cost of a replacement sprinkler system, with its lower water bills.  

Our technicians are happy to provide an assessment and recommendations based on the particulars of your sprinkler system.

The main consideration in timing sprinkler installation is ensuring that the lawn has sufficient ability to recover afterwards, but usually if you need a new sprinkler system, the sooner the better to get the installation done.  Using trenchless sprinkler installation, we’re able to minimize impact to the grass, and owing to the improved irrigation effectiveness of the new sprinkler system, your grass will have the water it needs to bounce back quickly, really removing any seasonal constraints, so long as the ground isn’t frozen. 

That said, fall is typically considered the best time to install a sprinkler system due to the cooler temperatures.  Cooler fall weather means the grass isn’t under heat stress and can bounce back easier, and the cool also allows the soil supporting the lawn to better absorb water, which helps the replanted or re-sodded grass to recover quicker.  Fall is also a good time because, as leaves fall and grass begins to transition to a dormant state for winter, it’s an optimal window to tear up the grass for a sprinkler system installation, and tee up the grass to come back to life in the spring. 

Spring is also a good time to install a new sprinkler system due to the cooler weather and rain that allows the grass to recover on its own without having to water it, though depending on the rain levels, high spring rain levels can cause high levels of compaction in the soil.  Though if this happens, proper aeration in the fall will resolve it.

During the summer months, if you’ve decided to get a new sprinkler system, there isn’t a meaningful reason to wait until, and you’ll benefit from the water savings and your lawn will really appreciate the improved irrigation. Proper watering, which you’ll be able to do with the new sprinkler system, will allow the grass to spring back to life.  Additionally, as we mentioned, our trenchless sprinkler installation method really minimizes impact to the grass, allowing fast recovery, even in the peak of summer.

The cost of a new underground system in the Salt Lake area will depend on a range of factors unique to each property, including the number of watering zones, lawn size, the number of sprinkler heads, the extent of irrigation plumbing required, the slope of the terrain, and the soil quality of the yard.  

The number of watering zones your property requires is the biggest factor in pricing, with the number or zones depending on factors such as the variability of landscaping and their irrigation requirements, the slope of the terrain and the pressure capacity of your existing underground water pipes.

Irrigation plumbing requirements relate to whether the sprinkler system requires a new stop and waste valve and vacuum breaker/backflow preventer, as well as whether the main water line or the system connection to the water meter needs to be replaced to support the additional irrigation requirements.  Drainage solutions, such as a French drain, helpful for sloped yards, can also add cost.

Additionally, the distance between the control box and the valve manifold entails greater irrigation electrical complexity.

Soil quality and slope of the terrain are really big variables in the Salt Lake Valley.  Some areas along the benches have challenging rocky terrain that poses major challenges for installing underground sprinkler pipes, while some areas have fairly straight forward soil.  Some properties are built entirely on a slope, requiring more complexity in the design and components to ensure irrigation is consistent across the terrain.

It is worth noting that costs vary depending on sprinkler system type. An above ground sprinkler system, which we do not install, or a drip irrigation system (which we do install), cost considerably less than a traditional underground system.

Other major variables impacting sprinkler system cost is quality of design, workmanship and components.  A poorly designed, poorly installed sprinkler system using low quality parts will cost less up front, but wind up costing a lot more over time, in terms of operating costs, repairs, and a far shorter lifespan.  At Salt Lake City Sprinkler Pros, we provide the highest quality design, workmanship and parts.  We care about doing the job right and ensuring your sprinkler system will last for decades - and believe this approach ultimately is the best value for your money.

When you’re considering a new sprinkler system installation, give us a call, and we can come out and provide you a free estimate that is based on the specifics of your property.

Not at all - in fact, your lawn will be far healthier than it has been after the new sprinkler system is installed.  While some customers are concerned about the impact to their grass when trenching to lay sprinkler pipe, invariably, your lawn will be far better off when a new irrigation system.  

We utilize specialized equipment, including a trenching machine, to ensure precise digging while minimizing disruption to your landscape. If using traditional trenching methods to install sprinkler pipe, we replace the grass along the trenched area with new sod, and the new irrigation capability will ensure both the new sod and existing grass flourish once installed.  Additionally, using trenchless sprinkler installation methods, we’re able to minimize impact to your grass, resulting in quicker recovery.  

Depending on the initial condition of your soil and grass, you can expect your lawn to fully recover from the installation within a few weeks. 

Finally - when your grass is properly irrigated, this actually helps your grass thrive while keeping weeds from taking root, resulting in a more consistently beautiful grass throughout your property.

For Salt Lake City area homeowners, a new sprinkler system can actually help reduce water bills, but only if it's properly designed, installed, and maintained. Given our hot, dry climate, frequent drought conditions and increasing water costs make sprinkler system efficiency crucial.

Modern sprinkler systems offer several water-saving features. Pressure-regulated heads ensure even water distribution, minimizing waste on non-turf areas like sidewalks. Smart controllers adjust watering schedules based on local weather data and soil moisture levels, preventing overwatering during rainy periods.

Drip irrigation options for garden beds and trees deliver water directly to plant roots, significantly reducing evaporation. Additionally, high-efficiency nozzles and rotors can improve water application uniformity, allowing for shorter run times.

We recommend systems with rain sensors to prevent watering during or after rainfall. Programming for early morning operation when evaporation rates are lowest further enhances efficiency.

It's important to note though that just installing a new system isn't a guarantee of savings. Professional design that considers your specific landscape, soil type, and microclimates is a crucial factor in actually delivering water conservation.  Regular maintenance, including checking for leaks and adjusting sprinkler heads, is also crucial for long-term water savings.

While the initial investment may be significant, a well-designed, water-efficient sprinkler system can lead to substantial savings on your water bill over time, while also supporting water conservation efforts in our drought-prone area.

A properly functioning underground sprinkler system undoubtedly adds value to a property, helping to provide curb appeal to potential buyers. The reality is that it is extremely difficult to have lush, green grass and landscaping without optimally functioning sprinklers. The first impression of beautiful landscaping on your property is easily worth the cost of a new sprinkler system, given the crazy home prices in Salt Lake.

A poorly installed sprinkler system will leave clues to potential buyers, in dead landscaping and brown grass. An above ground system is no longer an acceptable option for most buyers and missing this feature is invariably handicapped in their offer price.

If you're considering selling your home or property in the next year, do yourself a favor and get sprinklers to maximize your property's value.

Salt Lake City Sprinkler Pros designs and installs both conventional in-ground and drip irrigation sprinkler systems. 

We take a customized approach to each property and its landscaping irrigation requirements and utilize a range of technologies and products that are best suited to the needs of your landscaping and lawn and are best able to deliver water-efficiency.  We utilize the highest quality parts that we have experience with and know will perform over time.  Usually that means Rainbird and Hunter components, but we make those choices based on the specifics of individual projects and our experience of what will work best.

We also design and install two-wire systems for Commercial Irrigation projects.

The time required to complete an installation can vary considerably based on factors unique to your property.  Soil conditions and the condition and needs for irrigation plumbing work are usually the two biggest variables, beyond just the area requirements.

For a standard-sized residential sprinkler system install, our objective is to complete the project within one to two days, but the quality of the workmanship is our top priority, so we take the time necessary to ensure the job is done right.

When you’re evaluating your options for having a sprinkler system installed, it’s not the case that the product you get is going to be the same no matter who does the job.  Here are the things you should be looking for to ensure you get the most utility, value and lifespan out of your sprinkler system:

1. Competent, professional installation: Proper installation by a licensed irrigation specialist with the experience to know how to design a system adapted to your property’s landscaping specifics, Utah's varied soil types, and the right components to ensure the system performs and will last. 

2. Quality components: Opt for professional-grade products that can withstand Salt Lake's temperature extremes and mineral-rich water. Durable parts mean fewer repairs and longer system life.

3. Zoning capabilities: Look for a system that properly fits zones to the various landscape areas (shaded vs unshaded lawn areas vs flower beds, etc), allowing for different watering schedules.

4. Easy maintenance: Choose systems designed with accessible components for simpler upkeep and repairs.

5. Winterization features: Given cold winters, ensure the system can be easily drained and has a fiting to allow an air compressor blow out out to prevent freeze damage.

6. Water efficiency: Given our hot and dry climate in the summer and water conservation needs, systems with smart controllers, rain sensors, and high-efficiency nozzles are important. These features adjust watering based on weather conditions and minimize waste.

7. Customization options: Your system should be tailored to your property's specific needs, considering factors like soil type, sun exposure, and plant varieties.

8. Water pressure compatibility: Ensure the system works well with your property's water pressure for consistent performance.

9. Future expandability: Consider systems that allow for easy additions or modifications as your landscape needs change.

Give us a call at Salt Lake City Sprinkler Pros to have an irrigation specialist evaluate your property. We’ll also provide a custom-designed sprinkler system that will best suit your unique landscape needs.

Hiring a licensed specialist irrigation professional to install your sprinkler system is actually far more important than most homeowners realize, despite all of the DIY guides on-line encouraging you to do the job yourself or the temptation to hire a handyman or general landscaper. Here's why:

1. Local expertise: A professional irrigation company will understand the particulars and impacts of Salt Lake's unique climate, soil and slope conditions and the best ways to adapt system design and components optimized for your pocket of the Salt Lake Valley.

2. Efficient design: Actually achieving high water efficiency requires a well-adapted irrigation system design, proper selection of components and expert craftsmanship to implement the design.  Without all of these elements working in concert, the sprinkler system won’t deliver on maximum efficiency in irrigating your property.  

3. Quality installation: Proper installation prevents future issues like leaks, premature valve failure or uneven coverage, saving you money and headaches in the long run.  We see a lot of really badly installed systems - don’t make this same mistake.

4. Irrigation plumbing considerations: Most sprinkler systems require a stop and waste valve and vacuum breaker installation, and may need additional valves and modifications to existing underground water supply lines that are beyond the capability of non-specialists to diagnose and appropriately size and calibrate.  

5. Advanced equipment: Irrigation specialists have access to professional-grade tools and parts for precise installation, including trenched and trenchless sprinkler installation, especially important when dealing with the Salt Lake Valley’s varied soil types.

6. Time and effort savings: What might take a homeowner weeks can often be completed by professionals in a few days.  

7. Warranty protection: Many manufacturers' warranties are only valid if the system is installed by a licensed irrigation professional.

8. Safety: Irrigation professionals know how to work with irrigation plumbing deep underground and to work around existing utilities, preventing potentially dangerous and costly accidents.

9. Water pressure optimization: Experts can ensure your system works efficiently with your property's specific water pressure.

10. Long-term support: A local irrigation professional can provide ongoing maintenance and support, crucial for system longevity in our challenging climate.

While DIY sprinkler system installation might seem cost-effective initially, professional installation often proves more economical and reliable over time, especially given Salt Lake City's specific irrigation needs.

If you’re looking for an irrigation specialist to install your sprinkler system skillfully and efficiently, contact Salt Lake City Sprinkler Pros.

When selecting an irrigation specialist for a sprinkler installation in Salt Lake City, prioritize competence, reliability and value.  Here’s what we mean by that:

You need an irrigation specialist that lives and breaths irrigation systems, and is truly knowledgeable and experienced installing sprinkler systems in Salt Lake and has seen irrigation systems through every stage of their lifecycle in our area, from new installation through complex repairs and replacement, and has logged enough cycles installing sprinkler systems that they know how to adapt irrigation system design to the unique circumstances of your property’s landscaping and our soil and weather conditions, and know which components work in your landscape’s context and will perform as expected.

Your irrigation company should be licensed, bonded and insured for the work they’re performing, have solid reviews and are able to provide detailed, written estimates and clear project timelines, and able to communicate their expertise, recommendations and updates to your project.  

Finally, you should prioritize on value, not just price when hiring a sprinkler installation company. A well-designed sprinkler system will save considerable money over time in the form of fewer repairs, lower water costs and a longer lifespan of the system.  Too many homeowners prioritize price alone, and wind up paying a steep price over time when the sprinkler system doesn’t perform as expected.    

At Salt Lake City Sprinkler Pros, we offer a complimentary estimate for your project, providing transparency and clarity from the start, and given the high quality of workmanship, guarantee our installation is the best possible value.  Give us a call and let us show you the difference.

The irrigation specialist who installs your sprinkler system will provide you with instructions on operation and upkeep. Additionally, we offer smart controller options that make managing your system even easier. Our goal is to ensure you’re fully equipped to maintain your system effectively, keeping your lawn lush while minimizing water bills. We don’t consider our job finished until you feel confident managing your system to meet your water needs efficiently. Want additional support? We offer Sprinkler Irrigation Maintenance Plans — taking the irritation out of your irrigation — year-round.

In the Salt Lake Valley, soil type plays a crucial role in sprinkler system effectiveness. Our area's soil can vary widely, from sandy to clay-rich to rocky, each requiring different watering strategies.

Sandy soils drain quickly, necessitating more frequent watering but at lower intensity to prevent runoff. Clay-rich soils retain water longer, allowing for less frequent but deeper watering to encourage root growth.

The soil composition affects sprinkler head selection and placement. For instance, areas with clay soil might benefit from rotary nozzles that apply water more slowly, preventing surface pooling.

Salt Lake's alkaline soil can impact water absorption rates, influencing irrigation scheduling. Additionally, slopes in your yard, common on the benches, require careful sprinkler placement to prevent erosion and ensure even coverage.

One of our irrigation specialists will assess your soil type, along with factors like sun exposure and plant types, to design an efficient system. They'll program your controller to deliver the right amount of water at optimal intervals, conserving water while maintaining a healthy landscape in our unique desert climate.

Understanding your soil is key to an effective, water-wise sprinkler system in Salt Lake City.