Monday, July 7, 2014

How to Get the Best Sprinkler Systems in New Jersey

With a long summer and big lawns being the norm in New Jersey, irrigation systems are becoming increasingly popular. A good lawn irrigation system can save you hours and hours every week in the summer and keep your lawn looking green. But what should you look for if you want one? In our experience, the best New Jersey irrigation systems follow a number of standards:

  • Proper installation – With the cold winters (especially this past one), all New Jersey irrigation systems must be properly installed. You don't want underground sprinkler lines cracking or developing leaks during the cold months and then failing during the months when you need them the most. Talk to your irrigation provider about their install methods—a proper installation will maximize your sprinkler's lifespan.
  • Minimal lawn disturbance – Obviously, laying down the irrigation water lines will involve cutting narrow, shallow trenches through your yard. But like a good surgeon, a good sprinkler company can minimize how much damage they do. They should have a specialized device to cut the turf cleanly, not use just shovels and never a regular ditch digger. Similarly, turf should be laid back over the completed lines, with extra soil as fill if necessary, at grade level so your yard can "heal" quickly.
  • Sprinkler head height – Sprinklers that stick up above the ground can be tripping hazards and can interfere with weekly lawn mowing. In other words, they're a safety hazard. Instead, all sprinklers should be installed to be flush with the ground level. This allows them to function without interfering with normal use of the yard.

  • Rain sensor – What happens when there's a rainstorm outside? Do your sprinklers still come on? If they do, it means a massive waste of water—and in a heavy rainstorm it can even contribute to soil erosion. Neither of these are what you're looking for in a sprinkler system. The best systems come with an automatic 24/7 rain sensor, which overrides the normal sprinkler schedule when it's raining out.
  • Qualified staff – Whoever is installing your irrigation system should have lots of experience doing it. Additionally, a licensed plumber should be the one hooking up the water supply and checking everything over.

If you live in New Jersey, irrigation for your lawn might be a good investment. Do you currently have a lawn irrigation system, and what do you think of it? If not, what makes you want one?


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