If you intend to add an in-ground irrigation system to your property, you may not have the skills or the time to put into digging trenches, putting in piping, or even designing a lawn sprinkler system.

Your next step would be to hire a landscaping contractor or a company that provides irrigation installation and maintenance services.

But how do you know which company is the best? While you can first look at a company’s Google and Yelp reviews, you still need some tips to know how to pick the right landscaping company for you.

8 Tips for Choosing a Landscaping Company

You must educate yourself before calling landscaping companies near you. You want to know what to expect and feel confident that your landscape contractor will do their promised work on time and 
within budget.

Most experts agree that you should contact three contractors before making your final decision who will work on your property.

Here are eight tips for choosing the right landscaping company to put in your lawn sprinkler system:

1. Make a budget before you talk with your landscaper. Can you afford this project? Do you need to get out a loan to pay for this project? 
2. When you sit down with a potential landscape contractor, make sure that you tell them what your long-range plan is for your property. For example, if your contractor installs your lawn sprinkler system, inform them of any hardscaping projects that may interfere with the sprinkler system. 
3. If the contractor doesn’t volunteer the information, ask them if they’re licensed and insured. And ask to see proof of their insurance and licenses. And make sure your landscaping company has the appropriate contractor certifications to put in an in-ground sprinkler system. 
4. Ask your contractor how much work they’ll do on your property and if they hire subcontractors to provide some of the installation work. For example, a contractor may hire a plumber to set up the backflow preventer or connect the water from the house to the irrigation system.
5.  Ask your contractor the project’s start time and how long it will take to complete the job. Installing an underground irrigation system usually takes about a day. 
6. Know the community rules. If you live in an HOA, do you need special permission to install an irrigation system in your yard? Will the contractor get the permits, or do you need to do that before the project begins? 
7. Ask how the crews will leave your property once they’re finished installing your underground irrigation system. While you can expect dirt and even mud, you should expect the crews to clean up after themselves at the end of the day. All trash should be thrown away and not blowing in your yard. The work site should be tidied up and loose sod put back in place.
8. Don’t hesitate to ask any other questions that come to mind when you sit down with your contractor for the initial meeting. And if you have follow-up questions, ask your contractor for the best way to get a hold of them.

What to Expect After Your New Irrigation System Is Installed

Finally, the installation project is finished. Your contractor should give you a tour of the hydrozones and show you how to use the irrigation controller. Here are six irrigation dos and don’ts:

1. Set your irrigation timer to go off in the early morning hours when there’s not a lot of wind, temperatures are the coolest, and the sun hasn’t risen yet. You’ll conserve water because it will soak into the soil instead of evaporating.
2. Set your in-ground sprinkler system to go off in short cycles to prevent water from pooling or run-off.
3. Mow your turfgrass higher at 3” or more to encourage profound turf root growth and boost drought tolerance. 
4. Trim shrubs so that they don’t interfere with the sprinkler’s spray pattern.
5. Position sprinklers and rotors only to water the lawn, not your walkways or driveway.
6. Read more helpful tips on our website.

Next Steps for Finding the Right Contractor to Install Your K-Rain Sprinkler System

At K-Rain, we make it easy for homeowners to connect with landscape contractors in their area. Our K-Rain contractors are prequalified because they belong to the K-Rain Contractor Referral Program.

Your K-Rain contractor will listen to your needs, answer your lawn and garden questions, and provide you with job estimates.

If you’re ready to invest in an underground sprinkler system, buy your K-Rain sprinkler system parts at our online store or your favorite big-box retailer. If you have any questions about your K-Rain outdoor lawn sprinkler, call our customer service at 800-735-7246 or fill out our contact form.

Sources:
LoveYourLandscape.org, Tips to Work Effectively with a Landscape Professional.
MetroSprinklerServices.com, FAQ: How Long Does It Take to Install the Sprinkler System?
NeaveMgmt.com, 15 Questions to Ask a Landscaper.