At Details Landscape Art, we design and install lawn sprinklers that provide efficient, uniform coverage throughout the lawn area. A healthy lawn begins with proper irrigation.
While larger parks, athletic fields, and commercial landscapes often require large rotor sprinklers, most residential lawns today can be irrigated more efficiently using modern fixed-head lawn sprinklers. Advances in sprinkler technology have improved water distribution, reduced waste, and helped homeowners maintain healthier lawns while conserving water.
Fixed-head lawn sprinklers
Preparing the Lawn Area
Before the lawn is installed, proper preparation is essential.
We begin by incorporating soil amendments and thoroughly rototilling the area. Lawn edging is then installed to define the shape and perimeter of the new lawn.
A properly prepared soil base helps promote healthy root development and improves the effectiveness of the irrigation system.
Designing Lawn Sprinklers for Proper Coverage
One of the most important aspects of lawn irrigation is proper sprinkler placement.
Each sprinkler head is designed to throw water a specific distance depending on the nozzle installed. Common spray distances range from six feet to fifteen feet or more.
A key principle of irrigation design is what we call head-to-head coverage.
Sprinkler heads do not water effectively directly around themselves. To ensure even coverage, each sprinkler must spray far enough to reach the adjacent sprinkler head. This overlap prevents dry spots and helps maintain a consistently healthy lawn.
Choosing the Correct Nozzles for Lawn Sprinklers
Sprinkler nozzles are available in a variety of spray patterns including:
- Full circle
- Three-quarter circle
- Half circle
- Quarter circle
For curved lawn areas, we often use Variable Arc Nozzles (VANs). These adjustable nozzles allow the spray pattern to be customized to match the shape of the lawn, improving efficiency and reducing overspray onto patios, walkways, and planting beds.
Installing the Irrigation System
Every lawn sprinkler system begins with a valve located near a water source.
Larger lawns may require multiple valves depending on the number of sprinkler heads and the available water pressure and volume.
Once the sprinkler locations have been designed and flagged, trenches are excavated and PVC pipe is installed throughout the lawn area.
At Details Landscape Art, we use Schedule 40 PVC pipe exclusively. Schedule 40 has thicker walls and greater durability than thinner Class 200 pipe commonly used by some contractors. While it costs slightly more, we believe the added strength and longevity are worth the investment.
Each sprinkler head is connected to the pipe using a swing joint. These flexible connections allow the head to move slightly if struck by a lawn mower or other equipment, reducing the likelihood of damage.
Once the system is assembled, the heads are adjusted and tested to ensure proper coverage before the trenches are backfilled and the lawn is installed.
The Importance of Irrigation Controllers
An irrigation system is only as good as its controller.
Each irrigation valve contains a solenoid that allows it to communicate with the controller. The controller is programmed to operate each valve according to a schedule based on the season, weather conditions, and the needs of the lawn.
Homeowners can program:
- Start times
- Run times
- Days of operation
- Watering intervals
Modern controllers make it possible to maintain a healthy lawn while avoiding unnecessary water use.
Efficient Watering Using Lawn Sprinklers for a Healthy Lawn
Proper irrigation is one of the keys to maintaining an attractive lawn.
A well-designed system provides uniform coverage, minimizes water waste, and promotes strong root development. Combined with proper mowing, fertilization, and seasonal maintenance, an efficient sprinkler system helps keep lawns healthy and attractive throughout the year.
At Details Landscape Art, we view irrigation as one of the most important investments in a successful landscape. Properly designed lawn sprinklers provide years of reliable service while helping homeowners enjoy a lush, healthy lawn.