As long, hot summer nights slowly fade into cooler autumn evenings, most homeowners rejoice in knowing that their scorching hot days out in the sun are (somewhat) over. Sure, you still need to engage in a bit of fall landscaping to ensure that your trees, grass, and plants are able to withstand the winter, but things do get easier.
Thinking of installing an irrigation system? Fall is actually the best time to do so. Not only is your lawn at an ideal temperature for this type of installation, but it’ll also give you time to plant new trees or annuals that’ll be able to dig their roots in before winter arrives. Here’s what to know about autumn and irrigation systems.
When’s the Best Time to Install an Irrigation System?
Fall! Why? For quite a few reasons, actually. Let’s take a look at a few of the top ones:
- Companies that install irrigation systems have to trench your lawn in order to bury water lines. If they do this in the hotter months when your soil is having trouble quenching its thirst, it’ll lead to a slower lawn recovery; this isn’t the case in the fall.
- Often, irrigation companies are also at their busiest during the spring and summer months. When deciding to install an irrigation system in the fall, you’re able to enjoy shorter wait times and faster installs, both of which ensure you’re able to enjoy your beautiful fall lawn for a few weeks before winter sets in.
- Soil conditions are often much better in the fall as your lawn benefits from moderate temperatures and weather. For the perfect install, the soil needs to be soft but not too wet or too dry, making fall the perfect time of year for this kind of lawn care.
- And, finally, you don’t have to worry about running your precious plants and beautiful flowers during autumn. Chances are that an irrigation company will have to dig and disturb a plant or two in order to correctly and efficiently install your system. Wait until most of your spring and summer flowers are gone towards the beginning of autumn and you’ll feel less upset about this kind of digging and prodding.
It’s worth noting, too, that whether you’re installing your irrigation system yourself or are hiring a company to take care of it for you, fall weather is pretty ideal for this kind of work outdoors. You’ll be happy you waited until the weather cooled off a bit if you’re doing it yourself, and if you’re hiring a company to do it for you, they’ll enjoy the temperatures, too.
How to Prepare for the Fall Installation of an Irrigation System
Interested in a DIY irrigation system installation? It’s a tricky project, we’re not gonna lie. But it’s doable if you have the right tools. First, we suggest assessing whether or not your lawn actually needs an underground irrigation system.
Answer these questions:
- Do you live in an area where you don’t get enough rainfall to adequately irrigate your lawn naturally?
- What kind of grass do you have?
- What kind of soil do you need?
- Are you worried about runoff?
- Are there any local laws in place regarding irrigation and sprinkler systems? Sometimes you need a building permit (and these can be easier to get in the fall).
From there, you’ll need to check off tasks on your to-do list such as checking out the water pressure, the service line size, whether or not you need a solvent cement for pipes, and mapping out the sprinkler system. Before you even think about getting into the technical aspect of all of this, though, you’ll want to make sure you have the right tools on hand to clear your lawn in preparation for installation.
Get yourself a saw for removing large trees and branches that might get in the way, have gloves and trash bags on hand for leaf removal and check to make sure you have the basic tools you need for the piping install, such as pipe cutters, pliers, risers, valves, and timers.
Let an Expert Take Care of Your Irrigation System
If it sounds like we’ve just thrown a lot at you then don’t worry; there’s a reason there are experts in irrigation. From mapping out your sprinkler system to planning the coverage and fitting the pipes and valves, having expert help with your installation can save a lot of time, money, and stress.
Not quite sure what you’re looking at in terms of investment? Chances are that it’ll be slightly cheaper in the fall, but you can get in touch to let us know what you’re looking for and how we can help you achieve your dream lawn.
About Weld-On
Weld-On Adhesives, Inc., a subsidiary of IPS Corporation, is the pioneer and leading manufacturer of Weld-On® solvent cements, primers and cleaners for PVC, CPVC, ABS and other plastic piping systems. Weld-On products are globally recognized as the premium products for joining plastic pipes and fittings. Headquartered in California, Weld-On has state-of-the-art operations throughout the United States, as well as China, and a worldwide network of sales representatives and distributors.