Why You Should Consider Installing a Sprinkler System Before Landscaping

Keep your backyard beautiful by installing a sprinkler system before you landscape

automatic sprinkler system watering the lawn
Photo: maykal / Adobe Stock
automatic sprinkler system watering the lawn
Photo: maykal / Adobe Stock
Highlights

  • Installing your sprinklers first can prevent damage to grass and plants.

  • You’ll be able to address any potential drainage issues.

  • You’ll ensure your plants and lawn will get adequate water coverage.

  • You can include your landscape team in your sprinkler system design.

Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

Are you getting ready to make your landscape dreams come true? Whether it’s new sod, beautiful perennial planting beds, or a few chic feature trees, you want your landscape to thrive. To do that, you need to ensure it gets adequate water. Installing an in-ground, automatic sprinkler system is the best way to give your landscape what it needs. 

But when is the best time to install your sprinklers—before or after your landscaping goes in? Read on to find out why getting your sprinkler system in place first is your best option.

Prevent Damage to Landscaping

New landscaping isn’t cheap, and once it’s in, you want to do everything you can to ensure it does well. To ensure your landscaping cost isn’t for nothing, you’ll most likely want to install a sprinkler system. Installing an irrigation system can damage existing landscaping, especially delicate new sod. Trenching tools and other heavy equipment can ravage your landscape, and it can take time to recover from damage. 

Installing your sprinkler system before you put in new landscaping will protect your investment and save you the heartache of seeing your beautiful new yard transformed into a mini-construction area. 

Know Your Irrigation Coverage for Planting

Garden sprinkler watering the outdoor flower bed
Photo: Douglas Sacha / Moment / Getty Images

When you and your local landscape professionals are planning out your backyard paradise, it’s essential to know which plants to plant for sun exposure and water coverage. Some areas of your yard will get more water, and some will get less, depending on the layout of your sprinkler heads.

By knowing which areas get what amount of water, you can plan your landscape more effectively and know you aren’t leaving any water-loving plants high and dry and vice versa. You can even take it a step further and involve your landscaping professionals in designing your sprinkler system, ensuring you get coverage where you need it most.

Plan for Drainage

Very few of us have completely flat yards. There are dips and rises, yes, but there is also an overall grade or degree of slant to any piece of land. And since water always flows downhill, it’s important to know where your irrigation water runoff will go. 

By installing your sprinkler system before your landscaping, your landscapers can plan for French drain installation or even small retaining walls to make sure your landscape stays where it’s put and that you don’t end up flooding your prize-winning roses, overflowing your water feature, or developing a mud hole in the low-lying spots in your yard.

Consult with Your Landscape Architect or Planner

If you’re planning on having major work done on your landscape, chances are you’ll want to consult with a professional landscape designer. By collaborating with a professional to draw up your landscape plan, you can be sure your local sprinkler system installer will be able to design a system that fits the unique needs of your new backyard oasis.

Installing a sprinkler system after you have landscaping installed will likely result in poor coverage and drainage issues, not to mention a yard crisscrossed with upheaval from trenching tools and equipment.

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to lawn irrigation services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
little boy running around in the sprinklers
Jun 17, 2024
Jun 17, 2024
A sprinkler system can keep your lawn and garden watered, but sometimes it needs to be repaired. Here’s how much it will cost to have a plumber fix it.
brick house with cement steps
Jun 13, 2024
Jun 13, 2024
A French drain costs around $9,250 to install, but several factors will determine the final price you pay. Learn the cost to install French drains in this guide.
A kid playing while sprinklers are watering the lawn
Jun 7, 2024
Jun 7, 2024
If your sprinkler system isn’t working, it may be time for a new pump. Find out sprinkler pump replacement costs with this guide.
Big yard with automatic sprinkler system
Aug 22, 2024
Aug 22, 2024
A lawn sprinkler can make light work of watering your yard. Find out how much a sprinkler system installation costs based on lawn size, system type, and other factors.
 Village house with garden
Jun 5, 2024
Jun 5, 2024
Swale and French drains are two popular drainage options. Compare swale vs. french drain to pick the right type for your yard.
A person throwing rocks in a french drain
Jun 14, 2024
Jun 14, 2024
What are the best rocks for French drains? Learn which rocks top the list and which ones to avoid using for a French drain.
Share project details to get started.