8 Ways to Royally Screw Up Your Irrigation Design and Installation

Irrigation design and installation might seem straightforward, but there are countless ways to royally mess it up. Here’s a guide to ensure your lawn ends up looking like a swamp or a desert—depending on your level of expertise in screwing things up!

1. Skip the Planning Phase

Who needs a plan? Just start digging holes and laying pipes wherever you feel like. Water will find its way, right? Trust your instincts over those pesky blueprints and technical drawings.

2. Use Mismatched Pipes and Fittings

Got a bunch of leftover pipes and fittings from various projects? Perfect! Throw them all together without worrying about compatibility. The more colorful and varied your irrigation system, the more avant-garde your lawn will look.

3. Install Sprinklers at Random Angles

Who says sprinklers need to be upright? Set them at odd angles for that artistic fountain effect. Your lawn will appreciate the avant-garde water sculpture you’ve created.

4. Ignore Water Pressure Requirements

High pressure, low pressure—who cares? Just connect everything and hope for the best. If the sprinklers shoot water like a fire hose or dribble out a sad stream, at least you’ll have a good laugh.

5. Forget About Zoning

Why bother with zoning? Water your lawn, garden, and driveway all at the same time. The driveway could use some watering too, right? It’s all about spreading the love (and water).

6. Install Controllers in Hard-to-Reach Places

Mount your irrigation controller in the most inconvenient spot possible. Behind the bushes, under the deck, or even in the attic. Every time you need to adjust the settings, it’ll be a fun little adventure.

7. Place Valve Boxes in High Traffic Areas

Put your valve boxes right where everyone walks or drives. Nothing says “home improvement” like a trip hazard or a broken car axle. Plus, it’s a great way to keep guests on their toes.

8. Mix Up Drip Lines and Sprinklers

Why should drip lines and sprinklers be separated? Mix them up for that unique effect of soggy puddles and bone-dry patches. Your lawn will be a patchwork masterpiece of overwatered and underwatered zones.

Conclusion

There you have it—8 surefire ways to royally screw up your irrigation design and installation. Follow these tips to ensure your lawn is the talk of the town, whether it’s for its swamp-like conditions or its impressive desert landscape. Happy irrigating!