Once you have completed all the initial research and calculations to determine local codes, water pressure, meter size, line size, flow rate and backflow prevention methods you can begin to map out your proposed system for irrigation in Grand Rapids MI.
You need to start with a scale drawing of your property; a scale of 1” to 10 feet is good. The map must contain the house location and any other outbuildings and make sure the water meter for your system of irrigation in Grand Rapids is noted. The other elements that need to be located and shown on your layout map are the existing shrubs and foundation plants, flower beds, trees, sidewalks and driveway, fences, slopes and areas of sun and shade.
You will probably find that to do the job right more than one watering zone will be needed. A watering zone for irrigation in Grand Rapids is an independent set of pipes and sprinkler heads and is determined by the GPM (Gallons per Minute) that your system can supply. Each zone has its own control valve so the water pressure and volume can be used most effectively.
The features of the landscaping have to be plotted accurately so that all living material is covered but excluding things like drives, walks and buildings. Consider the prevailing winds during the summer watering season when you plan your irrigation in Grand Rapids system as they may affect coverage due to the spray. What are even more important are the elevation changes on your land as the water pressure changes. The higher the elevation the lower the pressure and vice-versa, this affects the amount of water that will be delivered by the sprinkler heads. Determine the location of the manifold, it needs to be inconspicuous of course but near the water supply to the sprinkler system. At this time you can ask the local utility companies to review your map and mark any underground services and their depth.
When you plan the location of the spray heads plan for 100% coverage as this is essential to avoid any dry spots where live plants will perish without water. To achieve this overlap the spray pattern by using “head to head” coverage which means that the spray from one head of your irrigation in Grand Rapids system must reach the adjacent sprinkler head. This method will guarantee overlap which in turn will guarantee full coverage. Sprinkler heads are spot specific and are adjustable to allow for targeted watering without watering any objects which are inorganic such as your house or driveway.
When you select the sprinkler heads base them on the coverage required. The number of zones you have in your irrigation Grand Rapids system depends on the location of trees, shrubbery the lawn and the walks. Large unimpeded areas need a specific style while corners require another and when used under shrubs, another type again.
You can avoid all this by working with professionals in the field. As you live in Grand Rapids, get in touch with Sanderson and DeHaan who have been planning irrigation systems since 1988.
