You’ve decided it’s time to install an irrigation system for your yard. Maybe you’re tired of dragging hoses around or worrying about whether your lawn is getting enough water (or too much). The idea of an automated system sounds perfect—set it up once and let it do the work. But now you’re faced with a big question: should you try to install it yourself or hire a professional to handle it?
This is where many homeowners hit a wall. On the one hand, DIY seems like a good way to save money, and there’s a certain satisfaction in doing things yourself. On the other hand, you’re worried about making costly mistakes, especially since Western Washington has its own unique challenges—like uneven terrain, rain-soaked soil, and varying water needs for different plants. The last thing you want is to invest time and money into something that doesn’t work properly or ends up causing problems down the road.
We get it. At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’ve helped a lot of people in this exact situation—folks who are trying to figure out what makes more sense: rolling up their sleeves and tackling the project or letting a professional team like ours do it. This article will break down the pros and cons of each option, giving you the knowledge to make the best choice for your yard.
DIY Irrigation Installation: Is It Worth It?
If you’re a hands-on type of person, installing your own irrigation system might seem appealing. After all, you can find step-by-step guides and YouTube videos that make it look like a weekend project. And it’s true, you can save some money by going the DIY route—at least upfront. But let’s dive deeper into what this really involves.
- Cost Savings (But Maybe Not as Much as You Think)
One of the biggest reasons people choose to DIY their irrigation system is the perceived cost savings. You can shop around for parts at your local hardware store or order a kit online. On paper, this sounds like a win. However, there’s more to the cost than just the materials.DIY often comes with hidden costs. If you miscalculate how much piping you need, buy the wrong sprinkler heads, or don’t install the system correctly, you could end up spending more to fix those mistakes. You also need to consider the cost of tools—trenching equipment, pipe cutters, and other specialized tools you might not have lying around in the garage.
- The Time Commitment
Sure, it seems like a weekend project—but have you ever had a “weekend project” that stretched into weeks? Installing an irrigation system isn’t just about laying down some pipes and calling it a day. You’ll need to plan out the system’s design, measure water pressure, calculate the right sprinkler placement, and possibly even dig up your yard by hand if you don’t have the right equipment.If you work a full-time job or have other commitments, finding the time to do all of this can be challenging. And if things don’t go smoothly, it could take much longer than you originally planned.
- Risk of Mistakes
When you’re doing something for the first time, mistakes happen—it’s part of the learning process. But when it comes to installing an irrigation system, mistakes can be costly. Installing the sprinklers too close together can cause overwatering in some areas, while leaving them too far apart can lead to dry spots. There’s also the risk of improperly connecting pipes, which could lead to leaks that waste water and increase your utility bills.
In Western Washington, we also deal with specific challenges like slopes, which can cause water to run downhill and pool in unwanted areas. Without the right knowledge, you could end up with a system that doesn’t efficiently water your yard.
Hiring a Professional: The Smart Investment?
Now let’s talk about hiring a professional to handle the installation. This obviously comes with a higher upfront cost, but it might just save you more in the long run—especially if you value your time and peace of mind.
- Expertise and Precision
A professional irrigation installer knows how to design a system that’s tailored to your specific yard and its needs. They’ll evaluate factors like water pressure, soil type, and plant variety to ensure everything is getting the right amount of water. They’ll also know the best places to install the sprinklers to avoid issues with oversaturation or runoff.In Western Washington, we deal with heavy rains and unique plant needs. An expert will take this into account, setting up rain sensors or adjusting watering schedules to make sure your system isn’t overwatering. They’ll also know how to install a system that handles the natural slopes and uneven terrain common in our area.
- Expertise and Precision
- Saving Time and Reducing Stress
Let’s face it: life is busy. If you’re already juggling work, family, and home maintenance, adding a big project like irrigation installation to your plate might not be the best idea. Hiring a professional means the job will get done quickly and efficiently.Professionals have the right equipment for trenching and laying pipe, so they won’t have to dig up your yard by hand. And because they know what they’re doing, they’re less likely to run into issues that could cause delays.
- Warranties and Guarantees
When you hire a professional, you’re paying for more than just labor—you’re also getting peace of mind. Most professional irrigation installers offer warranties on their work, meaning if something goes wrong after the installation, they’ll come back and fix it at no extra charge. This is a huge benefit compared to DIY, where any mistakes or system failures are your responsibility to fix.At Brookside Landscape and Design, we stand by the quality of our work and make sure that the systems we install are built to last. We also take the time to walk you through how your new system works, so you know how to operate it and keep everything running smoothly.
When DIY Might Be the Right Choice
While we believe hiring a professional is usually the best option, there are situations where DIY can make sense. If you’re experienced with home improvement projects, have the necessary tools, and are willing to put in the time to learn how to install an irrigation system correctly, you might be able to tackle the project on your own.
DIY can also be a good choice for smaller yards with simple layouts. If you’re just looking to water a few flower beds or a small lawn, the system design won’t be as complicated, and you might feel confident enough to handle it yourself.
When Hiring a Professional is Worth Every Penny
On the flip side, if your yard has slopes, multiple zones, or if you’re installing an irrigation system for the first time, hiring a professional is likely the better option. Western Washington’s climate and terrain are unique, and it’s important to get the installation right the first time. Professionals have the experience to handle these complexities and ensure your system will work efficiently for years to come.
Conclusion: Choose the Option That’s Right for You
Installing an irrigation system is a great investment in your home and yard, but deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional is a big decision. If you’re confident in your abilities and have the time to commit, DIY might be a rewarding project. But if you want to avoid the risk of mistakes, save time, and ensure the job is done right, hiring a professional is likely the smarter choice.
At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’re here to help you with any irrigation needs, whether that means installing a new system, upgrading an existing one, or offering advice on how to maintain it. We know the unique challenges of Western Washington’s climate, and we’re committed to making sure your yard stays green and beautiful with the least amount of stress.
If you’re ready to get started or just want to talk through your options, reach out to us today!