Sprinkler Installations
Lets talk quality, communication and experience. You always deserve the best bang for your buck.
Lets Get Educated.
You need a new sprinkler system? Where do you start? Get a free quote from everyone you can!
Then, do your research on each company. The cheapest option is almost never the best option.
Here at Sprinkler Medix we do hundreds of repairs each year. HUNDREDS! We have seen a few things along the way. Here are some tips so that if you don't use us to install your system then hopefully you won't call us to come fix it.
Are They Legit?
Sadly, at Sprinkler Medix we have seen a ton of problems caused from illegitimate businesses. Please do not just take their word for it.
Request a copy of:
Business Liability Insurance
Workers Compensation Insurance
Contractors License
Any legitimate business will have no issues giving you a copy of all their licenses and proof of insurance. Please look up the license number through the state. This is often faked with a random number.
Check it here: Contractor License Search
Finally look up the reviews online and double check their standing with the BBB.
Backflows?
The Backflow prevention is the most important part of the whole sprinkler system.
The Backflow preventer when installed correctly prevents any used water in your sprinkler system from flowing backwards. Essential it prevents you from drinking lawn water, or worse, your neighbors chicken water....
This component of a Sprinkler System is required by Idaho building code. A licensed contractor can install backflow prevention however they many not test them. Only a licensed BAT tester can perform backflow tests.
When installing a new system all lines should be located with dig line. Then a backflow permit needs to be filed with the city. After installation the device must be tested and inspected.
As you can tell backflow prevention is no joke. Not everyone can or should install them Please make sure you and your contractor follow these critical guidelines when installing your system.
Scheduling?
Being told one thing and presented another is never a good feeling. Many contractors may over commit or under commit to a specific time. Be careful how you approach the situation. Needing the work to be done as soon as possible will likely make your bid higher. Contractors will often take advantage of this opportunity and push other customers back.
A good indication if the contractor is going to do what they say is based on their communication. Did they show up when they said they would for the quote? Did they get the quote over quickly? Is the soonest they can make it out a little to soon? You get the picture. Small red flags in the bidding process will often result in huge problems during actual installation.
Honest contractors are often booked out a month or more. That should be a decent indicator that they are doing what they should.
Professional?
How do they present themselves? When getting the bid look for a few important details.
Do they have logos on their vehicles?
Are they dressed professionally or in company uniform?
Did they use clean language?
Although these seem like small things they will play a large part after the system is installed. Many contractors like to put in systems and then disappear. Leaving you with more questions about the system than you originally had.
FAQ
What is sprinkler system and how does it work?
A sprinkler system is the installation of permanent pipes and heads in your yard to water your grass automatically. It is called a "system", because it refers to many components connected together for form a network of sprinklers to water your entire yard. These components include:
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sprinkler heads to distribute water
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valves that group certain sprinklers together
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a controller to turn valves on automatically and a water supply connection.
How much does a sprinkler system cost?
On average, a sprinkler system will cost between $5,000-$12,000. The primary determining factor is the size of the lot. Other factors include additions you add (like a garden system or drip irrigation), the price of components that you would like to use, and the availability of sprinkler parts. We offer a Free Estimate service so that you can get an exact, binding price with no charge.
Can I install a sprinkler system myself?
Yes. Like most home projects, you can install sprinklers yourself. These systems are labor intensive to install, so it would save your money and cost you time. However, there are many pitfalls that homeowners and contractors fall into. One is that there are laws for backflow prevention. Also, an efficient system needs to be designed intelligently according to the supply of water. Many problems can manifest over time if there are too many or not enough heads per zone. Other issues may arise as you maintain and winterize the system. There is no shame in beginning this process and calling us later to finish it correctly.
How do I install a sprinkler system?
Our process begins with a Free Estimate. This takes about 25 minuets. We will come to your home and identify the size of your yard, water source, and ask about your goals for the system. We will inquire about any additions you may want like drip irrigation for your beds or a zone of sprinklers for the garden.
Then, we generate a layout of heads and zones. We use this information to determine accurately how many components will be needed. We calculate labor cost and sum everything together. You will receive a bid that shows the precise cost. We always stick to that price. Once you accept the bid, we will schedule the install and get it done within 1-2 weeks.
Want to lay it yourself?
Laying sod is not complicated, its just labor intensive. At Sprinkler Medix we have no problem helping to source sod at wholesale cost if you decide to lay it yourself. We even love to give out some tips and tricks that we have learned over the years.