The design and installation of your sprinkler system are critical to its success. That's why it is so important to have a professional contractor do the work for you.

How your irrigation system is designed and installed will make the difference between a system that is reliable and keeps your lawn green and healthy, and one that is troublesome, wastes water and leaves your lawn brown and unhealthy. Here are a few tips that will help you select a contractor who will guarantee a job well done.

1) Know what to expect.
An efficient, well-organized contractor will:

a) Provide the information needed to make an informed decision.
b) Visually determine soil conditions, water sources and pressure, planting materials, and more.
c) Present an estimate detailing plans and costs for material and labor.
d) Clearly explain all the specifics to you.

2) Ask questions
The best contractors will encourage you to ask questions. A few good ones are:

a) What type of products will be used and why?
b) Is after-sale service provided?
c) Is there a warranty on the system?

3) Shortcuts ... bewary.....
Some commonly used shortcuts are:

a) Not including a backflow preventer to protect your drinking water supply (local regulations may vary).
b) Installing sprinklers too far apart causing brown spots.
c) Not using adequate connectors and a valve box to safeguard against short circuits.
d) Fly Buy night operaters with low prices and many shortcuts surely will affect the quality of your garden.

4) Choose someone you can trust and makes you feel comfortable
Choosing an irrigation contractor who uses Rain Bird and Toro professional series products is the best way to ensure the job will be done right. Ask for current references.