Water Distribution

• Lawn sprinklers must distribute water evenly over the entire lawn to be effective as each area should receive the same amount of water. The type of sprinklers used and the layout of the system is the key to successful irrigation. Sprinkler systems are designed using zones to ensure all areas of the grass are properly watered while directing water distribution away from driveways and sidewalks. Most lawn sprinklers distribute water in a semi-circle or a complete circle. To ensure all areas of lawn grass receive water, most sprinkler systems are designed with head-to-head coverage, which means that coverage is overlapped in each zone.
  
  

Driveways and Sidewalks

• The layout of sprinkler systems should include enough sprinklers to provide head-to-head coverage. When the sprinklers are adjusted properly, the over-spray will be minimal on driveways and sidewalks. Avoid placing sprinklers near the roadway or driveway where they may be damaged by vehicles. The correct placement for sprinklers in these areas should be 2 to 3 feet into the lawn. If flexible connectors are used, sprinklers are less likely to be broken and require repair.
  
  

Narrow Strips

• When irrigating narrow strips of lawn grass, use sprinklers that move in half-circles. Border the area with these sprinklers, directing water spray toward the center, which ensures all of the grass gets adequate amounts of water. Drip irrigation is an effective way to water flowerbeds. Instead of using sprinklers, drip irrigation requires the placement of tubing in narrow flowerbeds that emit water slowly over time.
  
  

Considerations

• Part circle sprinklers are best to achieve uniform water distribution and water efficiency. Position these sprinklers to water to the center of the lawn. Full circle sprinklers typically cause over-spray problems, especially if they are placed at the edge of lawn grass. Don't try to cut costs by using fewer sprinklers because this doesn't work out in the long run. Using too few sprinklers causes lawn grass to develop dead spots where the grass is not receiving enough water. Sprinkler systems must also have the correct size pipe to be efficient. If you are unsure of where to place your sprinklers, consult a professional irrigation installer to ensure all areas of the lawn are covered and the sprinklers receive regular maintenance.