Whether you are a green-loving homeowner or an eco-conscious commercial real estate investor, having a thriving outdoor space is a dream. A lush green landscape is more than adding aesthetics and sustainability to your property. It enhances curb appeal, which translates into value addition. Surely, green outdoors makes a savvy investment for homeowners and commercial property owners.
But before committing to the investment, you must understand the spending it entails. Beyond the cost of landscaping and maintenance, irrigation system installation is a major element of the investment in an outdoor garden. After all, you cannot expect to feed a sprawling garden manually, making irrigation systems non-negotiable.
How much does it cost to install an irrigation system for a residential or commercial space? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question because the cost may vary from project to project. It boils down to several factors, so understanding them gives you a head start with budgeting and calculations. Let us share a comprehensive guide on the cost of a custom-design sprinkler system in Australia.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Irrigation System
Before committing to an irrigation system installation process, you must dig deep into the factors that may influence the overall costs. From the evident ones like the size of the project to the lesser-known factors such as seasonal changes, there are many things you need to keep an eye on. Here is a checklist of factors that determine the cost of installing a lawn sprinkler system for residential and commercial outdoor areas.
Size and Terrain
The size of the project is the primary factor governing the installation costs. Of course, a full-scale commercial project will cost more than its residential counterpart because of the sheer square footage of the property. Typically, the cost per square meter is shared by the provider, so you need to crunch the numbers to get an estimate. While there is an option of DIY, it isn’t the best one because professionals are in a better place to handle these projects. Besides the size, the terrain of your garden decides the amount you need to spend on an irrigation installation project. Rough terrain means more work and higher costs.
Type of Irrigation Systems
Anotherobvious cost determinant for the project is the type of irrigation system you pick. Property owners often settle for custom irrigation systems depending on their needs. Here are the installation options you can check:
Sprinkler systems
The sprinkler system works for all types of landscapes, except the ones with dense clay soil. Besides being easy to install and operate, it distributes water efficiently and uniformly, prevents wastage, and has lower labour costs. Installers ensure that the sprinklers are linked into different zones for even watering.
Drip irrigation systems
Drip irrigation system is highly water-efficient as it reduces runoff and delivers water directly to the roots. It is suitable for areas with water scarcity and property owners looking for sustainability.
Types of Plants
The types of plants you want to raise also influence the cost of an irrigation system for your garden. For example, you can settle for less if growing deciduous or native shrubs because they are sturdy and require less care and watering. Conversely, exotic and flowering plants require all the TLC you can give, including regular watering. Similarly, vegetable gardens need more water to thrive.
Equipment and Material
The equipment and material required for a job determine the cost of irrigation system installation for homes and commercial spaces. For example, complex installations require more equipment, materials, time, and expertise. The latest technology can also be a deciding factor. These factors lead to additional costs, which are not included in the standard rates.
Change of Seasons
Seasonal changes can be a differentiating factor because installation rates may rise when these services are in high demand. Additionally, gardens, shrubs, and plants require more upkeep and care during the drier months. Installing and operating irrigation systems during these months can be more expensive than at other times of the year.
Location
Most homeowners and commercial real estate owners fail to take the location of their project into consideration when estimating the cost of lawn irrigation system installation. Services vary from state to state due to different climatic conditions, demand, standards of living, and number of providers available for the job.
Bearing these factors in mind gives you a head start with budgeting for the installation of an irrigation system for your residential or commercial space. Experts recommend opting for professional installation because they help you choose the right system, deliver favourable outcomes, and do all the heavy lifting. You may save money with DIY, but end up cutting corners with lawn maintenance and care.
What is Included in a Professional Irrigation System Installation?
Professional irrigation system installation is more than setting up the equipment for irrigating your garden. It can include several key services to create a thriving outdoor space. A professional typically covers you from start to end with the following add-ons beyond the installation:
Irrigation System Design
You can rely on experts to assess your space and its requirements and recommend a custom irrigation system according to its needs and specifications. The conception part is perhaps the most crucial aspect of designing a project because it determines the long-term efficacy of the system.
Routine Maintenance
Irrigation system installation is not a one-time thing because you need to keep it well-maintained for optimal performance. A provider must include it in their service package because it is best to rely on professionals who know your irrigation system inside out.
Emergency Repairs
Like any other installation, a lawn irrigation system is susceptible to wear over time. It may also encounter unexpected breakdowns. Look for an installation provider offering emergency repairs to help you in such situations.
Add-ons such as water storage solutions, garden lighting, and garden mulching give extra points to an installation service provider.
Conclusion
The cost of installing an irrigation system is not the same for everyone because it depends on several factors. Before starting the project, you must consider these factors to get a realistic dollar figure for the job. The best option is to collaborate with a reputable and experienced irrigation system installation specialist because they can quote the best price according to your needs and expectations. Having a budget for long-term maintenance and emergency repairs is equally crucial.
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