A garden does more than enhance the curb appeal of a property. It gives you an outdoor haven to relax with your loved ones and host get-togethers for your friends. Not to mention, it can add serious cash to the real estate price of your home if you plan to sell down the line. But you need to ensure a well-maintained outdoor space instead of taking a set-and-forget approach.
An irrigation system is a crucial investment in this context. Irrigation ensures a thriving green space as it improves soil quality and plant health regardless of the rainfall in a season. You can imagine its significance if you live in an area where long dry spells are common.
An irrigation system is an underground layout of pipes connected to emitters watering a specific landscape area. It covers the lawn and plants automatically and reduces the dependence on natural rain. Moreover, your garden can support diverse forms of greenery with an irrigation system in place. It saves tons of time and effort for time-pressed homeowners.
While everything about the investment sounds great, you may have some qualms regarding its installation cost. Knowing the financial aspect keeps you comfortable and stress-free from the outset. Let us get down to the basics and explain how much it costs to install an irrigation system.
Cost factors to install irrigation system
When it comes to the cost of an irrigation system, you cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach. Your provider will consider several factors before sharing a quote, and it always helps to be aware of these factors so that you can get a good bargain. Here are the cost factors to install an irrigation system:
Type of irrigation systems
The type of irrigation system you choose for your garden is the primary factor that determines the cost of the project. You may opt for a surface or subsurface system according to your needs, preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Compare the options to decide the one that works for you.
A surface installation is easy to install and maintain, so it is relatively less expensive. However, it loses aesthetic appeal and poses safety hazards like trips and falls. Conversely, a sub-surface system costs more but is more attractive and effective. Since the installation is underground, there is hardly a chance of damage or safety issues.
Lawn size and shape
The size and shape of your lawn are other factors that affect the irrigation system installation cost. The installer will measure the dimensions of your lawn and quote a price per square metre.
But you need not worry about paying a hefty bill for a huge lawn. You may actually get a lower price per square metre for a larger project. Likewise, the shape of the lawn determines the complexity of the project, which is another thing the provider will bear in mind.
Number of zones
A complex landscape with different plant zones will cost more when it comes to the installation of an irrigation system. Different plants and grasses require different amounts of water, so you will have to divide your garden into watering zones if it has a variety of greens.
Ensuring that each zone gets an optimal supply of water is essential to keep them healthy and thriving. Your installer will have to work harder with the installation process, which elevates the overall cost.
Landscaping design
Another factor affecting the cost of installation of an irrigation system is the landscaping design. As a homeowner or a commercial property owner (golf course or sports turf), you may want additional services such as garden lighting and mulching.
Be ready to pay more if you want a broader range of services. Also, look for a provider offering these services to reduce the overall cost of the project.
Equipment & material
The equipment and material used in the project add up to the installation cost. For example, you will have to pay more for several sprinklers around the place. Pump installation and water storage solutions can also elevate the project cost.
Besides the numbers, quality is also a significant factor affecting the cost of the irrigation system. Check the details with your installation partner to create a realistic budget.
Yard slope
Do you have a sloped yard? Surprisingly, it means that you may have to pay more to install an irrigation system in your garden. The slope necessitates the use of a complex drainage solution for the space.
The last thing you want to deal with is water logging in your lawn because it may ruin your plants. Be sure to budget extra to deal with the issue.
Types of plants
A gorgeous garden with exotic and flowering plants is an owner’s pride. But it also means extra expense on your irrigation system as these plants require more care than the sturdier deciduous or native shrubs.
For example, a vegetable garden needs more frequent watering compared to a bed of native plants. The irrigation system becomes more expensive.
Soil condition and obstructions
Dense and rocky soil translates into high labour costs when it comes to the installation of an irrigation system. Your installer may also have to bring heavy machinery to dig the trenches.
They have valid reasons to hand over a longer bill for the project, considering the time, labor, and costs involved.
Automation
With smart technology making it big, you may want to invest in an automated irrigation system. Wouldn’t it be great to get it running with a few clicks on your smartphone? You can do it anytime and from anywhere, even when you are away from home.
But it costs a considerable sum compared to a basic system that runs without automated technology.
Location
The location of your property is another variable affecting the cost of the project. It will cost more if you live in a plush locality because the labour costs and material prices will be high.
Your provider may charge more depending on the location, so consider it while budgeting for the project.
Average cost to install an irrigation system
The cost of installation of an irrigation system in Australia depends on the aforementioned factors. It may run thousands, depending on the size of the lawn, your location, the complexity of the process, and the type of system you want to invest in. The average cost in the country is $3,700.
Of course, an automatic irrigation system will cost far more than a manual one. You can get a quote from a reliable provider first and choose a system that fits your budget. Discuss the nitty-gritty of the project with the installer to get a genuine quote.
Irrigation system installation cost per square foot
The cost of irrigation system installation per square metre in Australia is between $10 and $27, though you can expect a high price variance according to different factors. The price range does not consider aspects such as pumps, tapping fees, power connections, and contribution fees to water authorities. So you may have to pay more than these averages.
Frequently asked questions
How much do irrigation consultants cost?
An irrigation consultant may charge approximately 5-10% of the total project cost. It may seem a significant sum, but getting expert advice can make all the difference, specifically if you have a large lawn with complex requirements such as a sloping yard or multiple zones. A seasoned consultant can recommend an ideal solution according to your expectations and budget.
How long does it take to install an irrigation system?
The length of time for installing an installation system is variable, just like the cost. It depends on the scope and complexity of the project. A contractor can typically install a system in a typical residential yard in only a day. But they may take up to a week for a larger property with several zones and complex requirements. It can drive labour costs and effort as well.
How much should I allow for irrigation maintenance services per year?
You cannot take a set-and-forget approach to an irrigation system, so think beyond the installation costs. Factor in the maintenance cost to keep it performing well year after year. Ideally, 5% of the project cost is enough to ensure good maintenance, provided you start the same year after the installation and stay regular with it. At the same time, ensure timely repair if something is amiss with the system.
Is an irrigation system worth it?
You may have some qualms about investing in an irrigation system because the upfront installation costs may seem high. But it is a worthy investment for busy homeowners. You can save time and maintain a thriving garden with it. Also, it paves the way for a sustainable space and lower water bills due to more efficient watering. Most importantly, you get a value boost for your property. You can go ahead with the installation without second thoughts, provided you find a reliable installation expert.
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