Things You'll Need:
- Lot survey
- Graph paper
- Pencil
- Rolling tape measure
- Sprinkler system manufacturer's instructions
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Step 1
Consider the dimensions of your property. If you have a lot survey available, you will find the necessary measurements there. If you don't have a survey, you will have to gather the dimensions manually. This is most easily completed by using a rolling tape measure.
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Step 2
Plot your lot dimensions. You can use a computer graphing program or graph paper and a pencil.
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Step 3
Add landmarks to the plan of your yard. You will need to mark sidewalks, patios, decks, gardens, trees, driveways, fences and other objects in your yard. You will also need to note the location of available water sources for the sprinkler system.
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Step 4
Decide on the sprinkler head size. Based on your garden design and the size and location of plants and shrubbery, choose the size and style of sprinkler head that best suits your needs. Different sprinkler heads deliver different amounts and pressures of water. Consult a local garden center if you are not sure how much water the greenery in your garden needs.
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Step 5
Check the water pressure needed for the sprinkler system you have chosen. The system manufacturer will provide the number of sprinkler heads your system will support based on the water pressure you have available.
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Step 6
Consider the amount of sun and shade each portion of your lot receives each day. A very shady part of your yard may not need as much sprinkler coverage as an area that receives full sunlight all day.
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Step 7
Plan out where the sprinkler heads will go, taking into account how much area the heads cover. Consult the graph you created so you can use the minimum number of heads. You do not want to place a sprinkler head where the water flow will hit sidewalks, fences or other areas that don't need water.
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Step 8
Plot your final design on the graph you made of your yard after you've finalized your sprinkler head locations.
