Sprinkler system consists of a series of PVC tubes that run underground. PVC is a good material because it’s lightweight and easy to install, but it’s also difficult to locate and prone to damage. This happens frequently during fence installation because sprinkler lines usually run along the same property line where you want your fence installed. Unless your fence is installed before your sprinklers – accidental breaks in the pvc lines are unavoidable. The best thing you can do is be prepared, and have an irrigation repair company on hand.
Hidden Sprinkler Lines – A Homeowner’s Dilemma
Your sprinkler system is considered a private utility, meaning that you own it and are solely responsible for fixing any damage to it. Under Florida law, utility companies that handle the “Utility Locate” prior to a fence installation will not mark private utilities. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to mark sprinkler lines, and since they are made of PVC – this is very difficult to do.
Marking Sprinkler Heads AND the Lines
Before every fence installation, customers are asked to mark their sprinkler heads. This helps the installer avoid damaging the heads & make an educated guess as to where the underground lines are. PVC lines are usually run between 1 & 3 feet off-set from the heads. However, this is not always the case and sprinkler lines are often cracked while digging post holes.
Irrigation Repair Recommendations
Schedule an Irrigation Repair Company to come by within a week of your fence installation. Request a sprinkler system checkup, to repair any line breaks from the fence install – and improve the overall efficiency of your sprinklers. Here are a few things that your repair company can do:
- Repair damage caused by fence installation
- Relocate sprinkler heads that are positioned inefficiently
- Adjust heads to they don’t spray your house or fence
- Install rain sensors to maximize efficiency in older sprinkler systems
Finding the Right Irrigation Repair Company for You
Irrigation Repair Companies tend to be privately owned small businesses, that operate locally. A simple Goolge search for “Irrigation Repair Near Me” should return several reputable companies. Check out their ratings, read some reviews & give them a call for an estimate.
If you have any questions you about irrigation and sprinkler repair, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
