The best way to decide if you should undertake this project is to understand the pros and cons of self-installation.

Pros and Cons of Self-Installation of a Sprinkler System


In order of importance:

Pros of doing it yourself Cons of doing it yourself
  • Fun
  • Better quality spray heads and head connections to PVC
  • Total knowledge of system operation
  • Can install other systems (like electrical conduit along with sprinkler piping or hose bibs)
  • More careful trench job (less damage to property)
  • Can mix components to meet tastes
  • 20% cheaper
  • No warranty
  • Risk of personal injury (medium)
  • Large time commitment to plan and install
  • Hard work to install
  • Some set up may not be done as well as contractor due to lack of experience
  • Bigger impact on grass than contractor
  • Risk of not finishing project on time or under budget
  • Lots of mud in house

Still not sure? Perhaps you should get a few bids from local contractors (I got 2 before I decided to do my own project). Check out the top questions to ask a sprinkler system contractor.

Concerned about project cost? I was. To help you decide the cost of what you are about to do, you can review how much my project cost.