At The Garden Gate, we install landscape irrigation systems as part of our turnkey construction process in Tucson, Marana, and Oro Valley.
On new home construction projects the irrigation system is typically equipped with a smart controller connected to Wi-Fi. Water is delivered with a long-lasting PVC mainline and poly lateral lines. Separate valves are installed for shrubs, cacti, and trees to ensure proper water delivery.
For existing homes, we can either repair or fully replace existing irrigation systems. We evaluate all system components and determine which can be retained, and which should be replaced. If the controller, valves, and backflow preventer are in good condition, we can just replace the underground water line, drip lines, and drip emitters.
See our approach
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Our climate experiences extreme heat in the summer and occasional freezing temperatures in the winter. A smart controller connected to Wi-Fi allows you to control your irrigation from any location, manage water settings and receive alerts for high water use. With the addition of a master flow valve and flow sensor you will know when a valve is stuck open or if there is a high-water use event. With a smart controller you will receive an alert and your main irrigation line will be shut off until the cause is determined and corrected.
Seasonal water settings are critical to maintain plant health and limit excess water use.
Irrigation control valves are a key component to the irrigation system and they control the actual flow of water to your plants. The antisiphon valve ensures irrigation water cannot siphon back into the potable water supply and check valves prevent water from draining out of the irrigation lines; most often used on properties with significant elevation changes.
Drip emitters are small devices in the irrigation system that deliver water slowly and precisely to the plant roots. By allowing the water to slowly drip above the roots, the soil can better absorb the moisture and deliver it deeper into the ground without waste.
Emitters come in various sizes to assist in water control.
For underground irrigation the main options are rigid PVC for durable main line use and flexible polyethylene. Although more expensive to install and modify, PVC is preferred for main line use because it lasts 30 years or more. Polyethylene is less expensive with a shorter life span but is easier to work with, particularly for homeowners who like to landscape themselves and occasionally add plants. For this reason we often install a hybrid system with a PVC main line combined with shorter length polyethylene lateral lines.
Summer heat requires more water to sustain plants and limit stress, but too much water harms plants. Correct water use is critical for plant health and settings should be adjusted regularly as the temperature and weather changes.
The primary solution for water delivery to plants, trees, and cacti.
Buried drip lines deliver water below the soil surface, reducing evaporation. Can be used in lawns and works well in narrow islands and areas with hardscape.
We install spray heads for turf lawns constructed from a PVC irrigation system. Spray heads deliver water in a fan-like spray pattern and can also be used to reduce heat on artificial lawns. The heads pop up when water is being delivered and retract when off.
The irrigation system is part of the landscape design from day one – we consider equipment placement, confirm access to all planting areas and ensure PVC sleeves are installed underground at the start of construction. Sleeves are typically 2” to 3” in diameter and necessary to ensure we have access to all planted areas. They are installed under driveways, paths, patios and into planter beds.
Your irrigation design is included in the landscape plan, or designed during an inspection of your existing system. The crew leader installs the system under the direction of the Project Supervisor.
Your project typically flows in this sequence:
● Install PVC sleeving to various locations
● Irrigation trenching and placement of PVC mainline
● Lateral lines extensions to planting areas, connect to PVC lines
● Controller placed in equipment room, valves and anti-siphon valve connected to water line
● Connect the poly line to the main water line, then extend drip line with emitters to all plants
● Connect WiFi to the irrigation controller and program system
● Flush main line and poly line to remove debris, secure all end caps
● Test system and check drip emitter placement
● Owner orientation
Irrigation system costs are largely dependent on the property size and number of plants being watered. The type of controller, number of valves and underground pipe selected also impact costs, as do soil conditions since all of the pipe is buried 6” to 8” deep or more.
We provide a 2-year workmanship warranty on all new irrigation system installations and all manufacturer warranties pass through to the homeowner.
We provide regular landscape maintenance service at residential properties in Oro Valley, Marana and in Tucson (north of River Road).
Yes. Plants purchased from a nursery are watered frequently and require watering to avoid stress and establish a strong root system, often in caliche-based soil. Newly installed native and drought-tolerant plants and trees also benefit from regular watering, particularly during extreme heat, but can be weaned from the irrigation system over time.
Absolutely – we can provide a completely new system or repair/replace specific components that are not working, including controllers, valves and leaking or damaged irrigation lines.
Yes. We install smart controllers and connect to Wi-Fi enabling remote operation.
The timeline varies based on the quality of original installation and materials of construction. A full lifespan may be 15 to 20 years with some variables. Underground PVC pipe can last 30-years, a standard ½” poly line pipe may only last 8-12 years. Valves can last from 10-15 years with regular maintenance, and controllers 10-20 years. Other variables include water pressure and water quality, exposure to UV light from the sun, and soil conditions (sharp rocks buried next to the irrigation line).
Click Start Your Project or call us at (520) 574-7585 to schedule a complimentary consultation.
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"Successful, well-constructed pools and landscapes require an experienced team capable of managing all aspects of your project. We provide the experience and professionalism you expect to build your project on time and on budget.
As a ROC licensed pool and landscape contractor we offer a true turnkey solution for your custom pool and landscape project.
We don’t just design pools and landscapes – we design beautiful yards for you, and your family and friends to enjoy for a lifetime."
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