How Deep Are Sprinkler System Water Lines in the Ground?

The depth of your sprinkler lines depends on your climate.

The depth of your sprinkler lines depends on your climate.

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When you're installing your own lawn sprinkler system or you want to dig out a section of your yard, such as when you install a new flowerbed, you should know the proper depth of the sprinkler water lines. This saves you from unnecessary digging during installation as well as having to repair problems if you burst a sprinkler water line if you dig too deep when planting new flowers.

Water Line Depth

Burying your sprinkler water lines properly helps protect them from cold temperatures as well as accidental breakage as you mow or plant new landscaping. In Mediterranean climates where it rarely falls below freezing, burying the lines 6 inches under the surface typically is sufficient. In colder areas, 12 inches below the surface should keep them from freezing. The lines need to be deep enough, too, to allow sprinkler heads to retract down to ground level so they don't run afoul of lawn mowers.

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Shala Munroe


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