Charlotte Irrigation Companies - Connect With The Leader

Charlotte irrigation companies are making an effort to utilize social media. Irrigation and

Lighting Specialist has been at the forefront of this movement. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality solutions for their irrigation and lighting needs, and social media is a significant part of that.

“We love hearing feedback from our customers. Whether it’s questions, comments or just thanks for a job well done, our customers' thoughts are extremely important to us,” said John Minor, owner of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist.

What can you expect when you follow us on our social media accounts? Listed below is our most recently created content:

How To Plant NewGrass Seed This Spring

If you water your grass too little, the seeds dry out. If you water your grass too much, the seeds rot. We offer several useful tips for when you plant your new grass seed this spring. We also tell you what type of grass grows best in Charlotte’s climate.

Eco-Friendly Lawn Irrigation and Outdoor Lighting Tips

Most customers are concerned with their impact on the environment. Even more customers are worried about additional water and energy costs. Our experts compiled a list of the best eco-friendly lawn irrigation practices to save the earth and to save money.

Repairs you Should Check for in the Spring

Unnoticed problems within your irrigation system can lead to ineffective watering sessions and wasted money. You may be unaware that you have blocked, tilted or sunken sprinkler heads. In addition, you might have clogged nozzles or leaking valves. We tell you what to look for and offer assistance in helping you resolve these issues.

Garden Watering Tips and Advice

It can be difficult to know how much water to apply to your garden when humidity and sunlight vary each day. What plant types need more water than others? We tell you what to look for and how to solve these problems.

Researching Charlotte Irrigation Companies? Find Us Online!

Google+ / Google Places – Google+/Places is the best place to let us know how we’re dong. Click the pencil icon under “Irrigation and Lighting Specialist” to leave a review. We love hearing what we’re doing right and what we can do to serve you better.

Facebook – Visit our Facebook page to keep up with our latest blogs and advice. Write on our wall: ask questions, make comments or simply share an article you found interesting.

.

Twitter – Follow Irrigation and Lighting Specialist on Twitter. We share quick snippets and facts about lawn irrigation and outdoor lighting that you may find useful in 140 characters or less. We also retweet information from other reputable sources. 

Follow the links above to keep up with us. No matter what time of year, we are always updating our profiles to guide you with the most up-to-date information. 

“Since different regions require different techniques, we customize a lot of our tips and content for the Charlotte area,” said Minor.

Although there are a few Charlotte irrigation companies out there, Irrigation and Lighting Specialist is the leader. We look forward to interacting with you and providing helpful advice. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please e-mail John or call 704-747-0235.

Irrigating New Grass Seed: Irrigation Expert Advice

Irrigating new grass seed can be difficult if you don't have the right knowledge. Many grass planting projects fail for various reasons, but most commonly because of under-watering.

“As irrigation experts, we've seen many homeowners try to grow grass and fail because their lawn wasn't receiving enough water,” said John Minor, owner of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. "The most important step to establishing a healthy new lawn is practicing proper watering techniques." 

Mid to late spring is the ideal time to plant your warm weather grasses in Charlotte. During the month of April, sunshine and cool temperatures provide great growing conditions for your lawn. But, ensuring it recieves enough water is essential.

To help you grow new grass this spring, we've put together a few watering tips to ensure your lawn is green and full! 

Know Which Grasses Thrive in Charlotte’s Climate.

Most lawns in the area consist of Fescue grasses. Fescue is easy to maintain, but as a cool weather grass, it turns brown in the heat of summer. Bermuda grass can thrive in Charlotte, but requires proper watering. Instead of a dull brown, Bermuda grass turns an attractive shade of green during the hot summer months.

Establishing Bermuda grass can be more difficult, but the rewards are much higher than using Fescue. Since watering will need to be so closely monitored, we recommend using a quality irrigation system. An irrigation system ensures water is distributed evenly. 

Warm-season grasses thrive when planted in late spring. The weather is warm, but not so hot it damages the plant. When the heat of summer comes, your grass will already be established and healthy enough to feed off of the intense sunlight.

Use Fine Textured Organic Matter to Hold Moisture.

Ensure the ground and soil are as even as possible before spreading the seed. Once the seed is spread evenly, top-dress the seed. Top-dressing with textured organic matter like peat moss helps maintain a healthy layer of moisture above the seeds.

We recommend using a peat spreader or cage roller for this process. Apply a very thin layer of peat moss (1/8in. – 1/4in.) over the entire area. Be sure not to exceed this moss thickness as it will inhibit the grass’ growth. Try to complete this process on a calm-winded day. High wind speeds will blow the material out of place and create an uneven surface.

The Most Important Step for Irrigating New Grass Seed: Water Properly!

Irrigation across Charlotte can be tricky because of our area's uneven and sloping landscapes. This can lead to over-watering of some areas and under-watering of others. At Irrigation and Lighting Specialist, we know this. That is why we offer irrigation systems with smart controllers. For each watering zone, we factor in the soil type, amount of sun an area receives and the slope of your property. All of our irrigation systems come with a rain sensor to stop watering in the event of rain. This feature is extremely important in safeguarding against over-saturation.
Water the entire area evenly. The first watering will need to wet the soil down at least six to eight inches. Monitor the area closely. If the seed bed is only slightly moist, water again. You may have to water several times throughout the day so that the top inch of the seedbed is moist.

Less watering is required once the seed germinates. When the soil becomes lighter in color, that means it is time for another watering.

Fertilize After Germination

Fertilize the grass four to eight weeks after germination. The grass has germinated and is healthy, but it still has a robust appetite. Fertilizing after germination ensures all the hard work you have done has not gone to waste.

“Fertilizing can be a messy hassle. Once again an irrigation system comes in handy. Irrigation and Lighting Specialist offers irrigation systems that automatically apply organic fertilizer in micro-doses,” said Minor.

Charlotte provides us with some of the most beautiful weather in the country. Your lawn can capitalize on the plentiful sunshine and ideal temperatures if you know the proper way to water your new seeds. Talk to the irrigation experts at Irrigation and Lighting Specialist to see how they can assist you with irrigating new grass seed. We look forward to providing you with the service and tools to keep your lawn green all summer long! To learn more or schedule a consultation, email John or call 704-747-0235.

7 Eco-Friendly Lawn Irrigation and Outdoor Lighting Tips

“Before grooming their lawn and installing outdoor lighting systems, our customers are often concerned with higher energy costs and creating a negative environmental impact,” said John Minor, owner of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. “We wanted to pass along a few simple tricks to help these consumers create a more eco-friendly lawn irrigation and outdoor lighting system.”

Lawn Irrigation

Irrigation systems drastically improve the look and health of your lawn, but can be a waste of water if not performed correctly. The 3 tips below can help make your lawn irrigation system more efficient.

Tip # 1 Only Water Your Lawn & Plants Early In the Morning

It may sound simple, but this tip can go a long way. It allows time for the grass and plants to absorb as much water as they need. Any excess water evaporates throughout the day.

Watering at night can create mold. The excess water will sit overnight and won’t evaporate for another twelve to sixteen hours.

Warning: Do not water in the middle of the day. The heat will evaporate a large amount of the water before the plants have a chance to soak it in. In addition, water droplets act as a prism, magnifying sunlight and can scorch the plant.

Tip # 2 Use Mulch

Placing mulch around plants helps cool roots and retain moisture, making each watering from your lawn irrigation system more effective. The mulch will deter the growth of weeds, eliminating the need for harmful chemicals. As an added benefit, mulch made from natural materials will decompose and enrich the soil.

Tip # 3 Check for Leaks in Your Irrigation System or Sprinklers

Unnoticed leaks can waste several gallons of water, which often leads to harmful overwatering of the surrounding area. It is important to conduct irrigation system checks  and maintenance to ensure efficiency.

Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor Lighting can add beauty and security to your home. It can also be responsible for a large part of your energy use. Use the following tips to save money on your next electric bill.

Tip # 4 Switch to LED Bulbs

LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs are much more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. “They cost a bit more, but last an estimated 25x longer while consuming significantly less energy,” says Minor.

Floodlights and porch lights are typically the main culprits for using excess energy in most outdoor lighting systems. Once you make the switch to LED bulbs, you should notice an immediate impact.

Tip # 5 Switch to Motion Detecting Lights & Remote Control Systems

Motion detecting lights help improve the security of your home. These security lights are great for saving energy because they usually remain dim or dormant until motion is detected.

Remote operated systems also offer great energy saving and security capabilities. With these systems, it is a good idea to keep the control by your bed. When you go to sleep, you can easily turn off your outdoor lighting. If you hear something in the middle of the night, the lights can be quickly and easily re-activated.

Tip # 6 Install Outdoor Lighting Timers

The functionality of using a timer is nearly the same as using a remote system. It has an added “set it and forget it” benefit, but cannot be turned on as quickly or as easily.

Tip # 7 Explore Solar Powered Lighting

Solar powered lighting uses the energy of the sun. Since sunshine is free, the operating cost is $0. If you have any outdoor buildings such as sheds, workshops or garages, chances are the roof receives quite a bit of sunlight each day. If so, solar lighting solutions are perfect for these areas.

“We know starting energy saving habits and choosing efficient options can often be overwhelming, but we would love to help guide you in the right direction,” said Minor.

Many of these outdoor lighting improvements can be installed on your own. Check out Irrigation and Lighting Specialist’s do it yourself lighting kits. We provide 30 minutes of initial instruction and are available at an hourly rate if additional assistance is needed.

To learn more about eco-friendly lawn irrigation and outdoor lighting options, don’t hesitate to contact Irrigation & Lighting Specialist by e-mailing John or calling 704-747-0235.

Charlotte Irrigation: Watering Your Garden

Spring has sprung and it won't be long before everyone is outside trying to get their garden in shape. If you are like most homeowners, reviewing the best gardening practices can go along way, especially when it comes to watering. In this week's blog post, our Charlotte irrigation specialists share some basic tips on watering your garden. 

Charlotte Irrigation Watering Basics

How much is too much water, and how much is too little? While water is essential for any plant, having too much or too little water can be harmful. One of the biggest things to consider is soil type. For instance, clay soil holds water best but takes a longer time to absorb it. Sandy soils absorb water quickly, but don't do a good job storing the water. Your soil should contain enough organic material to retain moisture and still allow enough room for air to reach the roots of your plants.

Here are some other factors you should consider when determining the amount of water your plants need: 

• Sunlight - Growing areas that are exposed to direct sunlight need more water because of evaporation, and growing areas in the shade tend to store more water throughout the day. 
• Humidity - It gets humid in the south, and that means it is harder for our plants to hold moisture. Days with higher humidity require more watering. 
• Plant Type - Different plants have different needs. Root depths vary greatly, so try to take note of how deep the roots are for your different plants. Group plants with deeper roots together. They need more water.

Watering Techniques: Hand-Watering vs Sprinklers 

Watering with a hose or watering can are simple techniques and are common when you have a small garden area to water. The biggest drawback, however, is that people get impatient and often water less than their plants need. They also tend to waste water. 

Sprinklers do the best watering job, especially if you have densely planted vegetables or a large gardening area. Perfect for lawns and home gardens, a sprinkler system is the easiest and most effective watering method. 

To learn more about Charlotte irrigation services or to schedule your spring startup service, contact John Minor with Irrigation and Lighting Specialist at 877-433-5833 or email John. We look forward to helping you produce a beautiful and healthy lawn and garden this year! 

Charlotte's Early Spring Irrigation and Lawn Care Guide

March is here! In addition to warm(er) weather, budding plants and buzzing insects, this season also brings homeowners that want to get a jump start on their lawn care for the spring and summer months. But, before you march into your lawn and start beautifying, you'll want to read this guide for early spring Charlotte irrigation and lawn care.

"The mild temperatures and rainfall our region gets during March and April make it a great time for lawn work," said John Minor of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. "But you have to be careful what you do and what you don't do. Your lawn is coming out of hibernation, and it is important that it receives the nutrients it needs to flourish all summer long."

2014 Charlotte Irrigation and Lawn Care Guide

The early bird gets the worm, this is even true when it comes to lawn care, but before you roll up your sleeves, you need to know these dos and don'ts for your lawn's early spring startup. 

• Test Lawn's pH - You should professionally test your lawn's pH level every 2-3 years. This will let you know what minerals your lawn needs. 

• Lime Time - Depending on your lawn's pH level, you may need to apply some lime to your lawn. March is a great time to apply lime, and it will really help your grass grow. 

• Light Fertilization - Go light with the fertilizer during this time of the year. Save the larger doses a bit later in the season, after the initial growth rush. 

• Raise Your Mower Blades - Don't mow your grass too short. It will grow best with your blades about two inches or higher, so keep your blades raised for your first couple of cuts. 

• Irrigation Startup - Now is the time to get your irrigation system ready for summer. Irrigation and Lighting Specialist is currently offering early spring season pricing for many of their Charlotte irrigation services. 

• Don't Spray for Insects Yet - Most insects life cycles don't start until after March, due to cold weather. This task can usually wait until April or May. 

"When it comes to your lawn, remember that every lawn is different, and each needs special attention to detail," said Minor. "Each lawn requires specific watering networks, which we systematically map out to fit your lawn's needs." 

By following this simple guide to early spring irrigation and lawn care, your lawn will be green and healthy all summer long. 

To learn more about our Charlotte irrigation services or to schedule your spring startup service, contact John Minor with Irrigation and Lighting Specialist at 877-433-5833 or email John. We look forward to helping you produce a beautiful and healthy lawn this year! 

Happy Thanksgiving from Charlotte Irrigation Winterization Company

As Charlotte's number one choice for irrigation services and outdoor lighting installations, Irrigation and Lighting Specialist would like to wish all of our clients a happy Thanksgiving! We hope that everyone has a safe holiday weekend and enjoys this special holiday.

So far this year, we have a lot to be thankful for. We continue to be one of the top Charlotte irrigation and outdoor lighting companies and could not be more thrilled to be part of our vibrant community. Trusting us with something as important as irrigation winterizations, irrigation installations and outdoor lighting installations is something we appreciate and take seriously. 

"For almost 30 years, our team has worked hard every day to provide our clients with the highest quality work and customer service," said John Minor, owner of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. "As a result to our commitment to customer satisfaction, we have been able to establish ourselves as one of Charlotte's most trusted irrigation companies, and we will continue to raise the bar on our services." 

Our Thanksgiving Thanks! 

During this time of year, it is customary to give thanks to what you're grateful for. At Irrigation and Lighting Specialist, we are most thankful for our loyal customers. So much of our success depends on their support, and it has been a great pleasure to serve all of them. Over the years, we have gotten to know some great Charlotte homeowners, and it is very rewarding helping them meet their home improvement needs. 

Secondly, we are very grateful for the excellent work that the Irrigation and Lighting Specialist team continues to deliver. So far this year, we have finished some really impressive irrigation and lighting projects, and we expect a lot more coming up. 

"Our team is second to none," said Minor. "They really take pride in the quality of their work, and the results are happy customers and fantastic projects. We continue to amaze customers with our hard work and dedication."

To learn more about Irrigation and Lighting Specialist or our services like irrigation winterization, call John Minor at 704-747-0235 or email us. We look forward to being Charlotte's continued choice for high quality irrigation and lighting projects!

Is Time Running Out for Charlotte Irrigation Winterization?

According to local weather reports, the Charlotte area will experience their first taste of freezing temperatures this weekend. Highs will be in the 50's, and lows are expected to reach well into the lower 30's - which is cold enough to cause the ground to freeze.

As a leading provider of Charlotte irrigation winterization, Irrigation Lighting Specialist is often asked whether an irrigation system is vulnerable to freezing before it has been properly winterized. While there is a potential danger, the chances of your irrigation system experiencing major damages is less than it would be during the winter months, when freezing temperatures are daily.

"In Charlotte, it is common to have a few frosts before the winter months officially start," said John Minor of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. "When these frosts do occur, there is a chance that water can become frozen inside your system and cause damage. However, it is less likely to cause significant damage because these drops in temperatures are usually quick and followed by warmer conditions. These quick changes prevent the ground from freezing deep enough to affect your system drastically."

Time is Ticking for Charlotte Irrigation Winterization 

The Charlotte region may not have reached the season where freezing temperatures are a daily occurrence, but it won't be long before the season hits. We suggested scheduling your annual winterization as soon as possible. Waiting until it is too late can prove costly, especially when compared to the cost of properly winterizing the system. 

To properly winterize your irrigation system, all water from your pipes and equipment must be removed. When water freezes inside your system, it will cause pipes and fittings to burst, valves to crack and sprinkler and pump cases to split open - leaving you with a lot of repairs when spring arrives. 

"Charlotte homeowners should call us as soon as possible to schedule their annual winterization," said Minor. "We've already begun winterizing systems, and the remaining appointments are filling up fast. With temperatures already freezing, it is essential to protect your irrigation system." 

For more information about our Charlotte irrigation winterization services or to schedule an appointment, call John Minor with Irrigation Lighting Specialist at 704-747-0235 or 803-831-0506 or email John. We look forward to protecting the integrity of your irrigation system with our winterization services!

Charlotte Irrigation Winterization is Essential

You may want to invest in a thick coat because this winter is going to be bitterly cold. According to the Farmers' Almanac, Charlotte will have above-average snowfall and colder temperatures this year. With the thermometer expected to drop into the 40's by the end of the month, now is the time to start preparing for Jack Frost.

Depending on your home, preparing it for the winter may include cleaning the chimney, reversing your ceiling fans, insulating windows and covering your pipes. But, if you have an irrigation system, it is important to add Charlotte irrigation winterization to your list of things to do.

"Winterizing your irrigation system is a must this year, especially with the freezing weather our area is expected to have," said John Minor of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. "Your irrigation system is just like any other feature in your home, it is an investment and needs to be taken care of. Winterizing your irrigation system extends its life and helps you avoid irrigation repairs in the spring."

Irrigation Winterization Basics

When preparing your irrigation system for the winter, it is important that it is done correctly. A properly winterized irrigation system will help you avoid damages and ensures your system is ready to operate come spring. 

The winterization process consists of expelling all of the water from your irrigation system and equipment. This is necessary because water freezing in your irrigation system can create a lot of damages.

Mot substances get smaller as they get cold, but not water. It expands and increases in volume by one-eleventh. For example, 11 cubic feet of water will form about 12 cubic feet of ice. This expansion creates enough force to cause pipes and fittings to burst, valves to crack and sprinkler and pump cases to split open.

Quick Facts About Charlotte Irrigation Winterization  

• Do not trust manual or automatic drain valves. Pressurized air should be used to blow out the system. 
• Know the gallons per minutes that flow through each zone to determine the best sized compressor for your system. 
• It is required to have a back-flow prevention device if your irrigation system is attached to your house's main water line. 
• You should hire the seasoned professionals at Irrigation and Lighting Specialist to handle all of your Charlotte irrigation winterization needs! 

"It's important that you schedule your annual winterization shut-down as soon as possible," said Minor. "We usually begin winterizing systems in mid-November and appointments fill up fast."

To learn more about Charlotte irrigation winterization or to schedule an appointment, call John Minor with Irrigation and Lighting Specialist at 704-747-0235 or 803-831-0506 or email John. We look forward to helping prepare your irrigation system for the harsh winter ahead! 

Irrigation Repair: Avoiding a Slow Flow

On average, July is the hottest month of the year in Charlotte. As hotter temperatures make their way into our region, the possibility of dryer conditions increase, which means your irrigation system needs to be in tip-top shape to handle its potential workload.

By now you've probably had the opportunity to run your irrigation system a few times, giving you time to discover any damages or issues that can result in subpar performances. Now is the time to address these issues with an irrigation repair service.

"Failing to address problems in your irrigation system will only harm you in the long-run," says John Minor, owner of Irrigation & Lighting Specialists. "We have seen it far too often. Either the damages result in a series of expensive water bills due to wasted water from leaks, or a drought comes and the lawn's health suffers from inadequate hydration. Repairing your irrigation system will end up saving a lot of headaches and money."

Common Irrigation Repairs and Adjustments 

Below are just a few of the most common irrigation repairs and adjustments we perform:

• Broken Equipment - One of the leading causes in water leakage occurs from broken equipment. If you are experiencing leaking water, resulting in runoffs, you could have a broken sprinkler head, valve or lateral and main line. The equipment can be replaced or repaired, but repairing broken valves and water lines requires professional assistance. 

• Tilted or Sunken Heads - Over time, sprinkler heads settle and tilt due to natural compaction of soil, foot traffic and lawn maintenance. This frequently causes uneven distribution of water resulting in brown spots, misting and runoffs. Attaching a swing joint to the sprinkler head is a great way to fix the issue and prevent it from reoccurring. 

• Mixed Zones - Mixed zones exist when both rotor and fixed spray heads operate together on a given area. Correctly realigning the sprinkler heads will help you avoid flooding and excessively dry areas. We also recommend sticking with one head type in a given zone. 

• Blocked Heads - When the spray pattern from a sprinkler head is being blocked, water is not going where it should. Blockage can be caused by overgrowth of vegetation, low-lying branches or inappropriate placement of the sprinkler head. You will need to trim-back vegetation or move the head to a better location. 

• No Check Valves - Without check valves, water may drain out of sprinkler heads that are at lower elevation after they have been cut off. Check valves lock water in the lateral line and result in quicker start up times and no runoffs after the system shuts off. 

• Clogged Nozzles - A clogged nozzle is caused by debris in the system getting stuck in the nozzle or the filter of the spray head. Common clogs are caused by dirt, sand, roots and plastic and result in uneven distribution of water and brown spots. Cleaning or replacing the filter should resolve the issue. 

• Overspray - When heads are improperly placed and spend more time watering streets, sidewalks or fences, you are experiencing overspray. You end up paying for this in terms of money and runoffs. This can be fixed by maintaining appropriate system pressure and relocating the sprinkler heads. 

"What seems like a small problem or a minor inconvenience can quickly turn into an irrigation nightmare," says Minor. "It is best to quickly address these problems with the help of a certified irrigation professional. This ensures you are getting quality work with a focus on efficiency and water conservation. Routine inspection, testing and maintenance can also add years to your irrigation system. "

To learn more about our irrigation repair service, or to schedule a free consultation, call John Minor of Irrigation & Lighting Specialists at 877-433-5833 or email John. No matter how hot it gets this summer, let us help you make sure your irrigation system is working at the peak of its performance!

Avoiding Lawn Sprinkler System Disasters

Lawns are a point of pride for many homeowners. Your lawn is the first thing people notice when they pull into your driveway, and they are the main ingredient for your home's outdoor flair. To ensure your lawn radiates a welcoming atmosphere, it needs proper hydration. A Charlotte lawn sprinkler system can help your yard reach its full potential.

A lawn sprinkler system that is installed correctly keeps your soil moist and helps your grass get the mineral nutrients needed for optimal growth. It is important that your lawn receives adequate water, especially during a dry summer. Unfortunately, many lawn sprinkler systems are not installed correctly and end up doing more harm than good.

"I have seen many sprinkler systems that are designed poorly, and they end up hurting the homeowners lawn," said John Minor, owner of Irrigation and Lighting Specialist. "You don't want to flood your grass or waste water. With today's advancements and our expertise, we ensure your grass is getting the right amount of water and you are getting optimal coverage from your system without running up your water bill."

Common Concerns for Charlotte Lawn Sprinkler Systems

Many advancements have been made in lawn sprinkler systems, methods and technology, but that means nothing unless they are utilized properly. Let's take a look at six common concerns Charlotte homeowners face with lawn sprinkler systems - so you can avoid a disaster!

• Head to Head Water Coverage - A properly designed sprinkler system starts with water coverage that overlaps. The water from your sprinkler head should reach the heads across and beside them. This ensures the ideal hydration level for your yard in the shortest time and without wasting water. 
• Nozzle Selection and Head Adjustments - Correctly tuned water devices are important. Make sure your sprinkler heads are pointed slightly upward or downward for slopes. Nozzles exist for various angles, as well as adjustable nozzles that can be set for any degree. This contributes to the effectiveness of your sprinkler system. 
• Controllers - A controller is a great addition to any lawn sprinkler system. They automatically turn your system on and off and maintain your lawn's watering schedule. You can also adjust how long and how often your sprinkler system will operate. These user-friendly controllers can help you avoid wasting money by and ensuring that you aren't overwatering. 
• Automatic Rain Shut-Off Devices - Having your sprinklers run while it is raining is like setting your money on fire. Not only does it waste money, it can also flood your lawn and drown your grass. An automatic rain shut-off device will automatically cut off your sprinkler system when it starts to rain so you can reduce water waste while saving your wallet and grass. 
• Weatherization - Winter shutdown and spring startup procedures vary in different areas. Some systems have automatic drains valves and some require a manual procedure. In addition, valves and back-flow devices should be covered during the winter months to avoid damage. We can properly start up or close down your system so you can avoid costly damage that occurs from neglect. 

"There is a lot that goes into a properly installed lawn sprinkler system," says Minor. "We believe in doing things the right way the first time around, so you don't have to worry about expensive redesigns and planting new grass. We handle everything, from start to finish, so you can have a beautiful lawn that becomes the envy of the neighborhood." 

If you would like to learn more about the correct installation process for Charlotte lawn sprinkler systems or to schedule an appointment, please call John Minor at 877-433-5833 or email John. We look forward to creating a lawn sprinkler system that makes your yard vibrant and beautiful for years to come!

Summer Lawn Irrigation and Water Conservation in Charlotte

Summer weather is quickly approaching, so for many lawns that means extreme heat and potential drought. These conditions can make it hard for your lawn to reach a healthy appearance. Irrigation & Lighting Specialist wants you to know there are ways to ensure your lawn irrigation successfully survives the intense summer heat, while conserving water at the same time!

"It's common for people to over water their lawns during extremely hot days, when homeowners should only water their lawns when they need it," says John Minor of Irrigation & Lighting Specialist. "The easiest way to know when your lawn needs water is by simply looking at it. That way you're watering in a way that allows your lawn's roots to penetrate deeper into the soil where moisture resides."

Summer Lawn Care Tips for Hot Weather with Less Water

Below are a few tips to help you use less water when caring for your lawn during hot summer heats:

1. Time Your Watering - Early morning (5:00am - 10:00am) is the optimal time to water your lawn. This allows plants to absorb water before the midday sun evaporates all the moisture in the soil.
2. Water What Grows - Adjust your sprinklers often to ensure that water is reaching your lawn and landscape at all times, not a mailbox, car parked next to your lawn, or the sidewalk. Misguided watering systems waste water and do not get vital water to your thirsty lawn.
3. Remove Weeds - As soon as you see any plants resembling weeds, remove them. They are responsible for absorbing moisture that's in the soil for your lawn.
4. No Force Fertilizing - Feed your lawn in cooler temperatures. Fertilizing your lawn is most effective before your lawn has established root systems. Adding fertilizer to already heat-strained lawns accelerates heat related stress on lawns.
5. Mow Lawns High - Grass that grows taller above ground has deeper roots. Deeper roots are more drought-resistant, and less likely to become a victim to various insects or diseases.
6. Do Your Research - There are over 9,000 species of grass. Before you invest time and money into your lawn this summer, take some time to understand what kind of grass you have. Different types of grass require different amounts of watering. 

Maximizing your water efficiency is critical during the summer months both for your lawn and your wallet. Just because it is hot, doesn't mean you have to spend hours watering your lawn.

With Irrigation & Lighting Specialist's Smart Controllers, the watering aspect of lawn care is taken care of. Our systems not only water your lawn for you, but they also save you up to 60% in water! The Smart Controller system is a revolutionary irrigation technology that only applies water as needed to lawns and landscapes. 

To learn more water conservation tips for your lawn irrigation and landscape during the hot summer temperatures, or to schedule a free consultation, call John Minor with Irrigation & Lighting Specialist at 877-433-5833 or email John. We look forward to helping you conserve water, while attaining a lush healthy lawn!

How Smart Controllers Can Save Lawns from Summer Heat

If the recent spike in temperature is any indication, Charlotte is in store for a scorching summer. One thing all North Carolinians can agree on is that summers here can be sweltering and dry. These conditions can make it difficult for lawns to reach a healthy status.

Have you decided how your lawn will stay watered in the hot summer climate? During the busy summertime months, finding the time to regularly water your lawn can be difficult. Irrigation & Lighting Specialist’s smart controller is an automatic watering system that combines performance and efficiency into one.

The Irrigation Association defines smart controllers as systems that “estimate or measure depletion of available plant soil moisture in order to operate an irrigation system, replenishing water while minimizing excess water use.” The dependability and durability of this technology is unparalleled in the landscaping industry. Smart controllers make attaining a lush, healthy lawn even in the hottest of temperatures easier than ever before!

“Healthy lawns in the summertime require proper and frequent watering,” says John Minor of Irrigation & Lighting Specialist. “The benefits these systems provide are great for busy Charlotte homeowners, who don't have time to water their lawns.”

Benefits of Smart Controllers

Below are a few benefits of using smart controllers:

• Saves Time - Smart controllers calculate weather conditions by using a radio, internet, or phone connection to receive weather patterns from a central data provider. This feature automatically dispenses water so you don’t have to, saving you the time of turning water sprinklers, hoses, and valves on and off.
• Conserves Water – Smart controllers monitor soil moisture levels through a moisture sensor. As your lawn’s soil starts to dry out, it automatically waters the grounds through an irrigation system. This sensor allows homeowners to avoid using excessive water, saving them significant amounts of money, and also prevents up to 60% of unnecessary water usage!
• Saves Money -  Homeowners save money on monthly water bills because of the smart controller system’s accurate watering cycles. Lawns are watered only when moisture levels are low.
• Improves Convenience – Automatic watering schedules allow homeowners to spend less time watering their lawns, and more time doing what they enjoy.
• Improved Lawn Quality – Smart controllers eliminate the threat of overwatering. The system helps lawns reach maximum growth by giving them the perfect amount of water. 

“There are many factors that homeowners have to keep in mind while having their lawns irrigated, and smart controllers ensure watering is not one of them,” says Minor. “For example, specialized features like remote operation serve as a long-term solution for lawns needing additional watering or attention. Homeowners can keep a close watch on their lawn’s health from the comfort of their home.”

To learn more about our smart controller systems, or to schedule a free consultation, call John Minor of Irrigation & Lighting Specialist at 877-433-5833 or email John. No matter how hot it gets this summer, let us help make sure your lawn stays properly watered!