Design sprinkler layouts for construction zones and landscapes. Adjust overlap and wind for coverage. Estimate rows, heads, and application rate. Export summaries for crews.
The calculator starts with head-to-head spacing, then tightens it for overlap and wind. For square layouts, row spacing equals head spacing. For triangular layouts, row spacing is reduced.
| Units | Pattern | Radius | Overlap | Wind | Spacing | Area | Grid | Total heads |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metric | Square | 6.0 m | 10% | 0% | 5.40 m | 18 × 12 m | 5 × 4 | 20 |
| Metric | Triangular | 6.0 m | 10% | 10% | 4.86 m | 18 × 12 m | 5 × 4 | 19–21 |
| Imperial | Square | 20 ft | 15% | 5% | 16.15 ft | 60 × 40 ft | 5 × 4 | 20 |
Sprinkler spacing sets head placement for even water distribution across temporary or permanent landscapes. On construction projects it supports seed establishment, dust control, and fewer punch-list fixes. Consistent spacing also simplifies zone balancing and scheduling.
Throw radius is the distance from a head to the wetted edge at a specific nozzle and pressure. Use the manufacturer chart for your nozzle selection, then verify quickly in the field. If pressure varies, design using the lower expected pressure to avoid dry bands.
Overlap offsets lower application near the spray edge and improves distribution uniformity. A practical target is 10–20% overlap in open areas, with tighter overlap near paving and slopes. For tight corners, add a dedicated head rather than stretching spacing.
Wind distorts patterns and increases drift, especially on exposed pads and road edges. Apply a wind adjustment factor when gusts are common or the zone sits in a wind corridor. Reducing spacing by 5–15% often improves performance without major material increases.
A square grid is easy to stake and aligns well with rectangular boundaries. A triangular grid offsets alternate rows; row spacing becomes about 0.866 times head spacing. Triangular layouts can improve uniformity, but staking needs careful offsets.
Edge margins pull heads away from walls and hardscape to reduce overspray and staining. Margins also account for curbs, formwork, and access routes that should stay dry. Large margins shrink effective area and may require extra rows.
When flow per head is provided, the calculator estimates precipitation rate from flow divided by served area. Compare the net rate (efficiency applied) against soil intake to reduce runoff and pooling. In mixed soil, schedule shorter cycles and soak periods for better infiltration. Use this insight to set run times for hydroseed, sod, or temporary stabilization.
Use a catch-can test to confirm distribution after installation and before final walkthroughs. Record final spacing, nozzle model, and pressure readings, then note any wind-driven adjustments. Keep photos of staking lines and as-builts so crews can restore damaged heads fast. Clear documentation supports inspections and reduces callbacks.
1) What overlap percentage should I start with?
Start with 10% for sheltered areas. Use 15–20% for windy sites, slopes, or near hardscape where uniformity matters more than minimizing head count.
2) When should I choose a triangular pattern?
Choose triangular spacing for better uniformity in open turf or irregular shapes. It often reduces dry corners, but requires careful staking and consistent offsets.
3) Does throw radius change with pressure?
Yes. Higher pressure generally increases radius up to the nozzle’s design range. Design for expected operating pressure, and verify with a short field test before finalizing spacing.
4) How do edge margins help in construction settings?
Margins reduce overspray on walls, slabs, and temporary structures. They also leave room for access, formwork, and finished surfaces that should stay dry or clean.
5) Why does wind require closer spacing?
Wind causes drift and uneven droplet landing, creating dry bands. Reducing spacing increases overlap between patterns, improving coverage consistency under variable gusts.
6) What is zone efficiency and why apply it?
Efficiency approximates real losses from drift, evaporation, and distribution non-uniformity. Applying it converts a gross application rate into a more realistic net rate for scheduling.
7) Is the head count an exact installation quantity?
It is an estimate based on effective area and pattern geometry. Adjust for corners, valve box locations, piping constraints, and site obstacles during layout and staking.
Use consistent inputs, verify onsite, and document final layouts.
Accurate spacing improves coverage, saves water, and reduces rework.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.