How to Put Down Topsoil After Installing Sprinklers

After you have installed a sprinkler system, you may want to lay down new topsoil so you can install sod or plant grass seeds or a garden. Laying down topsoil after the sprinkler system installation allows you to be sure that the older, less desirable soil is underneath the more nutrient-rich topsoil. Correctly laying topsoil after a sprinkler installation involves marking the sprinkler system so you can find it later.

Garden stakes
Shovel
Rake

Instructions

- 1
  Insert garden stakes along the lines of the sprinkler system and at the spots where the sprinkler heads are located. Use one stake every two feet. This will allow you to find the line before you lay down sod, so you can make any necessary adjustments.
- 2
  Spread the topsoil over the entire lawn surface using a shovel, being sure to not knock over the stakes. Since the system is already installed, you should not have to fill in any holes or trenches.
- 3
  Rake the surface of the topsoil smooth so the topsoil is at the depth you want. Maintain the existing lawn grade away from the house, which should be at least one foot for every 50 feet of lawn. Break up any chunks of topsoil with your hands.
- 4
  Brush the topsoil off the tops of the sprinkler heads so they sit at the proper height above the soil. Remove the stakes as you lay out the pieces of sod or once you begin planting the grass seed.

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