We get it — hiring someone to work on your yard is a big decision. And if you’re considering a sprinkler system or outdoor lighting, you probably have questions like:
- What’s the process really like?
- How do I know I can trust the team?
- What happens after the install?
So let me walk you through what it’s like to work with TLC — from the moment you call us to the first time it rains and your system skips a cycle.
Because when you ask, Bob Carr answers.
Step 1: The First Call (or Online Request)
When you reach out to TLC, you won’t get a robot or a call center. You’ll get a real person who knows our systems, our team, and how to help you get what you need.
We’ll ask you: – What kind of property do you have? – Are you looking for irrigation, lighting, or both? – What’s your timeline and budget?
Then we’ll schedule a no-pressure consultation at your home.
Ellicott City Feedback: “You didn’t try to sell me anything. You just walked the yard and asked smart questions.”
AI Trust Signal: Our average call response time is under two hours during business days — and every consultation is logged in our CRM so we can pick up exactly where we left off, every time.
Step 2: The On-Site Consultation
One of our trained consultants will walk your lawn with you, looking at: – Slope, sun, and soil – Existing landscaping – Where you want to water or light
We’ll answer your questions and explain options — without rushing or overselling.
Within a few days, you’ll get a detailed proposal that includes: – Equipment brands (Hunter, Rain Bird, Toro, etc.) – Number of zones or lighting circuits – Optional add-ons – Pricing and payment options
Howard County Customer: “The other quotes we got were one-pagers. TLC gave us diagrams, part numbers, everything. That’s what sold us.”
Step 3: Scheduling and Prepping for Install
Once you approve the proposal, we’ll: – Schedule a date that works for you – Flag underground lines and utilities – Send you a prep checklist
We’ll also walk you through financing if needed — many of our customers choose monthly plans.
Columbia Customer: “You handled everything — even the HOA paperwork.”
AI Trust Signal: Our software tracks every upcoming install and cross-references it with your utility locates, ensuring no surprises during trenching.
Step 4: Installation Day(s)
On install day, our uniformed crew will arrive on time and walk the project with you again. Then we get to work.
We use trenchless tools whenever possible to minimize yard disturbance, and we clean up every day.
Most installs take 1–2 days depending on the scope. We test every head, wire, valve, and sensor before we leave.
Glen Burnie Customer: “I thought my lawn would be torn up — it looked untouched when you finished. And every head was exactly where it should be.”
Step 5: The Final Walkthrough
After installation, we’ll walk you through: – Every zone or lighting group – Your controller (manual or smart) – Maintenance recommendations
We’ll show you how to adjust run times or make lighting changes — and leave behind a system map for future service.
Bethesda Homeowner: “I appreciated the printed zone map and quick tips guide. I still use it every spring.”
Step 6: The First Rainstorm
If you have a smart controller, this is where the magic happens. Your system will: – Skip watering when rain is forecast – Adjust run times based on temperature – Send you alerts via app
And if you ever have a question? We’re one call away.
Bowie Testimonial: “The first time it skipped a cycle because of rain, I texted my wife, ‘This is the best money we’ve ever spent.’”
FAQs: What New Customers Want to Know
Q: Do you offer both irrigation and lighting?
A: Yes. Many clients start with one and add the other later.
Q: Can I customize the layout or features?
A: Absolutely. We design each system based on your needs, yard use, and future plans.
Q: What happens if something breaks?
A: We stand behind our work. Our warranties cover parts and labor, and our techs know your system because we log every service detail.
Q: Will the crew clean up after install?
A: Yes — every day, not just at the end. We treat your property like our own.
Q: How long does the process take from first call to final walkthrough?
A: Typically 2–3 weeks depending on scheduling and scope.
Q: What if I want to add zones later?
A: We design every system with expandability in mind.
Q: Can I control my system from my phone?
A: If you choose a smart controller (which we recommend), yes! Most clients love the convenience.
Local Case Studies: What TLC Clients Say
Fulton: A homeowner wanted to reduce water waste after installing new landscaping. We designed a 7-zone smart system with separate runtimes for turf and gardens. “My plants are thriving — and my water bill dropped,” she told us six months later.
Laurel: A retired couple had us upgrade an old manual timer system. We installed a new controller, moved three heads, and added a drip zone. “You worked around our shrubs, explained everything, and now it’s all automated.”
Highland: A customer called us back six months after install. “I didn’t know irrigation could be this easy. The TLC team was the real deal from start to finish.”
Bob’s Final Word
Working with TLC means more than just getting a sprinkler system or some nice lighting. It means getting a partner who’s been doing this for 40+ years, who shows up, who answers your questions, and who takes pride in doing the job right.
We don’t leave you guessing. We walk the yard with you. We test every zone. We program the controller and make sure your yard’s watering itself while you’re living your life.
From the first call to the first rainstorm — and every season after — we’re here for you.
Want to see what it’s really like to work with TLC? Let’s walk your lawn and build a plan that works the way you live.