Grading

What is Grading?

Grading is the process of reshaping and leveling land to create proper slopes, elevations, and drainage patterns. It’s a critical step that ensures water flows away from structures and the ground is stable enough to support foundations, driveways, and other improvements.

Without proper grading, you risk water pooling around foundations, soil erosion, and structural problems that can cost thousands to repair down the road.

Key Steps in the Grading Process

Site Survey and Planning

Before moving any dirt, we assess your property’s existing topography, drainage patterns, and soil conditions. This information guides our grading plan and ensures the finished elevations meet your project’s specifications.

Rough Grading

Rough grading establishes the basic shape and contours of your site. This phase involves moving large amounts of soil—cutting high spots and filling low areas—to achieve the general elevations needed for construction. Heavy equipment like bulldozers and excavators handle the bulk of this work.

Fine Grading

Fine grading (or finish grading) is the precision work that follows. We bring the surface to exact specifications, ensuring proper slope for drainage and a smooth, level base for foundations, driveways, or landscaping. This step requires careful attention to detail and experienced operators.

Compaction

After grading, the soil must be properly compacted to prevent settling. We use rollers and compactors to achieve the density required by building codes—typically at least 90% of maximum dry density. Proper compaction ensures your foundation sits on solid ground.

Types of Grading We Provide

Residential Grading

From backyard regrading to new home lot preparation, we handle residential projects of all sizes. Common residential grading work includes correcting drainage issues, preparing building pads, leveling yards, and creating proper slopes around foundations.

Commercial Grading

Commercial projects demand precision and strict adherence to engineering specifications. We prepare sites for retail developments, office buildings, warehouses, parking lots, and infrastructure projects throughout the DFW metroplex.

Landscape Grading

Beyond construction, grading plays a key role in landscaping. We create the contours and slopes needed for retaining walls, outdoor living spaces, sports courts, and drainage swales that keep your property looking great and functioning properly.

Why Grading Matters

Proper grading protects your investment in several ways:

• Drainage Control: Directs water away from foundations and structures
• Foundation Stability: Creates a level, compacted base that prevents settling
• Erosion Prevention: Reduces soil loss from wind and water runoff
• Code Compliance: Meets local building requirements for slope and drainage
• Property Value: Well-graded land looks better and functions properly

Signs your property needs professional grading:

• Standing water or puddles after rain
• Water flowing toward your foundation instead of away
• Visible erosion, washouts, or gullies
• Uneven or sloping yard causing drainage issues
• Planning new construction, a driveway, or major landscaping