What is grading in landscaping and construction?
Grading in landscaping is the process of leveling and shaping the land around your home. It’s a crucial step for ensuring proper water drainage away from your foundation. This process also creates a stable, even surface for features like patios, walkways, or new lawns.
Similarly, grading in construction is the process of leveling and shaping land to create a stable, even base for a project. It's a crucial first step for things like foundations, driveways, or patios. Proper grading also ensures good drainage, which can help prevent water from pooling around your home and causing damage.
What will my pro do to grade my yard?
During your pro’s visit, you may expect them to start by assessing your property’s current slope, soil, and drainage. They’ll discuss your project goals with you and use stakes to mark out the areas that need to be raised or lowered. After that, they will use heavy equipment to move the earth, ensuring the land is properly shaped to direct water away from your home’s foundation. Finally, they’ll compact the soil and smooth the surface to prepare it for whatever you have planned next, like a new lawn or patio.
How do I prepare my yard for grading?
Before your pro arrives to grading your yard, you can prepare by following these steps:Step 1: Clear the area. Remove any lawn furniture, toys, tools, and other obstacles from the yard so your pro has a clear space to work.Step 2: Mark important features. Clearly flag the locations of any sprinkler heads, irrigation lines, septic tanks, or underground utility lines to prevent accidental damage.Step 3: Secure pets and children. For everyone’s safety, please keep children and pets inside or in a separate, secure area away from the work zone.Step 4: Plan for access. Make sure there’s a clear path for your pro and any necessary equipment to get to the work area, and unlock any gates they’ll need to use.Step 5: Review the plan. Be ready to quickly confirm the project goals with your pro, including the desired slope and any specific drainage points, before they begin.
What should I ask before hiring a grading contractor?
Some good questions to ask before you hire a grading contractor include:
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured for this type of work?
Can you provide a detailed, itemized quote explaining all potential costs?
What is the estimated timeline, and what factors might affect it?
Will you be responsible for securing any necessary permits for the project?
What equipment will be used, and what steps will you take to protect my property from damage?
How is the site cleaned up after the grading is complete?
Do you offer any warranty or guarantee on the finished work?
