What is Land Grading?

Land grading is just one part of the earthwork and site preparation process, but it is an important step. Here is what is involved in the process:

• A site survey – During an initial site survey, the land grading crew will walk the project area and get an idea of what must be done to prep the site. This includes making a note of existing vegetation, the site’s terrain, soil composition and any existing slope (or grade). If any unforeseen challenges emerge, like a utility line running through the site, it is usually identified during this stage.
  
  
• Site planning – Site planning is a critical early step that sets the course for the rest of the project. While planning, the land grading team will visualize the job by drawing out a map of the project area. This site plan points out existing vegetation, existing structures, utility lines, nearby roads and other important features. The site plan also specifies cut and fill areas, as well as the desired grade throughout the project area. Think of your site plan like the developmental blueprint for your property.
  
  
• Soil analysis – Not all soils are safe and stable to build upon. The land grading team will take a soil sample and send it to a lab for analysis. This analysis will reveal the composition of your build site, as well as its fitness for construction and foundation work. If soil-related issues are identified during this stage, the site preparation team can stabilize the soil or make other adjustments to the plan.
  
  
• Pulling permits – Nearly all forms of commercial development in Houston require a permit. This includes land grading, so before any earthwork begins, the work permits will be needed. A reputable land grading company will pull permits for their clients on time, preventing any delays from derailing the project.
  
  
• Land clearing and vegetation removal – Once dirt work begins, the first step is to clear the area of any vegetation, rocks and unwanted structures. Excavators, bulldozers, skid steers and other heavy-duty equipment are deployed during this phase. If demolition is necessary, site developers may dismantle those structures carefully (to prevent safety hazards or to recover building materials) or knock them down using excavators, bulldozers or, for larger structures, possibly some explosives.
  
  
• Rough grading (cut and fill) – Grading is done in several passes, with each pass gradually establishing the desired slope. The initial grading passes are referred to as the rough grade. During this rough grade, the dirt work team will designate different areas for cutting or filling. In areas where the grading team will “cut,” they will remove soil to establish the desired grade. In areas where the grading team will “fill,” soil is added to create the grade.
  
  
• Fine grading – Once cutting and filling are complete, the crew will prioritize precision as they develop the final grade within tight tolerances. During this step, the dirt work team will compact the soil and smooth it out, establishing the ideal build surface for commercial foundations.
  
  
• Drainage structure installation – Drainage structures (trenches, catch basins, culverts, gutters, retention/detention ponds) are typically built out when preparing a site. Drainage is established while sloping the property, so it is common for contractors to grade and install drainage systems at the same time.

At this point, your property is prepared for future development and construction, including laying down a foundation. If your earthwork team is also experienced in pavement projects, they can also provide foundation work and ensure there are no delays in moving from land grading to construction.