Finding Grading Contractors for Landscape Projects

Why Grading Matters

Proper grading creates slopes that direct water away from structures, prevent erosion, protect existing trees, and set the stage for all landscaping—hardscape, planting, drainage.

Contractor Scope

• Soil testing (composition, compaction, percolation).
• Cut/fill calculations — balance on-site to minimize import/export.
• Slope design (2% minimum away from foundations).
• Topsoil stripping & stockpiling for reuse.
• Rough & finish grading to spec.
• Coordination with utility locates, permits, erosion control.

Hiring Smart

• Verify license, insurance, references.
• Ask for similar project portfolio.
• Get detailed bid: equipment, timeline, soil handling, warranty.
• Confirm they’ll protect tree root zones (critical root radius = 1 ft per inch DBH).

Robert Devalt covers grading, paving, and more on his homepage.