Site Grading
Softscaping and hardscaping are essential features that turn a bland piece of land into a stunning outdoor space. Whether it's installing attractive brick pavers for an impressive driveway, pouring concrete for a shed foundation, or laying attractive St. Augustine sod, all these projects require proper grading to prevent sinking, erosion, and other foundation troubles. Keystone Improvements offers professional land grading services with a commitment to excellence for all your outdoor projects in Central Florida and along the Gulf Coast.
What is the Purpose of Site Grading?
Grading is the critical first step that ensures the stability and longevity of your outdoor investment. The primary purpose is to provide a stable, level, or properly sloped base for everything from new sod to concrete slabs. Grading is essential before hardscape installations, such as paver patios, driveways, and retaining walls, to provide a stable sub-base. Without proper grading, you run the risk of flooding and soil erosion that can wash your investment away. That's why Keystone Improvements includes land grading as part of every paver bed installation.
Types of Grading
Proper site preparation often involves two main types of grading:
Rough Grading:
This is the initial manipulation of the land's surface to achieve the approximate shape and elevation required for the project. It includes clearing large obstacles, cutting away high spots, and filling in low spots.
Finish Grading:
In the final step, we smooth the surface and shape it to meet the exact final elevation specifications. Finish grading is essential for laying sod, preparing a paver base, or ensuring a concrete slab is perfectly level.
Regrading for Better Drainage
Many existing structures suffer from poor drainage due to improper initial grading or settling. It can result in water pooling, soil erosion, and foundation issues. Regrading corrects these problems by establishing a positive slope—meaning the ground slopes away from the structure at a shallow, continuous rate—channeling water toward storm drains or designated runoff areas. It is essential for protecting your property from the elements.
Land Grading Benefits
The investment in professional land grading provides extensive benefits for your property:
- Foundation Protection: The most important benefit is protection from water damage by ensuring proper runoff.
- Eliminates Standing Water: Properly sloped grading eliminates puddles and standing water, reducing mosquito breeding grounds and the risk of slip-and-fall hazards.
- Hardscaping Base: Grading provides a firm, compact, and level base required for paver installations, concrete slabs, and retaining walls, preventing settling and cracking.
- Healthier Lawn: Proper land grading prevents water logging, which is critical for maintaining healthy sod.
- Erosion Control: Grading stabilizes the soil, preventing washouts and keeping your topsoil and landscape materials in place.
Professional Vs. DIY Grading
While some homeowners may consider DIY grading, professional services are highly recommended, especially in Florida. Our certified professionals use special equipment (like laser levels and compactors) to achieve the precise grade required for structural stability and code compliance. An improperly graded site—even if it’s off by a few inches—can lead to major drainage issues, voiding warranties on new hardscaping and potentially causing thousands of dollars in damage. Choosing professional grading over DIY not only ensures the job is done right the first time but also saves you from potential costly mistakes.
Our Other Services
Keystone Improvements is your full-service softscape and hardscape partner in Central Florida, offering a comprehensive suite of services to enhance your outdoor space from the front yard to the backyard.
