Grading is the process of leveling and smoothing land. This is done to prepare the soil base for such construction as paving a driveway or pouring a foundation for a building. It may also be used for landscaping and to control surface drainage. How much the grading process involves depends on how sloped the terrain is, the type of soil, and the size of the plot.  

Construction Guide to Land Grading

How It’s Done

The contractor will begin by watering the area if the soil isn’t soft enough. Heavy equipment, such as a bulldozer, will be used to remove any plants and rocks. Dirt from higher spots will be moved to fill in lower spots to even out the plot. They may also remove excess dirt or import dirt as needed.

Once the area is evened out, a tractor will be used to level it completely. A box scraper on the tractor, which loosens the soil, is used to implement precise grading. The soil will be further compacted when the bulldozer runs over it.  

Why It’s Important

Grading is an essential step in construction. Its primary purpose lies in setting up proper drainage. The right surface drainage will use the slope of the land to lead water away from your home, avoiding issues like water damage to your home or property. It’s also essential to create a level construction site to build on.

Grading is a complex process that should be left to a construction engineer. The team at Rojac Construction in Wailuku, HI, offer full-service groundwork construction and demolition for businesses on Maui. In addition to grading, they will lay the piping, electrical wiring, and paving for your project. Their fully licensed and insured commercial contractors have a track record of success across the island. Learn more on their website and call (808) 986-1105 to discuss your project.