Grading
Landscape grading is the leveling, smoothing or sculpting of land to prepare it for the addition of enhancements like hardscaping, driveways, walkways, patios, plants, flower beds, pool, stairs, etc. This is done to ensure that all these enhancements have structurally sound foundations. Landscape grading also ensures that water flows away from the house or the building.
Improper grading in a landscape will cause water to pool or slope towards the house or the building. Both these issues are extremely detrimental. Water puddles are a breeding ground for mosquitoes and insects, which can cause health problems for homeowners and employees who work in the commercial space and put the landscape at risk of pest infestation.
The water should never slope towards the house or the building as this can damage the foundation and flood the basement. Water should also be directed away from hardscapes like retaining walls, patios and pavers because if water seeps into them, it will shorten their life, and the homeowner will have to invest in repair work or replace them.
Therefore, the professionals at Down To Earth Landscape & Irrigation will grade the landscape correctly to ensure that the landscape has the right slope, no uneven areas and proper drainage. Our professional experience allows us to level the land while being mindful of utility lines like gas, electric, water and fiber optic. As we are licensed contractors, we will also be able to obtain any required permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) directs that hardscapes like patios, walkways, and driveways need a minimum grading of ¼ inch per foot away from the house in order to prevent settling of water. The final grading must be ½ inch per foot over a minimum distance of 10 feet. This grading must be done to make sure the water drains away from the foundation.
Landscape grading is a science, and it involves various aspects like soil, topography, construction, and horticulture.
A professional landscaper will analyze your land – the unevenness and evenness, the natural drainage pathways (if any), the slope, and recognize areas with poor drainage.
Once this analysis has been done, the landscaper will discuss the issues found with the property owner and then formulate a plan while keeping their needs in mind.
The landscaper will remove the topsoil so that the land below can be graded correctly. Grass and plants will be planted and given a certain time to develop roots.
After the vegetation has developed a root system, the topsoil will be added back, and the entire landscape will be leveled.
While some people would like to grade their landscape as a DIY project, leaving it to a professional landscaper is highly recommended.
Landscape grading requires a combined knowledge of topography, construction, and gardening. Therefore someone who is trained and has the required skills will be best equipped to execute it.
Grading requires digging up your land, which requires local permits. Also, there is a possibility that you might damage utility lines like water and gas while attempting to dig on your own.
To avoid this, it is best to contact a certified landscaping company that already has the permits required for this service. A professional will also be able to assess the requirements of your land and install the correct drainage system to meet those needs.
