Why grading matters
If water flows toward your foundation, pools in the yard after storms, or washes soil and mulch down a slope, the ground is not shaped correctly. Regrading reshapes the soil so water drains away from the house and across the yard to a safe outlet.
Correct grading protects foundations and basements, reduces muddy low spots, and prevents erosion on the sloped and wooded lots common across Calvert, Anne Arundel and Prince George's Counties.
Excavation and site preparation
Every patio, retaining wall, walkway and turf installation starts with excavation. We remove sod and unsuitable soil to the depth the project needs, haul away spoils, and prepare a firm subgrade for the stone base. We also excavate for footings, drainage lines and leveling areas for sheds or play sets.
Drainage solutions
Grading is often paired with drainage improvements: extending downspouts, installing drain pipe and gravel, building swales that carry water around the house, and adding retaining walls to control slopes. We identify where water is coming from and design a fix that sends it somewhere it cannot cause problems.
Materials we use
- Fill and topsoil
- Crushed stone
- Perforated and solid drain pipe
- Drainage gravel
- Seed, straw and sod
Benefits
Protects your foundation
Water is directed away from the house.
Fewer wet spots
Low areas and puddling are corrected.
Stable projects
Patios and walls start on properly prepared ground.
Erosion control
Slopes are shaped and held so soil stays put.
Our grading & excavation process
- 1
Assess drainage
We look at where water comes from, where it collects and where it can go.
- 2
Plan & quote
A written scope covers grading, drainage and restoration.
- 3
Excavate & shape
Utilities are marked, then soil is cut, filled and compacted to grade.
- 4
Finish & restore
Topsoil, seed, sod or hardscape finish the area.
Related projects
Grading & Excavation FAQ
How much slope should my yard have away from the house?
A common guideline is for the ground to fall about 6 inches over the first 10 feet away from the foundation. We set grades based on your site's conditions.
Will grading fix my wet basement?
Grading and downspout extensions often reduce water reaching the foundation, which can help. Interior or structural issues may need a waterproofing specialist.
Do I need a permit for grading?
Small residential grading often does not, but larger disturbances or work in the Critical Area may require a grading or erosion-control permit. We advise during the estimate.
What happens to the excavated soil?
Excess soil and debris are hauled away or reused on site for fill, depending on the project.