What Is Finish Grading and Why Is It Important?

So, what is finish grading, and why is it important? Finish grading is a construction step that prepares land for its final touches, such as planting, paving, or seeding. If your business has plans for new construction next spring or summer, finish grading is an essential step that, unfortunately, is sometimes omitted. Whether your new construction is an add-on to an existing building or a new structure, proper grading helps prevent water from accumulating, which can cause foundational damage. The process ensures adequate drainage and prepares the soil for planting, enhancing the property with vibrant turf and plants.

What is the Process?

Finish grading involves adding or removing soil within two inches of the existing grade to ensure proper drainage. This step should be completed before sowing grass seed or laying sod.

Finish grading is usually done after rough grading. Typically, finish grading is performed around newly completed construction sites that are ready for turf installation. A tractor equipped with a rough grader box moves dirt and establishes the correct grade for the land. Once this is done, a finish grader smooths the newly displaced soil, removing rocks and debris while breaking up clumps. Hand tools are utilized around foundations, trees, fire hydrants, and curbs to facilitate proper drainage.

5 Steps to Finish Grading

· Removing debris: Removing rocks, large chunks of soil, and other debris that could inhibit plant growth or make the surface uneven

· Leveling: Precisely leveling the land

· Creating slopes: Creating specific slopes

· Covering with material: Covering the area with a coating of screened topsoil or similar material to promote growth

· Smoothing: Using a finish grader to smooth the newly moved dirt

Where Do You Begin?

Berger Hargis is ready to walk you through the following steps to ensure your finish grading fits your needs.

1. Site Assessment

Evaluate the existing site conditions, including topography and soil type.
Identify drainage patterns and any potential issues.

2. Planning and Design

Create a grading plan that outlines the desired contours and elevations.
Determine the amount of soil to be added or removed.

3. Clearing and Excavation

Remove vegetation, debris, and topsoil as necessary.
Excavate areas that require lowering or fill in low spots.

4. Rough Grading

Perform rough grading to establish the basic contours of the site.
Use heavy machinery to move large amounts of soil.

5. Compaction

Compact the soil to prevent future settling.
Use a roller or compactor for effective densification.

6. Fine Grading

Conduct fine grading to achieve precise elevations and smooth surfaces.
Use smaller equipment or hand tools for detailed work.

7. Final Inspection

Inspect the graded area to ensure it meets the specified plans.
Check for proper drainage and any low spots that may need adjustment.

8. Soil Stabilization

Implement measures to stabilize the soil, such as seeding or laying sod.
Consider erosion control methods if necessary.

9. Final Touches

Add any additional landscaping features or structures as planned.
Ensure the site is ready for construction or landscaping activities.

These steps ensure that the site is properly prepared for its intended use, whether it be for construction, landscaping, or other purposes.

Finish grading promotes proper drainage and prepares the soil for planting. It also establishes the final elevations and shapes of a construction project.

How Can We Help You?

Berger Hargis has a company philosophy of providing personal excellence for all our services. Our growth and success have been due entirely to our commitment to honest, excellent customer service. The company is built on the referral business we have received due to this philosophy.

If we can help you plan finish grading for your new construction next spring, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us.

And, if you’re looking for a career where you can have fun at work, call (317) 243-0100.

About the Author

Randy Clark is a speaker, coach, and author. He publishes a weekly blog at Randy Clark Leadership.com. Randy is passionate about social media, leadership development, and flower gardening. He’s a beer geek, and on weekends he can be found fronting the Rock & Roll band Under the Radar. He’s the proud father of two educators; he has four amazing grandchildren and a wife who dedicates her time to helping others. Randy is the author of the Amazon bestseller The New Manager’s Workbook, a crash course in effective management.

If you liked this post, you might also appreciate How to Prepare Your Garden for Winter.

Photo by Troy Mortier on Unsplash

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