Scorpion Construction LLC

Nov 27, 2020
You are currently viewing A Property Owner’s Guide To Site Grading

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Do you own a plot of land that you want to build on in the future? Or are you facing drainage issues on your commercial property in Clearwater, FL? In both cases, you will find this article helpful. 

At Scorpion Construction, we perform top of the line asphalt construction services for commercial properties of all sizes. This also includes site preparation, drainage, and excavation. Click here to get a free quote on our services. 

Today, we will discuss all you need to know about site grading as a property owner. 

What Is Site Grading?

Site grading is a necessary process when you are preparing land for new construction. It involves leveling the ground to create a sturdy foundation and also to improve drainage and landscape on the property. Site grading also involves sloping the land to guide water away from the building. 

Before starting any construction project, contractors and land surveyors measure the site grading to level the new development surface. The same is done for properties with drainage issues.

Contractors and surveyors also measure the land’s slope to determine the specific grade percentage by which they will level the ground.

Site grading serves two critical functions.

Protect Your Foundation

The foundation is the most crucial part of any commercial structure. However, several factors can damage the foundation of your property over time.

Pooling water is a common cause of foundation damage. As water accumulates around the foundation wall, the weight of the water creates cracks and structural damage. With site grading, you will have a strong foundation for new construction, and you will also be able to avoid pooling water.

This brings us to the next point. 

Avoid Drainage Issues

Site grading also ensures the proper flow of water through swales, piping, pitch angles, etc. Proper drainage, in turn, will help you avoid land erosion as well as nearby landscaping and vegetation. 

If the site isn’t sloped, water will pool up on the surface after each rainfall in Clearwater, FL. As already mentioned, pooling water leads to structural damage. It also makes the surface dangerous to walk and drive on (in the case of parking lots).

Plus, stagnant water invites mosquitoes and creates all sorts of health hazards for people visiting your property. 

Things To Consider

Now that you know the basics of site grading, there are a few things to consider on your next construction project.

  • Check the weather

Grading should only be done when the weather’s dry. So do check for rain forecasts to avoid runoffs in site grading. 

  • Work by the rules

You should only get site grading and prep work performed as per specific grading regulations in your state. 

  • Prevent Soil Erosion

Finally, there should be a buffer between the edges of your property and nearby vegetation to prevent soil erosion.

Ultimately, you need to work with a licensed and experienced contractor who can help you with every aspect of site grading and construction. Click here to learn how Scorpion Construction can help you in this regard.