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Excavation vs. Grading: What’s the Difference?
When planning a construction or landscaping project, two services you will often hear about are excavation and grading. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they serve very different purposes. Understanding the difference between excavation and grading can help ensure your project starts on solid ground and avoids costly issues later on.
At Evolution Contractors, we provide professional excavation and grading services throughout Washington County, including Hillsboro, Beaverton, Cornelius, and Forest Grove. Our team helps property owners prepare their land correctly from the very beginning.
What Is Excavation?
Excavation is the process of removing soil, rock, or debris from a site to create space for construction. This step is typically required for projects such as foundations, utilities, driveways, drainage systems, and retaining walls.
Excavation focuses on:
- Digging and removing earth to reach required depths
- Trenching for utilities or drainage systems
- Clearing land for new construction or additions
- Preparing sites for concrete work or foundations
Because excavation involves working below the surface, it requires precise planning, proper equipment, and an understanding of soil conditions. In areas like Hillsboro and Beaverton, where soil composition and drainage can vary significantly, professional excavation is essential to prevent settling and water issues.
What Is Grading?
Grading is the process of shaping and leveling the land after excavation is complete. Instead of removing large amounts of soil, grading focuses on adjusting slopes to control water flow and create a smooth, stable surface.
Grading is commonly used for:
- Proper drainage away from structures
- Preparing land for landscaping or hardscaping
- Creating level building pads
- Preventing erosion and standing water
In Washington County communities such as Cornelius and Forest Grove, proper grading is especially important due to seasonal rainfall. Well-planned grading helps protect foundations and keeps water from pooling around structures.
How Excavation and Grading Work Together
Excavation and grading are most effective when performed as part of the same site preparation process. Excavation creates the necessary space for construction, while grading ensures the land is shaped correctly once that work is complete.
For example, when preparing a site for a new structure, excavation allows for footings or utilities, and grading ensures the finished surface directs water away from the building. When done together, these services help create a stable, long-lasting foundation for any project.
Why Professional Site Preparation Matters in Washington County
Every property is different, and soil conditions can vary widely across Hillsboro, Beaverton, Cornelius, and Forest Grove. Professional excavation and grading help account for these differences and reduce the risk of future issues such as erosion, drainage problems, or foundation damage.
Evolution Contractors understands local soil conditions, permitting requirements, and best practices for excavation and grading in Washington County. Our team uses the right equipment and proven methods to ensure each project is completed safely and correctly.
Excavation and Grading Services in Hillsboro, Beaverton, Cornelius, and Forest Grove
If you are planning a construction or landscaping project, proper site preparation is the first step to success. Evolution Contractors proudly serves Washington County with reliable excavation and grading services tailored to local conditions.
Contact Evolution Contractors today to discuss your project and learn how our excavation and grading expertise can help set your site up for long-term performance and stability.
