Grading and Leveling
Grading and Leveling Services in Southeast Michigan
Whether you need a backyard leveled before a landscaping project or a large commercial site graded for new construction, Superior Excavating has the equipment and experience to get it done right. We've been serving Southeast Michigan since 1966 — and proper site grading is one of the most critical steps we take on every job.
What Is Site Grading and Leveling?
Grading and leveling are related but different services, and knowing which one you need saves time and money.
- Leveling is about creating a flat, uniform surface — cutting high spots, filling low ones, and smoothing everything out. It's the right call when you need an even surface for a lawn, patio, addition, or sports area.
- Grading goes further. It shapes the land to a deliberate slope or contour — one that directs water away from your home's foundation, prepares a site for construction, or meets engineering specifications on a drainage plan. Grading isn't just about flat; it's about functional.
Most projects require some combination of both. Our crews assess your site, soil type, and drainage needs before any equipment rolls, so the finished grade works the way it's supposed to — year after year, through Michigan's freeze-thaw cycles.
Residential Grading Services
Poor grading is one of the most common causes of foundation water damage and soggy yards in Michigan. If water pools near your home after rain, or your yard has settled unevenly over the years, grading correction fixes it at the source.
Our residential grading services include:
- Yard leveling and grading — smooth out uneven terrain for new sod, landscaping, patios, or play areas
- Drainage grading — regrade your yard to carry water away from the foundation and toward proper runoff
- New construction prep — rough and finish grading for new home builds, additions, and detached garages
- Landscaping prep — establish the correct base grade before retaining walls, garden beds, or hardscaping go in
We work on properties across Oakland County, Macomb County, and the surrounding Southeast Michigan region.
Commercial Site Grading
Commercial projects demand precision. A grade that's off by even a small amount can cause drainage failures, delay permit inspections, or require expensive rework. Superior Excavating has been handling commercial site grading in Michigan for decades — we understand the code requirements, the timelines, and what it takes to get a site ready for vertical construction.
Our commercial grading work includes:
- Construction site prep — establish building pads, floor grades, and foundation setbacks for new commercial builds
- Parking lot grading — proper slope for drainage, ADA compliance, and pavement longevity
- Large-scale earthwork — cut-and-fill operations, rough grading, and finish grading on multi-acre sites
- Regrading for drainage corrections — fix standing water, erosion issues, and grade failures on existing commercial properties
Equipment We Use
At Superior Excavating, we use only the best heavy equipment to get the job done right:
Service Areas for Grading & Leveling
We provide grading and leveling services throughout Southeast Michigan, including:
WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING
These guys can get jobs done nobody else can!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does grading and leveling cost in Michigan?
Residential grading typically ranges from $500–$3,000+ depending on lot size, the amount of material to move, and whether fill dirt is needed. Commercial site grading is priced per the scope of work. The best way to get an accurate number is a free on-site estimate — call us at (248) 609-6271.
What equipment is used for grading?
We use excavators for bulk earthmoving and rough cuts, bulldozers for pushing and spreading material across larger areas, and skid steers for finish grading and precision work in tighter spaces. Equipment selection depends on the site size and the level of finish required.
Do I need permits for grading my yard in Michigan?
It depends on your municipality and the scope of the work. Minor residential re-grading usually doesn't require a permit, but larger grading projects — especially those near property lines, wetlands, or drainage easements — often do. We're familiar with local requirements across Oakland and Macomb Counties and can advise you during the estimate.
How long does grading take?
A straightforward residential yard leveling project can typically be completed in one day. Larger residential grading or drainage correction work may take two to three days. Commercial site grading timelines vary based on acreage, soil conditions, and the complexity of the grading plan.
Ready to get started?
Call (248) 609-6271 or request a free estimate online. We serve Southeast Michigan homeowners and contractors throughout Oakland County, Macomb County, and the surrounding area.