Grading: Precision Earthwork

What is Grading?

Grading is shaping soil to achieve target elevations with precision. It's the finishing step of earthwork: roads, pads, slopes. Quality depends on operator skill and grade control methods.

Grade Control Methods

Grade stakes: Wooden stakes set at precise elevations showing target height. Operator references stake to grind to correct elevation.

Grade laser: Laser beam on grader shows operator exact elevation in real-time. Modern, precise, faster than stakes.

Stringline: String stretched between two points at target height. Good for short distances.

Grading Process

1. Survey sets grade stakes (typically 50-100ft apart)
2. Initial rough grading (move material to approximate elevation)
3. Intermediate passes (get closer to target)
4. Final finish pass (precise, smooth surface)
5. Inspect and approve (surveyor checks elevations)

Quality Tolerance

Road subgrade: ±0.1 ft (1/10 foot = 1.2 inches)

Finish grading: ±0.05 ft (1/20 foot = 0.6 inches, very precise)

Slope Grading

On slopes, grader blade must follow slope angle. Risk: dozer or grader on steep slope can tip. Safe rule: stay on slopes <2:1 (not steeper than 2 horizontal for every 1 vertical).