Proper landscaping brings curb appeal to any property. It enhances the setting of the building occupying the site. It adds character and personality, as well as function and color. To keep landscaping looking its best, it requires proper design and maintenance. To help landscaping function as it should, it sometimes requires building a grade.
Landscaping is beneficial for leveling an area and decreasing slopes. Berms, swales and slope reshaping are methods used when building a grade. They help erosion control measures and stabilize planting areas. Grading is a crucial step to divert storm water away from high traffic areas and buildings to prevent excessive water damage.
Building a grade is essential when establishing a stable surface for large landscape projects such as outdoor entertainment areas and even smaller projects like shed construction. Proper grade building is also an important part of driveway construction; before the area is paved with pavers, concrete or asphalt it must be graded for safety and longevity. Best building practices and municipal ordinances will determine minimum and maximum slopes and their adherence is important for occupancy permits.
It may be necessary to reshape the slope of a landscape to accommodate access to the upper and/or lower part of the property. Proper landscape design can make useful areas out of otherwise unusable space. Stone retaining walls with stone slab steps are often a great answer to creating levels. Garden beds, patio areas and water features are also popular with this type of design.
If you have ever wondered how to fix some of your property’s worst issues consider building a grade into your landscape design! For more information about how to make your landscape work for you, contact our team of landscape professionals today!
