What Is The Process For Site Work Grading In Chicago?
Construction projects are a symphony of activity as various teams contribute to building a final product that meets your needs. While many focus on what happens during the erection of a new building or the installation of pavement, some of the most critical work begins before construction starts. Site work grading is a vital process that prepares sites for construction and can ultimately impact the integrity of the finished structure. Here’s what you need to know about Chicago site grading and how it works.
What Is Site Work in Chicago?
Site work is a term used to describe all the prep work that occurs before construction teams start a project. Raw, undeveloped land is rarely suitable for construction. Site work contractors ensure the land is stable enough to accommodate the future structure and safe and accessible for workers.
It’s a multi-step process. Site work in Chicago typically begins with land clearing to remove trees, plant roots and other debris. Depending on the project’s needs, contractors may also perform excavation work, install utilities, build access roads, etc. After geotechnical testing, teams may also amend and compact soil. Site grading processes are just one of many tasks that must occur during this critical site work phase.
What Is Site Grading?
Grading construction work involves moving the earth. While excavation focuses on removing earth, grading in construction concentrates on moving it around to create the proper elevation. For example, site grading teams must move soil to make the terrain more level for a building. If the site is sloped or full of hills, grading in construction ensures that the earth isn’t too steep or rough. That’s not all.
Chicago site grading is also vital for proper drainage. Grading construction techniques create a subtle slope that will direct future rainfall away from the structure. This helps prevent flooding and lowers the risk of soil erosion and water damage, which can weaken the final product. Whether that’s asphalt pavement or a building foundation, grading in construction plays an important role in the long-term stability of the entire project.
How Do Contractors Perform Grading?
Site work in Chicago looks simple, but all steps require careful planning. Grading construction work is no different. Contractors typically work with a precisely engineered grading plan, which dictates the desired elevation and slope. These plans include details about the appropriate slope for drainage and guide contractors in establishing a level base for construction. Site work contractors must also follow guidance from International Building Codes and local regulations.
What Equipment Do Contractors Use?
Side-grading teams utilize heavy-duty equipment to complete the job. Scrapers, bulldozers, dump trucks and front-end loaders are all necessary for effective grading. The tools used depend on the needs of the site.
Chicago site grading professionals may also use different equipment during rough and fine grading. Rough grading is the initial shaping of the site. Meanwhile, fine grading is the more precise leveling and slope creation process.
Let Blackhawk Paving be your trusted site grading professionals. We’ve been in this business for 50 years, and we’ve seen and done it all, giving us the experience to complete projects of all sizes and scopes. Our team uses proven grading techniques and the best equipment to work efficiently. At Blackhawk Paving, we focus on commercial and industrial work and are more attuned to the unique needs of these more complex projects.
Blackhawk Paving is available for all your site work and paving needs. Our services include asphalt paving, repairs, sealcoating, concrete flatwork, sewer repair, parking lot striping and more. Call the Blackhawk Paving team today at (708)578-7434, email info@blackhawkpaving.com or use our online form to get your free project quote.
