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MICHIGAN GRADING SERVICE

MIDLAND, BAY CITY, SAGINAW

Why Choose JAWS Excavating & Trucking, LLC

Everyone loves a beautifully-paved driveway entrance to their homes.

Properly grading your driveway lays a solid foundation for your project and is the key to a long-lasting driveway.

And JAWS Excavating & Trucking, LLC has driveway grading down to a science.

Even though it's just driveway grading to you, we think of it as an art.

No matter what the project is, we're aiming for a masterpiece every time.

How to grade a driveway

Check out this back-to-basics guide on grading a driveway yourself.

Start by loosening up the gravel and dig in as deep and as thoroughly as you can. (A good rule of thumb to always remember is to try to get as deep as your deepest potholes/wash outs).
Totally loosen up the gravel in your driveway by going back and forth across it
Once it’s all been tossed n turned, check for any washouts or floating gravel. Make sure to sweep any excess gravel back into the main body of the driveway too.
After that, grade back and forth again across the driveway to even everything out. Distributing loose gravel evenly over the fresh surface.

Of course, this is the simplest how-to on grading a driveway.

To save yourself the headache, it's always best to hire out a team of experts — like JAWS Excavating & Trucking, LLC — who have perfected this process.

Driveway and grading permits may be necessary

When it comes to shaping the land for your new driveway or adjusting the grade of your property, don't overlook the crucial step of securing the necessary driveway and grading permits. These permits aren't just bureaucratic red tape; they're safeguards that ensure your project aligns with local land use policies, environmental protections, and safety standards. Particularly in regions with specific topographical challenges, like the rolling hills or waterfront properties in Michigan, proper grading can prevent a myriad of issues ranging from water runoff problems to soil erosion. By obtaining these permits, you're not only adhering to legal requirements but also ensuring that your grading project respects the delicate balance of your local ecosystem and neighborhood infrastructure. This careful attention to detail and regulation can save you from costly future corrections and contribute to the sustainable development of your community.

How much does driveway grading cost?

BobVila.com says "Grading a gravel driveway can run between $4 and $8 per square foot, and the cost to grade and excavate an average-size driveway will cost around $700 to $2,500. Some installation companies may include grading and excavating costs in the overall price of a gravel driveway project."

Driveway Grading Safety

Just like how driveway is the gateway to your home, it’s important that it gets properly paved so you can drive in and out of your property safely.

When it comes to gravel driveways, if the grade is wrong then nothing will hold up to mother nature. At JAWS Excavating & Trucking, LLC, we take special care to make sure our driveways are built correctly with the ideal grade and thickness to withstand the brutal Michigan winters.

It also makes sense that installing a driveway yourself is probably not as easy as one thinks!

You need experts who know how to lay down new asphalt or can level a driveway with only minimal repairs needed.

With JAWS Excavating & Trucking, LLC, you know you’re getting a top-notch driveway grading contractor. Already with 9+ years of driveway grading experience, you won't find a more qualified expert than Wesley Asel. Call now for an estimate.

How To Grade A Driveway By Hand

To effectively grade a driveway by hand, start by removing obstacles and outlining your work area. Carefully excavate high spots and elevate low ones, using a mix of soil and gravel for a robust foundation. A landscaping rake is essential for spreading these materials evenly, creating a slight incline away from structures for optimal drainage. Throughout this process, frequent leveling checks are crucial to ensure an even gradient. Post-distribution, compact the driveway's surface to solidify your work.

How To Grade A Steep or Sloped Driveway

Grading a steep or sloped driveway requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety and longevity. Start by assessing the slope and identifying any existing drainage issues or erosion.

For steep driveways, it's crucial to create terraces or switchbacks to manage the incline and reduce erosion risk. Use retaining walls or landscape timbers for support and to define these sections. Installing drainage solutions, such as culverts or ditches alongside the driveway, will help manage water flow and prevent washouts.

When adding material to the driveway, choose crushed stone or gravel for better grip and stability on steep grades, and compact each layer thoroughly for a solid base. Regular maintenance, including checking for and addressing erosion or drainage issues, is essential to keep a steep driveway in good condition. Always consult local building codes and consider professional assistance for complex or very steep driveways to ensure safety and compliance.

How To Grade A Driveway With A Box Blade

Grading a driveway with a box blade involves initially attaching it securely to your tractor, ensuring it's properly aligned.

Begin with light grading passes to skim off high spots and fill in the lows, adjusting the blade height to avoid digging too deep. The key is to maintain a consistent, gentle slope from the center to the edges for optimal drainage, using the blade's angle adjustments to either cut into elevated areas or spread material over depressions.

After achieving a smooth surface, compacting the driveway material is crucial to solidify your work. Always proceed with caution, adhering to safety guidelines when operating heavy machinery, and consider seeking professional guidance if you're inexperienced with such equipment.

Learning to use a box blade is a lot like learning to ride a bicycle, at least in terms of technique. It takes some time to feel comfortable with the tool and how to maneuver it correctly, but once you do all your projects will seem simple. When you are still getting used to your tractor attachment, try practicing by building a small mound or pile.

Ultimately, if you have no idea what you're doing with a box blade (or you don't even own one!), it's best to call the experts at JAWS Excavating & Trucking, LLC for all of your driveway grading needs.

How To Calculate The Grade Of Your Driveway

Calculating the grade of your driveway involves determining the slope, which is essential for ensuring proper drainage and functionality. Here's a straightforward approach:

First, you'll need two key measurements: the length of the driveway (from the highest point to the lowest point) and the change in elevation over that distance. To get these, you can use a long, straight board or a level and a measuring tape. Place one end of the board or level at the highest point of the driveway and level it to find the point where it meets the lower elevation. Measure the distance from the end of the board to the ground to find the elevation change.

With these measurements in hand, calculate the grade percentage using the formula:

Grade (%) = (Elevation Change / Driveway Length) × 100.

For example, if your driveway is 100 feet long and the elevation change from the highest to the lowest point is 5 feet, the grade of your driveway would be (5100) × 100 = 5% (1005) × 100 = 5%.

A grade of 5% means there's a 5-foot drop for every 100 feet of driveway, indicating the slope's steepness.

Understanding this helps in making informed decisions about driveway maintenance, landscaping, and potential modifications to ensure it meets your needs and local regulations.

Learn more about How To Calculate The Grade For Driveways

Is My Driveway In Good Condition?

Determining the condition of your driveway involves a few key observations and checks to ensure it's safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. Here's a concise way to evaluate your driveway's condition:

Start by examining the surface for any cracks, potholes, or uneven areas, which can be indicative of underlying issues or wear and tear over time. Small cracks might be superficial, but larger ones could signal deeper problems. Next, consider the drainage; standing water or consistent drainage issues can lead to deterioration and may require regrading or additional drainage solutions.

Also, look at the edges of your driveway; crumbling or breaking edges can compromise the driveway's integrity. Assess the surface texture and color for signs of fading or wear, which can affect the driveway's appearance and traction. Lastly, consider the driveway's age and maintenance history; older driveways that haven't received regular maintenance may be nearing the end of their functional life.

If you notice multiple areas of concern or aren't sure about the severity of observed issues, consulting a professional can provide a thorough assessment and recommendations for maintenance or repairs. Regular upkeep and addressing minor issues promptly can significantly extend your driveway's lifespan and ensure it remains in good condition.

What's Considered A "Steep Grade"?

A "steep grade" in the context of driveways or roads refers to a sharp incline or decline in the surface. Generally, a grade is considered steep if it has a slope exceeding 10%. This means for every 100 feet you move horizontally, the elevation changes by more than 10 feet. Steep grades can pose challenges for vehicles, particularly in adverse weather conditions like snow or heavy rain, due to reduced traction and increased difficulty in stopping or starting. In residential construction, careful planning and additional safety measures may be necessary to accommodate steep grades, ensuring safe access and minimizing erosion or runoff issues.