Commercial Grading Services
From site preparation to final grading, we move dirt and shape land for construction, drainage, and development projects across Upstate South Carolina.
Red Dirt Contracting is a family-owned company with over 10 years of experience grading commercial sites throughout Upstate South Carolina. We handle the dirt work that gets your project ready for the next phase, whether that means preparing a building pad, establishing proper drainage, or shaping land for parking lots and access roads.
We work from your plans and survey stakes to ensure the finished surface meets grade specifications and drains correctly. We move material efficiently and leave you with a stable, properly graded surface that is ready for construction or development.
Types of Commercial Grading Projects
We work on a range of commercial grading projects across Upstate South Carolina. The scope and complexity vary, but the fundamentals are the same. Proper grades, correct drainage, and a finished surface that meets specifications.
Building Pad Preparation
Before any structure goes up, the site needs a level, compacted surface that can support the foundation. We cut and fill to reach the correct elevation, compact the subgrade, and ensure proper drainage away from the building footprint.
The finished pad is ready for foundation work.
Parking Lots and Paved Areas
Parking lots require precise grading so water drains correctly and the surface remains stable under traffic. We grade to the specifications required for asphalt or concrete installation, establishing the slopes and drainage patterns that prevent ponding and deterioration over time.
Access Roads and Driveways
Commercial properties need access roads that hold up to heavy use and drain properly. We grade roads and driveways to the correct profile, establish ditches or drainage swales where needed, and prepare the surface for gravel, asphalt, or concrete.
Drainage and Stormwater Management
Poor drainage causes problems for any commercial site. We grade swales, retention areas, and drainage channels to direct water where it needs to go and prevent erosion or flooding.
If your site has drainage issues, we can regrade to fix them.
Land Clearing and Rough Grading
Some projects start with raw land that needs clearing and initial shaping before fine grading can begin. We clear vegetation, remove debris, and establish rough grades that set up the site for the next phase of development.
Our Grading Process
Commercial grading projects require coordination, precision, and the right equipment for the job. We approach each project systematically to ensure the finished grade meets specifications and the site is ready for whatever comes next.
Review Plans and Specifications
Before any equipment arrives, we review your grading plans, survey information, and specifications. We need to understand the target elevations, drainage requirements, and how our work fits into the larger project.
If anything is unclear or needs adjustment, we address it before breaking ground.
Site Preparation
Depending on the condition of the site, preparation may include clearing vegetation, removing debris, stripping topsoil for later use, or demolishing existing structures. We get the site ready for grading work and stage material where it needs to be.
Cut and Fill Operations
Grading is about moving dirt from where it is to where it needs to be. We cut high areas and fill low areas to reach the specified elevations, working efficiently to minimize material hauling and keep the project on schedule.
If additional fill is needed or excess material needs to be removed, we coordinate that as part of the project.
Compaction
A properly graded surface is only as good as the compaction underneath it. We compact fill material in lifts to meet the required density specifications, ensuring the subgrade can support whatever is being built on top of it.
Fine Grading and Finishing
Once rough grades are established and compaction is complete, we fine grade the surface to meet final specifications. This is where precision matters. The finished surface needs to be at the correct elevation and slope to drain properly and provide a stable base for construction.
Final Walkthrough
Before we leave the site, we verify that the finished grades meet specifications and address any areas that need adjustment. We coordinate with your surveyor or general contractor to confirm the work is complete and ready for the next phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a commercial project that requires grading, you probably have questions about how the process works and what to expect. These are the questions we hear most often.
How much does commercial grading cost?
Grading costs depend on the size of the site, how much material needs to be moved, site accessibility, and the level of precision required. A simple parking lot expansion costs less than grading a multi-acre development with significant cut and fill operations.
We review your plans and site conditions before providing a quote so you know exactly what the work involves and what it will cost.
How long does a grading project take?
Timeline depends on the scope of work and site conditions. A small building pad might take a few days while a large commercial site with extensive earthwork can take several weeks.
Weather also affects the schedule. We cannot grade or compact properly when the ground is saturated, so extended rain can push timelines out. We keep you informed throughout the project and work efficiently when conditions allow.
Do you work from engineered plans?
Yes. For commercial projects, we work from your grading plans and survey stakes to ensure the finished surface meets the specified elevations and drainage requirements.
If you do not have engineered plans yet, we can discuss what you are trying to accomplish and help you determine what level of planning the project requires.
Can you coordinate with our general contractor?
Yes. We regularly work alongside general contractors and other trades on commercial projects. We coordinate scheduling, work around other activities on site when needed, and communicate directly with your project manager to keep things moving.
Do you handle compaction testing?
We compact material to meet specifications, but third-party compaction testing is typically handled by a geotechnical firm hired by the owner or general contractor. We coordinate with the testing firm and address any areas that do not meet the required density.
What if the site needs more fill material?
If the project requires more fill than can be generated on site, we source and import suitable material. We discuss this possibility during the planning phase so you know what to expect and can budget accordingly.
If the site has excess material that needs to be removed, we can haul it off or relocate it elsewhere on your property depending on what makes sense for the project.
Do I need a permit for grading?
Permit requirements vary by jurisdiction and project scope. Most commercial grading projects require a grading permit or land disturbance permit from the local municipality or county.
We can help you understand what permits are likely required, but the property owner or general contractor is typically responsible for securing them before work begins.
What is your minimum project size?
We focus on commercial projects that justify mobilizing equipment and crew to the site. Small residential grading jobs are generally not a good fit, but we are happy to discuss your project and let you know if it makes sense for us.
Why customers choose us
Quality Workmanship
We treat your project and property like it's our own
Timely Completion
Projects completed on schedule, every time
Clean Job Sites
We maintain organized, clean work areas
Clear Communication
Straight answers, clear expectations, and updates throughout the job
We Do What We Say
Reliable service you can count on
Customer Satisfaction
We work until you’re 100% satisfied
What customers say
“I can't think of the last time I have been so completely blown away by a company's services and commitment to doing a quality job. Jon and his team cleared about 1,000 feet of my property line within one day, leaving the property looking like a park. Within minutes of their departure I had multiple neighbors call to compliment the work and the results. I hope I'll have other opportunities to use Red Dirt Contracting in the future. I would gladly recommend them to anyone.”
D Smith
“I'm not sure I can express my complete amazement with the work Jon and his crew did! They cleared a wooded area in front of our house that had dead trees, saplings, one downed tree from the recent storm, etc. This crew showed up exactly as they said, went straight to work and diligently worked the entire time. They cleared vines out of tall trees, cleared all the overgrowth under the trees they saved, mulched all of it and even spread out some unevenness in the ground. The value I received well exceeds the price I paid in my opinion. 1000% recommend!”
Brandi Westmoreland
“I just had some work done by Jon and his team. I cannot say enough good things about Red Dirt Contracting. It starts with Jon. From the time he gave me an estimate to the completion of the work, Jon kept in touch and kept me well informed. He exceeded every expectation that my wife and I had. His team was wonderful too. They didn't just clear the land, they made it look fantastic. Class organization with Great People. I highly recommend Red Dirt Contracting!”
Dan Ward
“I live in a subdivision and my backyard was overgrown - you name it - it was overgrown with it! I can't be more pleased! They showed up and they went to work! Big ASV and a mini excavator - people with trimmers, chain saws. They trimmed the tall trees, mulched old rotten logs, pulled up two small stumps. They even took a blower and evened out the mulch. I was so pleased I got a chair and sat in the backyard and watched!”
Ken Crouch
“We could not be happier with the job. They exceeded our expectations! Jon was able to get to us quickly and the job was done in a day and a half and looks amazing. Jon and the crew had great work ethic and were professional and pleasant to deal with. The price was really good and the amount of work they did makes it a great value. My woods went from an embarrassing storm damaged jungle that I wouldn't step foot in to a beautiful space that I can't quit looking at and bragging about.”
April Schoenmaker
“Jon Byrnes is the first sub I have hired in SC and I could not be more thrilled with him, his team, and the job they did. From timely arrivals for bidding appointments, fair pricing and completion of the job on time, they are exactly the type of firms I want to have on my team. Jon was focused on making sure that every little detail was taken care to make sure the job was done right. Knowing I can trust someone to accomplish the job without cutting corners and focusing on the end product is a work ethic that is hard to come by these days.”
Jim Brandariz
Ready to Start Your Grading Project?
Tell us a little about what you're looking to build or improve, and we'll follow up by the next business day.