What areas do you serve?

We proudly serve Dalton and the surrounding Western New York region, including Livingston, Monroe, Allegany, Wyoming, Steuben, and Genesee counties. Our service area extends to Rochester, Hornell, Wellsville, and many communities in between.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes! We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all excavation and property maintenance projects. Call us at (585) 505-4880 or fill out our contact form to schedule your estimate.

What's the difference between rough grading and finish grading?

Rough grading establishes the major contours of the land — cutting, filling, and shaping to within several inches of target elevation. Finish grading is the precise final pass that brings the surface to exact grade, typically done just before seeding, sodding, or paving.

How much slope do I need for good drainage?

The general rule for residential property is a minimum 2% slope (2 feet of drop per 100 feet) away from foundations and structures for the first 10 feet. Beyond that, slopes can be more gradual. Steeper slopes require erosion control to prevent washout.

Rough Grading in Dalton, New York — Professional Results

Professional land shaping for construction, landscaping, and drainage.

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Licensed & Insured Free Estimates Same-Day Available

Need rough grading in Dalton or the surrounding area? SMH Excavation & Property Maintenance provides professional, reliable service with residential-friendly equipment. Call us at (585) 505-4880 for a free estimate.

What Is Rough Grading?

Rough grading is the process of reshaping the surface of the land to achieve planned elevations and slopes prior to construction or landscaping. It involves moving soil in bulk — cutting high spots, filling low areas — to create a stable, properly drained base. This is distinct from finish grading, which fine-tunes the surface. Rough grading establishes the big picture: where the land will sit, how it will drain, and how it will support whatever comes next. No construction project, new lawn, or major landscaping effort should skip this step.

Want the full breakdown? Our Rough Grading Guide covers exact pricing factors, step-by-step process, and answers to the most common questions.

Read the Guide

When You Need Rough Grading

Rough grading is the foundation of any successful construction or landscaping project. Whether you're preparing for a new building, creating a level lawn, or establishing proper drainage, professional grading ensures your project starts on solid ground.

Common signs you need this service:

Preparing a site for new construction
Creating level areas for patios or outbuildings
Establishing proper yard drainage
Smoothing out uneven terrain
Preparing land for seeding or sod installation

Rough Grading service - SMH Excavation dump truck on job site

Our Rough Grading Process

Our grading process transforms raw land into a properly contoured surface ready for your project.

Survey existing grades and establish benchmarks

Mark out grading plan and final elevations

Remove or redistribute existing soil as needed

Cut and fill to achieve target grades

Compact soil for stability

Fine grade to prepare for next phase

Rough Grading project - SMH Excavation equipment in Western New York

Rough Grading Cost in Dalton

Rough grading costs depend on the area size, amount of cut and fill required, and soil conditions. Heavily sloped or rocky sites require more work. We provide accurate estimates based on actual site conditions—what you see is what you pay.

Get Your Free Estimate

Every project is unique. Call for a personalized quote with transparent, upfront pricing.

(585) 505-4880

Why Choose SMH Excavation & Property Maintenance

Accurate grading to your specifications

Right-sized equipment minimizes property damage

Proper compaction for stable surfaces

Drainage considerations built into every project

More Excavating Contractor Services

Utility Trenching

Precise trenching for utilities, drainage, and underground systems.

Ditch & Swale Creation

Custom drainage solutions to manage water flow on your property.

Backfilling & Compaction

Proper fill and compaction for stable foundations and structures.

Stump Removal

Complete stump excavation and removal for clear, usable land.

Driveway & Access Road Grading

Smooth, durable driveways and access roads for your property.

Ready to Get Started?

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View all Excavating Contractor services