Site Prep Mistakes to Avoid

Site preparation seems straightforward, but rushing through it or cutting corners creates expensive problems during construction. Here are the most common mistakes we see and how to avoid them.

1. Not Removing Stumps Below Grade

Leaving stumps or grinding them only to surface level causes settling under foundations, driveways, and patios. Stumps in the building footprint need to be ground 4-6 inches below grade at minimum. Deeper may be required for structural areas.

2. Ignoring Drainage

Grading without considering water flow creates drainage problems that are expensive to fix after construction. Rough grading should direct water away from the building pad and prevent pooling near foundations.

3. Clearing Too Little or Too Much

Clearing only the building footprint leaves no room for equipment access, material staging, or utility runs. But clearing the entire property wastes money and eliminates natural screening. Work with your contractor to define clearing zones based on the full construction plan.

4. Not Coordinating with the Builder

Your site prep contractor and builder need to communicate about grading specifications, building pad dimensions, and any special requirements. Getting this right the first time prevents costly re-grading later.

5. Scheduling During Mud Season

Heavy equipment on saturated ground creates compaction and rutting that undermines grading work. While our low-ground-pressure equipment handles softer conditions better than conventional machinery, planning around peak mud season (March-April in the Capital Region) is still smart when possible.

6. Skipping the Permit Check

Some municipalities require permits for tree removal or significant land disturbance. Check with your local building department before starting. It's far cheaper to get a permit upfront than to deal with stop-work orders or fines.