In East Tennessee's rolling hills and clay soils, water doesn't stay put — it moves, and it follows gravity. Proper grading directs that water away from your home, protecting foundations, basements, and crawl spaces. This guide explains how grading works, the role of soil and gravel, and how professional site work (including Bobcat services) can correct drainage issues before they become costly repairs.
Hydrostatic pressure pushes against walls, causing cracks and settling. Water expands when frozen, worsening damage.
costly structuralImproper grading sends runoff toward the house, seeping through walls or floor joints. Even minor floods invite mold.
mold riskUncontrolled runoff carves gullies, undermines walkways, and washes away topsoil and landscaping.
loses soilOver time, settling can create slopes toward the house. This "reverse grading" is a leading cause of wet basements.
often invisibleOur region's clay soils drain slowly, and our hills mean water velocity is high. Heavy spring rains and sudden downpours test every property. Proper grading creates a slope of at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet away from the foundation. In tight spaces, drainage swales or French drains may be needed. Local professionals offering Skid Steer services are equipped to move the tons of soil and gravel required to reshape your grade effectively.
| concept | what it means | why it matters | how it's done |
|---|---|---|---|
| positive grading | sloping away from foundation (≥6" per 10') | moves surface water away | cut/fill with equipment |
| crowning | high point in center of yard | sheds water to sides | shaping with box blade |
| swales | shallow, vegetated channels | convey water without erosion | excavate, seed, or line |
| French drains | perforated pipe in gravel trench | collect subsurface water | trench, fabric, pipe, gravel |
| regrading | moving soil to correct slope | fixes settled or incorrectly graded areas | excavate, haul, compact |
Correcting drainage issues is about moving material — often thousands of pounds of dirt, clay, and gravel. This is where compact equipment shines. Skid steer loaders (Bobcats) can:
For homeowners, renting a Bobcat is an option, but operating it effectively — especially for grading — takes experience. That's why many turn to professionals who offer Skid Steer services as part of their site work. They know how to read the land and create the subtle slopes that make all the difference.
Grading isn't just about moving dirt — it's about using the right materials. Crushed stone (#57 or #411) is used for drainage layers and French drains because it locks together and leaves voids for water. Gravel (rounded) is less stable but can be used for decorative purposes. Clay soil, common here, compacts tightly but drains poorly — so it's often amended with sand or organic matter, or removed and replaced with engineered fill. A professional will know which material suits your site.
A typical grading project involves:
Water is relentless, but a properly graded property is the best defense. Whether you're building new, fixing an old issue, or just want peace of mind, understanding grading helps you make informed decisions. And when the job requires moving serious material, a professional with a Bobcat and years of experience can turn a muddy headache into a dry, stable landscape. For help in East Tennessee, companies like get us are equipped to handle everything from drainage corrections to full‑site grading.