Grading & Excavation

Engineered site work for stable building pads, smooth lawns, and proper drainage — serving Marietta & North Metro Atlanta.

Site-First Solutions that Last


At Cedar Creek Site Development, we shape the land with precision so everything built on top performs beautifully. Our grading & excavation work sets the foundation for successful landscapes, additions, driveways, patios, and drainage systems — eliminating low spots, correcting slopes, and preparing soil structure for long-term stability.

What’s Included


  • Rough & finish grading for homesites, lawns, and outdoor living areas
  • Excavation for footings, utilities, and drainage runs
  • Slope correction and land balancing for smooth, mowable surfaces
  • Soil conditioning and compaction to spec for durable bases
  • Topsoil import/placement and final raking for sod/seed readiness
  • Haul-off of spoils and debris; clean tie-ins to existing grades
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Drainage-Ready Grading


Good grading prevents water problems before they start. We set positive pitch away from structures and integrate elevations with future or existing drainage systems — French drains, swales, catch basins, and downspout tie-ins — so water moves where it should.

  • Laser level setup for consistent falls
  • Foundation protection & benchmark control
  • Clean transitions at driveways, walks, and patios

Our Methods


  • Survey-informed layout and cut/fill planning
  • Lifts and compaction testing for stable subgrades
  • Red clay mitigation (scarification, lime/fines blending as needed)
  • Erosion control BMPs during construction

Typical Equipment


  • Mini/mid excavators, skid steers with laser box blade
  • Compactors, rakes, grading buckets, and trenchers
  • Dump trailers/haulers for import & export of soils

Our Process


1) Site Walk

Assess grades, water paths, soils, and access. Review goals and constraints.

2) Plan & Bench

Set benchmarks, define cut/fill, and confirm drainage tie-ins and elevations.

3) Shape & Compact

Execute grading in lifts, compact to spec, and verify slopes with laser.

4) Finish & Protect

Topsoil, rake, BMPs, and prep for sod/seed or hardscape installation.

Retaining Walls

Manage elevation changes and protect slopes with engineered wall systems. We coordinate wall base grades with finished elevations for clean, durable results.

Explore Retaining Walls ›

Drainage Solutions

From French drains to swales, we design systems that move water away from your home and hardscapes — integrated with finished grade.

See Drainage Options ›

Landscape Construction

Once the grade is right, we install sod, plantings, edging, and hardscapes for a complete finish that looks great and performs.

View Landscape Services ›

Grading & Excavation FAQs


How do I know if my yard needs regrading?

Signs include pooling water, soggy spots, washouts after storms, or mulch migrating during rain. Visible negative slope toward the house is another red flag.

What’s the difference between rough and finish grading?

Rough grading sets general elevations and slope with heavier equipment. Finish grading refines the surface for sod/seed or hardscape, with tight tolerances and compaction.

Will grading fix my drainage problems?

Often, yes. Many issues are solved with proper pitch. For heavy flows or tight lots, we integrate grading with French drains, swales, and basins for complete control.

Do you handle permits or inspections?

If permits or inspections are required for earthwork, erosion control, or retaining walls, we’ll advise you and coordinate with local guidelines.

Proudly Serving


Marietta • Kennesaw • Acworth • Woodstock • Roswell • East Cobb • North Metro Atlanta

Ready to Shape Your Land the Right Way?

Book a site walkthrough and grading plan with Cedar Creek Site Development.

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