Grading & Site Preparation

Keifer Companies provides residential site preparation and structural grading services throughout Albany, Saratoga, and Schenectady counties. Proper grading and ground preparation protect foundations, improve drainage performance, and establish stable conditions for patios, driveways, shed pads, and exterior improvements.

Aggregate base and filter fabric installation during residential site preparation and structural grading project in the Capital Region, NY

Residential Site Preparation & Grading Services

From structural grading and excavation to exterior demolition, driveway base installation, and full lawn restoration, Keifer Companies handles the ground-level work that supports long-term site performance across the Capital Region. Each project begins with an evaluation of slope, soil composition, and water flow to ensure the work is coordinated correctly from the ground up.

Our site preparation and grading services include:

Structural Grading & Elevation Correction

Site Excavation & Ground Preparation

Land Clearing & Brush Removal

Exterior Demolition & Yard Reclamation

Driveway & Pad Preparation

Lawn Restoration & Hydroseeding

See Before & After Photos Of Our Drainage Installation Process

Green PVC foundation drainage pipe installed along a home's exposed foundation before backfilling Regraded soil sloping away from a home after foundation drainage installation

Structural Grading & Elevation Correction

Improper slope is one of the most common causes of pooling water and foundation stress. Structural grading and elevation correction establish predictable water flow away from structures and finished surfaces — addressing the root cause rather than managing symptoms at the surface.

Grading work is planned around the clay-heavy and mixed soils common throughout the Capital Region, where even minor elevation inconsistencies can lead to recurring drainage issues over time.

Soil Stabilization & Subgrade Work

Subgrade performance directly impacts the durability of drainage systems, driveways, patios, and other exterior features. In areas where soils are soft, saturated, or prone to movement, stabilization and compaction work may be required before installation begins.

See Before & After Photos Of Our Grading & Elevation Correction Projects

Open trench dug across a lawn with white PVC pipe being laid for a downspout drainage line Restored green lawn after a downspout drainage line was buried and the yard was regraded

Site Preparation & Excavation

Comprehensive site preparation includes excavation, trenching, rough grading, and surface reshaping to prepare properties for drainage improvements or exterior construction. Existing turf and unsuitable surface material are removed where necessary to establish stable working conditions.

Proper preparation reduces settlement risk, supports drainage integration, and ensures exterior features are built on well-compacted ground suited to long-term performance.

Land Clearing & Brush Removal

Selective land clearing and brush removal are performed when preparing properties for grading, drainage, driveway base installation, or exterior improvements. Clearing is approached carefully to support long-term site performance and preserve overall layout.

Exterior Demolition &Yard Reclamation

Exterior demolition is incorporated into larger projects such as drainage improvements and grading corrections, but is also performed as a standalone service when existing structures or surfaces no longer serve the property.

Commonly removed structures include patios, concrete slabs, sheds, pools, decks, walkways, and aging hardscape elements. Once removed, areas can be regraded, soil can be prepared, and the space can be restored for lawn establishment or future exterior improvements. Coordinating demolition with grading and surface restoration allows the full scope of work to be completed efficiently while improving drainage performance and yard usability.

Our Service Area

We serve residential and commercial properties within approximately a 50-mile radius of Albany — covering Albany County, Saratoga County, Rensselaer County, and Schenectady County.

Request A Site Consultation

If your yard slopes toward the foundation, experiences pooling water, or requires preparation for a driveway, shed pad, or lawn restoration, a site review can identify the appropriate grading and preparation approach.

Excavator grading a backyard during a site preparation and structural grading project behind a home
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