THE 10 BEST Grading Services in PORTLAND, OR
| Business Name | Key Services | Best For | Address | Hours | PS Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hal’s Construction | Precision grading, excavation, drainage solutions, laser-controlled equipment | Commercial and residential grading projects | 20666 S. Highway 213, Oregon City, OR 97045 | Monday-Friday 6am-6pm | 4.5/5 |
| Lovaz Excavating LLC | Excavation, land grading, sewer installation, trenching, driveway work | Residential grading and excavation | 14650 S Quail Grove Circle, Oregon City, OR 97045 | Monday-Friday 7am-5pm, Saturday 7am-2pm | 4.8/5 |
| Prestige Landscape & Tree Service | Land leveling, grading, hardscaping, drainage systems, site preparation | Landscape grading and outdoor transformations | 4646 NE Buffalo St, Portland, OR 97218 | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.6/5 |
| Anderson Landscape & Tree Service | Grading, excavation, drainage installation, yard leveling, hardscaping | Residential yard grading and maintenance | 2403 SE Monroe St, Ste. A2, Milwaukie, OR 97222 | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.4/5 |
| Natural Landscape and Irrigation | Site grading, excavation, landscape preparation, drainage solutions | Custom grading for landscaping projects | Lake Oswego, OR (serving Greater Portland) | By appointment | 4.3/5 |
| McKillip Excavation, Inc. | Commercial excavation, site grading, demolition, hauling services | Large-scale commercial grading | Portland, OR (Donald location) | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.4/5 |
| A&L Construction and Remodeling | Ground leveling, yard grading, brush clearing, lawn filling | Yard leveling and ground preparation | Portland, OR (serving metro area) | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.2/5 |
| Superior Underground | Excavation, grading, trenching, utility installation, site preparation | New construction and utility grading | Portland and SW Washington | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.5/5 |
| PDX Sewer Solutions | Excavation, grading, sewer work, drainage systems, site preparation | Drainage and sewer-related grading | Portland, OR (serving metro area) | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.6/5 |
| Precision Excavation | Site grading, excavation, drainage solutions, land clearing, preparation | Residential and commercial site work | Portland, OR (serving metro area) | Monday-Friday (call for hours) | 4.3/5 |
#1. Hal’s Construction – Best for Commercial and Residential Grading Projects
Key Highlights:
- Over 50 years of experience in the Portland excavation and grading industry
- State-of-the-art laser-controlled equipment for precision grading within 0.01 to 0.02 feet
- Free drainage consultations and economical solutions for water management problems
Hal’s Construction has built a strong reputation in Portland for more than five decades. They specialize in precision grading work that sets the foundation for quality paving jobs. Their team understands that proper grading is essential for any construction project, whether you need rock installation, concrete preparation, or asphalt work.
The company uses advanced laser-controlled technology that ensures accurate elevation throughout your project. This level of precision means your driveway, road, or building pad will have the correct slope for proper drainage. Many customers appreciate that Hal’s offers free estimates and drainage consultations at no extra charge. Their experienced estimators can identify the most cost-effective solutions for your specific needs.
Hal’s Construction serves the entire Portland metro area, including Gresham, Tualatin, Beaverton, and Vancouver, Washington. They handle both residential and commercial projects of any size. The family-owned business takes pride in solving complex drainage problems and delivering results that last. Their commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction has made them a trusted name in the Portland construction community for generations.
#2. Lovaz Excavating LLC – Best for Residential Grading and Excavation
Key Highlights:
- Family-owned, minority-led business with over 10 years of specialized experience
- 5-year warranty on plumbing and sewer work, 6-month warranty on concrete installations
- Free estimates provided within 2 to 3 days with competitive pricing guarantees
Lovaz Excavating LLC has earned an excellent reputation throughout the Portland metro area. The company serves Washington, Yamhill, Clackamas, Clark, Marion, and Multnomah counties with professional excavation and grading services. Owner Leo Lopez and his team are known for their thorough work and friendly communication throughout every project.
What sets Lovaz apart is their commitment to standing behind their work with comprehensive warranties. Customers feel confident knowing their grading and excavation projects are protected long after completion. The team handles everything from land leveling and site preparation to driveway installation and drainage systems. They use modern equipment and proven techniques to ensure your property is properly graded.
Many Portland homeowners choose Lovaz for their honest approach to pricing. The company matches or beats competitor rates without sacrificing quality. They understand that grading work needs to be done right the first time to prevent future drainage issues or foundation problems. Whether you need your yard regraded, a new driveway installed, or site preparation for construction, Lovaz Excavating delivers reliable results. Their BBB accreditation and numerous five-star reviews reflect their dedication to customer satisfaction.
#3. Prestige Landscape & Tree Service – Best for Landscape Grading and Outdoor Transformations
Key Highlights:
- Licensed with Oregon Landscape Contractors Board and voted Portland’s Best in 2019
- Comprehensive services including hardscaping, retaining walls, and drainage systems
- 10-year warranty on all landscape construction projects
Prestige Landscape & Tree Service offers complete grading solutions for residential properties throughout Portland. Based locally and operated by Patrick Carter-North, the company has built hundreds of beautiful outdoor spaces since 2011. Their skilled team handles land leveling, grading, site preparation, and excavation as part of larger landscaping transformations.
The company excels at creating functional outdoor spaces from challenging terrain. They understand how proper grading integrates with hardscaping features like patios, retaining walls, and walkways. Their grading work ensures proper drainage while creating level areas for outdoor living. Many customers praise their attention to detail and creative problem-solving abilities.
Prestige serves all areas of Portland, including inner SE, NE, N Portland, and SW Portland. They also work in Vancouver, Washington. The team provides free consultations and detailed proposals so you understand exactly what to expect. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship shows in their comprehensive 10-year warranty. Whether you need minor slope corrections or complete yard regrading, Prestige brings both technical expertise and artistic vision to every project. They make sure your outdoor space is not only beautiful but also properly graded for long-term functionality.
#4. Anderson Landscape & Tree Service – Best for Residential Yard Grading and Maintenance
Key Highlights:
- Family-owned business serving Portland since 1993 with over 30 years combined experience
- Comprehensive services including grading, drainage installation, and hardscaping
- 24/7 availability for emergency services with licensed and insured crew
Anderson Landscape & Tree Service has become a neighborhood favorite in the Milwaukie and Portland areas. The family-owned company started small in 2006 and has grown into one of Portland’s leading landscape maintenance and grading service providers. They handle everything from simple yard leveling to complex drainage and excavation projects.
Their grading services focus on creating functional outdoor spaces for homeowners. The team installs French drains, corrects drainage problems, and levels yards for various purposes. They also provide grading work for patio installations, retaining walls, and lawn renovations. Customers appreciate their ability to handle multiple aspects of a project, from initial grading through final landscaping touches.
Anderson Landscape serves Milwaukie, Portland, and surrounding communities with affordable, professional service. Their crews are known for being polite, efficient, and detail-oriented. The company offers free estimates and works with customers to find solutions that fit their budgets. Whether you have standing water issues, need yard leveling for a new feature, or want to improve your property’s drainage, Anderson provides reliable expertise. Their established reputation and positive customer reviews demonstrate their commitment to quality work and customer satisfaction.
#5. Natural Landscape and Irrigation – Best for Custom Grading for Landscaping Projects
Key Highlights:
- Specializes in grading and excavation throughout Greater Portland Metropolitan Area
- Expertise in working with existing contours to minimize costs and time
- Comprehensive understanding of drainage and soil movement for landscaping
Natural Landscape and Irrigation brings specialized knowledge to grading projects in Lake Oswego and the surrounding Portland area. Located conveniently to serve Beaverton, Tigard, Tualatin, and West Linn, they focus on grading work that enhances landscaping projects. Their approach balances functional needs with aesthetic appeal.
The company understands that grading involves reshaping terrain to solve drainage problems and create usable spaces. They excel at the technical aspects of cutting and filling operations. Their team knows how to balance the amount of dirt removed with the amount added to avoid unnecessary hauling costs. This expertise saves customers money while achieving excellent results.
Natural Landscape works closely with clients to understand their vision and property challenges. They provide grading services that create relatively flat areas for patios, walkways, and planting beds. Their experience includes handling slopes, managing water runoff, and preparing sites for irrigation systems. The company serves both residential and commercial clients throughout the Greater Portland area. When you need grading work that integrates seamlessly with your landscaping plans, Natural Landscape and Irrigation offers the specialized expertise to make it happen.
#6. McKillip Excavation, Inc. – Best for Large-Scale Commercial Grading
Key Highlights:
- Nearly 20 years of experience as a premier Portland excavation company
- 6-man crew for efficient project completion without compromising quality
- Fully insured and bonded with Construction Contractor Board license and BBB accreditation
McKillip Excavation, Inc. stands out for their comprehensive approach to commercial site preparation. They handle excavation, grading, demolition, and hauling services all under one roof. This integration eliminates the need to coordinate between multiple contractors, saving time and reducing complications on commercial projects.
The company focuses on commercial developments where precise grading is essential for proper site preparation. Their team determines the right grade for your site, plans utility installations, and manages excess dirt removal efficiently. They bring experience working on commercial properties where timing and quality are equally important. Their six-person crew works quickly while maintaining high standards.
McKillip serves the Portland area with competitive pricing and transparent estimates. They understand the complexities of commercial construction and work to fit into your project timeline seamlessly. The company’s bonded and insured status provides peace of mind for commercial property owners and general contractors. Whether you need site grading for a new building, parking lot preparation, or utility installation, McKillip brings nearly two decades of proven experience. Their reputation for reliability and quality workmanship makes them a trusted partner for commercial grading projects throughout Portland.
#7. A&L Construction and Remodeling – Best for Yard Leveling and Ground Preparation
Key Highlights:
- Licensed general contractors specializing in ground leveling and grading services
- Latest equipment and supplies for quality residential and commercial projects
- Expertise in drainage, water runoff, and topographical corrections
A&L Construction and Remodeling provides professional ground leveling throughout Portland and surrounding areas. They handle projects of any size, from small front yard adjustments to large backyard transformations. Their experience includes clearing land, leveling for new construction, and correcting drainage problems.
The company uses modern grading equipment to reshape hills, level uneven terrain, and create stable building surfaces. They understand how water flows across properties and apply this knowledge to ensure proper drainage. Many customers appreciate their ability to transform unusable slopes into level, functional spaces perfect for landscaping, decks, or new structures.
A&L serves residential and commercial clients throughout the Portland metro area. They handle everything from brush clearing and lawn filling to complete site preparation. Their thorough understanding of grading principles means they can tackle both simple leveling jobs and complex grading projects. The team provides free quotes and works to deliver quality results at competitive prices. Whether you need yard leveling for a pool, ground preparation for a new addition, or hillside grading, A&L brings the equipment and expertise to get the job done right.
#8. Superior Underground – Best for New Construction and Utility Grading
Key Highlights:
- Over 15 years of professional excavation and grading experience
- Certified and licensed to operate in Oregon with comprehensive insurance coverage
- Specializes in new construction dig-outs for homes, ADUs, shops, and commercial buildings
Superior Underground has built a strong reputation for quality excavation and grading services in Portland and SW Washington. The company focuses on new construction projects where proper site grading sets the foundation for successful builds. They work with general contractors and individual homeowners to execute grading plans with precision.
Their services include excavation for new home foundations, accessory dwelling units, shops, and small commercial buildings. The team handles site grading, utility trenching, and drainage installations. They use both traditional trenching methods and trenchless technology depending on the project requirements. This flexibility allows them to choose the best approach for each situation.
Superior Underground serves residential and commercial clients throughout the greater Portland area. Their experienced crew understands local soil conditions and building requirements. They coordinate closely with other contractors to ensure grading work integrates smoothly with the overall construction timeline. The company’s commitment to quality extends beyond project completion with their comprehensive service warranties. Whether you’re planning a new build, adding an ADU, or developing a commercial property, Superior Underground provides the grading expertise needed for a solid foundation.
#9. PDX Sewer Solutions – Best for Drainage and Sewer-Related Grading
Key Highlights:
- Over 25 years serving the Portland area with specialized sewer and drainage expertise
- Complete excavation and grading services for sewer line installations and repairs
- Fast response times and solutions for drainage problems affecting property grading
PDX Sewer Solutions brings specialized knowledge to grading projects involving drainage and sewer systems. With more than 25 years in business, they understand how proper grading prevents water problems and foundation damage. They handle the excavation and grading work needed for sewer line installations, drain repairs, and septic system projects.
The company excels at solving drainage issues that affect property grades. They install rain drains, repair sewer lines, and create proper slopes for water management. Their team knows how to grade around existing utilities while ensuring new installations function properly. Many Portland homeowners call them when standing water, poor drainage, or sewer problems require both excavation and careful regrading.
PDX Sewer Solutions serves the Portland metro area with prompt, professional service. They handle both emergency situations and planned grading projects. Their experience includes working in challenging urban environments where precision matters. The company’s long history in Portland means they understand local soil conditions and drainage challenges. When your grading project involves sewer systems, drainage solutions, or water management, PDX Sewer Solutions brings the specialized expertise to ensure proper function and long-lasting results.
#10. Precision Excavation – Best for Residential and Commercial Site Work
Key Highlights:
- Experienced with all Portland-area soil types and weather conditions
- Full range of excavation services from site preparation to final grading
- Professional equipment including Caterpillar, Komatsu, and John Deere excavators
Precision Excavation serves Portland with comprehensive grading and excavation services for residential and commercial projects. They bring years of experience working in Oregon’s unique weather conditions and varied terrain. The company handles site preparation, land clearing, grading, and excavation with modern, well-maintained equipment.
Their team understands different excavation methods including topsoil removal, trench excavation, and rock excavation. They select the right approach based on your property conditions and project goals. The company works throughout the Portland metro area, including Beaverton, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, Gresham, and surrounding communities.
Precision Excavation provides free quotes and works with clients to understand their specific needs. Whether you need grading for a driveway, site leveling for construction, or drainage improvements, they deliver quality results. Their professional approach includes thorough site assessment and clear communication throughout the project. The company’s commitment to using top-quality equipment ensures efficient completion without compromising precision. For reliable grading and excavation services across the Portland area, Precision Excavation offers the skills and equipment needed for projects of any size.
How Much Does Grading Cost in Portland, OR?
Grading costs in Portland vary based on several important factors. Most homeowners spend between $1,105 and $3,282 for yard leveling projects, with the average cost around $2,194. The price depends mainly on the size of the area and how steep the slope is that needs correction.
For smaller projects, contractors typically charge $1 to $2 per square foot. This works well for minor yard adjustments or leveling specific areas. Larger projects based on acreage cost more. Light grading runs $1,000 to $3,000 per acre, moderate grading costs $3,000 to $7,000 per acre, and extensive grading for hills can exceed $7,000 per acre.
The western parts of Portland tend to have higher grading costs because of steeper terrain. Additional services add to the base price. You might need land clearing ($500 to $1,000 or more), land surveys ($500 to $5,500), or soil testing ($1,500 to $5,000). Tree removal can cost $300 to $2,500 per tree, while stump grinding runs $150 to $500 per stump. Getting multiple quotes from licensed contractors helps you find fair pricing for your specific project.
What Should I Look for When Hiring a Grading Contractor?
Choosing the right grading contractor protects your investment and ensures quality results. First, verify the contractor holds proper Oregon licensing through the Construction Contractors Board. Licensed contractors must pass exams, carry insurance, and maintain surety bonds. This protects you if problems arise during or after the project.
Experience with Portland-area soil and terrain is valuable. Ask how long they’ve operated locally and request references from recent projects. Good contractors provide free estimates and explain their approach clearly. They should assess your property’s drainage needs and discuss how grading will solve your specific problems.
Insurance and bonding are essential. Make sure the contractor carries general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. Ask about warranties on their work. Many top Portland contractors offer warranties ranging from six months to ten years. Check online reviews on multiple platforms and verify their Better Business Bureau rating. Finally, get detailed written estimates from at least three contractors. Compare not just prices but also the scope of work, timeline, and what’s included. Trust contractors who communicate clearly and answer your questions thoroughly.
How Long Does a Typical Grading Project Take?
The timeline for grading projects in Portland depends on several key factors. Small residential yard leveling jobs often take one to three days. These include fixing drainage problems in specific areas, leveling yards for sod installation, or preparing small building pads. Medium-sized projects like driveway grading or larger yard transformations typically require three to seven days.
Large-scale commercial grading or extensive property regrading can take several weeks. Weather plays a big role in Portland. Heavy rain can delay grading work since wet soil is difficult to compact properly and equipment can damage saturated ground. Most contractors prefer working during drier months between late spring and early fall for optimal conditions.
Project complexity affects timing too. Simple leveling is faster than grading that requires extensive drainage systems, retaining walls, or utility relocations. Soil type matters as well. Rocky or clay-heavy soil takes longer to grade than sandy or loamy soil. Access to your property impacts speed. Easy equipment access speeds up work, while tight spaces or challenging terrain slow things down. Good contractors provide realistic timelines during the estimate process. They account for your property’s specific conditions and Portland’s weather patterns. Always allow extra time in your planning for unexpected delays or discoveries during excavation.