What is grade in road construction, and why does it matter? Learn about it here.
Road construction starts from the ground up. Reliable Contracting, located in central Maryland, has decades of in-depth experience in the paving construction industry. Our services include preparing the soil for construction, paving concrete and asphalt surfaces, and installing stormwater management systems. Grading is a crucial part of the picture. What is the importance of grading roads?
What Is Grade in Road Construction?
The grade in road construction is the slope of the road starting from the ground up. Contractors will remediate the soil if necessary so that it can bear the weight of the new pavement and road traffic. They will also remove weeds, rocks, and other debris from the site, level the ground, and slope the ground in such a way that it enhances travel safety and sound road construction. Very simply put, grade in construction refers to the slope of the land.
The Importance of Grading Roads
Travel Safety over Hills and Curves
It’s common to think about grading land in terms of stormwater drainage, but grading in road construction also applies to the rise and fall of the road itself over hilly terrain. Some mountainous or hilly areas in the United States have extremely steep roads; in Maryland, you might see steep roads near rivers, in the woods, or in the hills of western MD. Adhering to national standards and engineering the slope for each case will ensure that the slope is not too steep for safe travel during favorable or inclement weather.
Travel Safety in Wet Weather
Roads also have a slope width-wise, tapering on either side. Keeping the high point along the middle allows rainwater to flow directly to the edges, maintaining a flood-free pavement for drivers to traverse. Stormwater management systems like detention ponds and sewer systems will catch excess water to prevent flooding and soil erosion.
Road Preservation
Sloping the road’s rise, fall, and stormwater drainage will not only maintain travel safety but also preserve the road itself. Should flooding occur, improperly graded roads can wash out sooner. A good foundation will ensure a good road that will last.
ABOUT RELIABLE CONTRACTING
Reliable is dedicated to delivering quality products, displaying professionalism within the firm, seeking new opportunities for expansion and profitability, and providing an environment for individual success. If you have a commercial or residential construction project that you need taken care of, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visiting our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding counties and areas: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.