West Seattle Grading for new lawn

Homeowner’s Issue

West Seattle yards are a mixed bag: pockets of glacial till, run-down topsoil, compacted clay in older lots, and sandy fills near the bluff toward Alki. We see water funneling toward basements or patio slabs after October storms, moss choking shady lawns under tall cedars, and ivy/weed pressure along lot lines. Many houses sit on slopes or terraces that need re-contouring to keep rainwater moving away from foundations and to avoid erosion on steep front yards.

The climate matters — heavy, frequent rain from fall through spring, then drier, occasionally hot spells in summer mean timing matters. Seed windows are best in early fall or early spring; summer seeding needs irrigation. West Seattle gets salt spray near the shore and more wind exposure on exposed bluffs; inland pockets like Highland Park stay shadier and muddier. HOA rules in some neighborhoods favor tidy, low-maintenance turf and restrained runoff; most customers want fewer visits, less moss, and a grade that doesn’t shove water into their neighbor’s driveway. We handle compaction, correct crowns, and add organic soil where needed so new grass establishes fast and holds up to West Seattle weather without synthetic herbicides — just good soil work, compost, and hands-on weed control.

Our Quality Service

We grade for lawns the way we’d want ours done: practical, durable, and sustainable. That means site assessment, targeted excavation or fill, re-contouring for positive drainage, soil amendment with compost, and proper compaction. We use compact mini‑excavators, plate compactors, laser-level checks, and hand-finishing tools for edges and tight areas.

Typical timelines:

• Small yards or patch regrades: 1 day.
• Average residential lots: 1–2 days.
• Complex slopes, retaining work or large sod installs: 2–4 days.

Local insight built into every job: prioritize fall seeding, keep grades away from foundations (minimum 6” drop over 10 feet where possible), and design minor swales toward permeable strips or rain gardens. We don’t use herbicides — organic weed control, manual removal, and mulches are standard. Benefits include safer walkways, reduced erosion, improved curb appeal, and a lower‑maintenance lawn that tolerates West Seattle’s rain and shade.

What’s Included

• Full site assessment and slope/drainage mapping.
• Removal or addition of soil to achieve proper grade.
• Soil amendment with compost/topsoil blend.
• Mechanical grading and hand-finish for smooth seed or sod bed.
• Compaction and final leveling.
• Seeding or sod installation (your choice).

Options / Upgrades:

• Mulch + landscape fabric on beds (fabric optional; we favor organic mulch).
• Organic weed control and hand weeding.
• Compost top-dress for existing lawns.
• Haul-away to landfill vs. green‑bin/compost destination (you choose).
• Small retaining wall or terrace adjustments (priced separately).
• Irrigation inspection or drip/sprinkler installation (add-on).

Before & After / Expectations

Expect noise, machines, and some footprint for a day or two. We’ll need clear access and a place to park the truck and equipment; tight sites may require more hand work and extra time. Stump removal, major root work, or permitted retaining walls are extra costs and could extend timelines.

Aftercare tips for West Seattle:

• Best seeding window: early fall (Sept–Oct) or early spring (Mar–Apr). If seeded in summer, plan for regular watering.
• Keep newly seeded areas moist but not waterlogged; light daily waterings until germination, then taper.
• Expect winter weed pressure; hand‑pull or use organic methods in spring.
• For moss: aerate, add thin topdressing compost, and increase light/air flow where possible.
• Avoid herbicides — we use cultural fixes, topsoil improvements, and manual control.

FAQs

• How long until I can use the lawn?

  • Sod: light use in 2–3 weeks, full use in 4–6 weeks. Seed: 8–12 weeks to establish depending on timing and weather.

• Will grading fix standing water?

  • Usually yes. We re-contour to direct flow away from structures and add permeable amendments; problematic sites may need a French drain or rain garden (quoted separately).

• Do you haul away old soil and debris?

  • Yes. Choose haul-away to landfill or green‑bin/composting options. We include disposal in the quote.

• Do you use chemicals for weeds or moss?

  • No. We rely on manual removal, organic weed controls, compost/topdressing, and improved drainage to reduce weed and moss pressure.

Call to Action

If you’re in West Seattle and tired of soggy patches, moss, or angled lawns that dump water on the street, book a free estimate. We schedule quickly, know local soils and microclimates from Alki to Highland Park, and set up lawns that last with sustainable methods.

Email: neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com
Phone: 206-538-9344
Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Mon–Sun: 9am–6pm — quick local estimates and straightforward scheduling.