Site Preparation

Clear the Site. Shape the Ground. Prepare for What Comes Next.

From demolition and debris removal to grading, excavation support, and drainage shaping, we prepare residential sites with a clear plan and an organized approach.

What We Do

Expert Grading & Demolition Work

Selective demolition, site clearing, excavation support, rough and finish grading, and debris removal handled with a controlled process that prepares the property for the next phase of work.

  • Selective interior and exterior demolition
  • Removal of slabs, hardscape, structures, and site features
  • Site clearing, excavation support, and debris haul-away
  • Rough and finish grading for construction-ready surfaces
  • Drainage shaping, swales, and slope correction
  • Access preparation for foundations, concrete, and utility work
  • Project coordination with the next construction phase in mind
  • Clean, organized work areas and controlled removal practices
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Why Choose Us

Site Preparation Done With Control and Foresight

Demolition and grading affect everything that follows. We approach the work with attention to access, utilities, surrounding structures, drainage, cleanup, and the needs of the next trade so the site is left safer, cleaner, and better prepared for construction.

  • Project-specific planning before demolition or earthwork begins
  • Controlled removal that accounts for nearby structures, access, and utilities
  • Organized debris handling and haul-away for a cleaner site
  • Grading shaped around drainage, elevations, and the next construction phase
  • Clear communication from initial site review through final cleanup
Prepare My Site
Altadena General Contractors team on a project site

Altadena General Contractors Process

Our step-by-step journey from consultation to optional care

1

Consultation & Planning

  • Get In Touch - Reach out by phone, email, or form to schedule your free consultation.
  • On-Site Assessment - We review your property, goals, and project requirements in detail.
  • Custom Plan & Quote - We provide a tailored scope with clear, transparent pricing.
2

Design & Approval

  • Concept Development - We create a practical solution that balances style, function, and long-term performance.
  • Selections & Specifications - We finalize materials, finishes, and key project details.
  • Final Approval - We refine the plan with your feedback before work begins.
3

Installation & Construction

  • Project Kickoff - Our licensed team prepares the site and sets a clean, organized workflow.
  • Expert Execution - We complete the approved scope with quality craftsmanship and dependable communication.
  • Quality Control - We perform checks throughout the job and make adjustments as needed.
4

Final Walkthrough & Completion

  • Client Walkthrough - We review the completed work with you to confirm every detail meets expectations.
  • Final Touches - We address punch-list items and ensure the project is clean and complete.
  • Care Guidance - We share practical maintenance tips to protect your investment.

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Transform your property with dependable construction solutions.

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Other Services We Offer

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Foundations & Slabs

New foundations, structural slabs, footings, slab replacement, and repair coordination completed with careful excavation, subgrade preparation, reinforcement, moisture planning, placement, and curing.

Learn about Foundations & Slabs
Concrete & Masonry service image

Concrete & Masonry

Residential concrete and masonry services for driveways, patios, walkways, retaining walls, foundations, slabs, and decorative flatwork, with careful preparation and clean finishing.

Learn about Concrete & Masonry
Architectural Design & Engineering service image

Architectural Design & Engineering

Planning, architectural design, engineering coordination, and permit support for additions, ADUs, remodels, rebuilds, and other residential construction projects.

Learn about Architectural Design & Engineering

Service FAQs

Common Questions About Grading & Demolition

What types of demolition work do you handle?

We handle a range of residential demolition scopes, including selective interior demolition, removal of exterior site features, hardscape demolition, slab removal, small-structure demolition, and other project-specific scopes based on access, permitting, utilities, and jobsite conditions.

What is the difference between selective demolition and full demolition?

Selective demolition removes only the materials or structures needed for the next phase of work while protecting the surrounding areas that will remain. Full demolition involves removing a larger structure or broader area. The best approach depends on the project goals, site conditions, and approved scope of work.

Do you remove and haul away demolition debris?

Yes. Debris removal, loading, hauling, and site cleanup can be included so the area is left cleaner and ready for the next step. The exact approach depends on the material being removed, access to the site, and disposal requirements.

Can you grade the site after demolition?

Yes. We can coordinate demolition, clearing, excavation support, and grading as a connected scope so the property is prepared for foundations, concrete, drainage, landscaping, fencing, or other improvements.

What kinds of grading services do you provide?

Grading work may include rough grading, finish grading, slope correction, drainage shaping, pad preparation, access-path preparation, and contouring the ground for the next construction or landscaping phase.

Can grading help with drainage problems?

In many cases, yes. Grading can help direct water away from structures, reduce low spots, and improve overall site drainage. The right solution depends on the property, surrounding elevations, soil conditions, and the broader project scope.

Do demolition or grading projects require permits?

Some projects do. Permit requirements depend on the type of demolition, whether structural elements are involved, the location of utilities, the amount of earthwork, and local jurisdiction requirements. We can review the likely requirements during planning.

What happens if hazardous materials are present?

If materials such as asbestos, lead-based finishes, contaminated soil, or other hazardous conditions are suspected, they may require testing and handling by qualified specialists before demolition or excavation proceeds.

How long does a grading or demolition project take?

Timing depends on project size, access, equipment needs, debris volume, utility coordination, permit requirements, and the condition of the site. After reviewing the scope, we can provide a more realistic project-specific timeline.

Can you prepare the site for the next contractor or phase of work?

Yes. Our goal is to leave the site ready for what comes next, whether that means foundations, concrete, plumbing, landscaping, fencing, or a broader rebuild. We coordinate the work so the transition into the next phase is more efficient.