Professional Service
Landscaping & Grading Services Toronto & GTA
Post-construction yard restoration, drainage grading, and landscape rebuilding. We fix what we dig — your yard comes back better than before.
Foundation grading and landscaping in Toronto costs $2,000–$8,000, establishing proper drainage slopes (minimum 5% grade away from foundation for 6 feet) to prevent water pooling against basement walls.
More Than Aesthetics
Why Landscaping Matters for Waterproofing
Proper grading is your first line of defence against basement water
The Critical Role of Grading
Proper grading is your first line of defence against basement water problems.
OBC requires minimum 2% slope away from foundation for the first 6 feet.
Bad grading = water pooling at foundation = basement flooding.
60% of basement water problems are caused by poor surface drainage.
After ANY Excavation Work
After waterproofing, underpinning, or egress window installation, the ground around your foundation has been disturbed.
Backfill soil is loose and will settle 10-20% over 1-2 years.
If grading isn't done correctly, that settlement will reverse the slope - sending water TOWARD your foundation instead of away.
DrySpace doesn't just dig and leave — we restore your property with proper drainage grading
2%
Minimum Slope Required
¼ inch per foot for 6 feet from foundation
60%
Of Basement Issues
Caused by poor surface drainage
$1K-$3K
Grading Fix Cost
Cheapest and most effective waterproofing
Complete Service
Our Landscaping & Grading Services
From excavation to final sod - we do it all
POST-CONSTRUCTION RESTORATION
$1,500 - $8,000
Depends on excavation extent
Restore yard after waterproofing, underpinning, or foundation work. Grading, topsoil, seed/sod, replanting.
Our most common landscaping service. After we excavate for waterproofing or underpinning, we put your yard back together with proper drainage grading.
- check_circle Proper backfill compaction
- check_circle Drainage grading to spec
- check_circle Topsoil replacement (4-6" depth)
- check_circle Sod or hydroseeding
- check_circle Shrub and garden replanting
- check_circle Fence replacement if removed
DRAINAGE GRADING
$1,000 - $3,000
Re-grade existing yard
Re-grade soil to slope away from foundation. Minimum 2% slope for 6 feet, then 1% beyond.
Your first line of defence against basement water. If your yard slopes toward the house, water will reach your foundation.
- check_circle 2% minimum slope for 6 feet
- check_circle Over-grading for settlement
- check_circle Clay cap at foundation
- check_circle Topsoil finish
- check_circle Coordinate with neighbour drainage
- check_circle OBC compliance
DOWNSPOUT EXTENSIONS & UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE
$500 - $1,200
Per downspout
Extend downspouts 6-10 feet from house via buried pipe. Discharge to storm sewer, dry well, or daylight outlet.
The #1 most effective water management upgrade. Downspouts that dump water next to your foundation cause 40% of basement flooding.
- check_circle Underground PVC pipe
- check_circle 6-10 feet minimum extension
- check_circle Storm sewer connection or daylight
- check_circle Pop-up emitter or splash block
- check_circle Freeze-protected installation
- check_circle Clean-out access points
FRENCH DRAIN / CURTAIN DRAIN
$40 - $80/linear foot
Trench, pipe, gravel, fabric
Perimeter trench drain in yard to intercept surface and subsurface water before it reaches the foundation.
Gravel-filled trench with perforated pipe. Great for properties with high water table or where neighbour's yard drains onto your property.
- check_circle Perforated 4" Big-O pipe
- check_circle Clear stone backfill
- check_circle Geotextile filter fabric
- check_circle 12-18" depth trench
- check_circle Connection to drainage system
- check_circle Sod or seed restoration
DRY WELL INSTALLATION
$1,500 - $3,000
Excavation, gravel, connections
Underground gravel-filled pit that collects and slowly disperses water into soil.
Great for downspout termination where storm sewer connection isn't available. Also used for sump pump discharge.
- check_circle 4-6 foot deep pit
- check_circle 3-4 foot diameter
- check_circle Clear stone fill
- check_circle Perforated sleeve or chamber
- check_circle Pop-up emitter at surface
- check_circle Proper soil percolation testing
RETAINING WALLS
$100 - $400/linear foot
Height and material dependent
Concrete, interlock, or natural stone walls to manage grade changes.
Engineered for heights over 3 feet. Great for sloped properties where grading alone can't achieve proper drainage.
- check_circle Engineered design (over 3 feet)
- check_circle Proper footing/base
- check_circle Drainage behind wall (weeping tile)
- check_circle Clear stone backfill
- check_circle Deadman anchors if needed
- check_circle Concrete, interlock, or stone
SOD & SEED
$2 - $4/sq ft
Premium sod, topsoil, grading
Full lawn restoration with proper topsoil (4-6" depth), grading, and premium sod or seed.
Hydroseeding available for large areas. Fall seeding establishes fastest. Sod gives instant green.
- check_circle Topsoil prep (4-6" depth)
- check_circle Premium Kentucky bluegrass blend
- check_circle Proper grading before install
- check_circle Starter fertilizer
- check_circle Watering schedule guidance
- check_circle Hydroseeding option for large areas
INTERLOCK & PATIO STONES
$18 - $30/sq ft
Includes base prep
Permeable and standard interlocking pavers for patios, walkways, and driveways.
Proper base prep is critical for longevity. We excavate, install compacted granular base, and lay pavers with drainage considerations.
- check_circle Excavation to depth
- check_circle Compacted granular base
- check_circle Bedding sand layer
- check_circle Interlocking pavers
- check_circle Edge restraints
- check_circle Polymeric sand joints
GARDEN & PLANTING BEDS
Varies by scope
Materials + labour
Shrubs, perennials, and garden bed restoration.
We avoid planting too close to foundation (root damage risk). Replant what was removed during excavation, or upgrade your landscaping.
- check_circle Shrub and perennial replanting
- check_circle Safe distance from foundation
- check_circle Garden bed edging
- check_circle Mulch or decorative stone
- check_circle Proper soil amendments
- check_circle Plant selection guidance
FENCING
$30 - $80/linear foot
Wood or vinyl
Replace fencing removed during excavation. Wood, vinyl, or chain link.
We often need to remove sections of fence to access the excavation site. We reinstall or replace with equivalent or upgraded fencing.
- check_circle Fence removal and reinstall
- check_circle Wood, vinyl, or chain link
- check_circle Equivalent or upgrade
- check_circle Property line verification
- check_circle Post hole digging and setting
- check_circle Gate replacement if needed
Critical Details
The Grading Process: Why It's Critical
Understanding proper drainage grading specifications
Why Grading Is Critical
Water follows gravity — if the ground slopes toward your house, water goes to your foundation.
After construction, backfill soil is loose and settles 10-20% over 1-2 years.
Must be OVER-graded initially (higher than final target) to account for settlement.
DrySpace grades to 3-4% initially, knowing it'll settle to the required 2%.
OBC Standards
Grading Specifications
How we grade your property for proper drainage
| Zone | Slope Requirement | Distance | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation zone (0-6 ft) | 2% minimum (¼" per foot) | 6 feet from wall | Clay cap + topsoil |
| Transition zone (6-15 ft) | 1% minimum | To property drainage | Topsoil |
| Window wells | Level with or above grade | Around well | Gravel + topsoil |
| Walkways/patios | 1-2% away from house | Full length | Per surface type |
| Driveway | 2% toward street | Full length | Per surface type |
warning Common Grading Mistakes
❌ Piling topsoil against foundation
Why it's wrong: Keeps moisture at wall, causes rot, attracts termites, leads to basement leaks
✓ Correct approach: Clay cap at foundation, topsoil starts 6" away from wall
❌ Not compacting backfill before grading
Why it's wrong: Backfill settles 10-20% over first year, reversing your slope
✓ Correct approach: Compact backfill in 12" lifts, over-grade 3-4% initially
❌ Grading toward fence/neighbour
Why it's wrong: Creates drainage disputes, can damage neighbour's foundation
✓ Correct approach: Grade to property drainage (swale, street, or your own catchment)
❌ Flower beds trapping water against foundation
Why it's wrong: Garden bed edging acts as a dam, pooling water at foundation
✓ Correct approach: No edging within 6 feet of foundation, or slope beds away
❌ Grading without addressing downspouts
Why it's wrong: Downspouts dump hundreds of gallons near foundation - grading alone can't handle it
✓ Correct approach: Extend downspouts 6-10 feet PLUS proper grading
Setting Expectations
Before & After: What to Expect
What your yard will look like post-construction
After Exterior Waterproofing
- arrow_forward Excavated trench (2-4 feet wide, full wall depth) is backfilled
- arrow_forward Backfill settles 10-20% over first year — we overfill to compensate
- arrow_forward Landscaping above excavation zone needs full restoration
- arrow_forward Expect: topsoil, grading, sod or seed, replanting
After Underpinning
- arrow_forward Interior work — exterior usually not affected
- arrow_forward If combined with waterproofing: same as above
- arrow_forward Access points for concrete delivery may affect yard
- arrow_forward Minimal landscaping disruption
After Egress Window / Cutout
- arrow_forward Window well area needs proper grading and drainage
- arrow_forward May need to relocate gardens, shrubs, or walkways
- arrow_forward Smaller restoration area than full waterproofing
- arrow_forward Typically 1-2 day landscaping work
Backfill Settlement Timeline
Week 1
Initial settlement (5-8%)
3 Months
Major settlement complete (10-12%)
1 Year
Final settlement (15-20% total)
2+ Years
Fully settled and stable
This is why we over-grade initially — we account for this natural settlement process
Transparent Pricing
Landscaping & Grading Costs in the GTA
All-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees
| Service | Cost Range | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Post-construction restoration (one wall, 30 LF) | $1,500 - $3,500 | Grading, topsoil, sod |
| Post-construction restoration (full perimeter) | $4,000 - $8,000 | Grading, topsoil, sod, replanting |
| Drainage grading only | $1,000 - $3,000 | Re-slope existing yard |
| Downspout extensions (per downspout, buried) | $500 - $1,200 | Underground pipe to discharge point |
| French drain (per linear foot) | $40 - $80/LF | Trench, pipe, gravel, filter fabric |
| Dry well | $1,500 - $3,000 | Excavation, gravel pit, connections |
| Sod installation | $2 - $4/sq ft | Premium sod, topsoil, grading |
| Interlock patio/walkway | $18 - $30/sq ft | Includes base prep |
| Retaining wall (per linear foot) | $100 - $400/LF | Height and material dependent |
| Fence replacement (per linear foot) | $30 - $80/LF | Wood or vinyl |
7-Step Process
Our Landscaping Restoration Process
Post-Construction Assessment
After waterproofing/underpinning is complete, we assess the restoration needs. Measure areas affected by excavation. Check existing landscaping (what can be saved vs. replaced). Identify drainage requirements. Discuss your preferences: sod vs. seed, garden upgrades, hardscaping, fencing.
Backfill & Compaction
This is done immediately after waterproofing work. Backfill excavated trench with clear stone (bottom 12-18 inches) and native soil (upper portion). Compact soil in 12-inch lifts to prevent settlement. Over-fill 10-15% to account for future settling.
Grading to Spec
Grade soil to 3-4% slope away from foundation (settles to required 2% minimum). Apply clay cap at foundation zone (prevents water infiltration). Topsoil application (4-6 inches depth). Final grade to smooth finish, ready for sod or seed.
Drainage Features
Install downspout extensions (if part of project). Connect to storm sewer, dry well, or daylight outlet. Install French drains or curtain drains if needed. Ensure all surface water is directed away from foundation.
Sod or Seed Installation
For sod: lay premium Kentucky bluegrass blend, stagger seams, roll for soil contact. For seed: broadcast seed, rake lightly, apply starter fertilizer, straw mulch for moisture retention. Provide watering schedule and care instructions.
Replanting & Features
Replant shrubs and perennials (salvaged or new). Install garden bed edging (proper distance from foundation). Mulch or decorative stone in beds. Rebuild walkways, patios, or interlocking if needed.
Fence Replacement & Cleanup
Reinstall or replace fencing removed during excavation. Final site cleanup (remove construction debris, excess soil). Haul away old materials. Provide maintenance instructions for new sod/seed.
The DrySpace Difference
Why DrySpace Does Landscaping
One contractor for excavation AND restoration
The Problem with Most Companies
Most waterproofing companies dig your yard up and leave — you're stuck hiring a separate landscaper.
The landscaper doesn't understand drainage requirements — they're focused on aesthetics, not function.
If water problems return, who's responsible? The waterproofing company blames the landscaper. The landscaper blames the waterproofing.
You're left in the middle coordinating between two contractors who don't talk to each other.
The DrySpace Approach
DrySpace does the excavation AND the restoration — one contractor, one responsibility.
We guarantee proper drainage grading because our waterproofing warranty depends on it.
If water problems return because of bad grading, it's on us — that's why we do it right the first time.
2,000+ yards restored — every waterproofing project includes restoration. We've perfected the process.
SAVE 15-20% WITH BUNDLED SERVICES
Combine waterproofing + landscaping for volume pricing
GET FREE ASSESSMENTTiming Matters
Seasonal Considerations
Best times of year for landscaping work
Spring (April-May)
Best for sod installation
Ground is thawed, good rainfall for establishment. Perennials and shrubs establish well. Can start seeding as soon as soil is workable.
Ideal For
- check_circle Sod installation
- check_circle Shrub planting
- check_circle Seeding
Summer (June-Aug)
Best for hardscaping
Sod requires daily watering in heat. Seed struggles in summer heat. Ideal for interlock, patios, retaining walls, and grading work.
Ideal For
- check_circle Interlocking
- check_circle Grading
- check_circle Drainage work
Fall (Sept-Oct)
Best for seeding
Cool temperatures + natural rainfall = perfect germination. Last chance for sod (needs 4-6 weeks before frost). Best time for planting trees and shrubs.
Ideal For
- check_circle Seeding
- check_circle Planting
- check_circle Sod (early fall)
Winter (Nov-Mar)
Planning season
No landscaping work possible (frozen ground). Use this time to plan spring projects, get quotes, and book your spot for early spring start.
Ideal For
- check_circle Planning
- check_circle Quotes
- check_circle Design
GTA Coverage
Landscaping & Grading Service Areas
Professional post-construction restoration across the Greater Toronto Area
Toronto
Scarborough
Etobicoke
North York
Mississauga
Brampton
Vaughan
Markham
Oakville
Burlington
Richmond Hill
Ajax
Pickering
Oshawa
YARD DESTROYED BY CONSTRUCTION? WE'LL FIX IT.
Full restoration services to bring your property back better than before
437-545-0067 - FREE ASSESSMENTThe DrySpace Difference
Why Choose DrySpace for Landscaping
Experience, expertise, and peace of mind
One contractor, one responsibility
Most waterproofing companies dig and leave. You're stuck hiring a landscaper who doesn't understand drainage. We do both.
Grading affects our warranty
Poor grading voids waterproofing warranties. We guarantee proper drainage because our reputation depends on it.
Waterproofing experts who landscape
We understand how water moves, where it pools, and what proper drainage looks like. This isn't cosmetic - it's functional.
2,000+ yards restored
Every waterproofing and underpinning project includes yard restoration. We've perfected the process.
Volume pricing for full projects
Save 15-20% when bundling landscaping with waterproofing or underpinning work.
Proper grading is your first line of defence
60% of basement water problems are caused by poor surface drainage. We fix it permanently.
Pricing
Landscaping & Grading Pricing
All prices include materials, labour, and our 25-year transferable warranty.
Basic Restoration
$1,500-$3,500
After single-wall waterproofing
- Backfill & compaction
- Drainage grading (2% slope)
- Topsoil (4" depth)
- Seed or basic sod
- One wall / 30 LF
Full Perimeter Restoration
$4,000-$8,000
Complete yard restoration
- Full perimeter grading
- Premium topsoil (6" depth)
- Premium Kentucky bluegrass sod
- Shrub and garden replanting
- Fence replacement if needed
Premium Landscaping Package
$10,000-$20,000+
Better than before
- Everything in Full Restoration
- Interlock walkway or patio
- Retaining wall (if needed)
- Underground downspout drainage
- Garden bed upgrades
- Custom landscaping features
Completed Projects
Real waterproofing solutions for Greater Toronto Area homes
NORTH YORK BASEMENT WATERPROOFING
Problem Identified
Severe water infiltration and mold growth
Solution Implemented
Complete exterior waterproofing with French drain
Project Cost
$12,500
SCARBOROUGH FOUNDATION REPAIR
Problem Identified
Foundation cracks and basement flooding
Solution Implemented
Crack injection and interior waterproofing system
Project Cost
$8,200
MISSISSAUGA EMERGENCY WATER REMOVAL
Problem Identified
Flooded basement after heavy rainfall
Solution Implemented
Emergency pumping and waterproofing installation
Project Cost
$15,000
Have a Similar Problem?
Get your free inspection and professional quote today
Why Choose Dryspace
Compare our services to other waterproofing contractors
| Service Features | DRYSPACE RECOMMENDED | Other Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Lifetime Transferable Warranty | YES | Limited |
| 24/7 Emergency Response | YES | NO |
| Free Detailed Inspection | YES | YES |
| Price Match Guarantee | YES | NO |
| Insurance Claim Assistance | YES | Extra Fee |
| Licensed & Insured | YES | YES |
| Response Time | < 60 MIN | 2-4 hours |
| Years in Business | 25+ YEARS | Varies |
| Financing Options | YES | Limited |
| Follow-up Service | YES | NO |
Our warranty transfers to new homeowners, protecting your investment
Emergency team on standby 24/7 with less than 60 minute response time
Delivering 5-star service since 1999
We stand behind our work with comprehensive guarantees
Our Promise to You
We protect homes and families with transparent pricing, expert technicians, and a commitment to excellence. Your basement stays dry for life - guaranteed.
Testimonials
Customer Reviews
Verified testimonials from Greater Toronto Area homeowners
Google Verified
GTA Homeowners
Emergency Waterproofing
Verified"After spring flooding, Dryspace responded within 2 hours. Their team was professional, thorough, and the 25-year warranty gives us peace of mind."
Sarah Chen
Exterior Waterproofing
Verified"They helped us get the maximum government rebate and handled all the paperwork. Saved us over $3,400 on our exterior waterproofing project!"
Michael Rodriguez
Foundation Repair
Verified"Professional from start to finish. The crew was respectful of our property, cleaned up daily, and finished on schedule. Highly recommend!"
Jennifer Park
Sump Pump Installation
Verified"Our basement has been dry for 3 years now. The sump pump system they installed works flawlessly, even during heavy storms."
David Thompson
Interior Waterproofing
Verified"Best decision we made for our home. The interior waterproofing solution was less invasive than expected and works perfectly."
Lisa Anderson
Foundation Crack Repair
Verified"Fair pricing, excellent communication, and quality work. They fixed foundation cracks that two other companies said needed major work."
Robert Kim
Technical Drawings & CAD Details
Professional construction details for contractors and engineers
EXTERIOR WATERPROOFING DETAIL
Complete exterior membrane application with drainage board
Includes:
- • Foundation wall detail
- • Membrane application layers
- • Drainage board installation
- • Gravel bed specifications
INTERIOR DRAINAGE SYSTEM
Weeping tile and sump pump configuration
Includes:
- • Weeping tile placement
- • Sump pit dimensions
- • Discharge piping layout
- • Backfill requirements
FOUNDATION CRACK REPAIR
Injection repair methodology and specifications
Includes:
- • Crack preparation steps
- • Injection port spacing
- • Material specifications
- • Quality control checklist
SUMP PUMP INSTALLATION
3D model of complete sump pump system
Includes:
- • 3D sump pit model
- • Pump placement options
- • Battery backup configuration
- • Discharge line routing
FRENCH DRAIN ASSEMBLY
French drain installation with grading details
Includes:
- • Trench dimensions
- • Pipe specifications
- • Filter fabric placement
- • Grading requirements
BACKWATER VALVE DETAIL
City-compliant backwater valve installation
Includes:
- • Valve placement requirements
- • Access box specifications
- • Permit requirements
- • Inspection checklist
WINDOW WELL DRAINAGE
3D window well with drainage system
Includes:
- • Well dimensions guide
- • Drainage pipe connection
- • Gravel bed depth
- • Cover specifications
FOUNDATION WALL SECTIONS
Comprehensive foundation wall construction details
Includes:
- • Concrete specifications
- • Rebar placement
- • Waterproofing layers
- • Insulation options
Usage Rights
• Free for commercial and residential projects
• Modify as needed for specific applications
• Include in project submissions and permits
• Share with team members and subcontractors
Technical Support
Engineering Department
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Email: p.vysotckii@gmail.com
Phone: 437-545-0067 ext. 200
Need Custom Drawings?
Our engineering team can create project-specific details and specifications
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about landscaping and grading services
Do you restore the yard after waterproofing? expand_more
How long before my lawn grows back after construction? expand_more
My neighbour is complaining about water from my yard. Can you fix it? expand_more
How much does it cost to fix grading around my foundation? expand_more
Should I plant trees near my foundation? expand_more
Do I need a permit for landscaping? expand_more
Related Services & Resources
Get Your Free Inspection
Schedule your comprehensive basement inspection today. Our certified experts will assess your needs and provide a detailed solution.
Quick Response
Same-day inspections available
No Obligation
Free inspection & quote
Expert Analysis
25+ years of experience
Direct Contact
Business Hours
24/7 Emergency Service Available
Related Services
Complete Foundation & Waterproofing Services
We handle everything from excavation to final sod
Exterior Waterproofing
Full excavation, membrane, weeping tile, and restoration
$200-$300/linear foot
LEARN MORE →Underpinning
Lower basement floor, increase ceiling height
$300-$400/linear foot
LEARN MORE →Egress Windows
Code-compliant emergency exit windows
$3,000-$8,000
LEARN MORE →Drainage Solutions
Downspout extensions, French drains, and surface drainage
LEARN MORE →Excavation Services
Foundation excavation and site preparation
LEARN MORE →COMPLETE FOUNDATION SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF
Excavation, waterproofing, underpinning, AND landscaping restoration
437-545-0067 - GET STARTEDGet Your Free Landscaping Assessment
Post-construction restoration with proper drainage grading. One contractor, one warranty.