Co-authored by Kenneth Law, P.Eng, Manager of Automation and David Schaeffer, P.Eng, Founder and CEO
With DSEL Smart Lot Grading, we have turned the conventional lot grading process on its head. Prior to starting detailed design, DSEL works with the Builder to identify the most desirable /most profitable grading outcomes throughout the plan. We then embed these priorities in DSEL’s proprietary Smart Lot Grade software. Lot grading is then completed to optimize the grading design by prioritizing the most profitable products in accordance with the Builder’s initial instructions to the extent possible. This approach leads to a value-added grading design and a predictable outcome that is established through preliminary engineering and maintained through detailed design and implementation. If your desired outcome is not compatible with existing site conditions or is cost prohibitive we will identify that through the preliminary analysis that proceeds detailed design.
This allows clients to seize control of the grading design in previously unimaginable ways.
^ Builders can prioritize the homeowner experience by providing usable, flat backyard surfaces. This can be done by minimizing yard surfaces to, say, no more than 3.5% and minimizing embankments.
^ Builders can prioritize reducing house construction costs by minimizing decks, risers and associated architecture costs.
^ Builders can prioritize reducing infrastructure costs by minimizing rear lot catchbasins.
^ Builders can prioritize maximizing grading premiums by forcing certain built forms that generate revenue, such as walkout basements.
What you probably weren’t told
Given any fixed vertical difference between two adjacent roads, there are countless ways to grade the intervening lots. As illustrated below, with a vertical difference of, say, 1.2 m between adjacent roads, there is a wide array of potential grading conditions available to the engineer.
The choice depends on the desirability of walkout basements, decks, front draining lots, etc. Up until now, it was the engineer’s choice to make. Now, using DSEL Smart Lot Grade proprietary approach, the choice is made by the Builder prior to commencing the grading design. The Builder preferences are embedded in the Smart Lot Grading software and the optimization delivers the desired outcome to the maximum extent possible!
Illustration
The grading on any given site can change significantly based on client grading preferences. To illustrate, we have graded out a site based on selecting three different priorities. To illustrate the grading flexibility within a group of lots, the road grades that control the lot elevations are identical in each example.
How Does Customized Grading Benefit You?
By performing lot grading anslysis early – typically in preliminary engineering – it brings predictability to the process and maximizes profit. It also allows early identification of grading and architectural information to be shared with your trades and your sales and marketing teams.
Interested in Smart Lot Grading?
Smart Lot Grading is a proprietary design service developed by DSEL. This innovative approach is the result of our 30+ years of expertise in subdivision design and innovation that turns novelty into reality.
DSEL’s Smart Lot Grading offers a new level of control and predictability in subdivision lot grading design – allowing Builders to maximize profit, rely on predictability, and prioritize desirable, value-added grading for their benefit and the benefit of their customers.
About the Authors
Kenneth Law, P.Eng.
Partner & Head of Automation at David Schaeffer Engineering Ltd.
Kenneth Law is a visionary leader in the land development industry with a passion for driving radical change through innovative solutions. With expertise in subdivision design and engineering, Kenneth focuses on integrating cutting-edge technologies to revolutionize development processes. As the Head of Automation at David Schaeffer Engineering Ltd., he combines strategic planning, product development, and a forward-thinking mindset to enhance the future of land development.
David Schaeffer
Founder & CEO, David Schaeffer Engineering Ltd.
David Schaeffer views subdivision engineering as a blend of artistry and problem-solving, seeking elegant, simple solutions to complex challenges. As the Founder and CEO of David Schaeffer Engineering Ltd., his passion lies in modernizing infrastructure design and using innovative approaches that focus on simplicity and efficiency. By leveraging computing power to streamline the design process, David ensures that both technical and non-technical stakeholders can grasp the core principles of every project. His commitment to excellence and integrity is at the heart of every endeavor.