Grade A Excavation & Landscape

Founded in 2004, Grade A Excavation & Landscape is a locally owned and operated business in Northglenn specializing in landscaping and expert drainage solutions in the Denver area. Owner and founder Hugh Mathews brings nearly 30 years of hands-on experience to every project, having started in the industry in the mid-90s and steadily building his company with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and honest service.

Hugh describes himself as “a landscaper, not a businessman”—but his leadership and industry knowledge have guided Grade A Excavation & Landscape & Excavation through thick and thin, including economic downturns, extreme weather, and the challenges of the COVID pandemic. “I started with $3,500 and a big leap of faith,” Hugh says, “and here I am in 2025, having made it through just about everything.”

What sets Grade A Excavation & Landscape apart is the combination of landscaping and drainage expertise. “You’re getting two for one from me—a drainage expert and a landscaper,” Hugh explains. Every project is carefully planned to avoid future problems: “Anybody can lay down concrete, but if you pour it too high, now you can’t get water away from your house, and you just created a problem.”

From winterizing irrigation systems to correcting foundational drainage issues, the company’s work is rooted in proactive maintenance. “Our work since the floods in 2013 has focused on fixing drainage issues—pulling away everybody’s landscaping, adding more dirt, raising the level around the foundation, fixing the drainage, and then putting their landscape back.”

Hugh is proud of his company’s reputation for finishing jobs right, fixing others’ mistakes, and maintaining transparency with his customers. “I’m not the cheapest, and I tell people up front: if you’re getting 10 quotes and just looking for the cheapest, I’m probably not your guy. But I believe we do the best job and I’ve never started a job that we didn’t finish. Anyone can start, but finishing is what sets us apart.”

Teamwork and loyalty are core values at Grade A Excavation & Landscape. “It all starts with the employees. When my workers come to work for me, I’m committed to keeping them as long as I can. You’re more than just a number here.”

Hugh’s business thrives on word-of-mouth and a track record of projects done right the first time. The team gives free estimates and values building relationships with every homeowner: “Most people only call when there’s a problem. But prevention is worth so much more than waiting until there’s already a problem.”

Whether it’s prepping homes for winter, solving serious drainage issues, or providing honest advice, Grade A Excavation & Landscape stands out for integrity, expertise, and a genuine commitment to the Denver community.