Sloping Blocks

It would be great if every block was perfectly flat to build on, but in the world of Knock Down Rebuilding we know that is far from the case. Despite presenting some challenges building on a sloping site can also offer a number of advantages. In many cases sloping sites allow us to showcase the views you love and also the chance to capture prevailing breezes.

At Icon Homes we love sloping sites and have extensive experience overcoming the challenges they can present. We look forward to creating a custom design that will enhance the unique features of your block.

Please get in touch today for a FREE Site Assessment so we can explain the process for building on your site.

 

TYPES OF SLOPING BLOCKS

Cross-section diagram of a house situated on a slightly sloping site.Slightly sloping sites

For slightly sloping sites (750- 1250mm) it is possible to utilise the technique of ‘cut and fill’. This technique allows the ground floor to remain at the same level and utilises retaining walls to support the ‘cut’ and dropped edge beam to support the ‘fill’. Additional excavation will be required, and this may require soil removal.

 

Cross-section technical drawing of a custom designed home built on a moderate sloping block.Moderate slope

For moderately sloping sites (1250 – 2500mm) there are a number of building practices that we will combine to form a solution. As outlined above retaining walls and drop edge beam will be required for sections of the slab. Further to this we will introduce internal steps which allows the floorplan to follow the natural contour of the block and has the advantage of providing increased ceiling height which makes the whole home feel bigger.

 

Simple technical illustration of a custom designed double storey home positioned on steep sloping land.Steep slope

For steep sloping sites (Greater than 2500mm) the best course of action is generally a split-level design. Generally no two split level design are identical and will always need to be customised to suit the unique conditions of the site. Often external walls will double as structural supports and retaining walls and often sections of the flooring slab will be constructed as suspended concrete slabs.