Most properties are not going to be perfectly flat or have the perfect spot for a home to be built. In pretty much every new home build there is going to be a need for landscaping. But what if the property that your home is on has a large slope? Most timber frame and log homes are built on rural, not so perfect properties. In this article we will dive into everything you need to know about building your home on a slope.
What are the pros and problems when building on a slope?
The most common questions that people ask are about the pros of building on a slope vs the common problems.
The Pros of Building On a Slope:
Building a new home on a slope is actually something many people prefer. The reasons for this is that it allows for a walk in basement to be built. Walk in basements are great for multiple reasons. With a walk in basement you actually have the ability to create better irrigation to prevent your basement from flooding. Walk in basements are actually easier to keep vented and they get more sun. They are also more usable as you can access them directly. Walk in basements are also easier to finish and allow for more use of your entire home.
The Cons of Building On a Slope:
The cons of building on a slope will depend on the site and steepness of the slope. Some slopes can be so steep that it is near impossible to dig them out. Often steep slopes can be full of shale which can also make it difficult. Another problem is typically when you are building at the bottom or middle of a slope, water can wear at your foundation. This can create an extra expense as you may need to add an extra layer of protection or do more drainage work. It is important to look at your site and list the cons and pros. Sometimes moving your site up can save you thousands.
Things to know before you build on a slope:
Does building on a slope cost more or less?
The answer to whether it is more expensive or less expensive to build on a slope is not simple. There are variety of things that will affect your cost when building on a slope. Things that will increase your cost are poor site excess, a very steep slope, large footprint, if there is shale, and drainage required. Things that will decrease your cost are a medium grade slope, easy access, small footprint, and less drainage required. Overall each site will be different, where you choose to build and these factors will help you keep your cost down. Build on a medium slope with great access, low watershed, and build up to keep your footprint low… that is the most cost affective way to build on a slope.
Being in the path of the sun will help.
If possible you want your basement to get plenty of sun throughout the day. The sun will add light and make your basement more usable. The sun will also help keep the moisture down in your basement. Many basements are musty, having the sun hitting your basement all day will help with the mustiness.
Consider a wrap around deck above your basement.
Adding a wrap around deck above your basement is a great idea as it will add nice cover to your walk in basement. This adds a second place to sit or a great place for a hot-tub. It also prevents water from running down the walls of your foundation which eventually could cause problems.
Decrease your footprint by adding a second floor.
It can be costly to build a large footprint on a slope. A better option is to build up and add a second floor to your house. Building up will decrease your footprint size and make it easier to dig in to the slope.
Plan your landscaping before you build on a slope.
Many people choose to import large bolder for their landscaping or perhaps have a graded walkway down to the lower half. It is going to be easier to plan this before you build your home. Planning your landscaping will make sure that you still have access to it before you build your foundation.
Building on a slope are a great way to increase the usability and aesthetic of your home. It is important to talk with a professional before building and to make sure that you choose the site that makes the most sense. Way your pros and cons before building. Here are The Top Log Home Manufactures.
