What Is a Sloping Site and What Are the Different Types?

The simplest definition of a sloping block is a block or site that has a tilted foundation, not a levelled foundation. They are quite common in Melbourne; however, they can be difficult to construct buildings on. The most common types of sloping blocks are:

Sloping up – Here, the low point is on the road. This gives the advantage of creating a multiple storey house.

Sloping down – Here, the high point of the block is at the road. This site is more difficult to construct on due to the design challenges.

Cross fall slope – In this type, the slope is side-to-side; that is, it goes from left-to-right & right-to-left.

Cross fall and sloping – This is a mix of all the above mentioned slopes, so house plans for sloping blocks will need to be designed considering a range of aspects.

Sloped Sites Vs. Flat Lots: Which One to Choose?

Flat lots offer more accessibility choices, especially for people with restricted mobility. A flat lot will not necessitate a steep driveway or steps up to the porch/front door. It’s also ideal for constructing a single-story home.

Sloped site, on the other hand, can be a bit expensive to construct on compared to a flat block due to the terrain. However, there are also various advantages to building on a sloped block, like natural lighting, creative and modern home design, great view, natural ventilation, etc.

Why Do People Choose to Build on a Sloping Site?

There are various reasons people look for sloping site builders. Not only are sloping sites cheaper than flat lots, but they also offer a myriad of other advantages, which make people choose sloping block designs over any other option.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Building on a Sloping Block

Here are a few reasons you might consider building your home on a sloping site:

1. The view: You can enjoy beautiful vistas and blue sky for kilometres around if your property is constructed and built for a slope.
2. Ventilation and drainage: The more natural cross flow ventilation you get at a higher elevation, the lower your energy costs will be. The slope, if professionally designed, also allows for natural drainage.
3. Scope for creativity: A home built on a slope can construct magnificent external designs that span many levels. It may also imply a higher level of seclusion from your neighbours.
4. Sunlight: Houses perched on the slope of a hill are frequently well-positioned to take advantage of abundant natural light, which is a desirable feature in most residences.

There are disadvantages as well, such as:

3. Challenges in excavation and access: The steeper the incline, the more difficult it is to bring excavation equipment onto the property.
4. Issues in drainage: Water should never pool or gather near the foundation and should constantly flow away from the house. This can be difficult, but not impossible, in the case of a home constructed on a sloping property.
5. Maintenance challenges: Consider whether utilising a lawn mower is possible while deciding on a landscape layout for the yard. It can be possible if a retaining wall is constructed. However, you could be better off opting for a low-maintenance xeriscape layout.

There are many sloping block solutions that have come up over the years to tackle these disadvantages, so you don’t have to worry about them when you construct a new home.

InnoHomes: Sloping Block Specialists in Melbourne

InnoHomes is a licensed construction company with 12 years of expertise. We have been delivering exceptional service to our clients and have received great reviews for our work. To learn more about our sloping block solutions and designs, you can contact us on 1300 722 703.