Working All The Angles: Tips For Sloping Block House Design

Joel RobinsonMay 10, 20193 min read

Character, style, distinction and impossible panoramic views - the advantages of a sloping block are many. However, too often, prospective homeowners tend to stay away from this because of the unique challenges it presents. By following a few simple design rules, you can easily overcome these hurdles. If you are considering building on a sloping block, check out the following tips for successfully realising your ideal home.

EXPOSURE AND DRAINAGEBecause they are not offered a windbreak from surrounding structures, sloping blocks are particularly vulnerable to the elements. Consider your materials and seek a builder’s counsel on necessary weatherproofing methods. Be selective in your landscaping as many plants will not endure the conditions of a sloping block. However, if planting is employed tactfully, it can help lighten the risk of erosion. Another common challenge of sloping blocks is storm-water drainage. To avoid runoff pooling at the bottom of your elevation, your builder might advise the addition of a drainage channel. It is also vital to consider sewerage. If the block slopes to the rear, away from the sewerage line in the street, it will require a pumping system.

Image: Homely

WORK WITH THE SLOPEThis design is unique, stylish, spacious and great for maximising your view. It is particularly effective for blocks with an incline exceeding 2 meters, where creating the necessary foundations for a slab home is difficult. A split-level home also minimizes the need for digging and (costly) retaining walls, which is why you should limit excavation. Some digging will be required to create the necessary foundations for your home. However, excessive excavation can present a huge cost. This is because the soil in sloping blocks is often shallow, it is likely that large rocks will need to be negotiated.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT BUILDERTo squeeze the most out of your investment, hunt down a reputable builder who specializes in sloping blocks. They should be willing to accommodate the specifications of the site. Find a builder who is excited by the unique potential of your property. Work with them to accentuate its strengths through a layered garden, an alfresco rooftop or a sprawling outdoor pool. Before committing to any builder, it is important to follow a few important steps. Check it out here.

If you are considering building on a sloping block, make sure you speak with one of our phone consultants. They can help you find the right builder for the job. Call us on 1800 184 294

Joel Robinson

Joel Robinson is the Editor in Chief at iBuildNew, where he leads the editorial team and oversees the country's most comprehensive news coverage dedicated to the new home building industry. With more than a decade of experience in residential real estate journalism, Joel brings deep insight into Australia's evolving home building and construction landscape.

Working All The Angles: Tips For Sloping Block House Design

Joel Robinson

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