You might've wished to have a house on a hill, or a home offering the best view of the clearest skies or the city skyline, so you bought a sloped block to build on it the house you've always wanted. It's a choice that many people shy away from because, in most cases, they fear it's more challenging to construct on a sloping block than on a flat piece of land.
That said, taking risks can bring great rewards. Even though you'll encounter unique difficulties constructing property on a slope, there are great advantages you'll enjoy. But remember that building on a sloping block requires working with great professionals to experience the benefits.
If you've decided to construct a home on a sloping piece of land, this article is for you. Here's what you need to know:
The Challenges Of Building On A Sloping Block
A sloping block presents unique challenges. Some of these include:
- Drainage Difficulties
Drainage in sloped land can be challenging if water pools under your house or at the bottom of the block. So, you need a builder to ensure proper stormwater runoff management. In this case, they may consider water tanks, perched water tables, or subsurface drainage.
- Accessibility
Accessibility on a sloped block can be more challenging than on flat land. Getting into or out of the land during construction can also be difficult for builders using heavy machines.
Therefore, you need to work with professionals to help you plan the best access points into your land in the early planning stages of construction. This way, they can identify the location of the driveway and other potential entryways. As a result, the building process will be easier. Also, you, other family members, and visitors will easily get into and out of your home after construction.
- Excavation
Building on a sloping block requires more work than on a flat block. Usually, more preparation is needed since cuts and fill are likely. The earthwork on the block can be expensive and cause environmental impacts like erosion and drainage issues.
As you've seen above, constructing on a sloping block has several challenges. However, you can overcome them by working with a good builder.
The Advantages Of Building On A Sloping Block
There are also advantages to building on a sloping block. Examples are:
- Good Drainage
Drainage can also be an advantage. The slope could naturally prevent flooding by draining water away from your property.
- Natural Light
A sloping block can bring more natural light into your home. Your builder will consider the nature of the slope and examine how they can leverage natural lighting. They'll also ensure the proper positioning of windows to prevent overheating and glare.
- Great Views
A major advantage of building on a slope is enjoying great landscapes, sunrise, sunset, city, or neighbourhood views. It's something many homes built on flat blocks don't offer. And because of this, your home will have a higher resale value.
Despite the challenges of constructing on a sloping block, there are great advantages, too. An excellent builder will do their best to develop an appealing home by taking advantage of your land's natural sloping position. Considering the benefits, you'll find that constructing on such a block outweighs the challenges.
How To Find The Right Builder
This article has emphasized the importance of having an excellent builder when constructing property on a sloping block. So, how do you find the right person for the job?
- Experience
It helps to work with a more experienced builder. Such professionals have gained more expertise over the years. So, they can easily deal with the complex challenges of constructing on sloping blocks and deliver the best results.
- Proof of work
You also need proof of work to see the outcome your builder will likely deliver before they start working on your property. So, it's best to ask for evidence of previous projects. If a builder has a website, check out testimonials and reviews from past clients. You can also request references you can call to know more about the expert's professionalism, timeline, performance, and general quality of work.
- Reliability
You have a vision for your property and need someone to deliver or exceed your expectations. So, it's best to work with a reliable builder. The expert shouldn't let you compromise. Rather, they should listen to your vision, consult you in every step, and eventually turn your dream into a reality.
The right builder makes a big difference when constructing on a sloping block. You can find one online or ask friends to recommend the best person they've worked with.
Final Thoughts
Many avoid building on a sloping block because they fear it's challenging. In this article, you've learned that, in truth, there are difficulties associated with constructing a home on a sloping block. That said, these are easy to overcome with the right builder.
You've also seen the benefits of constructing on such lots. So, take advantage of them. Find a well-experienced and reliable builder who can provide proof of work. Such experts help you easily develop the best house on a sloping block.