Introduction

Building an extension onto your home is an excellent way to increase living space, improve functionality, and enhance its overall value. However, constructing an extension may present unique challenges if your property is situated on a slope or steep gradient. With careful planning, thoughtful design, and innovative construction techniques, you can overcome these obstacles to create an aesthetically pleasing and practical addition to your living environment.

Slopes and Grades

Slope: The incline or decline between two points in elevation over distance.

Grade: Measures this incline as either percent (%) or decimal fraction (). The following formula calculates grade: ag = (Rise / Run ) x 100%, where:
– ag = Grade expressed as percentage (%)
– r = Change in elevation (rise)
– d = Horizontal distance (run)

Example

Suppose you want to calculate the grade of land that rises by six feet over ten horizontal feet:

ag=(6ft/10ft)*100%=60%

(This means that there is a slope of 60%, which would be considered quite steep.)

Benefits

• Enhanced aesthetic appeal – When designed well, extensions built into hillsides blend seamlessly into their natural environments while providing visual interest.
• Improved views – Elevated extensions offer vantage points unattainable at ground level.
• Better ventilation – Fresh air circulation tends naturally to flow downwards towards lower levels, creating healthier indoor environments compared to flat sites without proper wind flow channels.