Steep building sites pose construction challenges
Consult a specialist before building on a steep site to minimize risk of erosion.
Erosion during construction and excessive water runoff are common problems on steep building sites. When a site is questionable, it's good practice to consult with a landscape architect, soils expert, civil engineer or other specialist. Erosion and runoff can lead to the loss of topsoil and damage to adjacent wetlands and waterways. However, building on sloped sites can sometimes be a better choice if it helps preserve flatter land for farming.
Green points
LEEDLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify. -H: Two points for avoiding development on lands that contain "prime soils," "unique soils," or "soils of state significance;" or land that prior to acquisition was public parkland.
NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions. /ICC-700: Up to 4 points for avoiding development of steep sites; 4 points for completing hydrological and/or soil stability study for steep slopes; up to 5 points for aligning roads with natural topography to reduce cut and fill; and 6 points for reducing long-term erosion with terraces, retaining walls, landscaping and restabilization techniques (403.3).
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia:
