In this article we will offer you ideas that will help you arrange a site that has a noticeable slope. We hope that our tips will help you turn the presence of a slope from a disadvantage into an advantage of the site, its highlight and the most noticeable element of landscape design.
Usually flat terrain is positioned as the main advantage adjoining plot. In fact, on such a plot it is easier to carry out construction and landscape design; you can choose any project you like.
However, if your plot of land has a noticeable slope, you should not give up and assume that nothing can be done about it. There are several options for turning a slope into the most beautiful element of the plot. We will offer you the most interesting of them in this article.
When developing a site with a slope, we must not forget about convenient routes of movement. If the slope is very noticeable, of course you can’t do without ladders and steps
1. Deck
A real deck can be built over a slope using decking boards. This platform will offer a beautiful view, and the deck itself will be an ideal place for relaxing in the fresh air. Most often, such sites are arranged near the house, but they can be built in any part of the garden that differs in slope.
The deck can be supported on pillars or securely concrete foundation. Used terrace board, which perfectly withstands all temperature changes and is not afraid of moisture
On the deck, rising above the site, of course, garden furniture will be installed, which will allow you to turn open area to a cozy area for family dinners outdoors
2. Alpine slide
This element of landscape design traditionally rises above the site and when arranging an alpine hill, it is usually necessary to make an embankment. So why not use a natural slope, which will be an ideal location for such a “stone flowerbed”.
To create an alpine slide, flowers are used that feel good on rocky soil and slopes and strengthen the ground. This arrangement will allow you to emphasize the “rocky flowerbed”, highlighting it from the surrounding space
3. Terracing
Have you ever seen rice fields located on the slopes on separate steps? The same method can be used in the country. Experts advise creating three or four terraces in areas with a height difference of about three meters. For their arrangement, retaining walls made of concrete are used, reinforced mesh, stones or boards.
Each such terrace can have its own function - on one there will be beds with vegetables, on the second - shrubs, on the third - a flower bed. These will be clearly defined separate zones with their own boundaries, united, for example, by an inclined path, stone or wooden steps. Terracing is done across the slope.
The disadvantage of terracing is that the supporting walls themselves will take up a lot of space, leaving less land for flowerbeds and beds.
Experts advise building the outer side of each terrace with a slope towards the slope to ensure natural water drainage during rainstorms
Metal plates can also serve as retaining walls. In this case, professionals advise adding natural materials and elements, for example, large boulders, which will soften the coldness of the metal
Gabions can be used as a retaining wall on a sloped area
4. Stream and waterfall
If your site has a slope, this is an excellent opportunity to create an artificial stream or waterfall. To do this, you won’t have to build an embankment or worry about water drainage; everything will happen naturally. A water cascade can also decorate a retaining wall supporting one of the terraces.
The slope is already there, all that remains is to take care of the bed of the future stream and think about where exactly your future river will flow
A cascading stream on a slope, surrounded by lush juniper thickets, looks very natural, it seems created by nature itself
5. Vertical garden
On a site with a slope, the most noticeable part will, of course, be the top wall or fence. Its design should be given special attention, for example, creating a beautiful vertical garden.
Along the most prominent wall at the top of the site, you can place tall plants in flowerpots or pots. You can also use vertical gardening techniques on the wall itself. Climbing plants such as virgin grape, honeysuckle, common ivy or vici grape are ideal.
6. Observation deck with bench
A site with a slope usually does not offer places to relax - only terraces and paths with steps connecting them. Designate one terrace for a small recreation area - plant a tree there and place a bench in its shade. You will get a beautiful observation deck where it will be so pleasant to sit with a book or just admire your lush garden. Of course, to arrange the viewing area, it is better to choose one of the upper terraces to ensure a beautiful view.
Find a place on the site for a sofa swing or a regular bench and you will get an excellent relaxation corner with a view of the entire lower part of the site
7. Decorative garden
Even a plot with a strong slope is not a reason to give up growing herbs, spices and vegetables. True, you will have to take extra care about arranging the beds. High beds in special flowerpots are perfect.
This plot has a strong slope, but this did not stop the owners from arranging a vegetable garden, which looks attractive and will bring a good harvest.
In the tight space between two stone retaining walls, there will still be enough space for cabbage and herbs
8. “Wild” slope
It is not at all necessary to put your site with a strong slope in perfect order. It is quite possible to leave it in its natural state, providing only a convenient descent and ascent in the form of steps or stairs. And on the sides of the path, let plants that do not require constant care grow, such as crocuses, botanical tulips, mint and lemon balm, bells, St. John's wort, and ajuga.
By the way, all ground cover plants perfectly strengthen the slopes. In addition, for this purpose, you can plant sea buckthorn, brooms, rose hips, lilacs, cotoneasters, Japanese quince - all these shrubs do not require special care and feel great on an inclined surface, holding the soil with their roots.
Who said that a plot on a slope must be decorated with regular flower beds with their clear boundaries and have a “sleek” civilized appearance? Are natural slopes with their wildflowers and shrubs any less attractive?
In conclusion, we note that landscape design experts are confident that it is easier to design a site with a slope when the house is located on a hill. However, if there is no other choice and the cottage had to be located at the very bottom of the slope, do not despair - many of our tips can be used for this location, which is considered the most unfavorable.
In general, many professionals are convinced that flat terrain is too boring, but a natural slope can be used “to the fullest”, turning it into an unusual a nice place. Try it, perhaps after completion of the work you will also be convinced that they are right!
Let's be honest: most of us would not want to have a plot of land with a large slope. This is understandable - the unknown is scary. Let's sort everything out together and then draw conclusions.
Opportunities and disadvantages of a site with a slope
First of all, let's consider possible troubles:
- the choice of location of both the house itself and buildings is noticeably limited;
- there are problems with watering, since water will not remain in the soil for long;
- movement around the territory is complicated, especially in icy conditions;
- it is difficult to organize sufficient space for games and entertainment;
- the need to combat landslides and soil erosion;
- steep slope - source increased danger for children;
- poor orientation of the slope of the site relative to the sun can lead to either excessive or insufficient illumination of the earth's surface;
- the movement of air masses along the slope can lead to drying out of the soil at the top and frosts at the bottom of the slope;
- landscaping a site with a large slope requires increased costs;
- difficulties with access roads are likely;
- securing water can be challenging.
Now about the positive aspects of placing a house on a slope:
- you will get a building plot at a lower price, and the increased costs of its arrangement can be partially offset by your own creative work;
- drainage problems are easily solved: the yard area will be dry, it will be possible to equip ground floor in the house or cellar;
- problems with groundwater on such lands it is a rare occurrence;
- the hillside always protects the house from the wind from one direction;
- the cost of constructing the basement floor of a building is noticeably reduced, since the entire excess volume of land is easily used to partially level the terrain;
- the windows of the house, located high, offer a wide view;
- when placing the site on the south side of the slope, the insolation of the courtyard can be increased, on the contrary, if the site is located on the north side, solar activity will be weakened;
- an area located on an eastern or western slope will have average illumination;
- apparently the most important thing: the use of a huge list of landscape design techniques (retaining walls, terraces on the slope of the site, alpine coaster, winding paths, pond, dry stream, special ornamental plants etc.) will allow you to obtain a natural, organic and unique design of the land plot.
As you can see, the pros and cons gradually flow into tastes and preferences. The following video examines some of the features of planning a site with a slope.
Thus, by spending more effort and money on developing a site with a slope, you get a more interesting and unusual result.
Of course, the degree of significance of the above circumstances is directly related to the magnitude of the difference in ground level. To calculate it, you need to divide the difference in heights of the extreme points of the site by the distance between them and convert the result into percentages. For example, if the maximum height difference is 3.6m, and the distance between the difference points is 20m, then the slope will be 3.6: 20 = 0.19, that is, 19%.
It is believed that a slope of up to 3% is flat terrain, but a site on a steep slope of more than 20% is not suitable for construction.
Features of placing buildings on a slope
Development plan for a site on a slope Firstly, it should be noted that the underground and basement parts of the house on a site with a slope will inevitably have characteristics. This also applies to other buildings. Usually the house is located on the highest and driest place. Thus, the issue of drainage from the main facility is resolved. Toilet, compost pit, the shower should be located below the house and no closer than 15-20m. Recreation area - gazebo, barbecue, etc. It is better to do it on the same level as the house. It is better to place buildings between which the most frequent movement is expected on different sides of the site. In this case, the length of the paths increases, but the slope to be overcome decreases. In the idealistic version, buildings are placed in a checkerboard pattern. The garage is conveniently located at the bottom of the plot. In this case, the garage building can be used as a means of compensating for the steepness of the slope.
Strengthening terraces on a sloped area
There are two fundamentally different methods for planning an uneven plot: without changing the landscape or with maximum leveling of the ground surface. In my opinion, a compromise option should be used possible methods leveling the territory, as well as masking differences in ground level.
In this case, there is no point in achieving complete leveling of the site.
When planning an inclined surface, several tasks are set: preventing soil sliding; ease of use of the earth's surface for recreation and cultivation fruit crops; ease of movement around the compound. First of all, the relief is leveled as much as possible by moving the soil. It is quite possible that it would be profitable to remove part of the land from the plot or, on the contrary, to bring in the missing soil. A reasonable technique is to use the land obtained by digging a pit for a basement or cellar. 
Creating terraces using stones
The second, most common method is terracing, that is, creating flat areas located at different heights. The more terraces, the lower their height, and, therefore, easier arrangement slope With a terrace height of up to 70 cm, it is possible to create retaining walls. The best material- natural stone. For such a design, you need to make a base of crushed stone 10-20 cm high. If the terrace height is small, the stone can be laid without a binder material. However, in such a situation, there is a danger of soil being washed away by water during rain or irrigation. It is safer to lay the retaining wall using cement mortar. The use of brick to create terraces is considered inappropriate, since repeated exposure to moisture and low temperatures leads to its fairly rapid destruction.
For terrace heights up to 2 meters, reinforced concrete structures are suitable: foundation blocks, slabs and monolithic concrete. It often makes sense to create concrete retaining walls with some slope, taking into account the squeezing effect of the soil. In difficult situations, you cannot do without a reliable and complete foundation. There is no point in additional finishing of retaining walls decorative tiles or stone on an adhesive or cement base. Frost and water will quickly ruin your work.
Concrete retaining wall Structurally, “ventilated facades” are suitable here. However, in a decorative sense, such a technique is hardly appropriate. It is much simpler and more efficient to place a corrugated surface with a special pattern into the concrete formwork. Subsequently, you can decorate the concrete with durable water-based paints.
It is very effective to use a French invention - gabions - to strengthen terraces. Gabions are rectangular mesh structures filled with natural stone. You can purchase ready-made modules from special durable wire or make it yourself. Gabions are not afraid of soil erosion, as they do not have absolute rigidity. They are also resistant to water, as they do not retain it. When filling gabions with stone and crushed stone, you can add a certain amount of earth, in this case greenery will soon sprout, which will disguise the wire and give the retaining wall a natural look. natural look.
The simplest method of strengthening a slope is an inclined embankment. It is better to strengthen the embankment from crumbling plastic mesh and geogrid. Being planted with a lawn, special grass and shrubs, such an embankment surface will be quite reliable and aesthetically pleasing.
Gabion retaining wall Water disposal - two sides of the coin
It’s good that in an area with a slope, the water will run away quite quickly in both rain and flood: it will be dry underfoot. However, quickly receding water can take with it a noticeable part of the soil and destroy something. The conclusion is clear: you need to think about how to properly make drainage on an area with a slope.
The optimal scheme seems to be when water is collected from different areas by separate conduits extending outside the yard. Moreover, each terrace should ideally be equipped with a drainage system.
The simplest solution is to lay open concrete trays. The trays are laid on a pre-prepared base: a layer of crushed stone about 10 cm, a cement-sand mixture (in a ratio of 1 to 10) about 5 cm. The trays are easily cut and adjusted to each other using an angle grinder. Relatively cheap trays have disadvantages: they interfere with pedestrian paths and their cross-section is insufficient when placed on common drains in the lower part of the site. The last obstacle can be overcome by making drainage channels yourself from concrete. To form channels, you can use pipe sections of suitable diameter. There are also storm drain options closed type which are produced by industry. The upper part of such drains is closed with special gratings to receive water. Such structures look aesthetically pleasing and do not create obstacles for the movement of people. However, they are noticeably more expensive and more difficult to install. In addition, the problem of insufficient cross-section in the lower part of the steep section remains relevant.
Drainage using trays Another option for drainage is drainage channels. The system is closed and saves space. To organize drainage, trenches with a depth of 0.3-1 m are opened. The bottom of the trench is covered with sand; a layer of 10 cm is sufficient; it must be compacted. The sand is covered with geotextile, on top of which medium-sized crushed stone is poured. The thickness of the crushed stone layer is up to 20 cm. If a small flow of water is expected in this area, then it is enough to cover the crushed stone again with geotextiles, and then successively fill it with sand and soil. If there is a large flow of water in the channel, an additional perforated plastic pipe. The rules for laying pipes are the same as for installing a sewer system: slope of at least 3%; fewer turns and sudden changes in level to prevent accumulation of debris in problem areas; reliable pipe connection.
Paths and stairs - decoration of the site
It is clear that traveling over uneven terrain can be difficult and even dangerous. Hence the requirement to approach the arrangement of all routes for people’s movement with special care. Please note that even a relatively flat path with a slope of about 5% can become an insurmountable obstacle during icy conditions. This means that the coating of all paths and stairs should be as rough and ribbed as possible. The steps of the stairs should correspond as closely as possible optimal sizes: tread width 29cm, riser height 17cm. The slope of the stairs cannot exceed 45%. It is better to avoid flights of more than 18 steps and provide rest areas.
Staircase made of stone It is very convenient if the height of the steps of all stairs is the same. This is quite real. For example, when building our own house with our own hands, we were able to ensure the same parameters for the steps on both floors of the house, including the basement, as well as on the porch and in the garage. The provision of handrails on steep slopes is absolutely necessary, and even on quite flat sections handrails will be fully justified.
Materials for arranging paths and stairs can be very different: crushed stone, stone, concrete, wood, artificial turf and plastic gratings. Stairs, separate steps, winding paths - all these attributes should be considered as elements of decoration and individualization of the yard area. At the same time, I consider it necessary to remind General requirements: Travel paths should not become slippery or dangerous during inclement weather. It may be necessary to provide special handrails for children.
Wonderful landscaping and landscaping opportunities
Alpine landscape design on a site with a slope can be called a pleasant necessity. It is based on natural stones, flowers and other plants. All this together and various options application serves to counteract soil erosion on a slope and at the same time is a decoration. Since water does not retain water well on a slope, plants may need frequent watering. Thus, for vegetable garden beds and fruit trees it is necessary to select best plots: well lit, protected from the wind. Sloping beds located at the base of the slope may be exposed to accumulated cold air.
Strengthening the slope with plants Ideally, the entire area should be planted various plants. On the slopes, unpretentious creeping plants are used that do not require much moisture and have a branched root system. In different climatic regions You may have your own preferences. Concerning middle zone Russia, then the use of shrubs is appropriate here: ivy, barberry, lilac, Japanese quince, elderberry, derain, etc. Coniferous plants will wonderfully decorate the area: juniper, spruce, cedar, pine. Deciduous trees are well suited: birch, hazel, willow (in damp places). For arranging a rock garden, tenacious plants, sedums, cinquefoils, bells, alpine carnations, sedums, etc. are well suited. It is quite appropriate to arrange areas of the lawn.
In order to visually level the terrain, tall plants are planted at the bottom of the slope. Sometimes it becomes necessary to block buildings located at the top of a slope from view, and then the strategy for placing tall and low-growing varieties changes.
A low fence along the retaining wall will cover unsightly surfaces and beautify the landscape. It is extremely appropriate to create a rock garden on a site with a slope. To do this, stones are laid out on the slope different sizes and in no particular order. Interesting use of stones different composition and textures. Vacant areas are filled with crushed stone, marble chips etc. The spaces between the stones are planted with the plants described above. Thus, with your own hands you can create the most unusual and amazing creative compositions. Of course, plants will grow only on soil that is quite suitable for this.
You can decorate a mountain garden with figurines made by yourself, or purchased at a store for summer residents.
Stream bed made of stones The landscape composition “dry stream” was invented in Japan almost specifically for surfaces with a slope. The idea is to imitate water using small stones and/or plants. At the site of the future channel, it is necessary to dig a shallow trench of the intended shape of the stream. The bottom of the groove is covered with geotextile to protect against weeds. Then drainage is laid in the form of small crushed stone, and the bed is covered with soil on top. "Stream" is planted with flowers of blue and blue color or filled with any crushed stone, preferably blue. Then you can plant flowers along the “shores”. A “dry stream” can exist on its own, or originate from a clay jug partially buried in the ground. It would be interesting if the path passing nearby would “throw” a small bridge over the “stream”.
On a site with a slope, it is very interesting to use the following technique: a channel for draining water is designed in the form of a “dry stream” made of stones. When it rains, the stream will fill with water, which will flow into a small pond at the bottom of the slope. Quite functional and beautiful!
Arches on a sloped area will be very functional in combination with a bridge and stairs. Of course, the arch should be decorated with climbing plants.
Having familiarized yourself with the above material, you probably already understood: there are a great many possibilities for decorating a site on a slope! In one of the articles we will talk about specific example. We wish you creative success in realizing your plans. Perhaps the following video will help you.
Building a house on a slope or hill is a tempting idea for landowners. There is always a wonderful view from the windows, and the cost of such land is somewhat lower than on the plain. But such areas have a number of features for landscaping.
Features of hilly areas
If you look at the photos of the plots on the slope, you will notice that they have a special layout, as well as a design.
The design of each such plot requires a special approach, since it is necessary to take into account the specificity of the soil, the angle of elevation, and the features of the relief. Work on landscape design is more voluminous and more difficult than on level ground, as it requires additional efforts to strengthen the soil.
Even if there is no need for design, but you just need a vegetable garden or garden, then you need to approach the planning responsibly. This is justified by the fact that over time the soil may “move” under the weight of buildings and plantings.
Design ideas
Before developing the design of a site on a slope, it is necessary to inspect it from a functionality point of view and choose a method for strengthening the soil.
One of the most popular design options for a site on a slope is terracing. The ledges can be of different sizes, shapes, located symmetrically or chaotically. The appearance of each terrace and its decoration depends only on the owner’s idea. The ledges are connected by paths or steps.
On the terraces you can organize a vegetable garden, a garden, recreation areas, and outbuildings. A stream can run from the upper platform to the lower one. It is recommended to decorate the edges of the steps with floristry or use stones, logs, fences, etc.
The slope can be left unchanged (if no plantings or buildings are planned on it), strengthening the soil. Such plots can become a place for a walk.
Strengthening
Slope strengthening can be done different methods. The choice of option depends on the functional purpose of the site, the angle of elevation, soil characteristics, and the presence of groundwater.
Planting
If the slope of the site is small, then it is enough to plant it with low, perennial plants with an extensive root system. After a few years, the risk of soil “sinking” will drop to zero. On the fortified slope it is possible to build small outbuildings or plant trees.
Strengthening with geomaterial
If the elevation degree exceeds 30, then it is recommended to strengthen the soil with geotextiles or geogrids. They are placed on the surface, covered with soil, and after a while they are planted with small plants.
It will not be possible to place something more significant (buildings, garden) in such a place, but the soil will not “move.” The landscape design of the site on a slope will make this place ideal for relaxation.
embankment
The issue of strengthening the slope can be resolved with the help of an embankment. This method is recommended to be used only on large areas, so as not to significantly reduce the area of the territory.
Retaining walls
Retaining walls are widely used to stabilize soil. They can be of different heights and strengths, depending on the material of manufacture.
Gabions
Often in areas with uneven terrain you can see grid cubes filled with stones and soil. In addition to their immediate function - strengthening the soil, they allow you to realize design ideas.
Perennial (often climbing) plants are planted in the ground, which is in a grid, which in a year or two turns ugly cubes into original landscape details.
Support structures
When planning terraces, it is necessary to decide how to strengthen the slope in this area. To ensure the strength of the sites, support structures made of concrete, stone, brick and wood are used.
Concrete
This is the simplest method that does not require long and painstaking work. It is enough to make the formwork and fill it with concrete. In this option, you need to correctly calculate the surface level.
Brick
To lay out a brick structure, you must first make a foundation, and only then make a support using mortar.
Stone
To strengthen the terrace with stone, there is no need to make a foundation and spend money on mortar (but this is recommended). Stone craftsmen will lay out the material according to the author’s idea, observing all the rules of work. Stone in landscape design is beautiful and reliable.
Wood
Depending on the needs, logs (sticks, boards, etc.) are buried in compacted soil or in a poured foundation.
The wooden support structure can be of different heights and thicknesses. It is important to pre-treat the wood with a water-repellent agent.
Drainage system
The layout of a site on a slope should take into account such features as the accumulation of moisture in the lowlands and the erosion of supporting walls. To avoid such troubles, you need to think through the drainage system in advance. Landscape designers prefer open structures. They are made in the form of streams, decorative gutters, and water slides.
There are drainage systems made from water-conducting layers or complex drainage systems with filtration. Any design and soil strengthening option, as well as creative ideas, can make a non-prestigious plot on a slope a beautiful and comfortable place to live and relax.
Photo of the site layout on a slope
Many owners view a plot of land with difficult terrain as a punishment. But any disadvantage can easily be turned into an advantage. To do this, you do not need to call a grader for leveling. A competently used height difference will demonstrate all the charm of a non-standard landscape. Of course, construction on a relief site, as well as its arrangement, will be fraught with difficulties. But the end result will give you satisfaction with the work done and will arouse the envy of your neighbors. The article will talk about proper arrangement plot with a slope.
Linking a house to a plot with a slope
There are 2 ways to link a building to a site with a slope - without changing and with changing the existing landscape. Standard project is developed on the basis that construction will be carried out on a level site.
A house being built in an area with natural conditions requires processing of the underground and basement parts. Thus, the housing will have characteristic features that correspond to the site.
The slopes of the site are divided into:
- on flatlands, where the slope is up to 3%;
- with a small slope (up to 8%);
- with an average slope (up to 20%);
- steep (over 20%).
On slopes it is not only difficult to construct buildings, but also to construct access roads. Retaining walls, embankments and other strengthening structures are installed on slopes with height differences of 1:2.
Project of a site with a slope
Vertical layout of a site with a slope
Work on arranging a landscape with a complex “character” includes:
- leveling the terrain as much as possible by removing soil in one place and adding it in another;
- organization of storm drains, which can be either hidden or open;
- determining the optimal location of the main house, gazebo, summer shower, vegetable garden, garden trees;
- correction of small irregularities using the terracing method; for steep drops - arrangement of retaining walls.
- This approach will help not only to correctly divide the territory into functional zones, but also makes it possible to design it in an original way.
Drainage system on a sloped area
- The organization of the drainage system should be given due attention. Drainage will allow you to regulate the water balance and ensure rapid removal of water formed after precipitation or melting snow.
- Rain and melt water form gullies. And the steeper the height difference, the greater the likelihood of slope failure. Since even small streams can create large ravines and lead to landslides of soil masses.
- The drainage arrangement begins after all the basic earthworks and laying communications. Knowing at least the approximate location of the main buildings and green plantings will help to correctly install the drainage system.
- The installation method can be open or closed. Main advantage hidden system drainage is space saving. Since the canals run underground, access roads and paths can be built on top of them.
- Trenches are dug along the slope of the entire site to the receiving collector. What is more effective is the installation of drainage in the form of a “herringbone”, where additional outlets are adjacent to the main line. acute angle. With this method, the central trench should be located just below the auxiliary channels.
- The depth of the trenches can range from 30 cm to 1 meter. The slope should not be less than 2 mm at linear meter length. This parameter is important even in areas with a slope, because part of the system can also pass on a flat area.
- A 10 cm layer of sand is poured into the bottom of the trench and compacted. Geotextiles are laid on top of it, the edges of which should cover the channel walls with a margin. Next, crushed stone is poured with a layer thickness of 10-20 cm.
- Placed on a gravel bed polymer pipes with perforation, they are connected. The pipes are covered with a layer of crushed stone, and the finished system is covered with geotextiles. The entire “pie” is covered with sand and soil.
Design of a site with a slope
Mastering a complex landscape is fraught with certain difficulties. But this should not be an obstacle. A competent approach to landscaping work will lead to enchanting results.
Plot with a slope photo
- Elevation differences make it possible to realize the most daring, original ideas. Alpine design is best suited for these purposes. The highlight of this style is the use of rough-hewn stones and a large number of delicate and bright colors. With the help of these 2 elements, the maximum number of tasks is solved:
- zoning of the site is carried out;
- boulders and plants serve to strengthen the slopes;
- promote snow retention;
- perfectly decorate the entire space.
- Planting green spaces should be carried out based on the rule - the lower the point, the taller the plants. That is, it is planted on the top of the slope low-growing varieties, in the lowlands - bushes and trees. This placement will help visually level the terrain.
- The entire area of the site must be planted. Between the beds and fruit trees in empty areas, a lawn or ground cover plants (ivy, barberry, Japanese quince). In addition to the aesthetic component, they will protect the soil from washing out.
- In hilly areas it is impossible to do without paths and stairs. They should be as comfortable as possible, since you will have to move around them more than once during the day. It is recommended to make the width of the paths and the height of the steps of the stairs the same throughout the entire territory; this approach will help to avoid injuries.
- The paths are arranged on a conditional basis flat surface. To visually smooth out the difference in heights, they are made tortuous.
- Stairs and steps are necessary on steep slopes. If the slope is very large, then railings are installed on at least one side. Optimal width treads - 25-30 cm, riser height - 15 cm. The slope of the entire structure should not exceed 45°.
- If the flight of stairs is long, then rest areas are built, from which you can change the direction of ascent. The presence of more than 10 steps requires a concrete base, which will provide stability and prevent “sliding” of the entire staircase.
- Terracing will help to properly arrange a site with slopes. The size and shape of the platforms is based on their purpose, so one width is needed for a vegetable garden, and another for a gazebo with a barbecue.
- Zoning of the site is carried out taking into account its location relative to the cardinal points. Shading is also taken into account; in such places they plant shade-loving plants, you can install a bench for reading.
- When planning, it should be remembered that the more terraces are organized on the territory, the lower the height of the fortification walls. Accordingly, their construction is easier. Each terrace should ideally be equipped with its own drainage system.
Slope strengthening
Preventing the sliding of a loose mass of rocks is carried out by carrying out various fortification structures. The method of fixing the soil depends on the steepness of the terrain.
- Natural strengthening. For relatively gentle slopes (up to 30°), creeping plants are used to form a decorative cover. Branched roots will create a natural frame. Willow, lilac, and rose hips are planted in the lowlands. Over time, the developing roots of the shrubs will also reliably hold the soil together.
- Geomaterial. An excellent solution would be geotextiles or geogrids. The material is spread on the site and covered with soil. After a while, the soil will twitch and turn green. Such strengthening does not imply a change in terrain. The protective layer covering the material is resistant to adverse weather conditions and chemical influences. The service life of the product is 50 years.
- embankment. Consolidation measures can be carried out using an embankment. But when implementing them, it should be remembered that the embankment occupies a usable area, so it is rational to use it in spacious areas. Another disadvantage is regular topping, that is, after a certain period of time, soil is removed from the base and added to the top of the slope.
- Retaining walls. Walls made of natural materials (stone, wood) look advantageous and practical. The fortification structure will protect the slope from destruction and delimit the space through terracing. They can be installed on hilly terrain with any elevation changes.
- Low walls (up to 80 cm), which play a more decorative role than a functional one, are equipped on our own. The construction of a massive structure, designed to largely prevent landslides of soil masses, should be entrusted to professionals.
- Gabions. Modular designs are widely used by landscape designers. Gabions are easy to install; they are filled with pebbles, coarse crushed stone, and rubble stone. You can fill the voids between the material with earth, and then in the spring, the unaesthetic mesh with cobblestones will disappear behind green growth. Modules are purchased from the manufacturer or made from wire yourself. Stone walls with sprouts sprouting give the area a noble, visually aged appearance.
- When designing reinforcement structures, the forces acting on overturning and shearing are calculated. Strength and durability are imparted to the walls through a foundation, the thickness and depth of which depends on the height of the supporting wall, its purpose and the type of soil.
- The supporting part of the wall resists vertical loads. Availability drainage system when building walls is mandatory. It will prevent rain and melt water from washing away the base of the wall.
- The most commonly used material for building walls is stone. Artificial or natural boulders can be laid either with or without mortar. With the “dry” masonry method, soil is laid in the voids and sown with seeds. Unfortunately, the lack of mortar makes the wall not very reliable design during prolonged rains and during spring floods.
- Brick is also particularly popular. The clinker masonry may be loose or dull. The material allows you to build walls of any configuration, winding and zigzag shapes.
- Wooden elements fit harmoniously into the surrounding landscape, but due to their special characteristics, their use as a fortification structure is not advisable. Of course, treatment with special preparations will extend the life of the wood, but again, this is only temporary protection. This design requires regular maintenance.
- If, when constructing walls made of stone and brick, the height of the structure should not exceed 70 cm, then the use of concrete allows a similar figure of 3 m. Here you can use concrete slabs made in a factory, or pour the concrete mixture into the prepared formwork.
In conclusion, I would like to summarize some results:
- a plot of land with difficult terrain will be cheaper, but the costs of its development will be noticeably higher than on a flat area. Conclusion: no savings;
- extensive work on tying a residential building to the terrain, the location of recreation areas and beds are fully compensated by the general original look plot. Conclusion: the difference in heights gives more possibilities for implementation non-standard ideas than flat terrain.
Situated on the slopes suburban areas differ from the land plots located on the plains. Due to the characteristics of the soil and changes in relief, owners have to face the need to implement additional work. In most cases, to solve existing problems, it is necessary to resort to the installation of retaining walls, terracing and the construction of special structures that help strengthen the soil layer.
Land on a slope - what can be done
A detailed study of many nuances and a thoughtful approach allow you to get the output original solutions. Incorrigible defects at first glance turn into a highlight, as a result of which, located on a slope country cottage area acquires attractive qualities that arouse the admiration of neighbors.
To ensure that the efforts expended are not wasted, before starting work it is advisable to study the area from the point of view of its further planning. Special attention should focus on functionality.
The buildings built into the slope look very original. Such tactics expand the circle architectural solutions through the implementation of additional exits to the adjacent territory from different levels.
At the planning stage, it is advisable to decide on the locations:
- outbuildings, the operation of which requires the supply of electricity;
- gas or water pipes(toilet, summer cuisine, bath).
Preliminary marking of areas for:
- flower beds;
- gazebos;
- canopy;
- recreation areas.
The slope can also be used to arrange a cellar.
In the photo - making retaining walls
A careful study of level differences and protrusions may prompt non-standard solution in the field of landscape design.
Some corners seem to be created by nature for:
- waterfalls;
- streams;
- light openwork.
Rocky areas are ideal for creating rock gardens that recreate a mountain landscape.
Coping with steep slopes
The predominant part of summer cottages is used for planting trees, ornamental and agricultural plants.
Realization of the set goals is impossible without reducing the steepness of the slope.
- To solve this problem, they most often resort to such a simple method of transforming the relief as terracing.
- When developing a terrace plan, it is important to work out how to connect individual areas.
- Level paths or stairs can be used as the latter.
- Climbing up and down steep steps can cause fatigue. As a result, it is highly desirable that the height difference between elements does not exceed 10 cm.
- Staircases designed for heavy loads should be wide.
Advice: during construction, give preference monolithic structures, erected using the formwork method from a concrete mixture.
- Decoration with stones and tiles begins after the main work is completed.
Tip: For the construction of small stairs, use wood and natural stones, secured with cement mortar or dry laid.
The transformation of the landscape begins after drawing up a site plan. A sketch created on the ground will also come in handy. Steeper slopes require more terraces.
Advice: when arranging the latter, you should not forget about the level of difference. The value of this indicator should tend to a minimum.
Support structures
To enhance the stability of the terraces being built, supporting walls are used, the main function of which is to hold the soil and redistribute the pressure it exerts. Let's look at different materials:
| Wood |
|
| Stone | People became convinced of the practicality of supporting walls made of stone several centuries ago. The basis of the method, which does not require a solution, was the selection of stones of appropriate shapes and sizes. Implementation this method in practice it requires creative thinking and perseverance. The price of work depends on the volume. |
| Concrete | Individuals who are far from construction can resort to the pouring method monolithic concrete. The arrangement of supporting walls from natural stone, fixed with a solution. |
| Blocks and bricks | The instructions allow the construction of supporting walls from such materials. Before installation begins, work related to the creation of a monolithic foundation must be completed. Most often, a tape variety is used for these purposes, which attracts owners. high degree reliability. With its help, high terraces are built, which are characterized by large differences. |
Excess moisture problem
Effective functioning of supporting walls is impossible without a drainage system. Successfully combats excess moisture drainage layer, for the construction of which sand and crushed stone are used.
They cope with the task:
- drainage pipes laid towards the slope of the terraces (1 pipe is laid for every 2.5 m);
- if required, drainage trays can be used.
Backfilling of the terrace is carried out in the following order:
- the drainage layer is covered with an infertile layer of soil;
- Vegetable soil follows on top.
Remember, the possibility of ground settlement cannot be ruled out. The occurrence of this complication is most likely during the first few days.
Advice: it is advisable to start work related to the improvement of the site after filling up the settled soil.
Conclusion
Summer cottages on a slope can be turned into interesting areas using the terrace method. You will not only add useful space to yourself, but also make your place original. You just need to strengthen the slope in advance with the help of supports.
The video in this article will help you find additional information on this topic.
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beautiful landscaping garden retaining wall
