Introduction

13

DetaileD GraDinG with SlopeS, ContourS, anD Spot elevationS

In this chapter you will learn about:

• How to employ site-grading tools in solving a variety of common landscape-grading problems • The sequence of steps for solving common landscape-grading situations.

IntroductIon

Now that you have been introduced to the fundamental concepts of grading, we will turn our attention to applying what you have learned to a variety of site-grading situations that you will encounter in the field. To recap, grading is required when the design plans call for the existing topography of a project site to be altered in order to accommodate intended designed elements and activities. For instance, one of the reasons for site grading might be to create a gently sloping broad area for a proposed building pad, parking lot, or set of athletic fields on what may be steep or undulating existing topography. Items A and B in Figure 13.1 are diagrams that graphically portray the grading that may be required to create a level area. Item C in the same figure illustrates a swale needed to carry water from one part of a site to another. Where detailed and subtle grading is required for a proposed plaza or entry and gathering place, more detailed spot elevations are required to regrade the site, as depicted in item D in Figure 13.1.