Grading and Drainage Flashcards
6 cards from real BLArch Bachelor of Landscape Architecture practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Grading and Drainage flashcards as text
What is the minimum recommended slope away from a building foundation to ensure positive drainage?
Answer: 2% for 10 feet
A minimum 2% slope (2 inches of fall per 10 feet) away from building foundations is the standard to direct water away and prevent infiltration.
In landscape grading, what does the term 'spot elevation' refer to?
Answer: A specific elevation noted at a precise point on a plan
A spot elevation is a specific elevation value noted at a precise location on a grading plan, used to define critical high and low points.
What is the formula for calculating percent slope?
Answer: Rise ÷ Run × 100
Percent slope = (Rise ÷ Run) × 100, where rise is the vertical change and run is the horizontal distance.
Which type of drainage system collects surface runoff through underground perforated pipes?
Answer: French drain
A French drain uses perforated pipe surrounded by gravel to collect and redirect subsurface or surface water away from problem areas.
A 'swale' in site drainage is best described as:
Answer: A shallow, vegetated channel that conveys stormwater
A swale is a shallow, gently sloping, vegetated channel designed to slow, filter, and convey stormwater runoff across a site.
What does the term 'cut and fill' mean in site grading?
Answer: Balancing excavated material (cut) with areas that need fill to minimize hauling
Cut and fill balances the volume of soil excavated from high areas (cut) with soil needed to raise low areas (fill), minimizing off-site hauling.