General Contractor Practice Exam

What is the maximum slope on the ground before a stepped foundation is required?

1. 5%

2. 10%

3. 15%

4. 20%

The correct answer is: 10%

The maximum slope that typically indicates the need for a stepped foundation is 10%. When the ground has a slope greater than this, it can lead to issues such as improper drainage, soil erosion, or structural instability for buildings. A stepped foundation helps to mitigate these challenges by providing a level base for construction, allowing for proper support and drainage while accommodating the elevation changes in the landscape. Building codes and best practices in construction often specify this 10% threshold because it is a critical point where more complex foundation solutions are necessary to ensure the long-term performance and safety of the structure. This principle is widely accepted in both residential and commercial construction as a standard guideline for managing sloped terrain efficiently.