Hardscape & GradingQuestion 54 of 100

A slope is described as 4:1. What does this mean?

a.4 feet of horizontal run for every 1 foot of vertical rise
b.4 feet of rise for every 1 foot of run
c.A 40 percent grade
d.A vertical cliff

Explanation

A 4:1 slope means 4 units of horizontal distance for every 1 unit of vertical change, a gentle 25 percent grade. The first number is run and the second is rise in this common landscaping convention. Flatter ratios like 4:1 are more stable and easier to mow than steep ones like 2:1.

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