40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

When is dramatic slope likely less important?

1. When the ground surface is clay

2. When the ground surface is sand

3. When the ground surface is asphalt

4. When the ground surface is gravel

The correct answer is: When the ground surface is asphalt

The correct answer is when the ground surface is asphalt. This is because asphalt surfaces are typically designed to be impervious and provide good drainage characteristics. In comparison to other types of ground cover, such as clay or sand, asphalt is better at managing and directing water flow, which diminishes the significance of dramatic slope in those areas. Properly installed asphalt surfaces facilitate water runoff and prevent pooling, making slope less critical for effective drainage. On the other hand, clay surfaces tend to retain water due to their compact nature, while sand can drain too quickly, each presenting their drainage challenges. Gravel provides some drainage advantages, but its effectiveness can also be influenced by the slope's steepness. However, asphalt's engineered characteristics often lead to a lower concern regarding slope, highlighting why it is the right choice in this context.