Different maps use different intervals, depending on the topography. For example, if your map uses a 10-foot contour interval, you will see contour lines for every 10 feet (3 meters) of elevation - lines at 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and so on. We call this spacing the contour interval. In order to keep things simple, topographic maps show lines for certain elevations only. The line you see will look like a contour line on a topographic map.
#Contour line how to
Here's a cool way to understand how to interpret contour lines: Take an object like a ball or a pile of laundry, and shine a red laser pointer along the object's side. They're useful because they illustrate the shape of the land surface - its topography - on the map. Contour lines show elevation and the shape of the terrain. Contour lines are lines drawn on a map connecting points of equal elevation, meaning if you physically followed a contour line, elevation would remain constant. © HowStuffWorksĬontour lines are the greatest distinguishing feature of a topographic map. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, lender or developer, we can accurately deliver the information you need-get in touch with us today to learn more about what we can do for you.Contour lines help users to see points of equal elevation. is a team of land planners who have helped area clients since 1953. Even a one-foot mistake can significantly alter your building plans-and drive up the cost of your structure.Īre you in need of accurate and detailed topographic surveys in Guadalupe County, TX? Bettersworth & Associates, Inc. They’ll be able to tell you whether you need to level the ground, or whether the building design can accommodate the slope.Īccuracy is key when it comes to contour lines, so it’s always smart to have your own surveyor assess the property and compare it to your seller’s or lender’s land surveys. Once you’ve received your topographic map from your land survey, you’ll likely share it with your contractors and architects. The top of a hill or mountain is the smallest ring in the middle-naturally, the larger the center ring, the flatter the top of the incline is.
However, if you see a topographic survey in Guadalupe County, TX with closely-spaced contour lines, that describes a much steeper slope. Each ring you see is on the same elevation, so they won’t always (or ever) be perfect circles-nature rarely makes perfectly round hills, mountains or ponds. If they’re far apart, that indicates a gentle slope where the elevation doesn’t change greatly from one point to the next.Ĭontour lines rarely connect or overlap.
When you’re reading a map with contour lines, look at how far apart the contour lines are spaced. How contour lines indicate elevation changes This method takes levels at selected points, then reduces them to form the contour lines. The indirect method is better for larger properties or when you need to save time. This tends to be a very time-consuming method. The contour lines are drawn directly on the ground on each point of elevation, then translated to paper. Direct contouring is best for smaller properties, and when you need a great amount of detail. There are two different types of contouring: direct and indirect. A contour map gives you the exact size and slope of any elevation changes on your property.
If you’re building a structure, you’ll need to know whether the land is suitable for it-whether it’s a house, a bridge or a megamall-and if you’ll need to do anything to the property before it’s ready for construction. Imagine that you’re interested in buying a piece of property for developing. Why are contour lines in land surveys important? The land survey will give detailed descriptions and information about the property, including a drawing that accurately depicts any changes in elevation. Any time you buy or sell a property (especially for development), you’ll need a land survey. Contour lines in a Guadalupe County, TX topographic survey offer a way to determine the various elevations of the property’s topography.
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