Spread Footing Construction

Spread footing foundations, also often referred to as continuous strip footings, became common in homes that were constructed during the 1970s, and are widely used still today for a couple of reasons.

Typically this type of construction is less expensive when compared to grade beam footings constructed on deep foundations such as concrete piers. Both basement and crawl space foundation walls can easily be constructed on spread footings at significant cost savings to other foundation methods.

In geographical areas that are not conducive for basement construction or shallow traditional spread footings, due to either shallow rock or high-water tables, construction is limited to either pier and grade beam foundation or concrete slab foundations.

Spread footing and strip footing foundations can settle unevenly over time, particularly in areas of seasonal change where the soil frequently expands and contracts with the change in the soil moisture content. These foundations are considered shallow and typically installed to a depth just below the frost line. This upper layer of soil where the spread footing bears its load is typically in a more active soil zone and more susceptible to settlement over time.

Common Signs Spread Footing of Foundation Issues

• Cracks in the interior ceilings and walls. This is one of the most common signs of the foundation failing. You should also keep an eye on the walls of the exterior of your home. Masonry surfaces such as brick and mortar do not flex and therefore cracks will surface at the first sign of settlement.
• Windows and doors that stick
• Floors that sag or become uneven.
• Cracks in the foundation walls.

For repair, there are a few key solutions that we supply our network of installing contractors with, each depending upon the cause and severity of the damage as well as the specific type of foundation construction.

Installing helical piers or resistance piles underneath the spread footings of your foundation will transfer the load from a shallow depth to a more inactive, stable soil at a deeper depth. Having the foundation secured in a soil or rock strata, at a depth where the moisture content is more consistent and less impacted by the seasonal wetting and drying, is what makes this repair so effective.