Structural Engineering · Engineering Glossary
A footing is a structural element at the base of a column, wall, or pier that spreads the structural load over a sufficient area of soil to keep bearing pressures within the allowable limits recommended by the geotechnical engineer. Footings are typically reinforced concrete pads or strips.
Spread footings are used under individual columns; continuous strip footings run under load-bearing walls; combined footings support two or more closely spaced columns. The structural engineer sizes footings based on the column or wall loads, the allowable bearing pressure from the geotechnical report, and the depth required to reach adequate bearing material and avoid frost heave. Reinforcing is designed to resist the bending and shear forces from the soil bearing pressure acting on the bottom of the footing. In seismic design, footings must also be connected by grade beams to prevent differential movement during an earthquake. Apex Grid designs footings for commercial, industrial, and government projects.
Apex Grid Engineering maintains this glossary as a resource for architects, contractors, developers, and property owners who encounter unfamiliar engineering terminology on their projects.
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