Difference Between Foundation and Footing

 

In this article we will discuss the differences between a foundation and a footing.

 

Foundation

In Civil Engineering, a foundation is the lower portion of a building structure that transfers the building’s gravity load into the earth. A strong foundation is required in order for a building to stand the test of time and survive for decades or even centuries.

Foundations are commonly separated into two distict categories: shallow foundations and deep foundations.

A building’s foundation is made by first digging a trench into the ground. Dig deep enough to reach the subsoil. Subsoil is more solid than topsoil, which is where plant roots grow.

Concrete is then poured into the trench, supported and strengthened further with steel rods. When the concrete dries, the steel holds it all together.

This is known as reinforced concrete, and once it is in place, the structure can be built on top.

 

Footing

In Civil Engineering, a footing is a foundation that is constructed under the base of a wall or a column.

The purpose of the footing is to distribute the weight of the building over a large area. The term footing is generally used in conjunction with shallow foundations, not deep foundations.

Footing is placed directly below the lowest part of the structure it supports.


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