Difference between Spread and Strip Footing

05 December 2019

Spread and strip footing are terms used to describe the positioning of shallow foundation in a building. Shallow foundations are constructed in a location where the soil layer is at shallow depth. These foundations must be able to support the structural loads. The depth of shallow foundations is generally less than its width. Spread and strip footing are the types of shallow foundations that are commonly identified interchangeably. In order to correctly identify which is which, below are their differences.

Terminology

Spread footing is also referred to as isolated footing, pad footing and individual footing. On the other hand, a strip footing is also known as continuous footing.

Usage

Spread footing is one of the most common and simple types of foundations. They are mainly provided to support an individual column. These columns are used to hold the load of the building. Usually, each column will have its own footing. Strip footing, on the other hand, are commonly found in load-bearing masonry construction, and act as a long strip that supports the weight of an entire wall.  These are used where the building loads are carried by entire walls rather than isolated columns, such as in older buildings made of masonry. They are also installed to allow the load of interior and exterior walls to be placed on the strip footings on the exterior boundary of the building. Strip footings are often used in areas where a building is placed on sloping ground and can be constructed by simple excavation and concrete pouring techniques. Two concrete pours are usually required when installing strip foundations.

Structure

A spread footing is circular, square or rectangular slab of uniform thickness on which the column sits. Sometimes, it is stepped or hunched to spread the load over a large area. However, a strip footing is composed of a row of columns which are so closely spaced that their spread footings overlap or nearly touch each other.

Materials

Both spread and strip footings are typically constructed from reinforced concrete. A continuous spread footings support solid brick and veneer. They also use concrete block and stonewall constructions. Strip foundations provide a line of support where columns or load-bearing walls are in need of support. Strip foundations can be constructed from stepped or plain reinforced concrete footing designs.

For more information on spread and strip footing, contact Dirt Cheap Mini Diggers. We are expert excavators and earthmoving contractors who have a large client-base in Melbourne. We contribute our company’s success to the high standard of work that is required from our employees and to the satisfaction they have given to our many customers over the years. Our aim is to provide all our customers with an affordable price and high standard of service.

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