Depth of foundation footing?
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Depends on area, must be below the frost line.
Depends on where you live. First, call MISS DIG! It is free, quick and can save your life and your wallet! In southeast Michigan it is 42". This is so frost during the dead of winter can't get below the foundation and heave your structure up. In Alaska, permfrost requires building right on the surface of the land after grading. Since the frost never leaves the ground it is a lot like building on rock. In florida you may only need a 24" footing since the ground never freezes, but you need to go 24" to prevent animals from burrowing underneath your home. Most supplemental structures like playhouses and sheds only require a 24" footing as well, unless the interior will be heated during the winter. There are many other things to consider as well, from the shape of the foundation (based on the soil type and condition you may need a foundation that gets wider at the bottom) to the type of concrete used. If you plan on using a block wall or a preserved wood type foundation you will need to consult your supplier for additional details. It will also matters if you have a basement or not. Normally a basement goes below the necessary frost line, but basement walls will rest on a previously prepared "footing" that is a thick slab of concrete 12" or more in depth and about 24" wide. Finally, make sure you always consider drainage, especially when you have a basement. If this is done incorrectly you can end up with a leaky, smelly, mouldy basement that no one wants to use. Even a regular foundation needs to consider drainage to prevent damage and eventual failure. The idea is simple, get surface water to drain away from the home foundation. One thing you really should do for sure is to check with your local building department (where you would get a permit if you are so inclined). They have the exact information you will need for your area and can be of great help since they know the area and the problems builders have faced.
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