How to Form a Footer
- 1). Select the location of the footer based on construction plans. Use the shovel to smooth the section of ground and ensure it is packed earth. Use the level to ensure the horizontal level of the ground.
- 2). Set two of the four wooden boards on their 1-inch sides, parallel and 18 inches apart. Add one board to the top between the two parallel boards facing you. It should fit exactly between the two. Line up the corners of the boards so they are flush. Repeat for the bottom. You should have a rectangle that has internal dimensions of 18 inches wide and 17 1/2 inches long and 8 inches deep. Secure the box together using nails and the hammer. Hammer nails into the top and bottom corners of the first two parallel boards you set down. The nails should go through that piece and into the ends of the last two boards used.
- 3). Place the form over the prepared area and check the level. If the box is not level, add or take away dirt from under the box until level. Ensure there are no gaps between the bottom of the box and the ground.
- 4). Position the rebar vertically inside the box two inches from each corner. Hammer the rebar into the ground until the top of the rebar is lower than the top of the box. This will use four pieces of rebar. Repeat this process with the other pieces of rebar positioning them between the corners and three inches from each side edge. Hammer the rebar into the ground until the top of the rebar is lower than the top of the box.
- 5). Pour the aggregate into the bottom of the box and make one layer of rock. The form is now complete and ready for concrete.
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