Newbie gets ready for footing inspection

[CurtisS]

HI there,
I have been visiting these forums alot recently and finding the info very, very useful. Thanks!!
I am building a new garage that uses conventional framing on a wall foundation. I have completed the footing forms (much of it based on the footings article on this site) and am now ready to call the inspector. Needless to say, I am a bit nervous. I have done as much research as possible (including the county requirements) to make sure I have footing depths, sizes and rebar placement correct. Does anyone have any last minute advice on things I may have overlooked based on your experiences? I have heard it said that an inspector will find at least one thing to correct or they feel they are not doing their job (I hope this is wrong). I want to avoid any problems as reinspection fees are $50.00 a pop!
Thanks for any input.

Ciao for now!

CurtisS

[Rich]

Probably the biggest thing inspectors will look at is the clearance of the rebar. In most jurisdictions you will need 3" clear space between the rebar and any face that will contact the ground... so essentially all sides.
Depending on local regulations you may also need to provide a keyway where the stemwall meets the footing. You can let them know that you will put it in with a 2x4 during the pour.
Other jurisdictions will not all you to "stab" the rebar for the stemwall. If this is the case you will need to tie the verticals into the footing rebar. The easy is to use 2 cross pieces and tie it to that (if you only have 2 continuous pieces in the footing). If there are 3 continuous pieces you can tie to the center one without the cross pieces.
Remember to have some tie wire and a pair of kleins to fix up any wire that's not up to snuff for the inspector. It will show him that you are willing to please him. Remember - inspectors are like little Kings in their domain. But also remember they are not structural engineers so an engineer can overrule them with proof.
Good luck..

[Rich]

I should also mention that although inspectors can have a "chip" on their shoulder most of them are very knowledgeable and can be of great help to you in completing your project. Most have an excellent knowledge of the codes and can point you in the right direction if you ask them questions before the inspection. Ask them stuff about upcoming elements that you may need some input on - it shows that you respect their knowledge. Many inspectors have office hours from 7:30 to 8:30 before they actually hit the field and it's a good time to meet with them at a place where they feel comfortable - in their office.

[CurtisS]

Thanks for the advice.
The requirements allow for me to wet-set the vertical rebar provided they hook (they are L shaped) under the outside footing rebar. Here is a link (PDF) to the county requirements for anyone who wants an additional reference (this is for Kitsap County, WA):

http://www.kitsapgov.com/dcd/brochures/61.pdf

Ciao for now!

CurtisS

PS: If you are curious about my project, I have devoted a web page to it here. Pics of the trenches and forms will be added soon...:
http://www.seesystems.com/curt/family/garage.htm

[Rich]

Nice little place you have there. A nice looking design on the garage also.