Depth/width of footer?

[PAJJ]

I want to add another column in my basement that supports the main beam. (I've had no luck getting a qualified contractor to even show up for an estimate so I'm going to do it myself.) I've researched the concrete/rebar data but can't find how wide/deep it should be. (I'll be erecting a steel, adjustable post on it when it's done.) Is a 12" dia. Sonotube adequate or should it be larger? How deep/thick should the slab be? Any suggestions will help. Thanks.

[Rich]

My opinion is not to go less than 8" deep for a spread footing. If you dig down and use a sonotube pour it at least 3' tall and then backfill and tamp against it.. this will give you excellent end bearing and side bearing. 12" diameter should be fine depending on what the anchor bolt layout is for the steel column.

[PAJJ]

Are you saying that if I use a 12" Sonotube, that I pour it to 3 feet in depth? Or does that 3 feet include the newly tamped bed?
For now, I was going to add this pier and brace up the main support with an additional 2X8 flush against it and bolted together. I was going to form this new pier footing flush with the existing floor.
I'm planning to have the entire concrete basement floor replaced in the future but that will likely be years down the road. For now, I want to get the main support and the 1st flooring leveled so I can start cleaning/remodeling.
If you are a contractor, maybe you can help me understand why I couldn't even get a contractor to come out to give me an estimate? I got one to send a summer flunkie out to measure and he quit without giving his notes to the contractor. I got one to come out but kept looking over his shoulder and wanted to make sure he could do it without a permit or the township knowing about his work! The rest I contacted either never returned my calls or scheduled a visit and no-showed. I even registered with an online contractor referral service and no one ever called. I'm puzzled that here I am, a paying customer, and no one wants the work and my money! Thus, I'm forced to do it myself. Any comments would help me get my head around this puzzle. Thanks much for your time!

[roger g]

I really hope this works. Let me know if you see pictures AND writing.



c:\program files\qualcomm\eudora\attach\~MAP0000.jpg;


Roger

[roger g]

Rich, If the above picture doesn't show up how is the best way to send pictures. DON"T GET TOO TECHNICAL> :D
I can only do certain things on the computer and sometimes the images I send work out okay. Maybe the receiver can open them but sometimes I can't open my own image.
Anyways the first way I've done this is the easiest so I hope people can open it. I got lotsa books and for the next little while I have the time.

roger

[Rich]

To send pictures you can either put them in the album or email me. I've been meaning to modify the forum to have image upload capability. I'll see if I can get that done this weekend.

[Rich]

Ok... here's the image.
Concrete Pad Footings (http://www.construction-resource.com/images/projects/rogerg.jpg)

[PAJJ]

Where can I review local/state building codes to determine the width/depth of the footers? I've tried calling the local building code rep. and he's never in or returns my calls.

[roger g]

First if you are building you had better buy a copy of the local bylaws which includes set backs and such. Then head down to the local library and read the National Building Code. It takes awhile but eventually the book starts to make sense (or so they tell me). Libraries are full of how to build houses and stuff. Learn to use the library.

Roger

[PAJJ]

I never would have thought the library would keep those documents on hand. Will they be recent versions or will they be from 1957? ;-) I will take a look as the local library is housed in the same building as the city offices. Thanks again folks!

[Rich]

Most likely they are the 1997 version. Most localities haven't updated to anything sooner - only until recently anyway.

[roger g]

I've used libraries ever since I was a kid. Some are better than others but most are associated with other libraries and you can borrow books from library tp library. Libraries are one of the most untapped resources of the world. If you can read, there is nothing you can't do. This web site is but one small example.

Roger