How to Lay a Block Footer
- 1). Measure the length and width of the area where you will be installing the footer and record the measurements. Each block for the footer will be 8-by-8-by-16 inches in size. Determine how many blocks will be needed for each side based on your measurements and the 16-inch length of the blocks.
- 2). Snap a chalk line around the area where the block will be installed. Dig into the ground with a shovel deeper than the size of the block you will be installing. Dig 12-inches deep for a block that is 8-inches tall. Dig wide enough to fit the 8-inch block inside.
- 3). Pour all-purpose gravel into the dirt 3-inches high throughout the ditch. Drill 3/4-inch holes through the center of each one of the blocks with a power drill. The hole will allow the rebar to fit through and strengthen the blocks. Drill through enough bricks to cover a 10-foot section of rebar.
- 4). Place the blocks into the opening and slide the rebar through the pre-drilled holes. Drill holes through the rest of the block and install the rebar. Continue in the same manner until all the block has been set for the foundation. Place a 4-foot level at the end of the blocks and verify the blocks are square and even. Move the level down through the blocks to check the entire footer.
- 5). Mix concrete with water into a mixing tub and pour it into the foundation to establish the base. Mix until there is a uniform consistency throughout and the concrete is pasty. Cover the entire block foundation with concrete up to the surface of the dirt.
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