What is the minimum concrete footing width and thickness requirement for a one-story slab on grade, light frame construction?

For a one-story slab on grade, light frame construction, the minimum concrete footing requirement is important for ensuring proper support and stability. The choice of 12 inches wide and 6 inches thick adheres to common building codes and best practices, which typically specify that footings must be sufficiently sized to distribute the load of the structure and manage the forces imposed on them by soil and environmental factors.

A minimum width of 12 inches ensures that the footing has ample surface area to counteract the lateral pressures of the soil and to prevent settling or shifting. The 6-inch thickness provides adequate depth to support the foundation materials and the load. This sizing helps ensure that the concrete footing can withstand the weight of the building as well as any additional live loads. It also allows for effective drainage away from the footing, contributing to the overall integrity of the structure.

Overall, meeting these specifications helps in achieving a durable and stable foundation, which is essential in light frame construction where load-bearing elements are relatively lightweight but still need reliable support.