How to Build Forms for Wall Footings

A solid wall requires solid wall footings. There's no trick to learning how to build forms to make wall footings. All it takes is a steady hand and a strong back. Follow these simple guidelines, and you'll be ready to pour your wall footings in no time.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2 by 4 lumber for footing rails
• 1 by 4 lumber for footing stakes
• String
• Level
• Shovel

1. Firmly attach 1-by-4 stakes at right angles to 2-by-4 lumber rails. Best practice is to place the stakes approximately 4 feet apart. Make sure the top of the stake is slightly below the lumber rail.

2. Mark the area for the footings on undisturbed ground. Use string attached to sticks to mark straight lines or you can use a chalk line. Make sure all the corners are set at right angles.

3. Set the outside forms in the ground. Drive the stakes at least 6 inches below the footing trench to firmly anchor the forms. Use the string or chalk line as your guideline. Square the corners as you build the four sides.

4. Position the inside row of the forms the same. Keep both rows of forms parallel to each other. When both rows are set, level them with a carpenter's level.

5. Dig an additional 5 to 6 inches of soil from between the forms. Use a shovel. The total depth of the footing should be no less than 8 inches from the top of the form.

6. Make sure the sides of the trench are even with the inside edges of the footing. Check all the forms again to be sure they are still level and aligned properly. Add additional support to the outside edges of the footings, if necessary.