Less rebar in the footer

[jar546]

Our area has used rebar in the footing for as long as I can remember and most contractor still do. We have only had the I-Codes and a Statewide building code for 5-1/2 years. Due to our seismic zone, we do not require continuous rebar in the footers. Now that contractors are becoming aware of this, less are actually using rebar anymore.

It is like we are going backwards in that department. Anyone else have a similar situation?

 

[jpranch]

Re: Less rebar in the footer

We have expansive soils here. All footings and foundations are required to be sealed by a structural engineer. For the engineers of questional reputation we have minimum rebar requirements in our local ordinance.

 

[conarb]

Re: Less rebar in the footer

A friend is building a new home in Woodside California, you might want to check out what we are having to do. And to think, in parts of this great country they are still using CMU blocks for foundations.

 

[Alias]

Re: Less rebar in the footer

Well CA, it is Woodside, ya know :!: We are still using CMUs here but they must be completely filled and have rebar.

As to your dilemma jar, maybe the AHJ where you are can adopt an ordinance requiring rebar in the footers. It does seem to be counter intuitive to require less when historically you have required the rebar in the footers.

Sue, where no reinforcement is NOT an option

 

[RJJ]

Re: Less rebar in the footer

Just wait till they figure out they can pour a 6" thick footing. And they find some fool to seal it.