Footings
Footings are the concrete base that a structure sits on, spreading its load into the soil so it doesn't settle or move. Sheds, pergolas, carports, stumps, posts and small extensions all need footings sized to the load they carry and the soil they sit in. Getting the depth, width and reinforcement right matters more than how the finished footing looks, since it's rarely seen again once backfilled.
Pricing guide: How much do footings cost?
Typically $150 to $400 per linear metre for strip footings, or $200 to $600 per pad for isolated pad footings, depending on depth, soil conditions and reinforcement required.
Why homeowners choose it
- Spreads structural load evenly to prevent settling or movement
- Sized to the specific soil classification and structure being supported
- Strip, pad or point footings suit different structures and budgets
- Provides a stable, level base for posts, stumps or slab edges
- Reduces the risk of cracking or shifting in the structure above
How it works
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1
Soil and load assessment
Soil type and the load the structure will carry determine the required footing depth, width and reinforcement.
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2
Setout and excavation
Footing positions are marked out and excavated to the engineered or standard depth.
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3
Reinforcement
Steel reinforcing bar or mesh is placed and supported at the correct cover to strengthen the footing.
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4
Formwork
Formwork is set where footings sit above ground level or need a defined edge.
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5
Pour and cure
Concrete is poured, compacted to remove air pockets, and left to cure before load is applied.
Hiring guide
Questions worth asking before you commit to a contractor.
Ask to see it, not just take their word for it. Insurance protects your property if something goes wrong on site.
Site preparation, disposal of old material, and any council permits can be included or charged separately — get it in writing before you compare quotes.
Some contractors do the work themselves; others subcontract parts of it. Neither is wrong, but you should know who is doing your job.
Old concrete, tree roots or drainage issues are common surprises. Ask how a change of scope gets costed before it happens, not after.
Materials usually carry a manufacturer's warranty. Ask specifically about the contractor's own workmanship warranty too.
Frequently asked questions
How much do footings cost?
Typically $150 to $400 per linear metre for strip footings, or $200 to $600 per pad for isolated pad footings, depending on depth, soil conditions and reinforcement required.
Do footings need to be engineered?
Small, lightweight structures often follow standard footing sizes, but sheds, carports and anything structural on reactive clay soil commonly need an engineer's design.
What's the difference between strip and pad footings?
Strip footings run continuously under a wall or fence line, while pad footings are isolated blocks supporting individual posts or stumps.
How long do footings need to cure before building?
Concrete reaches enough strength to build on after about 3 to 7 days, though full strength takes around 28 days.
Footings in popular suburbs
Local pricing, FAQs and a map for these areas.
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