#ConcreteStructures

[wallsandreams]

What Is a Cantilever Footing and When Should You Use It?

When building a house or any structure, the foundation is crucial—it’s what keeps everything stable and secure. But what happens when you have limited space, uneven loads, or tricky property lines? That’s where specialized footings, like a cantilever footing, come into play.

In this guide, we’ll break down what a cantilever footing is, how it works, and when it’s the best choice for your construction project. Whether you're a homeowner planning an extension, a student learning about foundations, or a junior engineer exploring design options, this post will give you a clear understanding.

What Is a Cantilever Footing?

A cantilever footing (also called a strap footing) is a type of foundation used when two columns are close to each other but can’t share a single footing due to space constraints or load differences. Instead of a traditional combined footing, this design uses a reinforced concrete "strap" or beam to connect two separate footings, allowing one side to extend (or cantilever) beyond its support.

Key Features of a Cantilever Footing:

Two individual footings connected by a beam.

One footing supports a heavier load, while the other balances it.

Ideal when columns are near property lines or existing structures.

Think of it like a seesaw—if one side is heavier, the other side needs a counterbalance. A cantilever footing works similarly, ensuring stability even when loads aren’t evenly distributed.

How Does a Cantilever Footing Work?

To understand how this footing functions, let’s break it down:

Uneven Load Distribution – If one column carries more weight (e.g., a structural beam or wall), its footing will be larger. The adjacent column’s footing is smaller but connected via a strap beam.

The Strap Beam’s Role – This reinforced concrete beam transfers part of the load from the heavier column to the lighter one, balancing the forces.

Prevents Tilting or Settlement – Without this connection, the heavier column could sink, causing cracks or structural failure.

Practical Example:

Imagine you’re building a house extension close to your neighbor’s property. You can’t place a wide footing on their side, so instead, you:

Install a larger footing on your side (where you have space).

Connect it to a smaller footing near the boundary with a strong strap beam.

This way, the load is safely distributed without encroaching on the neighbor’s land.

When Should You Use a Cantilever Footing?

Not every project needs this type of foundation, but here are common scenarios where it’s the best solution:

1. Limited Space Near Property Lines

If a column must be placed right next to a boundary (like a fence or adjacent building), a cantilever footing allows you to extend support inward rather than outward.

2. Adjacent Existing Structures

When expanding a building, you might need to add columns close to old foundations. A cantilever footing prevents interference with the existing structure.

3. Uneven Column Loads

If one column supports more weight (e.g., a load-bearing wall), a cantilever footing ensures the load is safely shared with a neighboring column.

4. Poor Soil Conditions

In areas with weak soil, spreading the load across two footings reduces the risk of sinking.

For a deeper dive into design specifics, check out this detailed guide on cantilever footing.

Cantilever Footing vs. Other Foundation Types

How does this compare to other footings? Here’s a quick breakdown:Foundation TypeBest ForKey DifferenceCantilever FootingUneven loads, tight spacesUses a strap beam to balance two footingsCombined FootingTwo close columns with similar loadsSingle, wider footing under both columnsIsolated FootingSingle columns with even soilStandalone footing per column

A strap footing is similar but often refers to a more rigid connection between footings.

Benefits and Limitations of Cantilever Footings

Advantages:

✔ Saves Space – Ideal for tight or restricted construction sites. ✔ Balances Uneven Loads – Prevents one column from sinking. ✔ Cost-Effective – Requires less excavation than deep foundations.

Limitations:

✖ Complex Design – Requires precise engineering to avoid failure. ✖ Not for Heavy Loads – Better suited for medium-weight structures. ✖ Reinforcement Needed – The strap beam must be strong enough to handle stress.

Design Considerations for Cantilever Footings

If you’re considering this footing type, keep these factors in mind:

Soil Bearing Capacity – Weak soil may need deeper footings or additional support.

Reinforcement – The strap beam must have steel rebars to resist bending forces.

Column Spacing – Too far apart, and the beam may bend; too close, and a combined footing may work better.

Professional Engineering Required – Always consult a structural engineer to ensure safety.

Final Thoughts

A cantilever footing is a smart solution when dealing with tricky construction scenarios—like tight spaces, uneven loads, or property line restrictions. By using a strap beam to link two footings, it ensures stability without compromising on space or safety.

However, proper design is crucial. If you’re planning a project that might need this foundation type, always consult an expert to ensure your structure stands strong for years to come.

[doginstrument]

thinking about changing my username i got @papermachedream & @doginstrument & @grasshalo & @concretestructure

[novotechmachinetools]

CNC stirrup bender

To learn more about rebar benders check out the link below:

https://www.novotechmachinetools.com/rebar-bender-and-cutter.html

Tel: +1 647 526 5510

#RebarWork #ConcreteConstruction #PrecastConcrete #ConcreteForming #ReinforcedConcrete #RebarInstallation #ConcreteSlab #PrecastPanels #ConcreteStructures #ConstructionEngineering #FormworkDesign #SteelReinforcement #ConcreteProjects #PrecastSolutions #RebarContractor

[cera-chem]

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#CeraChem #AntiCarbonation #InfrastructureProtection #Durability #ConstructionChemicals #BridgeWalls #Pillars #protectivecoating #concreteconstruction #concretestructures #constructionchemicals #construction #constructionlife #buildingmaterials #buildingsolutions #constructionmaterials #tileadhesive #admixtures #waterproofingexperts #waterproofingmaterials #coating #chemicalmanufacturing #mason #architect #architect #civilconstruction #civilengineer #constructionprojects

[kendrixtermina]

Just from the pictures of melted cars, exploded concretestructures & witnesses describing dozens killed by tanks (things requiring higher heat/greater firepower than the militants had access to), it's possible that more than half of the civilians were axed by Israel itself.

We all knew the Zionist entity would lower the numbers of Israeli "civilian" deaths, but I never thought they'd lower them THAT much

[furrina]

Residential Private House Location: Fußach, Austria Architect : Baumschlager Eberle Architekten YEAR: 2008 The Nordwesthaus brief called for a combined boathouse and clubhouse that made a clear architectural statement. Baumschlager Eberle Architects created a concrete and glass cube that provides a fitting response to a site dominated by water and transforms at night into a light sculpture hovering on the lake. The irregular structure of the concrete elements is set off against the regular rectangular shapes of the sheets of glass, The randomness of the glass decoration avoids too sharp a contrast between the core and the envelope. . . #designstudiomag #concrete #concretearchitecture #concretestructures #concreteconstruction #parametricconcrete #parametricconstruction #facadearchitecture #facadesesign #parameteicfacades #parameteicarchitecture #glassfacade #facadearchitecture @designstudio_mag Digital Architecture and Design magazine (presso Austria) https://www.instagram.com/p/CQYJ1n4r112/?utm_medium=tumblr

[parametricarchitecture]

Share your thoughts about this concrete structure! Concrete discs embracing the stairs to the top of the hill at the dance valley in #Amsterdam #Netherlands / 📸 by Vasilmann ——————————————————————— #disc #concrete #concretestructures #wall #concretewall #concretewalls #architecturephotography #photography #photographer #structure #structuralengineering #wall #design #parametric #grasshopper3d #rhinoceros3d #parametricarchitecture #parametricdesign #architecture #architect #mimar #architectural #engineering #computationaldesign #computational #architecturestudent #architecturestudents #concrete #concretedesign (at Amsterdam, Netherlands) https://www.instagram.com/p/CD1HNmqJfo1/?igshid=1r4yz5bx5jqvn

[arquigraph]

Concrete Is Beautiful

Miguel Fisac: Jorba Laboratories. 1967

 __ mostly known as ‘The Pagoda’ __

There are a lot of articles written about Jorba Laboratories, one of the most controversial works from daring spanish architect Miguel Fisac (1913-2006), his work was keep out from knowledge and research till the last decade. 

We invite you to know more about the architect, his works and a proposal to consider The Pagoda’s reconstruction on a specific site, for a museum space dedicated to show his legacy. This proposal is leaded by researchers and enthusiasts and is certainly enough argumented, hope they will get more support from the municipal authorities and citizens. 

-The Short Life and Long History of The Pagoda. Essay by Carlos Copertone and Patxi Eguiluz EN +

-Centro Fisac-Soria. Propuesta para un espacio museístico dedicado a la obra de Miguel Fisac. More inquiries about this proposal please talk with, Javier Rodríguez Cabello @Javieringio  ES +  

-“..La llamativa y destruida “pagoda” era el elemento singular de un conjunto de gran racionalidad en el que la torre de despachos de dirección debía servir como reclamo a quienes circulaban por la N-II. Cada planta rectangular aparecía girada 45º respecto a la inferior, y se relacionaba con sectores de paraboloides hiperbólicos, que le daban ese aspecto oriental que identificó la obra de mayor atrevimiento formal de la ciudad..” +

-This interview between enthusiast people and Fisac at his 90 years old is a gem. Special interview for a spanish journal in 2003. ES  + 

-More about Miguel Fisac works ES +

-Here are some reasons on why you may known and research Miguel Fisac works as a reference for your future architectures inspired and made with concrete __ but please, try out something more than make a mere copy, as BIG architects recently did, thanks.__ .ES +

Images:

1-6- Building elevations, 1967 © Fundación Miguel Fisac

2- Tower top structure, 1967 © Fundación Miguel Fisac

3-4- Tower plans, 1967 © Fundación Miguel Fisac

5- Tower cross section, 1967 © Fundación Miguel Fisac

7- Facade detail. Jorba Laboratories, Madrid, 1967 © Fundación Miguel Fisac

8-  Aerial view. 1965-68, Conjunto Industrial de los Laboratorios Jorba, carretera N-II, Madrid  unknowledge author.  +

[henrialia]

#brutalist #southbankcentre #southbank #thames #london #brutalism #brutaliststructures #brutalistarchitecture #concretestructures #concretebuilding #graffitti #streetart #skateboard #skateboarding #repurposedspace #urbanlandscapes #urbanarchaeology #urbanphotography #urban #londonlife #londonphotography #visitlondon https://www.instagram.com/p/B3DCZ9igMUR/?igshid=1ehfjqjwbmyqv

[lanemich]

#perks @andrewcashby 🤙 . . . . . . . . . . . #texture #concrete #concretestructures #chasinglight #archilife #architecturestudent #architecturestudio #uopdx #uowhitestag #whitestag #oldtownchinatown #pdxlife #pdxarchitecture #pdx (at Old Town Chinatown, Portland, Oregon)

[novotechmachinetools]

CNC stirrup bender from coil

Check out the link below:

https://www.novotechmachinetools.com/rebar-bender-and-cutter.html

Tel:+1 647 526 5510

#RebarBending #CNCStirrupBender #ConcreteForming #ConstructionTools #SteelReinforcement #RebarFabrication #ConstructionInnovation #StirrupMachine #BuildingStrong #ReinforcedConcrete #RebarInstallation #ConcreteStructures #ConstructionIndustry #StructuralEngineering #ConstructionEquipment

[cera-chem]

Introducing the perfect duo – Cera Cote EPW and Ceralastic. Our food-grade coatings ensure the highest standards of safety and durability for all your waterproofing needs.

Together, they provide the ultimate shield against water damage, keeping your structures in top condition. Whether for industrial kitchens, food processing plants, or any area requiring stringent safety standards, trust in quality, trust in Cera Chem!

#CeraChem#ceralastic#ceracoteepw#ConcreteAdmixture#BuildingInnovation#Durability#admixtures#waterreducers#FoodGrade#FoodGradeMaterials

#concretestructures#admixturesolution#construction#constructionchemicals#buildingsolutions#concrete#tileadhesive#waterproofingexperts#waterproofing#waterproofingsolution#SurfaceCoatings#terracewaterproofing#coating

[robinschmiedebach]

Shoot nō 2 was a full success. @marta_palmito is a great sport in front of the camera. I hope to come back to lisbon soon. What a joyful trip. . . . . . #lisboalive #lisboacool #lissabon #travelphotographer #travellingphotographer #portuguesa #portuguesegirl #oriente #concretestructures #mediterraneanlife #lisbon🇵🇹 #portugal🇵🇹 #fujifilmxpro2 #xf56mm #85mm #fujilove #teamfujifilm #xphotographer #xpro2 (hier: Oriente, Lisboa)

[archtechposts]

Sculptural Spatial Definition

DL1310 APTARTMENTS (Mexico) -  Michan Architecture Collaboration with Young & Ayata

| instragram: @fmtmblr

[parametricarchitecture]

Confluence Park Pavilion in #SanAntonio #Texas made of concrete petals designed by Lake|Flato Architects + Matsys Design | 2018. Constructed of concrete petals designed thoughtfully to sit lightly upon the land, the BHP Pavilion— the main pavilion— forms a geometry that collects and funnels rainwater into a sitewide water catchment system. The pavilions throughout the park provide shade and shelter, simultaneously engaging visitors to visualize the cycle of water at Confluence Park and how it relates directly to the San Antonio Rivershed. Architect: @matsysdesign @lakeflato Photos by: Casey Dunn Post by: @hamithz & @pa.next ————————————————————— * Submit your project to publish on PA (+542K) * Turn ON Post Notifications to see new content * Instagram 👉🏼 instagram.com/parametric.architecture * Linkedin: 👉🏼 linkedin.com/company/parametric.architecture * Website: 👉🏼 www.parametric-architecture.com * Facebook: 👉🏼 facebook.com/parametric.archi * Pinterest: 👉🏼 pinterest.com/parametricarchitecture * YouTube: 👉🏼 youtube.com/parametricarchitecture * Twitter: 👉🏼 twitter.com/parametricarch ————————————————————— #installation #structure #concrete #concretestructures #pavilion #architectural #architect #architectureporn #architecture #architecturelovers #architecturephoto #digitalfabrication #parametricism #architects #architecteye #architectlife #architecturelove #architecturedaily #parametric #parametricarchitecture #parametricdesigm #architecturebuilding #architecturephotography #designporn #designinspiration #designlovers #architecturephotos #architecturepicture https://www.instagram.com/p/CAlgMMjnbVi/?igshid=dmas04f0l0wi

[luvi69]

Yellow/orange Sometimes I like playing with colours saturation ...today is time for yellow/orange..! Lingotto is always a place where I like to play with photographs and its building history's. Are you never been there..? I mean where cars exiting by this slopes and went to the roof top where Fiat tests them before selling to peoples... it is really an amazing place... I promise you..! Go and take a look with your eyes..! . #lingotto #lingottotorino #architecture #structure #concretestructure #history #fiat #fiatfactory #fiatfactorytorino #torinolingotto (presso Lingotto, Piemonte, Italy) https://www.instagram.com/p/CO8ivyenmB0/?igshid=1smrwkr8dyasx