Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

What is the minimum required width of a concrete footing for a 2-story single-family dwelling supported by soil with a load-bearing capacity of 2000 psf?

1. 10 inches

2. 12 inches

3. 14 inches

4. 16 inches

The correct answer is: 12 inches

To determine the minimum required width of a concrete footing for a 2-story single-family dwelling, it is essential to consider factors such as the load-bearing capacity of the soil and the loads that the structure will impose on the footing. With a soil load-bearing capacity of 2000 pounds per square foot (psf), the design of the footing must ensure that the pressure exerted by the building does not exceed this capacity. A generally accepted practice for concrete footings in the residential construction industry is to use a width that provides a safe and adequate distribution of the structural loads. In many building codes and engineering principles, a minimum footing width of 12 inches is typically utilized for residential structures, especially those with two stories. This width helps to safely disperse the load from the walls and roof of the home into the ground without risking localized failure of the soil beneath. Therefore, given the structural requirements and the soil conditions, the selection of a 12-inch wide footing is considered appropriate for a 2-story single-family dwelling under these circumstances, balancing safety and economic considerations.