Establish Proper Footings

What happens here

To prevent structural issues, begin by ensuring proper footings. First, use a digging tool like a mattock to remove existing concrete if necessary, and then use a spade or shovel to dig the footing holes to the proper depth. The footings must be wide enough to handle downward forces and dug below the frost line to prevent frost heave, which occurs when water in the soil freezes and expands, lifting the foundation. If footings are too shallow, the foundation will heave, leading to cracks and instability.

Goal: Create a stable and deep foundation to prevent structural failure due to frost heave and inadequate support.