Footings in post frame construction, often referred to as pole barn construction, play a critical role in providing stability and distributing loads from the structure to the ground. These footings are essential for preventing the posts from settling or shifting over time, ensuring the building remains level and secure. In post frame construction, the primary support comes from large, vertical posts or poles buried into the ground.

The footings for these posts can vary, but they typically include a combination of concrete and treated wood to resist moisture and decay. The most common types of footings for post frame buildings are dry pour concrete (dry pour sakrete) or a wet poured concrete pad or pier at the base of each post. This concrete pad spreads the load of the post over a larger area, reducing the pressure on the soil and minimizing the risk of sinking. The size and depth of the concrete footing depend on the building’s size, weight, local soil conditions, and frost depth. In areas with deep frost lines, footings need to be installed below the frost line to prevent heaving during freeze-thaw cycles. With these two footing options, the area around the post is most frequently backfilled with either fill dirt or poured concrete.

Another method involves using pre-cast concrete collars or “cookies” placed at the bottom of the post hole. These are simpler to install and can still provide significant load distribution. Some builders also use a combination of a concrete pad at the base and a concrete backfill around the post. This approach not only supports vertical loads but also helps to stabilize the post laterally, resisting wind and other lateral forces.