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Footing
A footing is the wider base of concrete that spreads the house weight into the soil.
Why it matters
Footings keep the foundation from sinking or shifting. If the footing is wrong, everything above it pays the price.
Where people get this wrong
A thicker slab is not a substitute for proper footings. Footing size depends on soil and loads.
Real-world example
A few years after move-in, doors start sticking and drywall cracks show up. Sometimes that story starts with soil and footings that were not sized for the reality.
Where this hits your build
This matters during site work and foundation. Mistakes here get buried and are expensive to fix later. Pay attention before concrete is poured.
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