Footing Size Calculator
Determine isolated footing dimensions based on column loads and soil bearing capacity. Calculate concrete volume, reinforcement requirements, and check bearing pressure.
Unfactored axial load from column
Moderate density - Allowable: 200 kN/m²
From geotechnical report (overrides soil type)
Enter column load and soil properties to size footing
Notes:
- Punching check per EN 1992-1-1 cl. 6.4 (simplified, concentric load); allowable bearing values are indicative presumed values
- Square footing assumed for isolated foundations
- Punching shear at basic control perimeter 2d from column face, soil reaction inside the perimeter deducted
- Groundwater may reduce effective bearing capacity
- Verify soil parameters with geotechnical investigation
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This calculator provides PRELIMINARY ESTIMATES ONLY and is intended for planning and budgeting purposes. Results should NOT be used for final structural design or construction without verification by a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).
By using this tool, you acknowledge that:
1. All calculations are indicative and may not account for site-specific conditions, load combinations, or local code requirements.
About This Calculator
The Footing Size Calculator helps structural and geotechnical engineers design isolated footings for columns across UAE and Gulf construction projects. Calculate footing dimensions based on column loads and allowable soil bearing capacity, with concrete volume and reinforcement requirements. Essential for foundation design in high-rise towers, villas, and commercial buildings where soil conditions vary significantly.
When to Use This Calculator
- Designing isolated footings for column foundations
- Checking bearing pressure against soil capacity
- Estimating concrete and rebar for foundation BOQ
- Preliminary foundation sizing for tender estimates
- Verifying footing adequacy for increased loads
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Column Load
Input axial load from column in kN (from load takedown calculation).
Specify Soil Capacity
Enter allowable bearing capacity from geotechnical report (kN/m² or kPa).
Set Footing Depth
Input footing thickness (minimum 300mm for structural adequacy).
Add Eccentricity
If applicable, enter moment or eccentricity affecting pressure distribution.
Calculate Results
Get footing dimensions, bearing pressure, concrete volume, and rebar requirements.
Typical Scenarios in UAE & Gulf Projects
A 300×300mm villa column carries 800 kN (service) on medium clay (150 kPa presumed). With a 400mm thick C30 footing the calculator gives a 2.5m × 2.5m base (2.5 m³ concrete), 128 kPa bearing pressure, and a punching check of 0.44 MPa against 0.50 MPa (EN 1992-1-1). Reinforcement is indicative and must be designed by the engineer.
A 1.0m square column delivers 12,000 kN to rock with 300 kPa allowable bearing. The calculator gives a 6.7m × 6.7m base. At 1.0m thick the punching check fails (0.66 MPa against 0.39 MPa); at 1.5m it passes (67 m³ concrete). A footing this size needs full design by a structural engineer, and piles or a raft may be more economical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Take Your Calculations Further
This calculator reflects the logic built into Arkan's construction management platform.
Last Updated: January 2026
Standards Reference: Punching check per BS EN 1992-1-1 cl. 6.4 (simplified); presumed bearing values are indicative only