We're building a new house, and about ready to have the foundation poured. My question regards the need for a keyway between the poured footing and the poured 8" wall. I've seen several other foundations the contractor is doing in the same development, and none of them have a keyway between the footer and the poured walls. Also, It doesn't appear they imbed the vertical rebar int he footer when they pour it. I assume the drill it in afterward.

How much of an issue should I make about using a keyway, and having the rebar imbedded into the footer?

Thanks,

To be done properly the rebar should be embedded into the wet concrete and it should also have a 4-6 inch bend on the end that is embedded. If it is not embedded it should be installed using epoxy capsules. These capsules must be installed correctly if they are to work properly and they are fairly expensive. It is far better as well as cheaper to do the job properly and without the epoxy.

The keyway is a great help to prevent lateral shifting. The rebars could rust in the joint between the footing and walls leaving no support against lateral shift. The keyway will remain no matter what.

These items are not expensive and require only a little additional time to install properly. Make your contractor do the job correctly.

Glenn

I agree, the contractor is taking shortcuts.