Concrete to Concrete Joints: In Spread footings, the connection between the footing and a concrete wall can be made using either a "key" or steel bars. A key or keyway is usually formed by embedding a 2x4 wooden block into the top of the concrete footing while it is still wet. Once the concrete is formed, the 2x4 is removed. This results in the formation of a key. This key provides a bond between the footing and the concrete wall, when it is poured into place. Click here for a graphic of the same.
Steel can also be embedded into the concrete footing while it is still wet with a portion of the steel bar "sticking-out" of the concrete footing. This portion will provide the bond between the poured concrete wall and the footing. Click here for an image showing this type of joint.
The table below shows the building code requirements (in North America) for anchor bolts.
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Requirements for Anchor Bolts
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UBC/CABO
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BOCA
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| Min. Size | 1/2" diameter | 1/2" diameter |
| Depth into Concrete Foundation | 7" | 8" |
| Depth into Masonry Foundation | 15" | 15" |
| Maximum Spacing between bolts | 6'-0" | 8'-0" |
Concrete to Wood Connections: At the point where the concrete basement wall ends and the wooden superstructure begins, the connection is usually made through a "mudsill". Steel anchor bolts are placed on top of the wall to secure the wooden mudsill. The mudsill is treated against termite attack and moisture. When a wood flooring system is required, a cavity is made in the basement wall to support the floor beams. The beams can also be supported by using standard metal connectors mounted on the basement wall. Various standard metal connectors can be used for this purpose. Click here for a very good graphic presentation of the mudsill and some of the metal connectors available.
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