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Understanding Frost Lines and Footing Requirements in Wasatch County

  • Writer: Corbin Thornton
    Corbin Thornton
  • Jun 17, 2025
  • 2 min read

🧊 What Is a Frost Line?

The frost line (or frost depth) is the depth at which the ground is expected to freeze during the coldest months of the year. In Wasatch County, this depth typically ranges from 30 to 36 inches, depending on elevation and specific soil conditions.

Why does this matter? If concrete footings are placed above the frost line, frozen soil can expand and shift, causing your foundation to heave, crack, or fail.

🏗️ Footing Requirements in Wasatch County

Local building codes require that all structural footings extend below the frost line. In Wasatch County, that means pouring footings at a minimum of 36 inches deep, though deeper may be necessary based on:

  • Soil composition (clay holds water and freezes more aggressively)

  • Site elevation (Midway vs. Heber may differ)

  • Load-bearing needs

  • Retaining wall height or slope pressure

At Sandstone Concrete Design, we’ve poured hundreds of footings and foundations across Wasatch County, and we always ensure depth, rebar placement, and base prep meet or exceed code.

🛠️ Why Proper Footings Save You Money

Cutting corners on footing depth might save you a few bucks upfront—but it can cost thousands in repairs later. Poorly installed footings lead to:

  • Uneven settling or structural tilting

  • Cracked slabs and walls

  • Water intrusion during spring thaw

  • Failed inspections or permit delays

✅ How We Handle Footings the Right Way

At Sandstone Concrete Design, we:

  • Verify local frost depth and inspect soil conditions

  • Use properly compacted base material

  • Pour to correct depth and width based on load specs

  • Use rebar grids or cages to strengthen the pour

  • Ensure proper drainage around the footing area

Whether it’s a residential foundation, garage slab, or retaining wall, we get it done right the first time—so you can build with confidence.

📍 Serving Wasatch County and Beyond

We proudly serve Heber City, Midway, Charleston, and surrounding areas, with a reputation for on-time, code-compliant concrete work.

Ready to start your project?📞 Contact Sandstone Concrete Design today for a free estimate.

 
 
 

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