From the Ground Up: A Guide to Footers, Pads & Concrete Foundations
- Ryan Taneja
- Nov 26
- 2 min read
Every strong structure starts with a solid foundation — and in construction, that means concrete done right. Whether you're building a shed, a tiny home, a shop, or a retaining wall, the quality of your footers and pads will determine the strength, longevity, and safety of your entire project.
At Pennington Construction & Land Solutions, we don’t just pour concrete — we engineer stability from the dirt up.
📐 What’s the Difference Between a Footer and a Pad?:
Concrete Footers are the supportive base at the very bottom of your structure. They spread the load and prevent shifting over time.
Concrete Pads are flat slabs that serve as floors for things like sheds, shops, and patios.
Foundations may include both — plus rebar, trenches, and leveling systems based on your needs.
Each one plays a role in ensuring your build withstands the test of time and Arkansas weather!
🚜 Why Prep Matters:
Pouring concrete isn’t just about mixing and dumping. It's also about site prep. At Pennington, we take care of:
Land leveling
Drainage planning
Form setup
Compaction with plate compactors
Footing trench digging with our own tools
We ensure the site is ready to receive concrete, not just hold it temporarily.
💧 Don't Skip Drainage:
One of the most common and costly mistakes in rural and residential builds is poor drainage.
Water pooling under a pad or running off near a foundation can lead to:
Cracking
Settling
Mildew and moisture issues
Costly repairs
We install culverts, grading solutions, and French drains as part of your prep process when needed.
🛠️ Our Gear, Your Gain
We come prepared with everything so you’re never left waiting on a subcontractor.
Build it Right, Right from the Start
Whether you're preparing for a metal shop, barn, home pad, or accessory structure, Pennington Construction & Land Solutions is your trusted Arkansas partner.
📞 501‑BE‑BUILT (232‑8458)
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