Where is the footing elevation set in relationship to the bottom of the panel?

• A. Approximately 0 inches difference
• B. Approximately 2-4 inches difference
• C. Approximately 5-7 inches difference
• D. Approximately 1-3 inches difference

Answer: (D)

In tilt-up work, the bottom edge of the wall panel sits a little above the footing. The standard practice is to set the footing top about 1–3 inches below the bottom of the panel. This small clearance allows for formwork and pour tolerances, helps create a clean joint and straight line at the base, and accommodates slab thickness and flashing details. A flush or very large gap would cause practical issues with alignment, weatherproofing, and joint detailing, while a much larger gap would be unnecessary and cumbersome. So, about 1–3 inches difference is the typical relationship.