Brick footings: The permissible range of spread from the wall base to the outer edge of a brickwork foundation should not exceed (horizontal : vertical)…

Introduction / Context:
Stepped brick footings widen the base of walls to reduce bearing pressure on soil. The offset per course and the overall batter must satisfy stability and constructability, keeping the resultant within the middle third and avoiding excessive overhangs that could lead to shear failure or cracking.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Brick masonry foundation built in steps (offsets).
• We consider the overall spread from wall base to foundation edge.
• Rules-of-thumb for batter and offset are used where detailed analysis is not required.

Concept / Approach:
Traditional practice limits the batter of brick footings so that the horizontal projection does not exceed the vertical rise in a 1:1 ratio. This keeps the load path compact, respects brick shear capacity, and facilitates good bonding without excessive cantilevering of courses. While specific offsets (e.g., quarter- or half-brick) may be specified per course, the overall constraint of approximately 1H:1V provides a safe geometric envelope for typical loads and bricks.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the spread geometry: cumulative horizontal projection versus total vertical depth.Apply empirical limit: overall batter not steeper than 1H:1V.Ensure bond continuity and bearing within the middle third under service loads.Select “1 horizontal to 1 vertical.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Many handbooks for small works adopt this batter, with detailed checks (bearing pressure distribution, shear along joints) done where loads/soils demand more rigorous analysis.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1/2H:1V or 2/3H:1V: Very conservative, may be permissible but not the typical upper limit referenced.2H:1V or 3H:1V: Excessive spread leads to weak offsets and poor load path.

Common Pitfalls:
Ignoring soil bearing capacity and water table; using large overhangs that are difficult to bond and prone to damage.

Final Answer:
1 horizontal to 1 vertical.