"James "Cubby" Culbertson" wrote in message
...
Hiya,
Gonna start gearing up to build a courtyard wall at the entrance to my
house. I'm planning on using adobe and am pretty familiar with that
aspect
of it. I'm curious to know where I can find out what my frost line is?
Silly question I know but every garden center, home supply, etc... company
can't give me a definite answer. I'm in ABQ New Mexico and as near as I
can tell, it's 18" but not sure. I assume the top of the footing should
be
no higher than 18" below grade correct? Finally, looking at a 4-5' wall.
Was thinking a 6" thick foundation would be enough....thoughts?

Thanks much,

I was surprised when I looked at a USDA zone map. Most of NM is in zone 6
same as KY. Sure seemed warmer than that during my brief stay there.

18" below grade to the bottom of the footer is correct here, zone 6. Your
goal is to prevent freezing water from heaving your footer. You could call
your local building inspection department for a definitive answer. Do it
from a pay phone if you wish to remain anonymous.

Six inches might be enough. I'm not sure about that. I would use 8" for a
wall that tall. I do know it needs to twice as wide as the "bricks" you
plan to lay. A 12" adobe should be centered on a base that is 24" wide
(front to back).

Are you planning to make you own or buying ready mades?


Colbyt