Ciągła podstawa is a horizontal structural element of a building designed to transfer load from the structure to the ground in a uniform and safe manner. It is used in places where the ground is unable to transfer heavy loads directly from column or wall foundations. Continuous footings are usually connected to vertical structural elements, such as pillars or walls, transferring their loads to a wider area of the ground. They are made of reinforced concrete and often form an integral part of foundation systems in construction.