Can I attach my deck to a hollow block concrete foundation?
Yes, there are products available for anchoring a ledger board to hollow concrete block foundations (concrete masonry unit, CMU). There are a handful of manufacturers that produce epoxy and other adhesive anchors that are tested for use in hollow CMU. These adhesive fasteners must be installed in strict compliance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Generally, these fasteners will provide much lower-load resistance than those connecting to solid concrete. Be careful to install a sufficient amount of fasteners based on the loads generated by the deck design. The fasteners must be approved for a wet-use, exterior environment and must provide appropriate corrosion protection.
Most builders prefer to build a freestanding deck rather than attach to a hollow concrete block house foundation wall.
Attaching the Ledger Board to the House Rim
Learn how to properly install a waterproof ledger board using flashing and fasteners. Check out our step-by-step video and detail drawings.
Removing the Siding
Learn how to cut and remove aluminum, vinyl, wood and cement board siding for installing a deck ledger board to a house wall.
Installing A Ledger Board Around A Corner
Follow our tips to properly install a deck ledger board around the corner of a house to keep water out.
Pressure Washer Buying Guide
When it comes to cleaning your deck, it's important to choose the right pressure washer. Use this pressure washer buying guide from Decks.com to help with your decision!
How to Avoid, Prevent & Repair Deck Joist Rot
Rotted deck joists can cause homeowners headaches. Learn more about how to avoid, prevent and repair deck joist rot at Decks.com.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
Ledger to engineered floor joists
Explore your options for building a deck onto a house with engineered floor joists.
Removing Stucco Siding
Learn how to cut through stucco siding to prepare a house wall to install a deck ledger board.
How to Remove Scuffs and Scratches from Composite Decking
Removing scuffs and scratches can help make your composite deck look like new. Learn how to fix and prevent your composite deck from future scratches.
How to Stain a Wood Deck
Staining your deck, porch or patio can help maintain the longevity of its appearance. Learn how to stain your deck with these easy to follow steps at Decks.com.
How to Restore & Refinish a Deck
Decks need maintenance. A twice-yearly cleaning is needed at a minimum. But wood decks—even with good upkeep—can still warp, rot, or get termites. Plus, no stain or paint job lasts forever. Fortunately, you can reset the clock by restoring your deck and refinishing it.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights