Loading

Lateral Load Connector Device

Under the current code, you will most likely be required to install a positive connection to the house wall to resist lateral loads. Lateral loads can result from earthquakes or from people moving around on your deck. In severe cases, these loads can result in the ledger board being ripped from the house wall and collapsing.

DTT2Z
PinterestSave
DTT2Z

Another method involves installing hold downs to the side of a house floor joist and attaching it to another hold down installed on the side of one of your deck joists with a threaded rod. Some wood or engineered I-joist manufacturers have developed details for this type of attachment to their products. This method is much more difficult than using the DTT1Z connnection because it involves an attachment through the house wall. It is often difficult to gain access to the interior floor system of your house to make this option user-friendly.

DTT1Z
PinterestSave
DTT1Z

The easiest way to ensure your ledger board connection will satisfy this requirement is to install 4 hold down devices. You will need to pre-drill and attach this connector to the solid house rim with a 3/8" diameter, fully threaded lag screw so that it has a minimum 3" penetration to the center of the top plate, studs or header. This L-shaped hold down bracket is then screwed to the bottom of the deck joist. The hold down device will have a minimum 750 lb capacity at 4 locations evenly distributed along the deck and 1 within 2' of each end of the ledger board. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions when installing deck hardware.


Popular Ledger Articles
Deck Ledger Board

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.

Deck Ledger Board

Attaching the Ledger Board to Brick Siding

Do you have brick siding? You should never attach to just the brick. This is very dangerous.

Deck Ledger Board

Checking House Framing

Make sure your house frame is solid and in good condition before installing a deck ledger board. We list some problem areas to look for before building.

Next Step: Care Articles
Deck Cleaning

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!

Repairs

Deck Inspection: Checklist for Framing, Footings and More

Concerned that your deck no longer meets safety regulations? Want to know how to spot signs of trouble for your deck? Review our checklist for inspecting your deck at Decks.com.

Deck Cleaning

How to Clean Outdoor Patio Cushions

Keeping your outdoor furniture cushions clean helps extend their life and makes your deck or patio area look nice. Learn how to clean outdoor cushions.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic

Popular Ledger Articles
Deck Ledger Board

what if my deck has no flashing

Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.

Deck Ledger Board

Ledger to engineered floor joists

Explore your options for building a deck onto a house with engineered floor joists.

Deck Ledger Board

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.

Next Step: Care Articles
Repairs

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.

Repairs

How to Sand a Wood Deck

Sanding a deck is important to prevent any wood slivers and imperfections. Use these instructions to properly sand and refinish your deck.

Repairs

Deck Inspection: Checklist for Framing, Footings and More

Concerned that your deck no longer meets safety regulations? Want to know how to spot signs of trouble for your deck? Review our checklist for inspecting your deck at Decks.com.

Get more helpful resources delivered right to your inbox

Explore Articles by Topic