Ledger Board Attachment to Brick Siding
You should never attach a deck to a brick wall. In other than very old homes, exterior brick walls are only a single wythe (layer) of brick veneer. Brick veneer is not designed or allowed by building codes to support anything other than the weight of the bricks above. The problem is in lateral stability. Under many building code authorities, even connecting through the brick to the framing behind is not acceptable. The brick veneer must have a minimum of a 1-inch air space between the brick and the framing, but it can be up to 4.5". A lag screw or bolt extending to the front of the brick simply cannot support deck loads at that location.
Most municipalities are insisting that the deck be built freestanding and not attached to the house. This requires each post to have bracing in two separate directions.
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.
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.
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.
Deck Post Repair: How to Fill Cracks in Deck Posts
The right kind of wood can resist rot, mold, and insects, but they can still split or crack. You can repair the posts before the problem causes structural issues. Read our guide on deck post repair to help your outdoor space last as long as it possibly can.
Average Cost to Stain a Deck
Find the national average costs for staining and sealing a deck per square foot, including sanding and power washing prices. Learn more 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
Attaching the ledger board to hollow block
Our inspector discusses how to attach a deck to a hollow concrete block foundation wall.
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.
Lateral Load Device
Learn about your options for providing lateral load support for your deck. We explain recent code changes affecting deck building.
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 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.
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.
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