Framing A Deck Around A Bay
Many houses are built with a door access projecting from a cantilevered bay. In most cases, particularly in older construction, these bays are not built from continuous floor trusses running through the house. They are instead simply applied or tacked on to the side of the house. This means you cannot directly hang off this section of house. If you are working around a canted bay, verify your house's construction by checking your house plans or the house frame itself if you have an unfinished basement. You can always cut beam pockets into the house to provide bearing support or install posts and footings beside the house. But, why the hassle? The best and least invasive technique is to frame an H around the cantilevered bay.
This is done by installing two beams running perpendicular to the house from either side of the bay and running a beam between them directly in front of the bay. In essence, you are transferring the load off of the cantilevered bay through the beam set in front to the two perpendicular-oriented beams and finally to a solid part of the house. Use the proper joist hangers and fasteners to secure the framing. Because of the long spans across the bay, you may need to use a 3-2x10 beam.
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.
Flashing the Ledger Board
You should flash your ledger before you install your decking. Over time, the house frame behind the deck will rot if it gets wet.
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 Seal Your Deck & Best Deck Sealers
Once you clean or stain a deck, it is ready to be sealed. Learn how to properly seal your deck in order to protect it from damage caused by harsh climates and weather 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.
Layout Of The Ledger
Learn how to plan ahead to avoid problems when installing your deck ledger board to the house wall.
Ledger Board Fasteners
Compare lag bolts, carriage bolts and structural screws as deck ledger board fasteners. Take a look at our ledger board fastener spacing chart.
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 Remove Moss & Algae from Your Deck
Moss and algae growth can be detrimental to the integrity of your deck if left untreated.
Can You Paint or Stain Composite Decking?
Most composites don’t require painting or staining. However, if you are considering staining or painting your deck, you can learn how to do so and what you’ll need at Decks.com.
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