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.
Layout Of The Ledger
Learn how to plan ahead to avoid problems when installing your deck ledger board to the house wall.
Framing Around a House Cantilever
Learn a technique for framing around a cantilevered house bay to properly support your deck.
How to Bug-Proof Your Deck & Floorboards
Prevent bug infestations below and above your deck using mesh, screens, and more. Learn how you can have a bug-free deck this summer with Decks.com.
Best Deck Cleaner Options
Discover the best deck cleaning and brightening solutions for composite decks, wood decks, and more. Learn how to remove dirt, mildew, and algae with 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.
Lateral Load Device
Learn about your options for providing lateral load support for your deck. We explain recent code changes affecting deck building.
Ledger Board Fasteners
Compare types of deck ledger board fasteners like lag bolts, through bolts & structural screws. Learn how to choose the right fastener for your 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 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.
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