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.
Layout Of The Ledger
Learn how to plan ahead to avoid problems when installing your deck ledger board to the house wall.
Attaching the Ledger Board to Brick Siding
Do you have brick siding? You should never attach to just the brick. This is very dangerous.
How To Fix Loose Deck Railing and Prevent Wobbly Banisters for Years
Learn how to fix a loose outdoor railing on your deck to avoid future damage.
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.
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
Ledger to engineered floor joists
Explore your options for building a deck onto a house with engineered floor joists.
Layout Of The Ledger
Learn how to plan ahead to avoid problems when installing your deck ledger board to the house wall.
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.
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.
Preventing & Treating a Slippery Deck
Inclement weather can cause both wood and composite decks to become slippery and potentially unsafe. Learn how to prevent and treat a slippery outdoor deck at Decks.com.
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.
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