Installing a Deck Ledger Board Around Vents, Pipes and Spigots
In some cases, you may have vents, pipes and spigots from furnaces, dryers and water heaters in the way of your ledger board attachment. You have a few options to avoid these obstacles.
The easiest method is to install the ledger board around the vents by breaking the ledger board into smaller sections. You may need to adjust your joist spacing so that a joist doesn't fall on a vent. The ledger board doesn't have to be one continuous board. It can be a series of broken sections if it is solidly attached. This will require extra bolts and installing a 2x nailer across the top of the vent to secure the decking along the house wall.
The second method is to cut holes in the ledger board around the vents with a jig saw. This is more difficult than simply breaking the ledger board.
If the joists will fall on the vents, you will need to box frame around the vents. To do this, you will need to run a double joist on both sides of the vent and run a double header in between to pick up the intermediate joists. Double joist hangers should be used to secure the H-frame around a vent.
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.
what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
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 Remove Paint from a Wood Deck
Aiming to refresh your deck with new paint or sealer? Learn the easiest and fastest methods of stripping paint from your wood deck with 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.
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
Installing a Deck Ledger Board Around Vents, Pipes and Spigots
In some cases, you may have vents, pipes and spigots from furnaces, dryers and water heaters in the way of your ledger board attachment. You have a few options to avoid these obstacles.
The easiest method is to install the ledger board around the vents by breaking the ledger board into smaller sections. You may need to adjust your joist spacing so that a joist doesn't fall on a vent. The ledger board doesn't have to be one continuous board. It can be a series of broken sections if it is solidly attached. This will require extra bolts and installing a 2x nailer across the top of the vent to secure the decking along the house wall.
The second method is to cut holes in the ledger board around the vents with a jig saw. This is more difficult than simply breaking the ledger board.
If the joists will fall on the vents, you will need to box frame around the vents. To do this, you will need to run a double joist on both sides of the vent and run a double header in between to pick up the intermediate joists. Double joist hangers should be used to secure the H-frame around a vent.
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.
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.
what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
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!
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.
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.
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