Lateral Load Connector Device
Under the current code, you will most likely be required to install a positive connection to the house wall to resist lateral loads. Lateral loads can result from earthquakes or from people moving around on your deck. In severe cases, these loads can result in the ledger board being ripped from the house wall and collapsing.
Another method involves installing hold downs to the side of a house floor joist and attaching it to another hold down installed on the side of one of your deck joists with a threaded rod. Some wood or engineered I-joist manufacturers have developed details for this type of attachment to their products. This method is much more difficult than using the DTT1Z connnection because it involves an attachment through the house wall. It is often difficult to gain access to the interior floor system of your house to make this option user-friendly.
The easiest way to ensure your ledger board connection will satisfy this requirement is to install 4 hold down devices. You will need to pre-drill and attach this connector to the solid house rim with a 3/8" diameter, fully threaded lag screw so that it has a minimum 3" penetration to the center of the top plate, studs or header. This L-shaped hold down bracket is then screwed to the bottom of the deck joist. The hold down device will have a minimum 750 lb capacity at 4 locations evenly distributed along the deck and 1 within 2' of each end of the ledger board. Always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions when installing deck hardware.
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.
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 Ink Stamps from Pressure Treated Lumber
Ink stamps seen on pressure treated wood represents where the lumber came from and its grade. Learn a few tricks to remove this ink from your wood at Decks.com.
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.
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
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what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
Types of Deck Flashing
Compare stainless steel, copper and vinyl flashing materials for waterproofing your deck ledger board.
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 Prepare & Protect Your Deck for Winter
Preparing and protecting your deck for the cold weather is important to ensure the longevity of your deck, especially in cold climates. Learn how to prepare your deck for winter at Decks.com.
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.
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