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.
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.
Ledger to engineered floor joists
Explore your options for building a deck onto a house with engineered floor joists.
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 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.
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.
Vents, Pipes and Spigots
How do you install a deck ledger board around vents, pipes and spigots? We offer two solutions that can solve your problem.
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.
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.
How to Pressure Wash a Deck
Pressure washing your deck is the best way to keep your investment looking like new. Learn how to properly clean your wood deck with these tips from 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