Greetings,
I’m in the planning stage of a new multi-level back deck. I’d like to get some input on approved methods (size and frequency of lags, not the flashing and the like) to attach the ledger to the house studs.
Thanks,
Ken
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Have you considered a free-standing deck ? Solid as a rock.
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
Phill,
Yes I have - back and forth. As the deck finished height is about 28" I'm concerned about not having enough height for diagonal bracing to have much of an effect. But not having to search for the studs and no flashing issues are a definite plus. Isn't there an issue with pier footings being too close to the house foundation?
Ken
Unless the section of deck close to the house is very narrow, I don't think there's an issue. 3 years back we were asked to put in a ledger on what was designed to be a free-standing deck just because the building inpector was "concerned" about the 3' of cantilever. But he only asked for one 3/8" lag screw 32"OC after we explained how the parimeter posts at the front would stabilize both sides of the deck (we think once he'd asked for the ledger there was no way he'd ever want to give it up, so we didn't protest too much). You do have to sit those inside posts on a fairly deep column of concrete if you're into the backfill. .
Phill Giles
The Unionville Woodwright
Unionville, Ontario
Pro Deck would be the best man to ask this of..do a search and track him down.
Mark,
Thank you for the link, I've been a long time lurker (since the beginning), and occasional poster, but wandered away after the change.
Thanks again,
Ken
One of the local boro's that have usually the toughest inspectors require min. 1/2"..... at min. 24oc....with min 3" of bite into the stud.......staggered.....
I like to go 5/8th at 24
or 1/2 at 16. Jeff
She's exotic ,but not foreign, like an old Cadillac......she's a knockout!