Attaching ledger board to stucco
user-231579
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
Some of the books show how to attach a ledger board to wood or masonry, but there is no discussion as to how to best deal with attaching one to stucco. Should the board be bolted through directly to the stucco with some kind of sealant? Or should there be spacers and some kind of sealant? What is the best/right way to do this? Specifically what steps and brands of sealant should be used?.
Can someone out there please advise? Thanks in advance.
Replies
I would cut out the stucco if it is over foam board, maybe leave it if its over masonry. I think more information is needed on how your building is constructed for a better answer.
For wood frame buildings, cut and break away the stucco, taking care not to damage the paper or whatever moisture barrier is under it. On top, you need to get flashing up under this moisture barrier. The ledger must be bolted, not nailed, directly to the wood framing of the house. Check with your building department, because deck failures due to ledgers pulling away are a very touchy subject. Lots of people have been hurt and killed.
As for sealants or caulking, they're generally not used. You just patch the stucco all around. The flashing and moisture barrier do the job. Of course, my experience is strictly Southern California, non-freezing climate.
-- J.S.