I just installed my deck ledger board. The top of the ledger is level however after installing it I realized the ledger board is tilted downward. I assume due to the house settling or the sheathing. I’m not able to seat the joist in the hanger to level now. If I do, there is at least a quarter inch gap or more at the bottom. Any suggestions? I am planning to put the beam directly on the cement piers So my measurements have to be precise.
thanks
Matt
Lighting up an exterior isn't just about ambiance— it's also about code compliance. Here is what the code says about safety and efficiency when it comes to outdoor lighting.
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
Replies
https://www.finehomebuilding.com/project-guides/decks/install-flash-deck-ledger-start-finish
I think you need to assess what exactly is not plumb. Not the time to assume or guess.
What is behind your new ledger board, and how did you attach it?
The ledger is attached to an engineered RIM board and 1/2 sheathing. I used ledger LOK by fastenmaster and attached every 6 inches on center.
Just to verify, your ledger board is level at the top, but the bottom of the ledger board is a quarter inch plus distance further away from the beam (closer to the center of the existing house)
It sounds like the sheathing may not have been installed flush with the engineered ledger board, and when you installed the fasteners, the lower ones pulled the ledger board and sheathing closer to the engineered rim joist.
Are there any gaps around the edges of the rim joist? (to rule out something got stuck behind the top of the rim joist)
Can you visually verify the fasteners have penetrated the rim joist? (and that the bottom row extends more than the top row?)
And is that fastener spacing required for the span you plan to hang, or are you being conservative and using more than required? (have you referenced the ledger lock tables that dictate spacing?
My thought is that if you have a lot of margin, and are satisfied the ledger board is not going anywhere, you could trim the ends of the joists to match the slope of the ledger board, and have them fully seated in the joist hangers.
Thank you for the message about trimming the edges of the joist to match the slope. I think that’s an excellent idea. I used a scrap piece of 2x10 and it appears that this will work out well. Thanks again!
I'd echo UncleMIke's advice.