I’m about to begin a deck project and have a question about attaching my ledger. The house (1910 balloon frame) has a pretty old/wimpy 1×6 rim joist. I don’t think I want to attach my 2×8 ledger to it. Would a new PT 1×8 rim joist provide sufficient backing for my ledger? Or should I use a 2x instead. Then I would have an issue with the rim sticking out beyond the sheathing. House now has old clapboards with asbestos on top, but I’ll eventually strip and replace with cedar shingles. Picture attached. Thanks for any advice.
–Steve
Replies
I think it depends on all the variables. How big is the deck? what is your span? what does the local code require? A few years ago I heard of guys packing the ledger out on pieces of 3/4 or 5/4 to keep the ledger away from the wall so that It stayed dry.At the location of those blocks, they would bolt thru the foundation or what have you. Really what is holding the ledger on , as with most balloon framing. Unless they are mortised into the studs, which is another way it was done. The fasteners are doing the work. I think it all depends on the load your holding up. Are you nailing teco hangers to the ledger or setting the joist on top of the ledger? if your nailing a 2 x will give you more meat to nail into. But the bolts carry the load, unless it is supported. It looks like you can bolt into the sill plate. And anchor into your foundation wall with molly bolts I don't know. You can also add some Z flashing under the siding to keep moisture from getting behind the ledger. Thats only my oppinion. when you have the choice , stack #### up.
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Edited 8/17/2003 8:07:42 PM ET by MuleSkinner
Lag the ledger to the house at the studs or through the 1X6 rim in to the joists. Then flash over it to keep water out and away. Then frame to it.
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