How to Attach a Deck Ledger to a Masonry Wall

If you're building and attaching a deck to your house, you need to attach a ledger board as well. A ledger board is a board that fastens to the house upon which the deck is built out from. In most cases, you attach the ledger to wood supports. However, on some houses you may need to attach it to a masonry wall such as your foundation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape
• Circular saw
• Drill with wood bit
• Pencil
• Hammer drill with masonry bit
• 3/8-inch expansion anchors
• Hammer
• 5-and-1/2-inch lag screws
• Washers

1. Measure the length of the ledger you need for your deck. Cut a pressure-treated board at least 2 inches by 8 inches or larger to the required length. Drill holes through the board every 16 inches along the center.

2. Hold the ledger up to the spot where it can attach to the masonry wall. Ask another person for help if necessary. Use a pencil to mark the wall through the drilled holes in the ledger.

3. Put a 3/8-inch masonry bit into a hammer drill, and drill the marked spots on the wall. Drill to a depth that allows 3 inches of the lag screws to be screwed into the wall.

4. Insert expansion anchors 3/8 inch in diameter into the drilled holes. Tap lightly with a hammer, if necessary, to get them flush with the wall.

5. Place ledger against the masonry wall and attach using 5-and-1/2-inch lag screws through the board and into the expansion anchors. Use washers between the board and screw heads. Tighten screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Check local building codes first before attaching a deck ledger to your house.