Constructing a deck is a complex task that requires knowledge of construction codes and regulations. It is essential to understand the requirements for the ledger, which is the part of the deck that connects it to the house. The maximum space between the face of the ledger and the face of the wall covering should be ½. When building a deck, it is important to begin by determining the length of the ledger.
This establishes the basis for the rest of the platform. The ledger supports approximately half of the weight of the platform, while the other half is supported by posts and shoes. Before installing a ledger, it is necessary to remove existing siding and molding from the house to expose the siding. After making sure that the coating is structurally sound, self-adhesive rubber should be placed above and below the location of the ledger.
The ledger should be cut 3 inches shorter than the final width of the frame, allowing joists to be nailed directly into its edges. Once it is level and permanently installed, additional rubber should be placed on both sides of it. An edge joist should then be installed on each side and a tire or beam opposite the ledger. Scrap wood can be used as “legs” to keep two joists of the tire level.
If your deck has wooden support posts and a ledger bolted to the house, each foot of the platform may need to support more than 3,000 pounds. A metal or PVC joint cover should be installed over it with roofing nails, and fasteners should only be placed at its top. If you need more clearance, you can reduce joist size; a 2x8 joist can produce a drop of up to 5.75 inches while still being IRC compliant. The American Wood Council (AWC) recognized that there are many different deck standards in use in the United States and developed Design for Code Acceptance (DCA-6) as a means of approving construction of decks.
It is important to note that shoes do not need to be installed below freezing line when a deck is self-supporting. Constructing a deck can seem like an intimidating task, but with knowledge of construction codes and regulations, it can be done safely and efficiently. It is essential to understand how much clearance is needed when a deck is supported by a ledger in order to ensure that it meets code requirements.
