Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - locating studs under vinyl siding

I'm trying to install a retractable awning over my deck and I'm having a problem locating the studs. I've tried using a stud finder, but haven't had any luck. Any suggestions? Would there be a joist between the first and second floor that I can attached the awning to and is it any easier to find?

There is a joist between the 1st and 2nd floor, and it will be very easy to find. From inside the house, measure up from the top of a window (or slider) to the ceiling. Now go outside and measure up the same distance above the same number, then add 6". You should be very close to the center of that joist.

DO NOT mount the retractable awning directly on the vinyl siding. Remove one or two runs of the vinyl as needed, mount the awning directly to the wall, install J-channel around the awning, then cut the siding you took off so that it will go into that J-channel.

ok grab ur measuring tape and measure 16 inches to the right or left of the door u should find a stud there and be able to find another ever 16 inches depending on how it was layed out>i personally would use a finish nail in a discrete place.also siding comes of real easy and then u can just look at the nail pattern eh.

oh yeah and as far as the joist>just locate ur studs and attach a 2 x 6 after taking some of the siding off that will have to be trimmed to fit again.

jonathan_71730,

When a wall is framed, it is layed out from one end (a corner) and the studes are located at 16" O.C. once you are past the corner. The location of a door or window that is framed into the wall will fall where it may. It has nothing to do with the 16" layout. Going 16" to either side of a door or window, 9 times out of 10 WILL NOT find a stud for you.

I agree with Lefty, & I'd use his first suggestion as to where to locate this awning. That sill would be a much better anchor than attaching it to the wall studs.