Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - ledger question 2x8 or 2x10
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hammerash
04-16-09, 08:44 AM
Preparing to put on the ledger board for the deck that is part of my addition. I was looking at the plans and noticed that the joists are 2x8 (for a span of about 12') but that the ledgers are listed as 2x10. Now there was a framing change on the addition after the original contractor poured foundation too high and I had to use 2x8 floor joists instead of the 2x10 that were originally supposed to be used (with added support to make shorter spans or course). So perhaps the 2x10 ledger would have been needed to ensure that the ledger covered the seal plate area, but since the rim joist is now a 2x8 and the deck is about 4" below the the interior floor, a 2x8 will easily cover the seal plate. Is there a reason for the ledger to be 2x10 if the joists are 2x8?
md2lgyk
04-16-09, 10:11 AM
The porch plans for the log house I'm building are the same way - 10" ledger and 8" joists. But my plans also call for a 2x2 to be attached near the bottom edge of the ledger. This is for the joists to sit on, negating the need for hangers.
hammerash
04-16-09, 01:41 PM
Mine call for hangers, so that is not the reason. I can't say that I have seen it done the way your plans are? The ledger is attached with either 1/2 lag screws or through bolts or new ledgerlok's--no predrilling necessary for ledgerlok's but since mine is new construction I am through bolting. How is the 2x2 attached to the ledger? If there are no hangers, the weight of that end of deck is going to be entirely on the 2x2 and needs transferred to the ledger which transfers to the rim joist which is bearing on foundation. So I don't think nailing it would be sufficient?
GBR in WA
04-16-09, 01:59 PM
The turn of the century carpenters used ledger boards a lot because hangers weren't invented yet. On an outdoor application, I would trust a hanger more.
Be sure to use Z-Max ones, with the extra thick zinc coating to combat the new pressure treated lumber. Seal any cuts with preservative.
I install a dab of glue or caulking under each joist, to hold it up for water drainage. I also run a continuous bead all along at the bottom outside edge of the house ledger, as a drip lip.
A lot of water comes off the house wall, also seal ledger/house joint with caulk to stop wicking water. I build APP (as per plans). Be safe, GBAR
Be sure to use Z-Max ones, with the extra thick zinc coating to combat the new pressure treated lumber. Seal any cuts with preservative.
I install a dab of glue or caulking under each joist, to hold it up for water drainage. I also run a continuous bead all along at the bottom outside edge of the house ledger, as a drip lip.
A lot of water comes off the house wall, also seal ledger/house joint with caulk to stop wicking water. I build APP (as per plans). Be safe, GBAR