Decks, Patios, Porches and Docks - freestanding deck vs. attached deck

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PDA
05-01-01, 06:04 PM
I would like to find out the pros and cons of a freestanding deck vs. an attached deck. I prefer not to attach my new deck to my house because I don't want to cut the vinyl siding if I don't have to, in order to attach a ledger board. And if I don't attach the deck to the house do I need additional bracing on the 4x4 post? If so, how much and what type is best?

lefty
05-03-01, 04:43 AM
A free-standing deck simply requires one extra girder within 24" of the house. Cantilever between that girder and the house. Leave a 1/2" gap between the deck and the siding. Crossbrace between the posts with 1X4's or 1X6's, or with Simpson WB wall braces
josh1
05-14-01, 09:54 PM
not that im pro attatched deck but you do not necessarily need to cut your vinly siding in order to install an attatched deck
you can mount blocks cut out to accomodate the siding be it wood vinyl etc to the building and lag through these into rim joists
i Believe they are called frieze blocks but don't hold me to that
hope this helps------josh