Can I attach my deck to a hollow block concrete foundation?
Yes, there are products available for anchoring a ledger board to hollow concrete block foundations (concrete masonry unit, CMU). There are a handful of manufacturers that produce epoxy and other adhesive anchors that are tested for use in hollow CMU. These adhesive fasteners must be installed in strict compliance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Generally, these fasteners will provide much lower-load resistance than those connecting to solid concrete. Be careful to install a sufficient amount of fasteners based on the loads generated by the deck design. The fasteners must be approved for a wet-use, exterior environment and must provide appropriate corrosion protection.
Attaching the Ledger Board to the House Rim
Learn how to properly install a waterproof ledger board using flashing and fasteners. Check out our step-by-step video and detail drawings.
Removing the Siding
Learn how to cut and remove aluminum, vinyl, wood and cement board siding for installing a deck ledger board to a house wall.
Layout Of The Ledger
Learn how to plan ahead to avoid problems when installing your deck ledger board to the house wall.
Pressure Washer Buying Guide
When it comes to cleaning your deck, it's important to choose the right pressure washer. Use this pressure washer buying guide from Decks.com to help with your decision!
How to Remove Paint from a Wood Deck
Aiming to refresh your deck with new paint or sealer? Learn the easiest and fastest methods of stripping paint from your wood deck with Decks.com.
Average Cost to Stain a Deck
Find the national average costs for staining and sealing a deck per square foot, including sanding and power washing prices. Learn more at Decks.com
More Helpful Resources
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
what if my deck has no flashing
Our inspector discusses what you should do if you deck ledger board isn't properly flashed.
Flashing the Ledger Board
You should flash your ledger before you install your decking. Over time, the house frame behind the deck will rot if it gets wet.
Vents, Pipes and Spigots
How do you install a deck ledger board around vents, pipes and spigots? We offer two solutions that can solve your problem.
How to Remove Scuffs and Scratches from Composite Decking
Removing scuffs and scratches can help make your composite deck look like new. Learn how to fix and prevent your composite deck from future scratches.
How to Remove Paint from a Wood Deck
Aiming to refresh your deck with new paint or sealer? Learn the easiest and fastest methods of stripping paint from your wood deck with Decks.com.
How to Clean Outdoor Patio Cushions
Keeping your outdoor furniture cushions clean helps extend their life and makes your deck or patio area look nice. Learn how to clean outdoor cushions.
Explore Articles by Topic
Footings
Information related to installing frost footings for decks
Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
Learn about wood and composite decking materials
Stairs
An in-depth look at the complex issue of how to build stairs
Railings
How to install guardrails and handrails to meet IRC code
Features
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights
Design
The basics of deck design
Planning
Learn about permits and working with contractors
Porches & Patios
Build a covered deck to enjoy all seasons
Ledger
Proper attachment techniques
Care
Maintain your deck to maintain your investment
Materials
An overview on water drainage, benches, planters and lights