My existing deck's ledger board doesn't have flashing. What should I do?
The lack of flashing above a ledger is a very upsetting situation. When it comes to water damage turning to rot in wood materials, getting wet is not the problem…it’s not being able to dry that creates havoc. In the case of the ledger sans flashing, the ledger is the visible part, but that part can also dry. While everything may appear okay from a view of the ledger, the framing of your home may be rotting apart. This condition can cause significant damage to the home that can rival the cost of the new deck.
If you're rebuilding your deck, then without any question, it’s time to pull that ledger and see what has not been seen in years. Any damage to the home should be promptly and properly repaired before construction of the new deck with a flashed ledger begins. If the deck appears to have life left in it, and the lacking flashing was discovered during an annual inspection (recommended), then some repair should be on your to do list. Though it will take some dismantling, and perhaps a replacement deck board or stick of siding, following the recommended practices for installed ledger flashing based on your exterior cladding is the best approach. If you’re just trying to buy a few years until a new deck can be built, some tubes of high-quality silicone caulk, and whatever other tricks it takes to divert water to the face of the ledger, can buy you some time. It all depends on what damage is already done.
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.
Ledger Board Fasteners
Compare lag bolts, carriage bolts and structural screws as deck ledger board fasteners. Take a look at our ledger board fastener spacing chart.
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.
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!
Deck Replacement & Repair Costs
Whether you’ve decided to tear down and rebuild your deck or if you’re only looking to repair smaller portions, you can find benchmark prices here.
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.
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Explore Articles by Topic
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Framing
Learn structural framing methods
Decking
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Stairs
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Railings
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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
Attaching the ledger board to hollow block
Our inspector discusses how to attach a deck to a hollow concrete block foundation wall.
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.
Types of Deck Flashing
Compare stainless steel, copper and vinyl flashing materials for waterproofing your deck ledger board.
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.
What is Wet Rot and How Do You Treat It?
Wet rot occurs when water or high moisture levels cause wood to decay. Learn how to recognize the signs and causes of wet rot and how to treat it.
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
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