How to Install a Ledger Board Into Concrete

Lay the area where you'll attach the ledger board to the concrete out using a chalk box. Mark where you'll secure the top of the board and snap a straight line across the concrete surface. Align the outer edge of a 4-foot level with the snapped line to make sure it is level before installing the ledger board.

Make marks to indicate where you'll place a pair of anchor bolts at each end of the ledger board. Place one mark 2 inches in from the outer edge of the board and one 2 inches in from the upper and lower edges. Starting at one side of the board and working to the opposite side, measure from the first marks 16 inches and place a mark 2 inches from the upper edge. Repeat this process across the length of the ledger board, staggering the mark from the upper edge to the lower edge so that the bolts are not all in one straight line; doing this will prevent the board from splitting or warping over time.

Hold the ledger board up to the snapped line. Drill a hole through one of the marks along the outer edge at the location where you'll place an anchor bolt. Make sure that the ledger board's top edge is still aligned with the snapped line and continue drilling into the concrete with the drill. Slide the hammer drill's spinning bit in and out of the drilled hole to remove any debris or dust.

Slide an anchor bolt into the hole. Hit the back end of the anchor bolt with a hammer to drive it into the concrete wall. Attach an adjustable wrench to the anchor bolt's nut and turn it in a clockwise direction to engage the bolt inside the hole.

Continue this process with each hole, making sure that the ledger board stays aligned with the snapped line.