How to Anchor a Ledger Board to a Brick Wall

The process of installing a ledger board to a brick wall varies, depending on the nature of the wall. A structural brick wall is one that's built as a support; anchor bolts are used to attach the ledger board directly to the brick. However, if a house has a brick veneer wall, the brick is not solid enough to support any additional weight, and a professional should be consulted to determine how best to proceed.

Marker
Measuring tape
Level
Chisel and hammer
Lag screws
Masonry expansion anchors
Hot dipped galvanized (HDG) washers
Hammer drill with masonry bits
Hammer
Flashing
Silicone caulk

Instructions

- 1
  Drill holes into the ledger board of an appropriate width for the lag screws. Know the building code for your area to determine the size of lag screws to use, and the spacing required.
- 2
  Hold the ledger board up to the desired height, using the level to ensure it's not angled; the distance between the top of the board and the bottom of the door should be, at minimum, equal to the thickness of the deck.
- 3
  Insert the marker through the drilled holes in the ledger board to mark them on the brick.
- 4
  Drill into the brick at the marked locations, using the hammer drill. The bit should correspond to the width of your lag screws.
- 5
  Place the expansion anchors into the holes. Tap them gently with the hammer to ensure they're flush with the wall.
- 6
  Replace the ledger board and secure it into place using the lag bolts. Include a washer between the head of each lag bolt and the board.
- 7
  Install the flashing atop the ledger board using the silicone caulk; this will prevent water from entering between the ledger board and the wall of the house.

Deck Building Code Enforcement

How to Keep Animals From Going Under a Deck

Decks & Patios