How to Determine the Length of a Deck Ledger

Ledger boards are crucial deck components because they serve as support beams. Unlike free-standing decks, which are unattached to homes, decks attached to homes require ledger boards to support the ends of the deck joists closest to homes. Since a ledger board is installed before any other deck components, it’s essential that you correctly measure the board. Improperly measuring, cutting or positioning a deck ledger board can disrupt the entire deck-installation process. Carefully determine the length of a deck-ledger board before cutting and installing it.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• Measuring tape

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Put on work gloves to prevent acquiring splinters from the wooden deck-ledger board.

   • 2

     Hook the edge of measuring tape onto one end of the ledger board. Extend the measuring tape along the length of the ledger board until you reach the opposite end of the board from where the tape is hooked.

   • 3

     Hold the measuring tape against the ledger board. Line up the numbers on the measuring tape with the edge of the board, so that you can gather a precise measurement of the board.

   • 4

     Read the numbers on the measuring tape to determine the length of the ledger board. Measure the board to the nearest ⅛-inch to ensure you’re completely accurate.