Deck ledger options and advice please

[jays2007]

  

 

Hi everyone, was planning to build a deck onto the back of our new house at ground level. It’s going to be approx 6m wide and 5m deep. 

I was wondering what options I have on how to attach a deck ledger onto the concrete slab (I assume attaching to house is better than additional footings). The cladding is Hardiplank. Some photos attached to get an idea.

[Jason]

Hi @jays2007,

Welcome to the community. We are looking forward to seeing your decking project completed - it should be a great addition to your home. 

Low-level decks have certainly been a popular topic of conversation in recent times. Do make sure you have a search for some of our previous discussions on the topic as you might pick up some helpful advice. 

Here's a few examples:

• Low level deck

• Low profile deck

• Stumps for low level deck

• Low level deck with slab

I will also tag some helpful members who might like to kick off the discussion - @Brad, @ProjectPete, @Adam_W   

Thanks,

Jason

[ProjectPete · Accepted solution]

Ledger on fixed structure is a good way to go @jays2007. In your case it's going to require cutting into/away some of the Hardieplank.

• Use minimum 100mm but ideally 125mm galvanised/stainless steel anchors (accounts for the 45mm timber).
• Make sure you leave some spacing between your timber ledger and the concrete/fixture - https://www.workshop.com.au/t5/Outdoor/Decking-frame-ledger-spacing/m-p/33669#M4550
• Remember to have adequate spacing under your deck (ie. 300mm for timber) to allow airflow to remove moisture from the underside of your deck.

Keen to see the final product 😀

[jays2007]

Thanks @ProjectPete, how would you cut the Hardieplank out?

[Adam_W]

@jays2007 first just make sure there's no chance of it being asbestos-based board. Anything installed post late '80's should be safe.

Neat cuts to set something in can be tricky but just take time and you'll have no trouble. Most of these type of boards can be cut with a handsaw (but it will mess the saw up so don't use your best saw...), a suitable blade fitted to a reciprocating saw or a suitable blade on an angle grinder. Handsaw and recipro can be tricky if you don't have clear access.
If going the grinder option use extreme care and make sure you wear breathing protection. There may not be asbestos in new board but there are other elements that can cause lung diseases.
Once you've cut through you'll need to be very careful about removing the waste section so that you don't damage the boards that will remain. Just gently pry them off with a crowbar. You may also need to nail or screw the ends that are remaining where you've cut.
Hope this all makes sense and is of some help!

[jays2007]

Thanks @Adam_W, it’s a brand new build.. I think I’ll go with the angle grinder option with a diamond tipped blade or similar.. This should get me started....