Building a deck, free standing or ledger board attached to the house?
by
Cathy T
+5
Related Discussions
Suggested Project Book
what does the town code allow
Here are two videos:
FREE STANDING
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBUZYK-GT4U
ATTACHED TO HOUSE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmdFqKOgy1Q
Well that depends. In my community if I don't have to dig I don't need a permit so I would go floating or free standing. Plus I don't want anything attached to my home because it might cause stress cracks and besides every year you have to either paint or reseal it so I would then have to be a slave to it and make sure that I am very careful caring for my deck so as to not ruin the siding of my home. I guess you just have to decide what would work best for you. How much time you want to invest plus if you want it up close to your house so as to possibly cause issues. Whatever you decide please contact you community to find out about proper procedure so that they don't make you take issues down.
Building Code might require that it be attached. If you plan on getting a permit, call them in advance and ask.
I agree, you may have only one option depending on local codes. You didn't mention if it was a low deck or higher. I wouldn't build a higher deck without having it stabilized every way possible.
Most building codes require permits and inspections for deck attached to he house. Free standing decks do not need permits. Doesn't matter whether you dig or not. I like free standing decks floating on deck blocks. They can be built anywhere.
Use the ledger board. I've always thought it best way to go. Don't forget footings for the post, tough.