Expert: Dan Griffin - 5/11/2008

Question
Dan,
I'm trying to attach a Patio cover to my house on my back yard, I have metal framing above the sliding door. my question is: How do I attach de ledger (2X8 Doug fair) to the metal frame. my house has stucco.
Thank you
Alfonso

Answer
I am a bit lost about the metal framing, Alphonso.  Is your house real stucco (portland cement mix about 3/4" thick on wire fastened to sheathing) or EIFS (very thin cement veneer on Styrofoam)?  I assume this is on the face of two story wall.  Is there a rim joist at the location you intend to install the ledger?

Either way, you need to decide how well you are going to perform this project.  For a long term permanent installation, the stucco should be oopened up, your ledger installed to structural framing, and pay spsecial attention to proper flashing details.

If you mean that your house is framed with metal studs, the advice does not change.  There will be some type of sheathing fastened to the metal studs.  YOu would still need to carefully open the existing house wrap/felt, install the ledger, follow proper flashing details, then close the stucco.