Expert: Dave Johnson - 7/1/2008

Question
I've read that you need to attach the ledger to the solid part of the foundation, due to the center of the masonry blocks having dead space, how do I determine where the solid part is? and also which is better lag screws or bolts or placing the bolt in the foundation using epoxy with the nut on the ledger side?

Answer
Hi Dale,
If the foundation blocks are 16" long, the solid part will be in the center of each block. You will also find that there is a solid area on each side of the vertical mortar joints at about an inch each way.
I would drill out the hole a bit over sized and epoxy the bolts in place.
If you are supporting an extremely heavy load, I would suggest a few
2"x4" attached under the ledger...
Best of luck,

Dave