Expert: Dan Griffin - 8/4/2008

Question
I need to replace a walk up deck on a three story brick building.  How would the ledger boards be attached when there is no visible access to what lies behind the brick?  Would a few courses of brick be removed or could it be done from inside the structure with steels plates and through bolts?  Thank you.

Answer
Gregory, there is no way for me to answer your quetion unless I know if this is truly a brick building or a wood framed building with brick veneer.  If it is a multi wythe brick building, you can through drill and use all thread  with washer plates.  Epoxy in full depth holes also works well.

Brick veneer is not strong enough to carry a deck on its own and will require attaching to the rim joist  with proper spacers to prevent buckling the veneer.

I'm not real sure what a walk up deck is.  Is this a fire escape type thing at the third floor level?  Is this deck thing to be wood or steel?  You mention replacing the existing - how is it attached?  Most decks require inspection as to loading and fasstening details.