Building Homes or Extensions/lag screw pattern

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Expert: - 12/28/2009


Question
im going to build a deck on to my house. i have a ? regarding the ledger board i know i have to lag screw it to the house,but what screw pattern should i use,it will be built in California.
thank you
Steven

Answer
Steven, you need to stagger the lags.  One high, next low, next high.  If you runt eh lags down the center line of the rim, it is very possible to split the rim or have it fail down the center line.  There is a huge lawsuit in Montana over an overloaded deck that failed due to centered lags.

If you asking how big and how many, I would use 3/8 lags on 16" centers.  The big issues are to what are you fastening and how are you flashing and waterproofing the connection.

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Dan Griffin

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I can answer almost all questions related to the total construction process. My expertise is in commercial construction, though I can field most any residential question. I have hands on experience in concrete, heavy equipment, masonry, all phases of carpentry, interior finishes, and I am fairly strong in mechanical and electrical.

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I have over 20 years experience as a commercial carpenter and commercial construction superintendent. I have another 20 years experience in facility management for a major school district.

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My favorite hobby for he past 12 years has been singing bass in a The OkChorale men's barbershop chorus and the Mature Moments quartet.

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I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Math. I have completed many continuing education hours in the building trades. I hold a Master Carpenter card from the AGC, Associated General Contractors.

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