Attach the Ledger Board

What happens here

The pressure-treated ledger board (e.g., a 2x10 or 2x12) is brought into position. The presenter emphasizes the importance of making sure the ledger is level and accurately placed. He indicates that a level line is marked 1 inch below the bottom of the PVC trim board using a tape measure and pencil. This ensures that the top surface of the deck boards, when installed, will be flush with the bottom of the trim board, allowing the trim board to act as a proper drip edge. The ledger board is then securely fastened to the house rim joist using structural lag screws (like LedgerLoks from FastenMaster) driven by an impact driver. The presenter consults a span table (often found on the fastener's packaging or online) to determine the appropriate screw spacing for their 16-foot span, which is typically 9 inches on center. However, for added security and to account for the thickness of the insulation and sheathing, he opts for a tighter 6-inch spacing, staggering the screws in each bay.

Goal: Securely fasten the new ledger board to the house structure.