Framing & StructuralQuestion 364 of 700
Besides the ledger fasteners, the code requires a lateral load connection between the deck and the house structure. What does this connection primarily prevent?
a.Squeaky deck boards
b.The deck pulling away from the house under lateral load
c.Rain from reaching the ledger
d.Insect damage
Explanation
The lateral load connection (typically hold-down tension devices anchored into the house floor framing) resists the horizontal force that would pull a deck away from the house, a common cause of catastrophic deck collapses. It is not about squeaks, rain, or insects, which other details address.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R507.9.2Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- For a wood deck post that carries deck loads down to a footing, which connection detail is MOST important at the base?
- CALCULATION: A deck uses 2x8 pressure-treated joists of a species with a span table value of 12 feet at 16 inches on center. If the framer moves the joists to 12 inches on center, the allowable span will generally:
- Where a deck beam bears on a supporting post, what is the BEST practice for the connection?
- On a raised residential deck, guards are required, and the guard infill (balusters/pattern) must be designed so that which object cannot pass through?
- Why must deck framing lumber in contact with the weather and near the ground be pressure-preservative-treated or naturally durable?
- CALCULATION: A stairway must rise a total of 112 inches from finished floor to finished floor. Using the 7-3/4 inch maximum riser height, what is the MINIMUM number of risers required?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CSLB General Building (B) Trade Examination · How we review