Framing & StructuralQuestion 387 of 700
To resist lateral separation of an exterior wood deck from the dwelling during seismic or live loads, which connection is the BEST practice at the ledger-to-band-joist interface?
a.Rely solely on the deck ledger lag screws for lateral resistance
b.Install tension hold-down devices connecting the deck framing to the interior floor framing
c.Use construction adhesive between the ledger and the house wall
d.Toenail the joists into the ledger at each bay
Explanation
Code-recognized lateral load connectors (tension devices) tie the deck joists through the wall to the interior floor framing, directly resisting the deck pulling away. Ledger lag screws primarily carry vertical shear, not lateral tension; adhesive is not a rated structural connection; and toenailing alone is far too weak for lateral loads.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R507Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
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