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Installing Ledger Boards on Stucco

Project Overview

Installing Ledger Boards on Stucco

Installing a ledger on stucco does not require removal of the stucco surface, but it does call for installation of flashing. The upper flange on the flashing is bent to fit into a shallow cut made in the stucco surface. You'll make the cut and slip in the flashing after you've hung the ledger. This requires you to countersink the heads of the lag screws so the circular saw doesn't get hung up on the fasteners. Otherwise the ledger is positioned and attached using the same techniques as you would for siding. Be sure to cut the flashing long enough to extend beyond the ends of the ledger so it will cover the rim joists and fascia. To keep the ledger as flat as possible, knock down large ridges or bumps in the stucco with glancing hammer blows.

3 Steps

  1. Mark the Location
  2. Cut a Kerf in the Stucco
  3. Install Flashing
Mark the Location

Step 1

Mark the Location

Outline the position of the ledger on the stucco with a permanent marker. Because wall surface material isn't cut and removed, you don't need to allow space for the rim joists. Cut the ledger to length, market the location of the joists, and prop the ledger in place. Make sure it's level and stays that way. Then drill pilot holes for the fasteners in the ledger. Change to a masonry bit of the same diameter as the wood bit and drill a 3-inch deep hole into concrete.

Cut a Kerf in the Stucco

Step 2

Cut a Kerf in the Stucco

Measure the height of the top flange on the metal flashing. Subtract 1/4 inch from this measurement and mark a line at this distance above the top edge of the ledger. Attach a straight piece of level 1x stock to the ledger as a cutting guide. Using a masonry blade, cut a kerf in the stucco 3/8 inch deep.

Installing the flashing

Step 3

Install Flashing

Clamp 1/4 inch of the upper flange of the flashing between two lengths of 1x stock and bend the flashing so it forms a perpendicular lip. Push this lip into the kerf and snug up against the ledger. Make sure the flashing is firmly seated in the kerf along its entire length. Then apply silicone caulk to seal the flashing in the stucco. Also fill the countersunk holes with caulk.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Intermediate

Time: 3 hours

Before you start, read this »

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