How to Attach Mobile Home Decks

Mobile home decks are wonderful opportunities to be creative and enjoy the outdoors. Here are some simple steps to attaching a deck to your mobile home. One important point here is to choose a dry sunny day for your project, so that you can complete it without interruptions.

Step 1 – Checking the Surface

Before you start attaching a deck to your mobile home, a thorough clean up of both surfaces is critical. Make sure your deck surface and the exterior wall is free of dirt, mold, grease, wood fragments or mildew. Any decay or rot should be attended to promptly. If you need to wash any of the surfaces, make sure they are absolutely dry before you continue with your project.

Step 2 – Cutting the Ledger Board

Bolt a ledger board to the side of the home. Make sure the board is treated. Once you have measured out the space under your door, cut the ledger board accordingly. Try mock fitting the board and make sure you have the length right. Also, you will need to leave some space between the home and the deck so that rain and snow can be diverted easily. Use galvanised fasteners to attach the ledger board to the mobile home.

Step 3 – Securing the Ledger Board

Since ledger boards are seldom straight, you may want to straighten them as you attach them using a flat bar. Drill slots through the ledger board and the sheathing ending into the house itself. Attach the ledger board securely using 2 lag screws between each pair of joists. The more joists you use, the more stable the deck attachment will be. Using enough caulk, protect the holes from moisture. Use a hammer and drive the lag screws in to reach the frame of the house.

Step 4 – Weather Proofing

Using silicon caulk, seal all gaps. Make sure you go over the entire deck, especially joints, nail slots and ends. If you plan to paint your deck then check to see if the sealant you have used is compatible with the paint.  To protect the ledger board from the top and behind, use galvanized metal z-flashing. 

Step 5 – Finishing Up

Cut and sandpaper any extra ends of the ledger board using a saw to leave you with an even, sharp edge. Check thoroughly for any unsealed gaps left. Once your sealant is dry, try walking on the deck to test the attachment and its stability.

Your mobile home deck is now ready to go. Wait for it to dry completely and keep an eye on your attachments as you start furnishing and decorating it.