When I build decks or additions, I often have to fasten a ledger with lag bolts and lead shields to an existing masonry wall. This process can be maddening because a few of the holes always end up a little off layout. The problem is that a big masonry drill bit has a tendency to wander off its mark. To avoid this problem, I first drill my holes in the ledger, then mark their center points on the masonry. Then I start drilling the holes in the masonry with a 1/8-in. bit, followed by a 5/16-in. bit and finally a 1/2-in. or 5/8-in. bit, depending on the diameter of the lead shield that I’m inserting. This extra effort takes only a few minutes, and it consistently yields accurate results.
John A. Neer, Alexandria, VA
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Why don't you use an anchor Bolt? It's super easy just put the ledger where you want then drill through the wood with a wood bit and through the Masonry with a masonry bit and then tap the bolt into the hole and tighten it. That's it, I do it all the time.
Exactly thats what I do. Tony cerrito deptford new jersey
I prefer to use Hilti bolts. Drill then just run it through everything with and impact driver. Have even anchored machinery do n with them. Nothing NGK has moved to date.
Some people pin the ledger in place w/ a couple of PAT nails, then drill the concrete. As far as fasteners, I like Titens from Simpson- they give good clamping and shear and don't exert a lot of expansive force, which can split concrete if you get unlucky.