What percentage of deck collapses results from the separation of the house and deck ledger board?

The correct choice indicates that approximately 90% of deck collapses occur due to the failure of the connection at the ledger board, which is the horizontal support that attaches the deck to the house. This connection is critical because it bears a significant portion of the weight of the deck, as well as any load on it, such as people or furniture.

When the ledger board is improperly installed, deteriorates over time, or fails to maintain a solid attachment to the house, it can lead to structural failures, including complete deck collapses. This statistic highlights the importance of ensuring that the ledger board is correctly bolted and has adequate flashing to prevent water intrusion, which can lead to wood rot and further weaken the connection.

Addressing the significance of proper installation and maintenance at this area becomes vital for safety. Structural integrity around the ledger board needs to be assessed during home inspections, emphasizing that proper practices can greatly minimize risks associated with deck use. Understanding this statistic reinforces the necessity of checking ledger board connections as a critical component of deck safety.