Steel Ledgers Buried in the Ground

[bigmig]

I have long had a problem with steel ledgers buried in the ground. My issue is that they rust out and fail. I typically use another technique (concrete ledger) for this reason. My architect is complaining that there is nothing wrong with the steel ledgers, especially if they arrive as stainless material. I have never seen a stainless ledger and was wondering if this is common, and cost effective based on others experience.

For clarity, the ledgers support 4 to 8' of stone veneer. Thanks in advance.

 

[jayrod12]

I have a hard time believing that a stainless steel ledger angle is cheaper than pouring out a concrete ledger. At our office we are not too keen on exposed steel underground, we don't even like doing steel piles.

That being said, technically with the proper coating and quality control on site to ensure the protection isn't compromised you could do steel angles below grade.

 

[Structcon]

Sometimes we do that at the contractor's request, since it allows him to get the correct elevation and layout after the concrete guys leave the area. The ss angles with ss anchor bolts should last as long as the building lasts.

 

[TXStructural]

Nothing wrong with stainless ledgers, but it seems rather inefficient, and you have to concern yourself with more detailing and another trade on site. Also, the detailing of anchors can be a challenge. With a stone veneer, there is no need for adjustment (as there could be with an exposed brick ledge) and the added complexity and cost seem unjustified. And the "we always do it that way" attitude results in a good bit of waste in many designs.