The Simpson BVLZ-KT1 Brick Veneer Ledger Connector is a code-compliant, tested kit engineered to safely attach a wood ledger to structural house framing through an existing brick veneer exterior - making it possible to add a deck to a brick veneer home without removing or replacing large sections of brick. The steel ledger plate and compression strut work together so the two tension screws pass through the mortar joints into the structural framing, and the ledger hangs freely without bearing on the veneer itself. Built from 12-gauge steel with a ZMAX galvanized finish, this brick veneer deck ledger connector delivers a durable, inspection-ready retrofit solution for homeowners and contractors alike.

Key Features

• Drills through mortar joints - eliminates the need to cut or disturb brick, keeping the existing veneer intact during installation
• Enables inspection and approval by building departments in a retrofit construction application - gives contractors and homeowners confidence that the connection meets code requirements without special exemptions
• Accommodates a wide range of air gaps and brick sizes - provides flexibility for use on varied residential construction types, reducing the need for custom workarounds
• Minimizes penetrations through existing exterior water barriers - helps preserve the moisture integrity of the wall assembly, reducing the risk of water intrusion over time
• Made from 12-gauge steel - provides the structural strength needed to handle the tension and compression forces involved in deck ledger connections
• ZMAX galvanization on connectors - offers extra corrosion resistance for exterior and treated-wood applications, extending the service life of the connection in demanding outdoor environments
• Strong-Drive SDWH Timber-Hex HDG tension screws and Strong-Drive SD Connector shear screws included - each fastener carries a purpose-built corrosion-resistant coating, so the entire kit is matched and ready to install without sourcing separate hardware

Why This Product

• A viable alternative to a freestanding deck - the BVLZ-KT1 allows a ledger-attached deck to be built on a brick veneer home without the cost and complexity of freestanding framing, using a system specifically tested for this application
• Retrofit-friendly design protects the existing structure - by drilling only through mortar joints and minimizing water barrier penetrations, this connector reduces disruption to the home's exterior during deck addition projects
• A complete, matched kit from Simpson - the ledger plate, compression strut, installation guide, tension screws, and shear screws are all included and engineered to work together, removing guesswork about fastener compatibility
• Built for long-term exterior performance - ZMAX galvanized steel connectors paired with Class 55 HDG and double-barrier-coated fasteners address the corrosion demands of outdoor and treated-lumber environments throughout the life of the deck

Specifications

• MPN: BVLZ-KT1
• Brand: Simpson Strong-Tie
• Coating/Finish: ZMAX
• Gauge: 12
• Country of Origin: United States

What's Included

Each pack contains (1) BVLZ-KT1 Brick Veneer Ledger Connector, a steel ledger plate, compression strut, installation guide, two 14-in. Strong-Drive SDWH Timber-Hex HDG tension screws and six Strong-Drive SD Connector shear screws.

Downloads and Resources

• View Spec Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the BVLZ-KT1 attach a deck ledger to a brick veneer home?

The BVLZ-KT1 uses two 14-in. Strong-Drive SDWH Timber-Hex HDG tension screws that pass through the mortar joints into the structural framing of the house. A compression strut then transfers compression forces from the steel ledger plate to the rim joist, allowing the ledger to hang freely without bearing on the brick veneer itself.

Do I need to remove brick veneer to install the BVLZ-KT1?

No. The BVLZ-KT1 is specifically designed to install without having to remove or replace large sections of brick veneer, and it minimizes penetrations through existing exterior water barriers.

Is the BVLZ-KT1 code-compliant and approved for inspections?

Yes. The BVLZ brick veneer ledger connector is a code-compliant, tested solution. It is designed to enable inspection and approval by building departments in a retrofit construction application.

What makes the BVLZ-KT1 suitable for exterior and treated-wood applications?

The connector features a ZMAX galvanized finish, which provides extra corrosion resistance specifically suited for exterior environments and contact with treated wood. The included fasteners also carry enhanced protective coatings - the SDWH27 screws are Class 55 HDG and the SD9 screws feature a double-barrier coating.

Related Products

• BVLZ-KT4

Note: The BVLZ-KT1 does not include the template. If you need the entire kit, check out the .