What happens if a deck is not attached to the house?

When a deck is not attached to the house, it typically requires proper bracing to ensure stability and safety. Bracing is essential because it helps to distribute loads and resist lateral forces, such as wind or seismic activity. When a deck stands independently, without being secured to the house structure, the potential for movement increases, which can lead to structural failure if not properly supported.

The requirement for bracing to be installed perpendicular to the support is due to its effectiveness in counteracting these lateral loads. This orientation maximizes the bracing's ability to stabilize the deck, preventing swaying and ensuring that the structure remains secure under various conditions.

In contrast to the other options, where bracing is presented as optional or unnecessary, the reality is that adequate bracing enhances safety and structural integrity when the deck does not have the added support of being anchored to the house. Thus, proper installation of braces is critical in these situations to maintain the deck's safety.