Abstract: A floating areaway system which can respond to changing soils conditions (such as freezing, expansion, settling, or the like) utilizes a continuously adjustable attachment to the foundation or a free motion support. The system is particularly adapted to overhanging areaway enclosures such as may include an escape dement. The designs can range from slidable retainers to elastic members to rotating elements so that the areaway enclosure can move up or down with the soil. Shields, low friction surfaces, and waterproof elements can be included to assure continuous operation. Installation, whether new or retrofit, is facilitated through individual free motion support brackets which can accommodate previously installed areaway enclosures as well as a new enclosure. The brackets can be designed to be specific to particular designs, generic, removable, and reversible so that the mounting can be in either the interior or the exterior of the enclosure. Integral designs afford efficient manufacture and installation.

Abstract: A modular areaway system is disclosed having independent side wall members and independent step facings. The modular system allows quick and easy construction of units without the use of extra tools. The independent sections are detachably connectable to one another to form the final single unit assemblage. The means for detachably connecting is integral in part to each independent section of the areaway system. Male and female connectors are disposed on each section to make assembly of each unit by most any person simple and easy, as no tools are necessary. The modular system allows for replacement of sections rather than requiring replacement of entire units. In the event that any individual section is damaged or worn replacement of that section is easily replaced with a new section by detaching the damaged or worn section and reattaching the new section in its place.

Abstract: An areaway allowing for escape or for ingress and egress in emergency situations is disclosed. A unitary body is designed for attachement to the exterior of a foundation wall. This unitary body includes steps to facilitate escape and may include openings to access the earth below the areaway and for planting. In such fashion both maintenance of the areaway and its aesthetic appeal are enhanced. Additional features allow for improved access for escape and improved drainage of the areaway. The unitary design may be molded and may include a cover, integral lights, or even simply a vertical retaining wall with molded steps to accommodate existing designs. The areaway allows aesthetic use of the space within it.