Abstract: A cover for closing a vehicle surface opening is provided which has a frame part secured to the underside of the cover on one side at a frame part securing section by an application of plastic foam on the cover, and which contacts the underside of the cover on the other side at a free section of the frame part via at least one spacer. The frame part may also include at least one filling opening on the free section thereof for introducing a reactive plastic material forming the spacer, and the plastic material introduced through the filling opening into a gap between the free section of the frame part secured to the cover and the underside of the cover retains the free section of the frame on the underside of the cover in a positioned and/or fixed manner as a spacer after reacting or curing.

Abstract: A doorframe protection device comprises a shell and an insert disposed within the shell. The shell is formed of a resilient material and has an outer wall, a pair of sidewalls extending from the outer wall, and an arm extending from each of the sidewalls to a distal end opposite the outer wall. The distal ends of the arms are biased towards each other. A lanyard opening is disposed in the outer wall. The insert is formed of a pliable material has a main body shaped to conform to and cover an inside of the outer wall, the sidewalls, and the arms of the shell.

Abstract: A safety component for a skating rink. The safety component comprises a body portion connectable to a transparent barrier located above dasher boards of the skating rink, wherein upon impact the body portion is capable of at least partially absorbing impact forces. The safety component further comprises a curved rink-facing surface that provides a substantially convex curved surface facing the skating rink. The curved rink-facing surface has a radius of curvature suitable for redirecting the impact forces away from the convex curved surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the repair of door and window jambs or other exterior surface trim of a building and more specifically to the manufacturing of protective covers of a water and environmentally resistant material that are pre-dimensioned to fit all or a portion of standard and non-standard sized door or window jamb, frames or exterior trim using a unique preformed groove. The protective covers may further be included in a kit that provides for a homeowner to easily size the covers to the appropriate dimension and perform a repair.

Abstract: A sealing assembly for securely and insulatively maintaining a window or door and surrounding frame arrangement within an opening of a building wall. The sealing assembly comprises an elongated foam cell body member arranged within a channel of the surrounding frame arrangement of the window or door, wherein the elongated cell body member has a wall-opening-facing side. An elongated caulking band flange member is arranged in abutting relationship with a corner of the elongated foam cell body member. A thin flexible air fin is arranged in close environmental sealing relationship with the elongated foam cell body member and the opening in the wall of the building. A securement member is arranged to fasten the window or door surrounding frame arrangement, the elongated foam cell body member and the air fin, all to the building wall opening.

Abstract: A system for air sealing of leaks in building corners in a wall portion made up by a framework, including a cover element with two overlapping and plane flexible film portions, which are connected to each other along a first edge portion. The film portions include linear folding lines to enable unfolding of the cover element for forming a three-dimensional geometry including a main surface and a collar which projects from the main surface and is formed integrally therewith and which corresponds to three sides of the beam portion.

Abstract: A door threshold may comprise a main body formed from two feet. In certain example embodiments, a male-female connection between the feet may be used to adjust the depth of the door threshold. In certain other example embodiments, a center bridge insert to be used in connection with two female feet to adjust the depth of the door threshold. In still further example embodiments, one or more center layers may be disposed between two feet, with the size of the center layer(s) determining the depth of the door threshold. Also, the door threshold may include upper and lower members for sandwiching carpet and/or carpet padding therebetween which, in certain example embodiments, may grip the carpet to reduce the ease with which it may be pulled out from between the upper and lower members. Thus, certain example embodiments may reduce and/or eliminate the need for tacks proximate to the threshold.

Abstract: An arrangement for closing an opening in a vehicle and method for producing such an arrangement. In an arrangement for closing an opening in a vehicle, comprising a pane and an anti-shatter film attached to the pane, in the border region of the pane, the pane and the anti-shatter file are provided with a foam encapsulation. The foam encapsulation is arranged at least particularly spaced apart from an edge of the anti-shatter film, which edge is formed on the pane.

Abstract: A vehicle glazing has a gasket provided on at least one surface and extending along one edge of the glazing, and provided with at least one resilient asymmetric metal retaining clip for retaining a vehicle glazing component, such as a decorative trim. One side of the clip engages the gasket, and the other side retains the vehicle glazing component. Also disclosed is a preferred retaining clip for mounting on a gasket to retain a vehicle glazing component, the clip having a generally U-shaped section comprising a base and two limbs. The first limb may comprise at least two lugs extending in mutually diverging directions to grip the gasket, and the second limb may comprise a tab extending outwardly from the limb to engage the vehicle glazing component.

Abstract: Nail or screw holes are provided on the body of a trim unit so that the trim body can be more robustly secured to the building structure, beneath a slidable molding which in a first position reveals these holes and in a second position covers the holes. This sliding is preferably achieved by a self-retaining interference connection, such as a dovetail joint, between a movable molding part and the body of the trim unit. In a further preference, the molding has a stationary portion that is fixed with respect to the trim body, and a movable portion which, after attachment of the trim body to the structural member, can be slid into engagement with the stationary portion and glued thereon to complete the molding.

Abstract: Described herein is a monolithic cementitious article with one or more pre-formed shaped regions. The shaped regions are generally channels that extend through a portion of the article or span the full article. The article includes one or more openings at least one of its ends. The article has a low apparent density with a high strength as well as high performance characteristics. The article when manufactured is suitable for use as a building product, such as siding, panel, trim, fascia, roofing, crown molding, decking, and fencing.

Abstract: A door frame reinforcement assembly for resisting an intrusive force applied to a building door has a pair of opposing elongated jamb members and elongated reinforcement members securable with a respective jamb member. Each of the jamb members has a pair of rabbet milled step-up cutouts. One of the cutouts receives a long screw threadably engaging the jamb member with the walls studs. The reinforcement members are secured within the second cutout. The reinforcement members are formed as metal tubes with an insert.

Abstract: An automotive glazing having a mounting strip for mounting a glazing component attached adjacent at least one edge thereof is disclosed. The mounting strip comprises at least one ridge positioned in contact with the glazing such that the majority of the mounting strip is spaced apart from the glazing, forming a cavity. The mounting strip is bonded to a major face of the glazing by an adhesive material in contact with at least a portion of the mounting strip, and positioned such that it does not overlap the edge of the glazing. The ridge, the mounting strip end and the major face of the glazing to which the strip is bonded form a cavity having an open end facing the edge of the glazing, the cavity being dimensioned to receive a portion of said glazing component.

Abstract: A system for attaching finishing elements to building structures without conventional structural sheathing is provided. The system includes attaching at least one thin, flat strip of nailable reinforcement member such as a metal strapping directly to the framing of a building structure. The finishing elements are then attached to the reinforcement members via a plurality of fastening tabs. The reinforcement members are in direct contact with the framing and configured to provide structural support and increase wind load resistance of the finishing element attached thereto.

Abstract: A door comprising first and second door skins secured to each other to form a cavity therebetween filled with expended foam. Each of the door skins has an opening therethrough for receiving a glass insert and a flange portion. Distal ends of the flange portions of the first and second door skins engage each other in an overlapping relationship by the expansion pressure of the expanded foam. The door further comprises a glazing rim member having a leg portion snap-locked between the flange portions of the first and second door skins. The method for assembling the door comprises the steps of filling the cavity between the door skins with foam material, then inserting the glass insert through the openings in the door skins and mounting the glazing rim member to the first door skin by snap-locking between the flange portions of the first and second door skins.

Abstract: A plastic window frame trim is for installation of a window in a corrugated metal building wall having a cut opening with a top edge, bottom edge, and side edges, each of the edges being backed by framing members. The window frame trim includes: a frame header J-channel with a flange; a frame footer J-channel with a flange; a pair of nailing fins; and fasteners. The trim header J-channel, footer J-channel, and nailing fins are attached to the window frame. The window frame is lifted so frame header J-channel flange slides between the top edge of the metal building wall and a framing member at the top of the cut opening. The window is lowered so footer J-channel flange slides between the bottom edge of the metal building wall and a framing member at the bottom of the cut opening so that window frame rest on the window sill. Fasteners attach the window frame to the framing members through the metal building wall. Trim caps snap over the nailing fins to finish the trimmed window.

Abstract: A plastic window frame trim is for installation of a window in a corrugated metal building wall having a cut opening with a top edge, bottom edge, and side edges, each of the edges being backed by framing members, the window having an accessory groove. The window frame trim includes: a frame header J-channel with a flange; a frame footer J-channel with a flange; a pair of nailing fins; and fasteners. The trim header J-channel, footer J-channel, and nailing fins are attached to the window at the accessory groove on the window frame. The window frame is lifted so frame header J-channel flange slides between the top edge of the metal building wall and a framing member at the top of the cut opening. The window is lowered so footer J-channel flange slides between the bottom edge of the metal building wall and a framing member at the bottom of the cut opening so that window frame rest on the window sill. Fasteners attach the window frame to the framing members through the metal building wall.

Abstract: A brick mold assembly for a door frame comprises a brick mold portion configured to be installed adjacent a door jamb portion, and a connector configured for connecting the brick mold portion to the door jamb portion. The connector comprises a longitudinal body comprising a first longitudinal clip member and a second longitudinal clip member. The second longitudinal clip member is oriented relative to the first longitudinal clip member so as to define an angle therebetween.

Abstract: A privacy enhancer is composed of a first strip preferably rigid and a flexible strip. The first strip has a connector located on one edge. An adhesive is provided along the length of the side for attachment to a first or second pilaster of an enclosure. The enhancer includes a second strip preferably a flexible plastic strip preferably nontransparent having a connector located on an edge of the flexible plastic strip. The two connectors are coupled together. The first strip is then attached to the pilaster by contacting the adhesive side of the strip to the pilaster on the side of the pilaster opposite to the direction of movement of the door. The flexible plastic strip closes off the space between the door and the pilaster when the door is closed.

Abstract: A window trim system and method comprises a trim hoop sized to be slid over an outer face of a window frame to the exterior edge of the frame. A stop member formed around the exterior edge abuts and aligns the trim hoop. A friction member may or may not be installed around the inside of the trim hoop to help hold the trim hoop initially in place. Sealant is then applied around the junction of the trim hoop and window frame on the inside of the trim hoop to fix the trim hoop to the window frame and create a seal against air and water infiltration. The resulting window frame and trim assembly is particularly suited for use in an overfit replacement window installation, but may be used in virtually any window installation.

Abstract: A trim element such as a door pilaster or frieze board, for attachment to a building wall, having front and back longitudinal faces, first and second longitudinal edges, and a longitudinal groove in the first edge. A mounting bracket for the wall has a forward strip that extends laterally and is selectively friction fit into the groove, a back strip that extends laterally on the back face of the element, and a connecting web between the forward and back strip that is flush with the first edge when the forward strip is fully inserted in the groove. A mounting flange for the wall extends laterally from the back face of the element, beyond the second longitudinal edge, and has a longitudinal channel along the second edge with a width that is effective to receive an edge of wall siding.

Abstract: A window or door system includes a frame adapted to be received within a window or door opening. A window or door unit is disposed on the frame, and a retainer is received by interference fit on either the frame or the window or door unit. The retainer has a portion that extends to engage the other of the frame and window or door unit, and to hold the window or door unit on the frame. The frame can be rectangular, for example, and the retainer may be linear extending along at least one edge of the frame. The frame can include an outwardly opening slot, and the retainer may be received by snap fit in the slot.

Abstract: A universal skirt board has a base, a top flange section, an overhang section, and a sealing flange attached to the top flange section. The base has at least one ridge extending away from the base in a first direction, and a projection extending in the first direction. The top flange section is attached to the base. The overhang section is also attached to the base and defines a drip edge. The sealing flange is attached to the top flange section. The at least one ridge is formed to rest on a top of a base board. The projection is formed to fit into a slot defined in the top of the base board to provide an interference connection.

Abstract: A universal flashing is provided for windows and doors. A head flashing assembly is fabricated at a construction site to fit specific door or window widths. A center section which may be extruded with a sloped base, a rear flange, and a front lip. End caps may be provided to snap or glue on the center section. The end caps have a perpendicular fin which serves as an end dam to block the lateral movement of water. The assembly may be inverted for use as a sill pan. The center section may be cut to a desired length and installed over arched windows or doors by bending to shape as it is installed. For arched applications, a combination of rigid and flexible PVC may be coextruded to provide a desired cross sectional profile that is flexible enough to be bent around the arch, but stiff enough to retain its cross section for drainage.

Abstract: A nosing and drip cap are mounted to each other by elements of the nosing and drip cap. A hook receptacle and/or a stud receptacle extend the length of the nosing. A cooperating hook and/or stud extend from the drip cap. The drip cap is secured to the nosing by engaging the hook in the hook receptacle and/or the stud in the stud receptacle, in a loose engagement combination. While nosing and drip cap are engaged, the assembly can be secured together by (i) installing fasteners spaced along the length of the assembly or, where hook and hook receptacle are used, (ii) bending the assembly into an arcuate configuration, with the inner flange of the nosing to the inside of the bend. While being bent, the hook and hook receptacle create a tightened locking-type engagement between themselves. Either way, the nosing and the drip cap are substantially permanently locked together.

Abstract: A window frame assembly for a window opening in which the assembly comprises a casing facing that covers the casing with a J-channel secured to the casing facing and defining an outwardly facing channel to receive bordering edges of siding material, and a casing molding having one longitudinal edge continuous with the casing facing and a second longitudinal edge outwardly and non-planar with the one longitudinal edge and engaging the J-channel. The casing molding of a color contrasting with either or both of the J-channel and casing facing.

Abstract: A vehicle glazing has a glazing profile provided around at least a portion of the periphery of a pane of glazing material. A rigid insert is embedded in the glazing profile, and a trim is mounted on the glazing profile, the trim engaging the insert and being retained by it. The insert is provided with at least one aperture through which the insert is engaged by at least one protrusion on the trim.

Abstract: Disclosed is a jamb assembly for a door having a novel structure, capable of representing a wooden feel and reinforcing the strength for a specific region by improving the structure of the jamb assembly coupled with an opening of a wall surface for the installation of the door. The jamb assembly is installed along an inner peripheral surface of an opening of a wall surface for installation of a door and constituting a door frame. The jamb assembly includes an outer skin section constituting an outer portion of the jamb assembly and having a surface molded with various patterns such as a wooden pattern, and a body core section surrounded by the outer skin section, constituting an inner frame portion of the jamb assembly, and fixedly coupled with the opening of the wall surface for the installation of the door.

Abstract: A trim for a building having framework surrounding an opening for a window assembly or a door has a member fastened to the framework having a side pocket for accommodating a portion of siding secured to the framework. A cover releasably mounted on the member enclosed fasteners attaching the member to the framework.

Abstract: A door threshold may include upper and lower members for sandwiching carpet and/or carpet padding therebetween. The threshold may, in certain example embodiments, grip the carpet in order to prevent it from being pulled out from between the upper and lower threshold members. Thus, in certain example instances, the need for tacks (or carpet tack strip(s)) proximate the threshold can be reduced and/or eliminated. In certain example embodiments of this invention, the threshold structure may include a locating bracket that is provided proximate the door frame for frame alignment and security purposes, and/or one or more pans located under the threshold for locating and/or securing purposes. Levelers, shims and/or the like may be used in certain example embodiments in order to compensate for non-level flooring proximate the door.

Abstract: An interlocking decorative trim system has a backing strip and a cover strip interlocked together. The backing strip has a top, a bottom, a back face, a front face, a tongue extending from the top, and a projection adjacent the bottom and extending away from the front face. The front face has a recess and the projection has a slot. The cover strip has a top, a bottom, a front face, a back face, a tab extending from the bottom, and a second projection adjacent the top and extending away from the front face. The back face has a recess and the second projection has a groove. The tongue of the backing strip fits inside the groove of the cover strip and the tab of the cover strip fits into the slot of the backing strip.

Abstract: A window cladding assembly that fits on the inside of an awning or casement type window unit to cover from view the frame of the window unit and the perimeter of the window unit sash.

Abstract: A trim element such as a door pilaster or frieze board, for attachment to a building wall, having front and back longitudinal faces, first and second longitudinal edges, and a longitudinal groove in the first edge. A mounting bracket for the wall has a forward strip that extends laterally and is selectively friction fit into the groove, a back strip that extends laterally on the back face of the element, and a connecting web between the forward and back strip that is flush with the first edge when the forward strip is fully inserted in the groove. A mounting flange for the wall extends laterally from the back face of the element, beyond the second longitudinal edge, and has a longitudinal channel along the second edge with a width that is effective to receive an edge of wall siding.

Abstract: A support is provided for an entrance trim panel on a carrying element of a motor vehicle, particularly a passenger car. The space for accommodating an electrical wire harness is formed between the entrance trim panel and the carrying element. In such a support, it is proposed that the space for accommodating the electrical wire harness is formed above the carrying element, and that a supporting element is arranged between the carrying element and the entrance trim panel. The supporting element is rigidly connected to the carrying element in the region of one end and the entrance trim panel is supported in the region of the other end.

Abstract: A weather strip includes a bottom wall that faces or is in contact with an end face of a fixed window glass that closes a window opening of a side door. An outer wall extends from the bottom wall on an outer side of the vehicle body with respect to the fixed window glass, and an inner wall extends from the bottom wall on an inner side of the vehicle body with respect to the fixed window glass so that the inner wall and the outer wall sandwich a peripheral portion of the fixed window glass in a thickness direction. The inner wall is provided with a spacing groove for creating a space between the fixed window glass and the inner wall.

Abstract: A starter bracket is attached to a wall and a mould trim piece is inserted therein such that a pair of opposed legs of the bracket engage respective longitudinal edges of the trim piece. A back plate of the bracket extends vertically and on one side has a longer L-shaped formation extending forward and laterally, and at the other side, a shorter leg extending forward and laterally. The inner edge of the shorter leg is preferably in the form of a compressible edge. The back plate is nailed to a wall, the longer leg of the bracket is inserted in one slot on one side of the trim piece, and a short slot on the other side of the trim piece is snapped onto the shorter leg to complete the installation.

Abstract: A door threshold may comprise a main body formed from two feet. In certain example embodiments, a male-female connection between the feet may be used to adjust the depth of the door threshold. In certain other example embodiments, a center bridge insert to be used in connection with two female feet to adjust the depth of the door threshold. In still further example embodiments, one or more center layers may be disposed between two feet, with the size of the center layer(s) determining the depth of the door threshold. Also, the door threshold may include upper and lower members for sandwiching carpet and/or carpet padding therebetween which, in certain example embodiments, may grip the carpet to reduce the ease with which it may be pulled out from between the upper and lower members. Thus, certain example embodiments may reduce and/or eliminate the need for tacks proximate to the threshold.

Abstract: A window film anchoring device is disclosed which comprises a first engagement member and a second engagement member between which a free film portion of a film affixed to a window pane is inserted. The first and second engagement members are attached to a corresponding window frame portion, and film engaging surfaces of the first engagement member are in interlocking and lateral motion preventing relation with complementary film engaging surfaces of the second engagement member so as to maintain a constant pressing force on the free film portion. The anchoring device is adapted to be a retrofit kit, and is able to be easily attached to an existing window frame, in order to increase the impact or impulse resistance of the window pane. The anchoring device may also be factory assembled to a newly produced frame.

Abstract: A window glass, particularly for installation by adhesive bonding in an opening of a vehicle bodywork, comprises a sheet of glass with a profiled bead that is fixed at least to the main surface of the sheet of glass facing toward the interior in the installed state and that rests against at least part of the opening. The use of such a window glass makes it possible, once the window glass has been installed in the bodywork opening, to obtain a visible space less than 5 mm between the opening and the edge face of the window glass.

Abstract: A bracket system is disclosed for allowing conventional trim to be removably connected to a wall or ceiling or both while allowing the bracket system to be concealed behind the trim. The bracket system includes a wall bracket that is attached to the wall or ceiling or both and a trim bracket that is attached to conventional trim. The wall bracket and trim bracket interlock with each other and are held together in secure but removable mating contact. The wall bracket and trim bracket can be pulled apart or pushed together to allow for removal and reinstallation of trim without mechanical modification or destruction of any components. A preferred embodiment of the bracket system includes an insert bracket that is placed inside and concealed within the wall bracket. The insert bracket helps to retain cabling within the wall bracket when the trim bracket is removed or to keep cabling running along the bracket system separated.

Abstract: A trim kit for trimming an opening such as a door or window opening in a building structure or the like is provided. The trim kit comprises a starter strip including a securing leg, a trim panel abutment flange and a first groove and a trim panel including a pre-cast body. The pre-cast body includes at least one decorative element, a tongue, a projecting nose and a channel between the tongue and projecting nose. When installed the tongue of the trim panel is received in the first groove of the starter strip and the abutment flange of the starter strip is received in the channel of the trim panel with the projecting nose overlying the abutment flange.

Abstract: A filler assembly for spanning, filling, and concealing a gap between an installed metal cabinet and an adjacent wall, or adjacent cabinet is disclosed. The assembly includes a bracket and a filler strip and the filler strip is formed with a projecting tongue. The bracket includes a narrow channel sized to receive the tongue of the filler strip in a sliding relationship. The tongue of the filler strip can slide into the channel to different depths so that the tongue and bracket span and fill the gap.

Abstract: A filler assembly for spanning, filling, and concealing a gap between an installed metal cabinet and an adjacent wall, or adjacent cabinet is disclosed. The assembly includes a bracket, a backing strip and a filler strip and the filler strip is formed with a projecting tongue. The bracket includes a narrow channel sized to receive the tongue of the filler strip in a sliding relationship. The tongue of the filler strip can slide into the channel to different depths so that the tongue and bracket span and fill the gap and the position of the backing strip can be adjusted by an adjustment feature.

Abstract: A window glass, particularly for installation by adhesive bonding in an opening of a vehicle bodywork, comprises a sheet of glass with a profiled bead that is fixed at least to the main surface of the sheet of glass facing toward the interior in the installed state and that rests against at least part of the opening. The use of such a window glass makes it possible, once the window glass has been installed in the bodywork opening, to obtain a visible space less than 5 mm between the opening and the edge face of the window glass.

Abstract: An improved refrigerator door is provided with a metal outer panel and upper and lower plastic end caps installed on top and bottom edges of the door. The caps include grooves to receive flanges on the edges of the panel, thereby mounting the caps to the panel. The caps include ratcheting members to provide a mating fit with the panel. A bushing is snap fit into the upper cap without the use of hardware fasteners. Electric wires and a water line extend downwardly through the bushing to an ice and water dispenser in the door.

Abstract: A door is constructed with a separate member joined to the door edge by a tongue-and-groove coupling and screws so as to be readily removable and replaceable. The separate member sustains the impacts imparted to the door by carts or wagons pushed past the door and can be readily replaced when damaged, thus avoiding replacement of the entire door. A flexible cover snaps over the outer surface of the separate member to add impact resistance and aesthetic appeal. Intumescent strips may be inserted inside or outside of the cover to enhance sealing between the door, and as adjacent door or door frame, thereby improving the fire resistance rating of the door. Accent strips or reveals of contrasting or complementary colors may be incorporated to add to the aesthetic appeal of the door. The door construction is of particular utility in schools, health care facilities and other institutions.

Abstract: There is provided a caulk free window trim for use with a replacement window in a wall having a window jam. The window jam has a jam liner. The window trim includes a vertical rigid first member for disposing against a portion of the replacement window. An angled flexible second member extends away from a predetermined intermediate position on the vertical rigid first member and above an uppermost portion of the vertical rigid first member in contact with a portion of the jam liner to prevent air from infiltrating into the wall between the jam liner and the replacement window. No caulking or painting is required because the angled flexible second member together with the vertical rigid first member seals any minor gaps and produces an attractive finished product.

Abstract: A weatherproofing system for installing windows and doors is described and has a front seal and a real seal. The seals include clear, pressure-activated adhesives and seal against attaching hardware. The rear seal has a is self-setting foam web and molds to the flange of the window unit. When installed, the foam is compressed between the inner window frame and rough opening and between the window flange and the wall surface adjacent the rough opening. The system extends beyond the flange of the window unit and receives the weatherproofing membrane thereover. The weatherproofing system acts as a sealed bridge between the membrane and the window unit precluding entry of air and water. Both the foam and the adhesive have fire retardants in the formulation thereof. The rear seal is provided in a tape form with a self-skinned foam layer and a sheet form with polymeric covering web.

Abstract: A system for framing a porch using concealed fasteners and concealed or partially-concealed framing elements on support posts. The framing elements have a small cross section, generally shaped like the letter C with a slot on one side and a spline groove in one of the opposing corners. The framing elements are attached to a support post by screwing plural, spaced-apart buttons into the posts and then snapping the button heads into the slot of the framing elements. The framing elements may be applied to the surface of the posts or, because of their small size, may be put into grooves formed in the sides or corners of the posts and concealed on one or more sides by trim boards.

Abstract: A doorjamb end cap and method of installation therefor, wherein application of the present invention to wooden doorjambs permits the enclosed or encased portion thereof to effectively resist or avoid the onset of rot therein, and wherein the present invention is effectuated without expensive extrusion processes and/or thermoplastic melt and adhesive applications.