Abstract: An improved system and methods for forming foundations, walls, buildings and other structures having one or more walls made of concrete or other pourable, hardenable materials. The system uses substantially rigid forming panels and is “open” in that forming panels from a variety of sources can be utilized in the system with limited (if any) changes or alterations to the components used in the system. Such panels particularly include insulating foam panels, and also include other substantially rigid panels of other materials which may provide additional insulating properties. The system and methods provide wall tie rail and corner assemblies that are adaptable for use in a variety of construction applications using forming procedures and techniques readily adaptable from conventional forming system construction and assembly procedures.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a block system including first and second blocks. Each block has an outer surface with a pair of locking channels formed within the outer surface. The locking channels are spaced apart from each other. Each locking channel has a narrower outer slot portion extending through the outer surface and a wider inner slot portion extending from the outer slot portion into its respective block. A first pair of locking members are provided for coupling the blocks together by insertion into the locking channels of the blocks with the locking channels of the first block being positioned to join with the locking channels of the second block. The locking members have a cross-section with wider outer edges dimensioned to fit in the inner slot portions and a narrower mid-section dimensioned to fit in the outer slot portions.

Abstract: A termite shield includes two parallel planes of barrier material separated by perpendicular connecting strips to hold the barriers a fixed distance apart until completion of the wall fixes their positions. The strips can then be removed or bent back to permit access to the gap between the planes for inspection and repair. Flanges above and below secure the shield to sheathing above and below, and flanges along the back attach to the wall beneath to perfect the barrier.