Abstract: The wall panel system of the present invention includes a flexible sheet interlock to flexibly seal a joint defined by adjacent perimeter framing members and a capillary break to inhibit the entry of water into drainage or weep holes in gutters in the perimeter framing members.

Abstract: A construction bracket for creating a roof venting space has a first flange having a first flange portion with an first flange outside surface and a first flange side extension that extends away from the first flange outside surface, and a second flange having a second flange portion with a second flange outside surface and a second flange side extension that extends away from the second flange outside surface where the second flange is connected to the first flange forming a predefined angle between the first flange and the second flange.

Abstract: A device and method for securing a substantially flat sheet of metal (such as metal roofing or siding) to a substrate in a manner which avoids or reduces oil canning. A longitudinal spacer is installed between the metal surface and the substrate so as to induce a bowing or camber of the sheet of metal.

Abstract: A method of creating a roof venting space includes assembling a plurality of roof rafters where at least one end of the plurality of roof rafters are assembled to a surface to define a space between the one end of the plurality of roof rafters and the surface, attaching roof sheathing to the outside of the plurality of roof rafters where the roof sheathing covers the space creating a continuous internal ducting space, and connecting a vent to the continuous internal ducting space.

Abstract: A grain bin floor support system having a plurality of interconnected support members. The support members are constructed from a monolithic sheet of structural metal stamped and formed having upper and lower horizontal rails spanning across and integrally connected by a plurality of transverse support columns. The rails include a longitudinally extending center segment and a stabilizing portion adjacent each end thereof. The stabilizing portions are configured to be folded out in opposite directions forming a non-planar self-supporting structure.

Abstract: The present invention provides a soffit assembly and method which comprises a soffit vent that can be mounted therein regardless of the lookouts to which the soffit boards are typically nailed. In one preferred embodiment, legs extend into a soffit opening. The soffit legs preferably comprise retainers mounted thereon that grasp an inside surface of the soffit boards once inserted fully therein. The base vent portion preferably comprises finish edges that produce a biasing force which is applied against a lower surface of the soffit boards to thereby hold the soffit vent in tension to quickly and easily provide a finished look.

Abstract: This application relates to a light-weight, multi-purpose construction panel. The panel may be formed, for example, from molded plastic. Each panel includes a substantially planar deck on a first side thereof and a second side comprising alternating male and female sleeves arranged in honeycomb-like compartments defined by a plurality of wall elements. A pair of panels may be releasably coupled together with their respective second sides facing inwardly to form a construction assembly. When a pair of panels is coupled together, the male sleeves of one panel matingly fit within the females sleeves of the other panel, and vice versa. Each panel may also include guide tubes which are aligned when the panels are coupled together. A plurality of channels may be formed in the deck on the first side of the panel and spaced-apart apertures may be arranged in the channels in alignment with the guide tubes for insertion of fasteners therein or to allow water drainage through the assembly.

Abstract: A panel assembly for providing underdeck water drainage and for other applications such as wall panels and skirting for exposed areas under building. The panel assembly, for an underdeck water drainage system, includes a plurality of joist brackets that are mounted transversely to and under the joists of a deck, a plurality of drainage panels, a plurality of drainage panel brackets, and a plurality of joist bracket spacers. The drainage panels may be slidingly engaged or snapped into separate panel brackets or into panel bracket portions of adjacent drainage panels. When properly installed, the underdeck drainage system will protect an area of interest, such as a patio or storage area under a deck, from rain water and keep the area dry. Another application of the present invention is to provide a shield, skirt, or cover for an exposed area under a deck, a home, a mobile home, a wall, or other place of interest.

Abstract: A corrugated board is secured to the inner wall of a cavity wall construction to establish a defined spacing between the inner and outer walls and prevent excess mortar from bridging to the inner wall. The corrugated board has a series of spaced channels, furrows or grooves into which an anchor projects into the studs of the inner wall to secure the outer wall. The corrugated board is installed prior to the construction of the outer wall and establishes a minimum spacing or gap between the walls based upon the thickness of the board. The outer wall is constructed immediately adjacent to the outer face of the corrugated board. The grooves or channels of the corrugated board create a chamber for vapor and air circulation. The board eliminates bridging by the mortar and provides an air conduit to exhaust even the minimal amounts of vapor that will occur in the cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for installing an adjustable height drain onto a conduit in a layer of hardenable material. The drain includes a grate member adjustably connected to and in fluid communication with a base member. A connection member connects the grate member and base member and is adjustable to allow the elevation of the grate member to be adjusted in relation to the base member. A spacer is disposed substantially adjacent at least a portion of the connection member to limit hardenable material from setting around the connection member when a layer of hardenable material is poured.

Abstract: A roof assembly for a building which includes a roof, a roof space in heat exchange relationship with at least a section of the roof, and at least one opening for airflow from the roof space.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bridging member, formed of flexible or non-flexible material, for use with a curtain wall system for building exteriors. The curtain wall system includes a vertical mullion operable to attach to a horizontal member. A sealing member is secured in a void created by the intersection of the vertical mullion and the horizontal member. The sealing member includes a substantially planar top surface and a lip portion extending from a bottom surface of the sealing member.

Abstract: A venting system that is incorporated into the roof and/or wall allows the same to provide continuous air flow to ventilate the roofs and walls and prevent condensation build up and ultimate water damage to the structure. The venting system is adapted to allow air flow around air flow obstacles contained within the walls or roofs, such as, for example roof joists, and/or floor and ceiling supports in walls. The venting system can provide air flow around in wall obstacles by channeling in air from the outside or carrying air around the obstacle from within the wall or roof itself. The channeled venting system can be incorporated into the roof and/or wall sheathing and thereby is not prone to blockage by improper or amateur insulation installations.

Abstract: A device for protecting weep channels of masonry blocks of a single wythe wall, each block forming at least one inner hollow cell. A plurality of upwardly extending water-permeable bodies is provided for the hollow cells, each of the bodies having a plurality of passages such as to permit water to pass through the passages to prevent passing of mortar and other debris through the passages and to protect the drainage weep hole channels. Preferably each of the bodies has a transverse dimension which decreases upwardly from a lower transverse cross section to cover a draining channel and to direct falling mortar and other debris in the inner hollow cells of each masonry block of the single wythe wall, onto a surface of each of the upwardly extending water-permeable bodies.

Abstract: A building panel subject to interior condensation of moisture and exterior wind-driven moisture includes a sheet having an inner surface onto which condensed moisture forms. An open upper reservoir is positioned proximate a bottom portion of the inner surface of the sheet to receive the condensed moisture. A lower chamber having at least one drain port is positioned below the upper reservoir. A wicking port connects the upper reservoir to the lower chamber. The wicking port weeps the condensed moisture from the upper reservoir to the lower chamber to drain the upper reservoir. The condensed moisture drains from the lower chamber via the drain port. The wicking port blocks the upward flow of wind-driven moisture that enters the lower chamber via the drain port.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for supporting a suspended ceiling comprising a section that is able to support the suspended ceiling and spacers disposed between the section and the walls of the building. A removable panel is mounted on a section, the panel being able to reduce a space provided between the wall and the section at least at the location of the section bearing said panel. At least one of the spacers may simultaneously comprise means for fixing the spacer to the section and means for fixing the spacer directly to a wall or to a ceiling of the building, in such a way that the spacer may be secured to the wall or the ceiling and the section may not be secured to the wall or the ceiling without a spacer.

Abstract: A damp protection arrangement for a space confined by floor, ceiling and wall portions in a building and comprising the following components: a damp permeable first layer structure (80), inside the space comprising at least one wall portion (16/80) of said portions; a second layer structure (60), inside the space covering at least the first layer structure (60/80); a continuous air gap (50), separated from the space and defined between the first and the second layer structures; an air inlet at a lower level in the space and communicating with the air gap (50); an air outlet at a higher level in the space and communicating with the air gap; and heating source (54) inside the air gap (50) for providing an air flow in the air gap between the inlet and the outlet and capable of dehumidifying layer structures.

Abstract: A basement floor drain for use in basement waterproofing systems. The floor drain contains an upper chamber for collecting water, and an air resistant lower chamber to promote the establishment of a closed waterproofing system. A valve regulates flow of water from the upper chamber to the lower chamber. An outlet in the lower chamber may be fluidly connected to a basement sump to facilitate extraction of collected water. A basket may be included in a base of the upper chamber to protect the valve from clogging, and the basket may be removable to aid cleaning. The floor drain may be a modular assembly, multiple components of which may be coupled for customizable size and functionality.

Abstract: A wall is provided comprising an inner wall component, an outer wall component, and a plurality of the moisture control strips described above, disposed between the inner wall component and the outer wall component. The projections on the first wall component contacting face engage one of the inner wall component and the outer wall component. The second wall component contacting face engages the other of the inner wall component and the outer wall component. The moisture control strips are horizontally spaced from each other within the wall.

Abstract: An underlayment with improved drainage is disclosed. Particularly, the invention relates to an underlayment board having a first surface and a second surface, wherein the board further includes a top edge and a bottom edge and includes at least one channel defined in the first surface with each of the at least one channel extending from the top edge to the bottom edge to form a drainage path therebetween. More particularly, the underlayment board can include at least one funnel defined proximate at least the top edge or the bottom edge, wherein the at least one funnel is in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the at least one channel. A method of finishing an exterior of a structural substrate and a building assembly are also disclosed.

Abstract: A plate is used in conjunction with a drainage system. The plate provides an open path from a bleeder hole in a wall to a drainage trench in the floor. This facilitates water drainage from within the wall.

Abstract: An open vent plug minimizes blockage within a second hole drilled in a basement wall to minimize back pressure within the wall and insure ventilation through cells within the wall to drive water into a bleeder hole. The open vent port has a hole therethrough that forms an opening joining the cells and atmosphere. The vent port preferably has a screened opening at one or both ends to prevent debris from blocking the second hole, and sidewalls of the open vent port prevent the wall from crumbling into the hole and blocking airflow therethrough.

Abstract: An apparatus for repairing cracks, crevices, joints, and other discontinuities in a chimney flue liner, comprises a flexible, resilient applicator having a liquid impervious rubberized coating. An electrical vibrator is installed within the applicator, for tamping the mortar or grout material into any discontinuities in the flue liner. A method of using the apparatus is also disclosed, comprising drawing the applicator downwardly through the flue from top to bottom, connecting the vibrator to a suitable source of electrical power, placing the applicator at the bottom end of the flue, pouring mortar or grout material into the chimney from the top with the mortar flowing to the sides of the applicator and between the applicator and flue liner, and drawing the applicator upwardly through the flue liner while operating the vibrator to coat the interior of the flue liner and tamp the repair material thoroughly into any discontinuities in the liner.

Abstract: A flashing and method for installing a window or other portal in a wall opening is provided. The flashing includes a base member with first and second portions that are angled so that an outer surface of the first portion can be disposed against a sill of the opening and an outer surface of the second portion can be disposed against one of the jambs of the opening. A front face plate of the flashing extends perpendicularly from the first and second portions of the base member, and a plurality of channels in the base member are structured to direct water toward and through the front face plate.

Abstract: Waterproof insulating panels 110 are attached to waterproof furring strips 112 installed on an interior surface 113 of a concrete basement wall 800 to create air cavities 150 enclosed therebetween which are in communication with the upper story of a house. A heating cable along the base of the air cavities 150 warms the air therein, such that moist air in the air cavities rises to the upper story of the house and away from the basement bringing the moisture with it, keeping the humidity level of the basement air lower. Finish panels 120 are connected to the insulating panels.

Abstract: A floor drain (100) comprising a bottom part (4) having at least one discharge opening (5), a front part being integral with the bottom part (4) and having a first part (3b) being inclined to said bottom part at an angle being at least 30°, such as at least 45°, preferably at least 60° more preferably at least 75° and even more preferably about 90° or at least 90° and having a flange part (3a) being horizontal or inclined to horizontal at an angle being less than 20° such as less than 17°, preferably less than 15°, such as less than 10°, more preferably less than 5°, tow side walls (2) integral with said bottom part and said first part, and a back part (1) being integral with said bottom part (4), said back part (1) extending vertically from the bottom part (4), through and above the plane defined by the flange part (3a).

Abstract: A structure comprises at least one outer wall having an internal wall section and an outer wall section with an air flow passage therebetween. A circulation system circulates air through the flow passage to inhibit moisture accumulation and mold growth. A sensing system determines the presence of moisture in the flow passage and generates a signal in response thereto. A controller receives the signal from the sensing system and controls the circulation system to maintain a predetermined temperature and relative humidity in the flow passage.

Abstract: A deck with an integrated gutter system includes at least two separated joists and a plurality of planks. Each plank includes longitudinal grooves, is disposed above and supported by the joists, has an undersurface which is juxtaposed with the joists, and is secured to the joists. The deck also includes a plurality of unitary channels. Each channel includes a pair of flanges which mate with longitudinal grooves of immediately adjacent planks. The mating of the flanges of the channel with the grooves of the planks provides the deck with an impervious gutter that extends between and along the two planks, and is located above the joists to which the planks are secured.

Abstract: A roof venting system comprising a second roof layer disposed above a first roof layer with a spacer disposed therebetween to provide an air flow channel between the two roof layers. A gap is provided in the upper roof layer at or near the top end of the roof and a vent component is disposed in the gap to beneficially disperse and/or utilize the vented air from the air flow channel. In one embodiment, the spacers have openings to permit air to flow up the roof channel. The vent component can be configured to vent air from the roof, heat water in pipes disposed in communication with the channel, direct the air for use in the interior of the building and/or direct the heated air for use in making electricity. The air can be filtered and/or cooled. A translucent material over the pipes can facilitate sunlight heating of the water.

Abstract: A drainage system comprises an elongate flashing member having a width similar to width of CMUs, to be received beneath a course of CMUs, in use. A layer of water permeable material is attached to an upper surface of the flashing member. The water permeable material includes a longitudinal portion extending longitudinally adjacent a rear edge of the flashing member and a plurality of transverse portions extending transversely from the longitudinal portion to a front edge of the flashing member. A plurality of blocks of water permeable material are provided, each being positioned above the layer of water permeable material and extending upwardly into cavities of CMUs, in use. The water permeable material of the layer and the blocks has a porosity sufficient to permit water to pass therethrough but substantially insufficient to permit mortar and debris to pass therethrough so that water in cavities of the CMUs drains through the transverse portions.

Abstract: A panel attachment system (10) comprising a plurality of covering panels (12), a plurality of retaining members (16) to hold the panels (12), and a plurality of mounting structures (18) to secure the retaining members (16) to a surface (20). The panels (12) are held to the retaining members (16) through the use of protruding locking members (32) formed on the panels (12) which interlock with a slot (48) formed on the retaining member (16). The panels (12) may be coupled to the retaining members (16) without the need for precise alignment, thereby expediting the installation of the surface (20). The retaining members (16) additionally contain a drainage channel (50) to carry water and other debris away from the surface (20).

Abstract: An internal drainage system for a conservatory roof which allows a conservatory to be used as dry living space. Condensation is channeled internally through the eaves beam and the supporting posts or mullions to an outlet outside of the conservatory. The condensed water is thus contained and prevented from adversely affecting the internal space of the conservatory.

Abstract: A device mountable to a gutter for removing debris therefrom includes an elongated shaft with proximal and distal end portions positionable within the gutter, a plurality of debris-removing members mounted about the shaft and between the proximal and distal end portions thereof, a plurality of brackets spaced along the gutter for receiving the shaft therethrough, and a mechanism for operating the device causing the debris-removing members to rotate in a select direction as desired by a user. The operating mechanism may rotate the debris-removing members in an oscillating path or unidirectional path and a sensor may also be included to selectively toggle the device between on and off modes, without direct user input.

Abstract: A building, comprises sheets of wooden material with the external walls (10), internal walls (1), floor and/or roof boards (20) each made of wooden sheets and of a double- or multi-skinned form, thus comprising at least one inner sheet (2, 12, 22) and at least one outer sheet (3, 13, 23) which are separated by spacer elements (4, 14, 24) and connected to each other by the same. Cavities (5, 15, 25) are provided between the sheets (2, 3; 12, 13; 22; 23). The sheets forming the inner walls (1), the outer walls (10), the floor or roof boards (20) are, at least in one direction, in one piece throughout.

Abstract: There is provided a heat shielding member for a thermal insulation structure which does not form a heat accumulator even if it receives a heating load from the outside and which is easily fixed and installed from the indoor side when it is applied to the thermal insulation structure between timbers such as rafters, vertical frames of a wall and the like of a house. The heat shielding member is structured such that spaces of the air layer are formed between an upper layer, an intermediate layer, and a lower layer, a radiant heat reflective layer is provided on upper faces of respective layers, and the upper layer is formed of a shape-retention upper sheet, wherein bent-up legs having restorability are disposed on both sides of the shape-retention upper sheet, and the heat shielding member is engaged and mounted between timbers such as rafters, and it is held in a proper posture when the bent-up legs are stretched against and held by faces of the timbers.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pre-cast panel form insert used in precast construction. The insert comprises a substantially planar portion defining dimensions suitable to complement dimensions of a pre-cast panel form and a fluid diverting portion. The fluid diverting portion is configured to define a fluid-diverting recess in an edge face of a pre-cast panel bounded by a form including the form insert. The fluid diverting portion is configured such that said fluid diverting recess defines, a circular cross-sectional profile, or a multi-angular cross-sectional profile, that impedes the flow of water along said pre-cast panel edge face when said edge face assumes a substantially horizontal orientation.

Abstract: There is now provided a building having a pitched, sculptured tile roof with a ridge extending atop the pitched, sculptured tile roof, with a pitched tile roof venting arrangement disposed at the ridge. The building has walls to support a roof having a ridge beam, roof rafters, and battens that support roofing tiles. The roof also has a row of ridge tiles disposed on said ridge beam. A venting arrangement is disposed atop the ridge beam, between the ridge tiles and the roofing tiles. The venting arrangement has a center strip that is placed onto the ridge beam, and two side strips that cover a portion of adjacent uppermost roofing tiles. The side strips have air venting openings for the passage of air from beneath the roof to the outside of the roof. The air venting openings are covered by cover bands which cover bands permit passage of air to flow therethrough and prevent rain or drift snow to readily penetrate through the air venting openings.

Abstract: A wall system for a structure including elongate furring strips having a multiplicity of transversely oriented air passages. The elongate furring strips are arranged on a first envelope layer of a wall and covered with a second envelope layer. The furring strips space the first and second envelope layers apart, forming a plurality of enclosed cavities or air spaces. The cavities are in fluid communication with each other through the air passages in the furring strips, and may be in fluid communication with the outside atmosphere. Air is thusly enabled to circulate from the outdoors through substantially all portions of the cavities, promoting drying of the first and second envelope layers, which may be sheathing and finish siding.

Abstract: A generally rectangular siding panel having a front and rear faces is provided. The siding panel has at least one protrusion disposed along at least one of the faces, wherein the at least one protrusion provides an air gap between the siding panel and a face of a second siding panel when the siding panels are installed in a siding panel assembly. A generally rectangular siding panel having a front and rear faces is also provider where the siding panel has at least one recess or cut spaced along at least one of the faces, wherein the at least one recess or cut provides an air flow path between the siding panel and a face of a second siding panel when the siding panels are installed in a siding panel assembly.

Abstract: A structure with vertical members and cross members, particularly for facades or light-transparent roofs, in whose frame area glass panes (100) can be inserted, comprises several vertical members (1) between which cross members (2) are fixed. Channels (3, 4) are provided on the outer surface of the vertical members (1), specifically on the edges thereof, and serve to accommodate a seal (5, 6), whereby a drainage channel (7, 8) for diverting liquid is arranged adjacent to the channel (3, 4). In addition, channels (10, 11) are provided on the side of the cross member (2), specifically on the edges thereof, that faces the outer surface of the vertical member (1), and serve to accommodate a seal (12) and a retaining strip (13) located between the channels (10, 11).

Abstract: There is provided a heat shielding member for a thermal insulation structure which does not form a heat accumulator even if it receives a heating load from the outside and which is easily fixed and installed from the indoor side when it is applied to the thermal insulation structure between timbers such as rafters, vertical frames of a wall and the like of a house.

Abstract: A flashing and method for installing a window or other portal in a wall opening is provided. The flashing includes a base member with first and second portions that are angled so that an outer surface of the first portion can be disposed against a sill of the opening and an outer surface of the second portion can be disposed against one of the jambs of the opening. A front face plate of the flashing extends perpendicularly from the first and second portions of the base member, and a plurality of channels in the base member are structured to direct water toward and through the front face plate.

Abstract: A deck with an integrated gutter system includes at least two separated joists and a plurality of planks. Each plank includes longitudinal grooves, is disposed above and supported by the joists, has an undersurface which is juxtaposed with the joists, and is secured to the joists. The deck also includes a plurality of unitary channels. Each channel includes a pair of flanges which mate with longitudinal grooves of immediately adjacent planks. The mating of the flanges of the channel with the grooves of the planks provides the deck with an impervious gutter that extends between and along the two planks, and is located above the joists to which the planks are secured.

Abstract: The invention is intended to reduce heat accumulation in the heat insulator provided around the periphery of the living room of a house structure, thereby achieving simplification of a construction work, energy-saving, and rationalization in maintaining the living environment, and by covering the external face of the heat insulators (2) disposed around the periphery of partition sheet members surrounding the living room, such as the roof, ceiling, wall, and so forth, with the heat shielding members (1) provided with the heat reflection foil, so that radiant heat which will otherwise heat up the heat insulators (2) can be blocked, and heat accumulation in the heat insulators (2) can be reduced.

Abstract: An improved high rise building drainage system method and apparatus for conducting waste water from plumbing fixtures, such as lavatories and the like, through prefabricated, modular waste-vent stack units extending through intervals and stack boxes for such units optimally located to minimize the footprint through each interval.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a concrete floor, particularly a temperable concrete floor, containing an upper side and an underside, containing first concrete-free spaces, particularly cavities, that comprise at least one first wall surface, particularly two, three, four or more wall surfaces, along at least one section, said at least one first wall surface being essentially planar, concave, convex or corrugated or denticulate and being aligned not essentially parallel or perpendicular to the underside and/or upper side of the concrete floor, and containing second concrete-free spaces, particularly second cavities, whereby the first concrete-free spaces, particularly two, three, four or a plurality of first concrete-free spaces, and the second concrete-free spaces are arranged in the concrete floor in alternating succession, at least in sections, and, in particular, connectible to one another or connected to one another, whereby said first concrete-free spaces have a larger maximum diameter in crossect

Abstract: A product, and a wall system utilizing such product, adapted to allow drainage of moisture from a wall of a structure. A sheet of corrugated material forms a plurality of ridges and grooves on opposite sides of the sheet of corrugated material. The sheet of corrugated material is relatively inflexible under a force applied generally perpendicular to the sheet. The sheet of corrugated material has a multiplicity of perforations. A sheet of water permeable material is affixed to one side of the sheet of corrugated material. The product is flexible in a direction along the plurality of ridges and grooves allowing the product to be stocked in roll form. A method of providing drainage of moisture from a wall structure is also disclosed.

Abstract: A drainage element is constructed of loose fill elements within a casing having a first part-circumferential portion of mesh construction and a second part-circumferential portion having a porosity to prevent the passage of water. The loose fill elements are disposed in unconnected relation to each other so as to be able to migrate within the container. The openings of the mesh container allow water to pass through while retaining the loose fill elements in place. In one embodiment, a porous layer is secured to a bale shaped drainage element in order to form a sleeve to receive a perforated pipe.

Abstract: An improved high rise building drainage system method and apparatus for conducting waste water from plumbing fixtures, such as lavatories and the like, through prefabricated waste-vent stack units extending through intervals and stack boxes for such units optimally located to minimize the footprint through each interval.

Abstract: A waterproof deck includes a deck subflooring supported on joists adjacent a building, a flashing adjacent a building, and a drip edge attached along the edge of a subflooring where the water runs off the deck. An elastomeric waterproofing material covers the subflooring and a strip of T-bar edging is attached along the edge of the subfloor and has a portion extending over the elastomeric waterproofing material and over the drip edge and another portion extending above the subfloor to form a raised edge therealong. Concrete covers the elastomeric waterproofing material and subfloor to the top edge of the T-bar raised edge so that water on the concrete flooring runs off the deck over the T-bar drip edge and drains from beneath the concrete floor over the drip edge to prevent collection of water over the concrete flooring.