With The Vent Or Drain Entirely Along At Least One Substantial Dimension (e.g., Length, Not Thickness) Patents (Class 52/302.3)
  • Patent number: 6964135
    Abstract: A rain gutter clean out device has a gutter section with a bottom wall opening and a slidable cover which in one position overlies the opening and in another position uncovers the opening to allow gutter debris to be removed there through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Andrew Slodov
  • Patent number: 6964136
    Abstract: A flashing and weep apparatus allows for simple installation and accurate placement windows and doors in cavity wall construction. In a first embodiment, the flashing and weep apparatus is a two-panel extrusion that has a flashing panel that acts as a non-porous support for the masonry veneer. This embodiment also includes a second panel which is joined at a generally right angle to the first panel to be juxtaposed against the outer face of the inner wall in the cavity wall construction. Weep channels are formed between the two panels and allow for the drainage and dissipation of water and other moisture in the cavity wall system. In a second embodiment, membrane is initially attached to and draped along the lower portion of the inner wall immediately above the sill or lintel. The membrane extends across the cavity spacing between the walls to underlie the masonry components forming the outer veneer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: PACC Systems I.P., LLC
    Inventors: P. Michael Collins, Steven E. Schaefer
  • Patent number: 6951086
    Abstract: A thin brick panel assembly having improved water drainage and integral brick retention. A substratum includes horizontal rows of dovetail-shaped projections with interruptions therein. Mortar ties having a flat plate portion, a substratum engagement extension, and mortar engagement extension are fastened to the substratum such that the mortar engagement extensions align with the interruptions in the projections. Bricks are snap-fit to the substratum over the mortar ties and between the projections. The bricks crush portions of the dovetail-shaped projections and lie flat against the mortar ties. Mortar is applied between the bricks and flows through apertures in the mortar engagement extensions of the mortar ties to interlock the mortar ties, the substratum and the bricks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Inventor: James Kenneth Passeno
  • Patent number: 6941706
    Abstract: A method is provided for installing a ventilated eaves closure and tile support apparatus along the eaves of a roof. A vented eaves closure apparatus is disposed along the eaves to support the first course of roof tiles at a desired pitch. The apparatus provides support, ventilation, and drainage, while also providing a barrier to wind-driven precipitation, bird nesting, and animal invasion. The apparatus includes an array of openings configured to allow drainage and facilitate the flow of air beneath the tiles and throughout the air space between the roof deck and the tiles. The method and apparatus can be adapted to fit a variety of roof types and roof tiles having different sizes, shapes, and profiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Monier Lifetile LLC
    Inventors: Kevin Austin, Jerry Vandewater
  • Patent number: 6938383
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Diversi-Plast Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Morris, Dwight Sheldon
  • Patent number: 6912820
    Abstract: A drainage system for use in concrete masonry unit (CMU) wall construction comprises a tray unit of a size corresponding to size of CMUs, to be received beneath a course of CMUs, in use. The tray unit comprises opposite side flanges to abut a superjacent CMU and supporting a pan therebelow. A strip of water permeable material is attached to an upper surface of the pan and extends transversely beyond a front edge of the pan. A block of water permeable material is positioned above the pan and extends upwardly into a hollow core of a CMU. The water permeable material of the strip and the block has a porosity sufficient to permit water to pass there through but substantially insufficient to permit mortar and debris to pass there through so that water in a hollow core of a CMU drains through the strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Tom Sourlis
  • Patent number: 6886302
    Abstract: A deck drainage system having a plurality of channeled drainage panels. The drainage panels are mounted to direct water flow transversely of the deck joists to a gutter, the panels connected to and suspended from the underside of the joists. The gutter is mounted transversely across the discharge ends of the drainage panels to collect water therefrom and direct it to a down spout. Drainage panels, which are rectangular with the individual drainage channels extending lengthwise, may be overlapped both lengthwise and widthwise to fit the perimeter of the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Anslem Jackson
  • Patent number: 6886301
    Abstract: A novel building construction is described for exterior building walls. The construction comprises an interior frame formed of a plurality of laterally spaced studs or beams, a layer of rigid insulation adjacent to the exterior side of this steel frame, exterior building cladding adjacent the exterior side of the rigid insulation and a plurality of low conductivity connectors, e.g. insulating plastic connectors or thin metal strips having an insulating plastic foam coating, extending through the layer of rigid insulation and connecting together the exterior cladding and the interior steel studs or beams. Vertical channels are formed adjacent both the inside and outside faces of the insulation layer to remove moisture. This provides the required structural strength with a minimum of thermal conductivity from the warm side to the cold side of the building envelope, while providing exterior drain channels and interior moisture removing channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Herbert K. Schilger
  • Patent number: 6883284
    Abstract: A device for use in structures having masonry cavity wall construction for promoting removal of water and water vapor between a masonry exterior wall and a structural back-up wall. A plurality of the devices, which are elongated and have a generally “V” shape, are arranged in a systematic pattern in order to catch and retain trash mortar during a construction phase of the structure. Following construction, the device, which includes a wicking material to transport accumulated water beyond ends of the device, functions to promote the removal of water and water vapor in the cavity so as to prevent deterioration of the building materials of the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventors: Paul R. Burgunder, John Koester
  • Patent number: 6877288
    Abstract: A waterproof-sheet type of roofing shingle comprises a belt-like tape attached to a bottom side of the roofing shingle facing a concrete slab. The belt-like tape has air passages for reducing a pressure of steam or vapor generated from concrete. The air passages are formed by projections or grooves and adapted to be in communication with air passages of an adjacent roofing shingle. The air passages are eventually in communication with an ambient atmosphere so as to vent the steam or vapor to the atmosphere, and therefore, bulging of waterproofing material is prevented from occurring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventor: Muneyasu Shirota
  • Patent number: 6868643
    Abstract: An integrated moisture/air barrier system that serves to mitigate the penetration of water and air around or through various types of exterior wall building sheathing products such as plywood, OSB, gypsum board, cement board, rigid foam boards and foil-faced composition products. The moisture/air barrier surface is preferably installed as a step in the manufacturing process for certain types of sheathing such as wood or gypsum-based products. However, it may also be installed in-situ in instances where the pre-coated units are not readily available or the factory surface needs to be supplemented at joints or terminations. The material used in forming the moisture barrier is urethane or urethane/silicone that is sprayed, squeegeed, applied by brush or roller and includes additives to aid the coating's workability and retard the growth of mold/fungi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: Mark F. Williams
  • Patent number: 6857248
    Abstract: A panel for forming a masonry wall on a building surface, comprising a back face for covering the building surface, opposite edges and a front face with a predetermined pattern of first and second depressions. The first depressions are shaped and sized for receiving masonry pieces as a whole whereas the second depressions, which intersect the opposite edges, are shaped and sized for receiving parts of masonry pieces, so that, when the panel is mounted side by side with a complementary panel, some masonry pieces bridge both panels by means of the second depressions. The panel makes it possible for an unskilled worker to build relatively rapidly a masonry work having a complex predetermined pattern of masonry pieces. Thanks to the second depressions that make it possible for some pieces of masonry to bridge panels mounted side by side, the general arrangement of pieces, when completed does not look like a series of individual panels but rather look continuous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Les Materiaux de'Construction Oldcastle Canada Inc.
    Inventors: André Ouellet, Michel Bouchard
  • Patent number: 6857818
    Abstract: A drainage element is constructed of loose fill elements within a container of mesh construction. 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventors: Harry Bussey, Jr., Harry Bussey, III
  • Patent number: 6840014
    Abstract: A ridge seal molding has a back section for nailing to a ridge beam, and a front section formed at an angle to the back section and having a shape in the direction of the length to substantially continuously contact adjacent tiles along a front edge. In various embodiments there are one or more reinforcing ribs in the general direction of the width of the molding. In some embodiments two or more nail positions are marked in the back section for use with roofs of a specific pitch range, UV resistant material to provide improved durability, a receptacle groove formed along the front edge and opening downward toward the tile, such that a sealing material may be placed in the groove prior to installing the ridge seal molding to a roof ridge, and panels simulating a concrete surface for a mudded-in look. A system is provided as well for dedicating ridge seals to specific pitch ranges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: So-Lite Corporation
    Inventor: Eric Norman Reeves
  • Patent number: 6823633
    Abstract: A secondary drainage system for buildings utilizing pre-manufactured exterior panels. The system drains off moisture and condensation collected in joints and on the rear wall of the panels, under circumstances where the primary exterior seal or cladding have failed. An elongated collection channel is attached in inclined relation to the rear wall of a panel. The channel includes a top cover, comprised of a trough having inclined walls and oval apertures. The lower end of the channel includes an end cap with a drain tube, connected to an upper, inner portion of a receptacle box. The receptacle box is located within a vertical joint between two adjacent panels. A lower, outer portion of the receptacle box has a one-way discharge valve. Also provided are intermediate joint gutters, having open tops and a discharge outlet positioned over the trough of a collection channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Clark Pacific, A General Partnership
    Inventor: Michael W. Ryan
  • Patent number: 6810627
    Abstract: A ridge seal molding having a length and width has a nailing flange with one straight edge to engage a ridge beam, the nailing potion for nailing the molding to the ridge beam, providing thereby a continuous contact along at least the one straight edge the length of the molding to the ridge beam, and a cover section formed generally at an angle to and contiguous with the nailing portion and having an undulating shape of adjacent cap and pan portions in the direction of the length to match the undulating shape of adjacent tiles along a front edge, the cover section having a sealing edge of an undulating shape opposite the one straight edge of the nailing potion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: So-Lite Corporation
    Inventor: Jason Reeves
  • Patent number: 6810631
    Abstract: A novel pool deck structure channel located beneath a swimming pool deck surface is disclosed that incorporates both a drainage device and a pool safety fence support structure. The unique channel design eliminate the need to have separate support holes drilled in a pool deck surface that can be a safety hazard when not in use, cause functional problems due to dirt and debris, and are not otherwise aesthetically pleasing. The unique channel design includes an elongated trough extending beneath the pool deck surface for supporting a drainage device, a plurality of holes in the trough, and a plurality of inserts within the holes that extend into the trough in order to support pool safety fence support posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Robert J. Kraft
  • Patent number: 6796092
    Abstract: In an open planked deck a plurality of deck pans thereunder collect moisture and are supported by the deck joists. The deck pans are shaped to direct the moisture as water to a collecting trough which, in turn, directs the water to a vertical drain pipe or downspout. For new construction, the deck pans are joined to fit over parallel adjacent joists and are held in place by the deck planking there over. For existing decks, the deck pans are attached to the sides or undersides of the adjacent joists. The deck pans and collecting troughs are formed with specific pitches of prevent collection of standing water in the pans or troughs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventor: William David Goebel
  • Patent number: 6792723
    Abstract: A deck drain is made from extruded plastic with a cross section defining a substantially circular main channel, a mid section, and a top section having a top face with a plurality of openings defined therein. Nail guiding means are attached to the mid section, and direct a nail or screw through the mid section to secure the deck drain to a planar surface. Edges of two or more of the structural elements are aligned vertically to permit the deck drain to contact the planar surface without wobbling when attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventors: William J. Stegmeier, Sr., William J. Stegmeier, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6792725
    Abstract: A vent device for overcoming the problem of moisture accumulating within a wall structure. The vent device promotes air and moisture circulation within the wall structure by having a channeling plate with a plurality of vertically oriented channels. The vent device also has a support flange adjoined to the channeling plate. The vertically oriented channels define a passageway for air and water to travel along when the vent device is disposed within the wall structure. The channeling plate is adapted for being positioned between a horizontal joist and a wallboard of the wall structure. When the vent device is positioned within the wall structure, the passageway allows air and moisture to travel between the horizontal joist and the wallboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Flannery Inc.
    Inventor: Barry Rutherford
  • Patent number: 6786013
    Abstract: A roll-form spacer product providing an air space and drainage passageways within a building structure. Preferably, the spacer product is a thermoplasic web of material having hollow spacer elements formed integrally thereon. A first set of spacer elements projects outwardly from one face of the web and a second set of spacer elements projects from the other face of the web. The first and second sets of spacer elements are offset, project in opposite directions, and create air space and drainage passageways along each face. Thus, in a wall or roof construction, air, vapor and water are provided with exit paths extending along both the inner sheathing member and the outer building material. In addition, the web can also be provided with apertures for creating transverse paths therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Benjamin Obdyke Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael S. Coulton
  • Patent number: 6766620
    Abstract: A building levelling system is provided for a building having a basement or foundation supported on expansive soil. A water management system is included for maintaining water in the expansive soil at a level adjacent the foundation to saturate the soil with water and thereby prevent the cyclic shrinking and expanding of the soil when the soil is normally repeatedly dried and wetted, causing damage to the building supported thereon. An injection system may also be included for injecting water into the soil spaced well below the foundation to lift a foundation which has already settled significantly due to shrinkage of expansive soil upon which it is supported. The injection system includes a level sensing mechanism for determining when a level of water in a prescribed area of the expansive soil falls below a reference level of the system and injectors for feeding water into that area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Ralph Robbins
  • Patent number: 6758743
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for venting interior cores of composite structures. Generally, the venting system includes a mounting assembly and a venting medium. The mounting assembly generally interconnects the venting system to the composite structure generally with respect to a first air hole of the composite structure. The venting medium may have a perimeter region and an airflow region disposed inwardly of the perimeter region. In one aspect, this airflow region of the venting medium may be free from direct contact with any other portion of the venting system. In another aspect, the venting medium may be made of a fluorocarbon polymer/copolymer. Upon implementation of the present invention, airflow that is generally directed through the first air hole and that passes between the core of the composite structure and an exterior environment (e.g., a payload compartment) generally passes through the venting medium of the venting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Duane D. Grosskrueger
  • Patent number: 6754997
    Abstract: A utility distribution apparatus comprises an inner wall removably mounted on an outer wall within a building structure. The inner and outer walls create a chase for air flow. A floor surface forms a generally closed corner with the outer wall. The inner wall is spaced apart from, and above the floor. One or more horizontally oriented utility conduits are supported from the floor surface or the outer wall and are positioned below the chase. A utility cover is fixed to the inner wall and extends to the floor surface for hiding the utility conduits. A lower and an upper apertures in the outer wall are positioned for receiving and expelling an air flow through the chase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Inventor: Pete J. Bonin
  • Patent number: 6722090
    Abstract: An extrusion moulded, preferably ceramic, facade panel (11) for a curtained, back-ventilated facade construction consists of a front and a rear panel formwork (12, 13) which are connected to one another by webs (14) and are provided with elongate apertures (15) which are arranged parallel to the webs (14) between the same and which is provided with a top rabbet (16) at the upper end of the facade panel (11). To allow the facade panel to be manufactured at a more favorable cost and with more precise dimensions, the height (17) of the top rabbet (16) formed by the rear panel formwork (13) is smaller than or equal to the height of the joint (19) visible from the front side (18) of the facade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Max Gerhaher
  • Patent number: 6718719
    Abstract: The strip includes an elongated body having a pair of parallel sidewalls, an upper surface between sidewalls and a lower surface between sidewalls adapted to engage a water barrier on a wood roof. A plurality of spaced, inverted channels are formed along the body from the lower surface and terminate generally midway between the upper and lower surfaces. The channels extend between the body sidewalls and provide drainage perpendicular to the length of the body. The upper surface may be planar or be stepped. A plurality of spaced recesses with preset fasteners are disposed along the upper body surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventor: Quin J. Hagerty
  • Patent number: 6694697
    Abstract: Main bars end intersecting cross bars each have mated slots in their aligned edges. Deformable pairs of arms on one of the sets set of bars are crimped into openings in the other set of bars at the bar intersections to hold the bars together and make a strong and attractive grating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: John D. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 6688059
    Abstract: A protective trim strip having an “M”-shaped lateral cross-section is provided with a lengthwise channel along one edge and a lengthwise flange edge extending outwardly from the strip. A plurality of the trim strips are attached, using nails or screws, in a side-by-side and overlapping fashion onto the joists of a deck to direct water run-off away from the building to which the deck is attached, thereby protecting the deck joists and area under the deck from standing water. The flange edge of each strip is placed into the channel of the neighboring strip to improve the overlap. A foam adhesive can be used to adhere the flange edges of each strip into the corresponding channel of the neighboring strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Walker
  • Publication number: 20040020136
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Robert F. Hauck
  • Patent number: 6684579
    Abstract: A drainage mat and mortar blocker system including a panel and polymeric drainage mat which includes protrusions on the front side and indentations on the back side of the mat. A filter fabric is affixed to the side of the mat containing the protrusions. The top portion of the back side of the drainage mat is affixed to the panel and the bottom portion of the mat is folded upward so as to form a U-shape. The U-shape is held in place by connections extending from the back side of the bottom portion of the drainage mat and into the front side of the drainage mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglass Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Brunson, C. Davis Carman, Michael B. Obermeyer
  • Patent number: 6662510
    Abstract: A roof ventilation system having a strip with an air-permeable portion located adjacent to a ridge slot. Stand-off clips are provided which can be placed over the air-permeable strip at fastener locations which are located on flat portions of the roof panels. A sealing material may be placed beneath the air-permeable strip at such fastener locations to prevent the ingress of moisture beneath the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Martin J. Rotter
  • Patent number: 6647675
    Abstract: A hip and ridge attachment device utilized in the roofing industry for the construction of roofs. Hip and ridge attachment devices are secured onto a rooftop once the installation of roofing felt is complete, but before the completion of roof tile installation. After the installation of the instant invention, tiles are secured thereon with an adhesive. The instant invention comprises sheet metal, formed into a V-form with walls extending a predetermined length from both sides of the V-form. Said walls are outwardly bent near their distal ends to lay flush against a roof surface. Optionally, embossings on the V-form increase the effective contact area for an adhesive when applied thereon. Additionally, said invention may have louvers for ventilation means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Tom Francisco Castellanos
  • Patent number: 6647683
    Abstract: In the drainage and sealing system, an external rain shield is designed as a separate flexible sealant strip (38,58,59), and an internal drain trench (44, 64) is provided on a separate drain element (40, 60) extending in parallel to and at a distance from the external sealant strip (38, 58, 59). The drain element (40) and the external sealant strip (38) comprise a flange portion (41, 38b) for releasable securing to a frame member of a panel in the panel system. The separate drain element (40, 60) can be designed as an internal cover strip where the drain trench (44, 64) is provided in an essentially U-shaped portion (43, 63), and where the drain element on the side facing away from the drain trench (44, 64) has a portion (42, 62) for reception of an internal sealant strip (45, 65).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventors: Morten Werner Thomsen, Hans Ove Pedersen, Lars Helmersen, Vagn Einfeldt Jensen, Aage Mathiassen Wind, Niels Birkedal Kristiansen
  • Publication number: 20030208975
    Abstract: A vented hollow translucent/transparent plastic block for use in wall construction includes a single aperture disposed along the lower edge of the plastic block for alleviating pressure within the plastic block and for discharging any condensation within the plastic block that may occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: Samuel R. Regina
  • Patent number: 6644670
    Abstract: A gasket for sealing between a water closet and the floor or other supporting structure. In cross section it includes a flat seat for the base of the closet, an outer flange for sealing against the outer edge of the base and an inner sealing rib formed for hinge-like deflection by and toward the base as the latter is seated. The gasket is adapted to conform to various perimetrical shapes of bases, and may include an integral gasket and sealing section for annularly and sealingly engaging the drain joint of the water closet and the surface of the floor or other supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Peb S.A.
    Inventor: Miguel Esteban Etcheverry
  • Patent number: 6629390
    Abstract: An environmental protection and detection system includes a vapor and gas impervious barrier extending beneath at least part of the area of an enclosure to prevent fluids leaked or spilled within the enclosure for flowing downwardly into the underlying soil and ground water and to prevent vapors and gases emanating from sources beneath the enclosure from percolating upwardly into the enclosure. Lengths of perforated pipe are positioned above the barrier and are connected to points outside the enclosure for use in detecting and removing contaminants leaked or spilled within the enclosure. Lengths of perforated pipe are positioned beneath the barrier and are vented to the atmosphere for preventing accumulations of fluids emanating from sources beneath the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Argent Industrial, L.P.
    Inventors: James E. Wood, Jr., John E. Sepich
  • Publication number: 20030177726
    Abstract: A flashing system configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an opening extending through an exterior treatment of a building structure. The flashing system includes at least one flashing piece having a main flashing portion and a sealing flange. The main flashing portion is configured to extend outward a distance from a periphery of the opening of the building structure to provide an effective moisture barrier and configured to be positioned against a wall having the opening defined therein. The sealing flange of the at least one flashing piece includes a top sealing flange, a bottom sealing flange, a first side sealing flange and a second side sealing flange each configured to extend outward from the main flashing portion and is configured to be positioned adjacent a peripheral-opening-structure at a respective top periphery, bottom periphery, first side periphery and second side periphery of the opening. The flashing system also includes a first top tab and a second top tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Roy Dean Gatherum, J. Roger Kunz
  • Patent number: 6598353
    Abstract: A ridge seal molding has a back section for nailing to a ridge beam, and a front section formed at an angle to the back section and having a shape in the direction of the length to substantially continuously contact adjacent tiles along a front edge. In various embodiments there are one or more reinforcing ribs in the general direction of the width of the molding. In some embodiments two or more nail positions are marked in the back section for use with roofs of a specific pitch range, UV resistant material to provide improved durability, a receptacle groove formed along the front edge and opening downward toward the tile, such that a sealing material may be placed in the groove prior to installing the ridge seal molding to a roof ridge, and panels simulating a concrete surface for a mudded-in look.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: So-Lite Corporation
    Inventor: Eric Norman Reeves
  • Patent number: 6594965
    Abstract: A roll-form spacer product providing air space and drainage passageways within a building structure. Preferably, the spacer product is a corrugated web of material having undulating front and rear faces and serpentine-shaped longitudinally extending edges. The faces include alternating arrays of grooves and ridges which extend perpendicular to the side edges and parallel to an axis of a spiral roll of the spacer. Thus, when the spacer is unrolled and applied to a building structure in a plurality of horizontally extending rows, the ridges and grooves are substantially vertically-disposed to form a plurality of unobstructed passageways for the drainage of moisture. Preferably, the web is made of an openwork mat of randomly convoluted polymeric filaments, and thus, enables ready circulation of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Benjamin Obdyke Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael S. Coulton
  • Patent number: 6594964
    Abstract: A construction beam defining a pair of lateral surfaces and a pair of abutment surfaces. The beam defines a set of alternating grooves and intermediate segments extending between the grooves. When the abutment surfaces are abuttingly positioned against other surfaces, the grooves being filled with air provide vibration dampening and thus reduced noise transmission. The air-filled grooves also provide thermal insulation. The configuration of the grooves allows trough flow of air reducing the risks of trapping moisture that could lead to rotting. The intermediate segments are optionally made of resilient material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Gilles Charland
  • Patent number: 6591559
    Abstract: A system for sealing the gaps that occur along the perimeter of a building envelope, particularly along with installation of an exterior finish system channel, or screed, as occurs in the installation and application of stucco. It is common to have gaps occur between the channel, base plate, and foundation of the building envelope. The system utilizes a foam sealing element in combination with the channel, caulking, a fiberglass netting that is installed along the bottom of the channel and the face of the foundation, and, an adhesive sealant that seals and adheres the fiberglass netting to the foundation. The system includes several embodiments for use in either new construction or as an aftermarket product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventors: Victor Contreras, Sandra Contreras
  • Publication number: 20030126810
    Abstract: A drainage mat and mortar blocker system including a panel and polymeric drainage mat which includes protrusions on the front side and indentations on the back side of the mat. A filter fabric is affixed to the side of the mat containing the protrusions. The top portion of the back side of the drainage mat is affixed to the panel and the bottom portion of the mat is folded upward so as to form a U-shape. The U-shape is held in place by connections extending from the back side of the bottom portion of the drainage mat and into the front side of the drainage mat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventors: James R. Brunson, C. Davis Carman, Michael B. Obermeyer
  • Patent number: 6584735
    Abstract: A building construction having a ventilated wall drainage system. The building includes a roof with a plurality of roof vents therein, a soffit, an attic space and an exterior wall construction. The wall construction includes an exterior wall covered with sheathing. The sheathing is in turn covered by insulation having a plurality of generally vertical channels therein which permit air to flow through the channels between the insulation and the sheathing of the exterior wall. The soffit is provided with a passage which is in communication with the channels in the insulation. Air is continually drawn through the channels in the wall construction, through the passage in the soffit and into the attic space to provide constant ventilation for the wall construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignees: Cobblestone Construction Finishes, Inc.
    Inventor: Dick A. Burton
  • Patent number: 6571522
    Abstract: The covering system includes at least one panel capable of being placed in an inclined position with respect to a horizontal. The panel incudes an inner chamber, a plurality of suction apertures through which the inner chamber communicates with a void inside of a building, and a discharge aperture disposed at a level higher than the suction apertures when the panel is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Fabio Perini
  • Publication number: 20030084638
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Sam S. Vacek
  • Publication number: 20030066260
    Abstract: Main bars and cross bars have mated slots. Deformable arms on one set of bars are crimped into openings in the other set of bars at the bar intersections to hold the bars together and make a strong attractive grating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: John D. Shepherd
  • Patent number: 6543189
    Abstract: An environmental protection and detection system includes a vapor and gas impervious barrier extending beneath at least part of the area of an enclosure to prevent fluids leaked or spilled within the enclosure for flowing downwardly into the underlying soil and ground water and to prevent vapors and gases emanating from sources beneath the enclosure from percolating upwardly into the enclosure. Lengths of perforated pipe are positioned above the barrier and are connected to points outside the enclosure for use in detecting and removing contaminants leaked or spilled within the enclosure. Lengths of perforated pipe are positioned beneath the barrier and are vented to the atmosphere for preventing accumulations of fluids emanating from sources beneath the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Argent Industrial L.P.
    Inventors: James E. Wood, Jr., John E. Sepich
  • Patent number: 6526711
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for improving the connection between a building panel and a foundation. The improved connection is made possible by a unique form assembly that includes a trough assembly and a novel means for adequately supporting the trough assembly while the concrete is poured. The trough assembly creates a trough, which is an elongated hollow notch at the top of the foundation that resembles the shape of the trough assembly. Thus, the trough assembly is designed such that its width is approximately equal to the width of the building panel. The trough assembly also includes an angle iron affixed to the top of its sides. The trough assembly provides the building panel an elongated hollow groove having angle irons on each side. The prefabricated panel is therefor affixed to the angle irons. Placing the prefabricated panel in the foundation in such a manner and affixing it to the angle irons provides the panel with improved lateral and horizontal support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Mic Industries
    Inventor: Frederick Morello
  • Publication number: 20030037499
    Abstract: A roll-form spacer product providing air space and drainage passageways within a building structure. Preferably, the spacer product is a corrugated web of material having undulating front and rear faces and serpentine-shaped longitudinally extending edges. The faces include alternating arrays of grooves and ridges which extend perpendicular to the side edges and parallel to an axis of a spiral roll of the spacer. Thus, when the spacer is unrolled and applied to a building structure in a plurality of horizontally extending rows, the ridges and grooves are substantially vertically-disposed to form a plurality of unobstructed passageways for the drainage of moisture. Preferably, the web is made of an openwork mat of randomly convoluted polymeric filaments, and thus, enables ready circulation of air.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Michael S. Coulton
  • Publication number: 20030029096
    Abstract: This invention comprises a grid structure that with the addition of panels and a panel holding means, and the further addition of a gutter and downspout provides an effective under-deck water shedding system where the grid and panel components generally are set or slid into place and generally can be lifted or slid out of place for adjustment, maintenance or removal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventor: James A. Burkart