U.S. patent application number 10/779975 was filed with the patent office on 2004-11-25 for under-deck grid-supported drainage system.
Invention is credited to Burkart, James Alphonse.
Application Number | 20040231260 10/779975 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33459041 |
Filed Date | 2004-11-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040231260 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Burkart, James Alphonse |
November 25, 2004 |
Under-deck grid-supported drainage system
Abstract
This invention allows a grid structure with simple interfaces,
where grid members generally can be installed and uninstalled by
hand from below. Using under decks, with the addition of panels and
panel holding means, and the further addition of a gutter and
downspout provides an effective under-deck water shedding
system.
Inventors: |
Burkart, James Alphonse;
(Reston, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JAMES A. BURKART JR.
2054 Chadds Ford Dr.
Reston
VA
20191
US
|
Family ID: |
33459041 |
Appl. No.: |
10/779975 |
Filed: |
February 17, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10779975 |
Feb 17, 2004 |
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10190956 |
Jul 8, 2002 |
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10190956 |
Jul 8, 2002 |
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09862257 |
May 22, 2001 |
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09862257 |
May 22, 2001 |
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09450290 |
Nov 27, 1999 |
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6279271 |
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60110164 |
Nov 27, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/302.1 ;
52/292 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 13/0477
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/302.1 ;
052/292 |
International
Class: |
E02D 027/32; E04F
017/04; E02D 027/42; E04B 001/70; E04F 017/08 |
Claims
1. A shedding apparatus, for use under decks, the apparatus
comprising a low-ledger, with an upper-face and an adjacent
upstanding-face, said upstanding-face extending above said
upper-face, a high-ledger, with an upper-face and an adjacent
upstanding-face, said upstanding-face extending above said
upper-face, a plurality of sloping-members, each sloping-member
with an upper-face, a low-end, a high-end, and with one or more
projection-depressions of said upper-face such as one or more
partially driven nails, or such as one or more drilled holes, a
plurality of cross-members, each cross-member comprising a
middle-portion and two end-portions, each end-portion with an
upper-face, the middle-portion with an upper-face, said upper-face
of the middle-portion and said upper-faces of the end-portions
practically co-planar, one or more panels having corrugations, a
panel holding means, said low-ledger and said high-ledger adapted
to be attached to a proximate structure, such as a deck structure,
said low-ledger and said high-ledger oriented such that said
upstanding-face of said high-ledger faces said upstanding-face of
said low-ledger, said sloping-members disposed normal to said
low-ledger, and each substantially extending from said
upstanding-face of said low-ledger to said upstanding-face of said
high-ledger, said low-end of each sloping-member resting upon said
upper-face of said low-ledger, said high-end of each sloping-member
resting upon said upper-face of said high-ledger, wherein said
sloping-members are positioned at generally uniform intervals along
the ledgers, said cross-members generally parallel with said
low-ledger, said middle-portions substantially extending from one
sloping member to the next, said end-portions of said cross-members
disposed over said upper-faces of said sloping-members, each
end-portion proximate one or more said projection-depressions of
said sloping-member, wherein said cross-members interface with said
projection-depression of said sloping-members, wherein said
end-portions of said cross-members are held by said interface with
said sloping members, a grid support structure is formed, whereby
grid members can be snapped, slid, or set into position, unsnapped,
slid, or lifted out of position without requiring tools for
fastening or unfastening, whereby the grid can be installed,
adjusted, and uninstalled from below itself, whereby the ease of
installation and removal is facilitated, and whereby, access to the
area above the grid for maintenance and other reasons is greatly
facilitated, wherein the upper-faces of the cross-members are
substantially co-planar, said panels resting upon said
cross-members, oriented with rise and fall of corrugations normal
to said low-ledger, said panels overlapping, wherein a
substantially planer shedding surface is formed over the grid,
whereby said panels can be set into position, shifted, slid or
lifted out of position without requiring tools for fastening or
unfastening, whereby the panels can be installed and uninstalled
from below, whereby the ease of installation and removal is
facilitated, and whereby, access to the area above the panels for
maintenance and other reasons is greatly facilitated.
2. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said low-ledger
comprises a 2.times.2 fastened to a face of a 5/4 board, whereby
said low-ledger can be proficiently manufactured from wood and is
aesthetically pleasing in a deck environment.
3. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said high-ledger
comprises a 2.times.2 fastened to a face of a 5/4 board, whereby
said high-ledger can be proficiently manufactured from wood and is
aesthetically pleasing in a deck environment.
4. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said sloping-member
comprises a 2.times.2 with one or more said projection-depressions,
whereby said sloping-member can be proficiently manufactured from
wood and is aesthetically pleasing in a deck environment.
5. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said
projection-depression of said sloping-member is a partially driven
nail, or a partially driven staple.
6. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said end-portion of
said cross-member is of diminutive thickness, wherein said
upper-surface of said sloping-member and said upper-surface of said
cross-member are substantially co-planer, wherein the vertical
height of the grid is reduced providing a sleeker profile, whereby
the appearance of the grid from outside and below is less obtrusive
and is aesthetically pleasing.
7. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein the middle-portion of
said cross-member has end-faces, wherein said sloping-members has
sides, wherein said interface of said sloping-members with said
cross-member includes the disposition of said end-face of said
cross-member against said side of said sloping-member, wherein the
ledgers have ends, wherein the sloping-members located proximate to
the ends of the ledgers are fastened at the high-end to the
high-ledger and at the low-end to the low-ledger, whereby said grid
is contained, whereby cross-members with end-portions having
open-ended slots may be used to create a stable grid, whereby ease
of manufacture, installation, and access are facilitated.
8. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said-cross-member
comprises a wood slat with a plastic bracket at each end, whereby
said cross-member can be proficiently manufactured from wood and
plastic brackets, and is aesthetically pleasing in a deck
environment.
9. The plastic bracket of claim 8, wherein said plastic bracket is
1/8" pvc with a hollow, such as a hole or open-ended slot, wherein
said hollow of said plastic bracket is fitted about said
projection-depression of said sloping member.
10. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, wherein said panel holding
means is a panel clip.
11. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a spacer,
said spacer comprising a wood slat and a fastening means, wherein
the spacer is fastened to the upstanding face of the high-ledger,
whereby each spacer effectively replaces a cross-member, and
whereby said sloping-member is laterally constrained by said
spacer, yet said sloping-member can be lifted out and re-set into
position without use of tools.
12. The shedding apparatus of claim 1, further comprising flashing
at the high-ledger as a panel holding means.
13. The shedding apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a
fascia-board or deck beam, onto which the gutter may be attached
whereby the gutter is hidden and whereby the low-ledger is
alleviated of the weight of the gutter and contents.
14. The shedding apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a gutter
and downspout, whereby rain is colleted and transported away.
15. The shedding apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a
mid-ledger, the mid-ledger having an upper-face and a an adjacent
upstanding face, the upstanding face having notches, whereby the
sloping-member having spans greater than 10 feet can be
supported.
16. The shedding apparatus of 1 further comprising endboards, each
said endboard comprising a joist hanger and a plate with a face,
said joist hanger fastened to said face of said plate, said plate
adapted to be fastened to a proximate structure, wherein said
low-ledger or said high-ledger sets in said joist hanger, whereby
the ledger can be set into and lifted out of said joist hanger
without fastening or use of tools.
17. A grid apparatus for supporting panels, the apparatus
comprising: a low-ledger, with an upper-face and an adjacent
vertical-face, a high-ledger, with an upper-face and an adjacent
vertical-face, a plurality of sloping-members, each sloping-member
with an upper-face, a low-end, a high-end, and with one or more
projection-depressions of said upper-face such as one or more
partially driven nails, or such as one or more drilled holes, one
or more cross-members, each cross-member comprising a
middle-portion and two end-portions, each end-portion with an
upper-face, the middle-portion with an upper-face, said upper-face
of the middle-portion and said upper-faces of the end-portions
substantially co-planar, said low-ledger and said high-ledger
oriented such that said upstanding-face of said high-ledger
substantially faces said upstanding-face of said low-ledger, said
sloping-members disposed transverse to said low-ledger, and each
substantially extending from said vertical-face of said low-ledger
to said vertical-face of said high-ledger, said low-end of each
sloping-member resting upon said upper-face of said low-ledger,
said high-end of each sloping-member resting upon said upper-face
of said high-ledger, wherein said sloping-members are positioned at
generally uniform intervals along the ledgers, said cross-members
generally parallel with said low-ledger, said middle-portions
substantially extending from one sloping member to the next, said
end-portions of said cross-members disposed over said upper-faces
of said sloping-members, each end-portion proximate one or more
said projection-depressions of said sloping-member, wherein said
cross-members interface with said projection-depression of said
sloping-members, wherein said end-portions of said cross-members
are held by said interface with said sloping members, wherein a
grid support structure is formed, whereby grid members can be
snapped, slid, or set into position, unsnapped, slid, or lifted out
of position without requiring tools for fastening or unfastening,
whereby the grid can be installed, adjusted, and uninstalled from
below itself, whereby the ease of installation and removal is
facilitated, and whereby, access to the area above the grid for
maintenance and other reasons is greatly facilitated, wherein the
upper-faces of the cross-members are substantially co-planar to
thereby provide a support surface for panels.
18. A grid support structure comprising: a first-side supporting
means a second-side supporting means a plurality of rafter-members,
each rafter-member with an upper-face, a first-end, a second-end,
and with one or more projection-depressions of said upper-face,
each rafter-member substantially extending from said first-side
support means to said second-side support means, wherein a number
of said rafter-members are positioned at substantially uniform
intervals from each other one or more cross-members, each
cross-member comprising a middle-portion and two end-portions, each
end-portion with an upper-face, the middle-portion with an
upper-face, said cross-members positioned transverse to said
rafter-members, said middle-portions of said cross-members
substantially extending from one rafter-member to the next, said
end-portions of said cross-members disposed over said upper-faces
of said rafter-members, each end-portion proximate one or more said
projection-depressions of said rafter-member, wherein said
cross-members interface with said projection-depression of said
rafter-members, said end-portions of said cross-members are held by
said interface with said members, whereby cross-members can be
snapped, slid, or set into position, unsnapped, slid, or lifted out
of position, w hereby cross-members can be installed, adjusted, and
uninstalled from below, whereby the ease of installation and
removal of cross-members is facilitated, and whereby, access to the
area above the grid for maintenance and other reasons is greatly
facilitated.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a Continuation In Part of Application Ser. No.
10/190,956 which was Filed Jul. 8, 2002, and Allowed Nov. 17, 2003.
The present Application claims benefit of Application Ser. No.
10/190,956 which is a Continuation In Part of Application Ser. No.
09/862,257 which was Filed May 22, 2001 and Allowed Apr. 8, 2002.
The present application claims benefit of the Allowed Application
Ser. No. 09/862,257 which is a Continuation In Part of Patent U.S.
Pat. No. 6,279,271 B1 issued Aug. 28, 2001. The present Application
claims benefit of Patent U.S. Pat. No. 6,279,271 B1 which claims
benefit of Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/110,164, Filed Nov.
27, 1998. The present Application claims benefit of Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/110,164.
[0002] Application Ser. No. 09/862,257 also claims benefit of
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/206,168 Filed May 22, 2000. The
present application claims benefit of Provisional Application Ser.
No. 60/206,168.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0003] Not Applicable.
REFERENCE TO MICRROFICHE APPENDIX
[0004] Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention relates to a shedding and drainage
system that can be installed, accessed and removed from underneath.
More particularly, the present invention relates to a shedding and
drainage system that can be installed under existing decks. A major
application of the present invention is its installation under
decks to help keep the area below dry and clean.
[0006] Typically, decks have planks for flooring with openings
between the planks where water and other matter will infiltrate.
Usually decks are attached to building structures. Many decks have
useable space underneath, including lower decks and patios. It is
often desirable to protect areas under decks from infiltration,
particularly of rainwater, and divert the infiltration away from
the area. Ways of dealing with infiltrations though decks include:
building a flat or sloping roof at some level underneath the deck
planks as part of the deck structure; attaching water shedding
panels directly or indirectly to the deck joist; attaching water
channeling troughs to the deck joists
[0007] A flat roof can be built below the planks and above the
joists as part of the deck structure. This has to be done during
deck construction. A sloping roof with framing can be built under
the deck, much preferably previous to completion of deck
construction.
[0008] Panels can be attached directly or indirectly to the bottom
of deck joists. The author has witnessed plastic and plywood panels
simply fastened to the bottom of deck joists A manufacturer of
corrugated plastic panel suggests using shimming or sistering to
obtain a slope. In the sistering procedure, sistering boards are
attached to the sides of deck joists. In the shimming method boards
varying in vertical height are attached to the bottom face of
joists. Typically these boards are oriented parallel to the panel
length and flow of infiltration. Then laths are attached
transversely to then boards and the panels are attached to the
laths. In any case, for support, the panels are attached to members
transverse to their length, whether it be shims, sisters or laths.
From the perspective below, the panels are connected to the
sistering or shimming boards above though the concave portion of
the corrugation. Most the flow then would be through convex
positions of the corrugations.
[0009] Corrugated paneling is installed after the deck is
constructed. A major problem with using shimming, sistering and
similar methods is that debris tends to collect at the shimming
boards, sistering boards, or laths, causing water pooling and
leakage. Another problem is that it is difficult to get an adequate
slope without using a large amount of wood. For example, to get a
1/2-inch slope per foot for a 12 foot length, sistering to deck
joist, one would have to use nominal 10-inch wide lumber, if
shimmering one may trim a nominal 2.times.8. Another problem with
fastening panels from underneath is that they tend to look ugly and
unfinished. Because of these shortcomings, the applicant has
replaced and continues to replace installations by homeowners and
handymen, including a shimmed system that was installed by a
handyman just weeks before the applicant was asked to replace
it.
[0010] Variations of trough (gutter) systems can be installed
either during or after deck construction. Thibodeau U.S. Pat. No.
4,065,883 and Mickelsen U.S. Pat. No. 4,860,502 define a trough
disposed between joists with flanges or lips that are fastened to
the top of deck joists. A major limitation of theses inventions is
that they would have to be installed when the deck is being built.
Also, the spacing between joists would have to be standard
throughout for these to fit properly--a situation that is unusual.
In addition, it would be very difficult to access the enclosed
areas, without taking apart the deck, to do maintenance or solve
leakage problems.
[0011] An embodiment of Mickelson U.S. Pat. No. 4,860,502 has
troughs attached to joists sides that can be installed on existing
decks. A major problem is that, although Mickelson can accommodate
some variance in joists spacing, using the spring property of the
trough, it is a pre-manufactured product and it would be very
difficult to accommodate the largely irregular joist spacing of a
great many existing decks.
[0012] Moore U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,351 and Moore U.S. Pat. No.
5,765,328 also has troughs attached to joists sides that can be
installed on existing decks. This trough, made of a flexible
material, extends under the deck joist. Ends of adjacent troughs
overlap each other and are fastened to the joist at the overlapped
portion. The overlapping and fastening occurs at the bottom joist
surface for one embodiment-type, at the side of the joist for the
other embodiment-type. Both types hide joists from view. Variations
in distances between joists may be accommodated mechanically, but a
satisfactory appearance of irregular troughs is questionable. A
transverse gutter collects the drainage from the troughs and
channels it to a drainpipe. A gutter on the opposite end of the
troughs collects infiltration between the troughs and the adjacent
structure. The flow then is channeled to one end of the trough
effluents to the atmosphere. The inventor does not seem to have
made provisions for the installation of chair swings, fans and the
like through the troughs.
[0013] A major problem with all these trough-type drainage systems
is that they are practically dependent on joist orientation and
regularity of spacing between joists. Many decks are built with
sections of joists going perpendicularly or diagonally to other
sections. Some decks have sections at different levels. The
mechanics and appearance of integrating irregular and/or
transversely oriented troughs, perhaps at different elevations, is
awkward at best and probably unworkable in a great many
situations.
[0014] Another major problem is achieving satisfactory appearance.
For appearance purposes, bottoms of decks with troughs in the joist
area may preferably be covered, adding additional material and
weight to the structure, and, making access for maintenance and
leakage problems even more difficult. A series of aluminum or
plastic troughs, hanging below the joist does not seem to blend in
with the deck environment. Covenant organizations have concerns
about a single gutter and drainpipe at a deck; how much resistance
(probably justified) would they have about dozen aluminum gutters
(troughs), hanging below deck joists, flowing into other
gutters.
[0015] With the exception of Moore, handling infiltrations between
the trough and the structure is another problem that generally is
not addressed by the previous inventions. Presumably, at least for
existing decks, a lot of caulking and flashing would be required in
the joist space. If there is a maintenance problem with these,
access could be very difficult. Moore takes care of this
infiltration problem with another problem, with a gutter that
channels the infiltration to one end of the gutter where it drips.
Supposedly, this is in preference to the expense and appearance of
an additional downspout.
OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES
[0016] Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the present
invention are:
[0017] (a) to provide an apparatus that protects areas under decks
from infiltration of precipitation and debris, and the ensuing
lingering moisture and wet deleterious conditions, thereby,
protecting property and making space below decks more useable and
comfortable;
[0018] (b) to provide a apparatus having a relatively simple
geometric configuration, consistent repetition of patterns, and
materials that pleasantly blend with deck features, whereby the
installation of the apparatus esthetically enhances appearances
under a deck;
[0019] (c) to provide an apparatus having an unobtrusive, blended
and pleasant appearance, particularly from public view, which
enhances the ability to obtain permission for use in communities
under strict design covenants;
[0020] (d) to provide an apparatus that has a finished appearance
in and of itself, such that it does not need to be covered with
building materials, which add weight, expense and limit
accessibility;
[0021] (e) to provide a system not dependant on joist
configuration, which enhances appearance and versatility of
workable configurations, including combinations of rectangular,
circular, triangular and cascading areas;
[0022] (f) to provide system that is complete in that it that
effectively intercepts, collects and channels infiltration to
ground level and directs it away from the protected area;
[0023] (g) to provide an apparatus that has a substantially planar
and unobstructed shedding surface with a sufficient slope, which
allows debris to be washed and/or blown away, whereby the system
properly functions requiring little or no maintenance;
[0024] (h) to provide a system with a holding means, whereby most
members easily can be easily lifted, unsnapped or otherwise
temporarily displaced from positions without requiring tools,
thereby allowing easy access and maintenance;
[0025] (i) to provide a modular system with standard parts which
enhances pre-manufacturing of stock items, custom fabrication of
other items, kitting, and installation;
[0026] (j) to provide a system where the majority of members
usually typically are slid or snapped into place, such that the
apparatus proficiently can be installed from underneath existing
decks;
[0027] (k) to provide a system with parts held together by bolt and
screw fastening means and snap/gravitational holding means, useful
in situations when a deck is rebuilt or the installation of the
implementation is moved from one deck to another;
[0028] (l) to provide a system that is relatively light in weight,
comprising non-structural members, and is removable--thereby
avoiding requirements for building permits;
[0029] (m) to provide a relatively inexpensive kit, whereby the
apparatus can be installed by contractors, handymen and
homeowners;
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0030] A rather complete embodiment of the invention can be briefly
described as panels over a wooden grid, with a gutter and
downspout. The invention includes ledgers for primary support,
which are attached to an adjacent structure, such as the underside
of a deck and adjacent house. The wooden grid can be adjusted
during installation to accommodate the irregularities of the
adjacent structure. Generally, grid and panel members are set and
scooted into position and can be lifted and scooted out of position
for access.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 is a profile of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 are details of the low-ledger assembly
fitting into the joist-bracket of an endboard.
[0033] FIG. 4 shows how a grid section is disposed.
[0034] FIGS. 5-8 show a cross-member to sloping-member connection,
the cross-member having a bracket with an open-ended slot. FIG. 5
shows members unconnected and viewed from above. FIG. 6 shows
members connected and viewed from above. FIG. 7 shows members
unconnected and viewed from the side. FIG. 8 shows members
connected and viewed from the side.
[0035] FIGS. 9-12 show a cross-member to sloping-member connection,
the cross-member having a bracket with a hole. FIG. 9 shows members
unconnected and viewed from above, FIG. 10 shows members connected
and viewed from above. FIG. 11 shows members unconnected and viewed
from the side. FIG. 12 shows members connected and viewed from the
side.
[0036] FIGS. 13-16 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, the cross-member having a bracket with a peg. FIG. 13
shows members unconnected and viewed from above, FIG. 14 shows
members connected and viewed from above. FIG. 15 shows members
unconnected and viewed from the side. FIG. 16 shows members
connected and viewed from the side.
[0037] FIGS. 17-20 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, the cross-member having a solid bracket. FIG. 17 shows
members unconnected and viewed from above, FIG. 18 shows members
connected and viewed from above. FIG. 19 shows members unconnected
and viewed from the side. FIG. 20 shows members connected and
viewed from the side.
[0038] FIGS. 21 and 22 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, the cross-member having a middle-portion and
end-portion of the same thickness. FIG. 21 shows members
unconnected and v
[0039] FIGS. 23-24 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, the cross-member having a small projection, the
sloping-member having a continuous slot. FIG. 23 shows members
connected and viewed from above. FIG. 24 shows members connected
and viewed from the side.
[0040] FIGS. 25-26 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, the cross-member having a small projection, the
sloping-member having a series of holes. FIG. 25 shows members
connected and viewed from above. FIG. 26 shows members connected
and viewed from the side.
[0041] FIGS. 27 and 28 show details of a spacer. FIG. 27 shows a
spacer, face view. FIG. 28 shows a spacer, side view.
[0042] FIGS. 29-31 show low-side configurations. FIG. 29 shows a
low-side configuration with endboard; gutter behind beam. FIG. 30
shows a low-side configuration with a fascia board; gutter behind
fascia board. FIG. 31 shows a low-side configuration hybrid; gutter
hidden behind beam and fascia board.
[0043] FIGS. 32-35 show high-side configurations. FIG. 32 shows a
high-side configuration with a simple ledger. FIG. 33 shows a
high-side configuration with a high-ledger, or high-ledger
assembly, under a deck-header. FIG. 34 shows a high-side
configuration using offset brackets. FIG. 35 shows a high-side
configuration with a high-ledger, or high ledger assembly, disposed
on the face of a deck-header.
[0044] FIGS. 36-38 show overlapping panels disposed over a rafter.
FIG. 36 shows corrugated panels. FIGS. 37 and 38 show panels having
single corrugations at their edges, having a sine wave profile and
a triangular profile, respectively.
[0045] FIG. 39 shows a profile view of panels and clip
disposition.
[0046] FIG. 40 shows a plan view of panels and clip
disposition.
[0047] FIG. 41 shows a side view of side-flashing and trim at an
end-rafter.
[0048] FIGS. 42 and 43 show a wind strap, top view and side view,
respectively.
[0049] FIGS. 44, 45 and 46 show a panel holding means with a nail
and overlapping panels, viewed from the font, from above, and from
the side, respectively.
[0050] FIGS. 47-49 show a mid-ledger. FIG. 47 shows the disposition
of a mid-ledger with a mid-level endboard. FIG. 48 shows a
mid-ledger as viewed from the front. FIG. 49 shows details of a
mid-ledger fitted into a mid-level endboard hanger.
[0051] FIGS. 50-54 relate to mid-span supports. FIGS. 50 and 51
show a wood post bracket from the side view and from the front
view, respectively. FIG. 52 shows dispositions of mid-span hangers
at a mid-ledger and at a low-ledger. FIG. 53 shows a mid-span
hanger from the end-view. FIG. 54 shows a mid-span hanger with
blocking attached to deck joists.
[0052] FIG. 55 shows an alternate to the attachment of the panel
clip on a rafter in situation where the member of the low-ledger
having an upstanding face is thin.
[0053] FIGS. 56-59 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, the cross-member having a horizontally projecting
end-portion, the sloping-member having a hollow. FIG. 56 shows
members unconnected and viewed from above. FIG. 57 shows members
connected and viewed from above.
[0054] FIG. 58 shows members unconnected and viewed from the side.
FIG. 59 shows members connected and viewed from the side.
[0055] FIGS. 60-63 show a cross-member to sloping-member
connection, adjacent cross-members sharing end portions having a
hollow that straddles a sloping-member, the sloping-member having
two vertical projections. FIG. 60 shows members unconnected and
viewed from above. FIG. 61 shows members connected and viewed from
above. FIG. 62 shows members unconnected and viewed from the side.
FIG. 63 shows members connected and viewed from the side.
REFERENCE NUMERALS IN DRAWINGS
[0056] 1 . . . high-ledger
[0057] 1a . . . 2.times.2 component of high-ledger
[0058] 1b . . . 5/4 board component of high-ledger
[0059] 1a1 . . . upper-face high-ledger
[0060] 1b1 . . . upstanding-face of high-ledger
[0061] 2 . . . low-ledger
[0062] 2a . . . 2.times.2 component of low-ledger
[0063] 2b . . . 5/4 board component of low-ledger
[0064] 2a . . . upper-face of low-ledger
[0065] 2b1 . . . upstanding-face of low-ledger
[0066] 2c . . . filler low-ledger
[0067] 3 . . . sloping-member
[0068] 3a . . . 2.times.2 component of sloping-member
[0069] 3b . . . raised staple, as projection from upper-face of
sloping-member
[0070] 3b2 . . . partially driven nail, as projection from
upper-face of sloping-member
[0071] 3b3 . . . partially driven nails, which project from
upper-face of sloping-member for solid bracket connection
[0072] 3b4 . . . depression in upper-face of sloping-member
[0073] 4 . . . cross-member
[0074] 4a . . . cross-member slat
[0075] 4b . . . cross-member bracket
[0076] 4b1 . . . open-ended slot, or hollow, of cross-member
bracket
[0077] 4b2 . . . hole, or hollow, of cross-member bracket
[0078] 4b3 . . . solid cross-member bracket
[0079] 4b4 . . . small projection of cross-member bracket
[0080] 5 . . . spacer
[0081] 5a . . . spacer slat
[0082] 5b . . . spacer filler
[0083] 5c . . . spacer screw
[0084] 6 . . . endboard
[0085] 6a . . . endboard plate
[0086] 6b . . . endboard hanger
[0087] 7 . . . fascia board
[0088] 8 . . . panel clips
[0089] 8b . . . drip edge of clip
[0090] 9 . . . high-ledger flashing
[0091] 10 . . . panels
[0092] 11 . . . trim
[0093] 12 . . . gutter
[0094] 13 . . . deck joist
[0095] 14 . . . adjacent beam
[0096] 15 . . . deck post
[0097] 16 . . . deck header
[0098] 17 . . . nail and hole panel holding means
[0099] 17a . . . oversized hole
[0100] 17b . . . nail
[0101] 18 . . . mid-level endboard
[0102] 19 . . . mid-ledger
[0103] 19a . . . 2.times.2 component of mid-ledger
[0104] 19b . . . 5/4 board component of mid-ledger
[0105] 19c . . . notch
[0106] 20 . . . wood post bracket
[0107] 20a . . . wood plate
[0108] 20b . . . side bracket
[0109] 20c . . . bottom bracket
[0110] 21 . . . mid-span hanger
[0111] 21a . . . long screw or bolt
[0112] 21b . . . edger bracket
[0113] 21c . . . double board blocking
[0114] 21d . . . blocking fastener
[0115] 22 . . . offset bracket assembly
[0116] 23 . . . side-flashing
[0117] 24 . . . wind strap
[0118] 24a . . . wind strap strip
[0119] 24b . . . wind strap screw
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0120] Component Materials
[0121] A preferred embodiment of the invention as presented herein
generally is described using commercially available materials and
using parts that can be manufactured/fabricated from commercially
available materials. A practitioner could fabricate specialty parts
or use alternate materials, or alternate methods of manufacture.
Although pressure treated lumber is a source material described in
the following, it generally may be substituted with cedar, redwood,
oak, mahogany and other woods, plastics, metals etc.
[0122] Components can be made as follows. Some basic parts can be
pre-manufactured and stocked. Nominal 2.times.2s, hereinafter
called 2.times.2s, can be pre-manufactured by ripping 2.times.4s in
half. The resulting stock item has an actual cross-sectional
dimension of about 1.5-inches by 1{fraction (11/16)}-inches with a
smooth straight cut surface on one side. Nominal 1.times.2s,
hereinafter called 1.times.2s can be pre-manufactured by ripping
2.times.2 fence pickets in half. These have actual dimensions of
about 1.5-inches by {fraction (9/16)}-inches with a smooth straight
cut surface on one side. Nominal 5/4.times.6 deck boards,
hereinafter called 5/4 boards, have actual dimensions of about
1-inch.times.5.5-inches. All wood members of the present embodiment
are pressure treated. The 2.times.4s, from which the 2.times.2s are
cut, are dried-after-treatment for increased stability.
[0123] Layout--FIG. 1
[0124] FIG. 1 illustrates a profile of the invention attached to a
deck structure. The invention has a high-side and a low-side, so
named, even though in some implementations the invention could be
level. In practice under decks, the high-side usually is located at
the house-side of the deck and the low-side is to the opposite side
of the deck. The invention is primarily supported at the high-side
by a high-ledger 1 and at the low-side by a low-ledger 2. When
attached to a deck, the high-ledger is usually attached to a deck
header, deck beam, or house structure; the low-ledger is usually
attached to deck posts, a deck beam, or indirectly to deck joists.
In this embodiment the high-ledger is fastened to a deck header 16
at the high-side, the low-ledger is held by endboards 6, which in
turn are fastened to the deck at the low-side.
[0125] High-Ledger--FIGS. 1 and 32
[0126] The high-ledger 1 comprises a 2.times.2 1a fastened to the
side of a 5/4 board 1b, the 2.times.2 extends the full length of
the 5/4 board. The cut side of the 2.times.2 faces upward,
representing an upper-face, and is about 2.75-inches below the top
of the 5/4 board, the 2.75-inches of 5/4 board representing an
upstanding-face adjacent to the upper-face. The high-ledger can be
fastened to the deck header 16 with deck screws and brackets.
[0127] Low-Ledger--FIGS. 1,2,3
[0128] The low-ledger 2 comprises a 2.times.2 2a fastened to the
side of a 5/4 board 2b. The 2.times.2 extends the full length of
the 5/4 board less about 2-inches at both ends. The cut side of the
2.times.2 faces upward, representing an upper-face, and is about
1.5-inches below the top of the 5/4 board, the 1.5-inches of the
5/4 board representing an upstanding-face adjacent to the
upper-face.
[0129] FIGS. 1,2&3 illustrate a means of supporting the
low-ledger at its ends. An endboard 6 is disposed at both ends of
the low-ledger. Each endboard comprises 2 sheets of 3/4-inch B/C
plywood fastened together with screws and/or nails, the higher
quality faces exposed, to make a 1.5-inch thick plate 6a with a
face dimensions of about 10-inches wide by 16-inches long, the
width extending horizontally, the length extending vertically.
Nominal 6-inch joist hangers 6b are disposed on a face of each
endboard, about 1/8-inch above the bottom edge of the plate. Each
endboard is fastened to a deck joist 13 and the adjacent beam
14.
[0130] Fillers 2c, comprising plates of 1/2-inch plywood, with
about a 5-inch by 2-inch face area dimension, are fastened to the
side of the 5/4 board, one on each end and on the same side as the
2.times.2. The outside edges of the plates are roughly flush with
the 5/4 board at its ends and at its lower edge. The ends of the
low-side assembly fit snugly into the joist hanger of endboards,
one of which is disposed at each end of the low-ledger.
[0131] Sloping-Members--FIGS.1 and 4
[0132] A plurality of sloping-members, or rafters, 3 each having
two ends, are comprised of 2.times.2s 3a, with the cut sides of the
2.times.2s facing upwards, representing an upper-face, and staples
3b partially driven into the cut side. The staples have a 1-inch
crown and project about 1/8-inch above the face of the 2.times.2.
The staples, or stubs, are centered across the face of the
2.times.2 such that each leg is about 14-inch from the
sloping-member's edge. Starting at the end of each sloping-member,
staples are disposed uniformly, about every 2 to 3-feet. The
staples represent small projections above the upper-face. The
sloping-members rest one end on the high-ledger the other end on
the low-ledger. The sloping-members are disposed perpendicularly to
the low-ledger and generally uniformly about 24-inches on-center
from each other generally about the full extent of the low-ledger.
The 1{fraction (11/16)}-inch dimension of the sloping members
normal to the upper-face, represent sides of the sloping
members.
[0133] FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating relationships among the
sloping-members and lateral members. Lateral members in this
embodiment comprise spacers 5 and cross-members 4.
[0134] Cross-Members having Open-Ended Slots in Brackets--FIGS.
4-6
[0135] A cross-member 4 of the present embodiment comprises a
22.5-inch slat 4a with 2 brackets 4b. The brackets can be made from
1/8-inch thick PVC with a face dimension of about 0.75-inch by
2-inches. The 1/8-inch thickness of the brackets represents a
diminutive thickness. Each bracket has an upper-face and an
under-side. Each bracket has on its face a slot, or a hollow, 4b1
about 1/8-inch wide, 0.25-inches long and open ended to one of its
0.75-inch edges. The brackets are fastened to the cut face of the
slats, one bracket at each end of the slat with the slotted end
facing longitudinally away from the slat, the bracket projecting
approximately 5/8-inch beyond the end of the slat. Stapling is a
convenient means for fastening the bracket to the slat. Regular
sized cross-members, using 22.5-inch slats, can be manufactured and
stored as stock items. The approximate 5/8-inch projections of the
plastic brackets beyond the ends of each slat represent
end-portions of each cross- member.
[0136] Smaller sized cross-members can be easily made-up in the
field by taking a slat pre-fabricated with a bracket on one end,
cut the slat to fit, then attach at the other end a bracket with
screws.
[0137] Cross-Member Sloping-Member Interface--FIGS. 4-8
[0138] The cross-members 4 are disposed perpendicularly to the
sloping-members 3, the cut side of the slats facing upwards, the
brackets 4b of the cross-members resting on the sloping members,
the projecting staples 3b1 of the sloping-members project through
the hollows 4b1 of the brackets, holding the cross-members in
place.
[0139] The upper-face and sides of the sloping-members together
with the small projections there from represent an interface with
the end-portions of the cross-members. For the situation shown in
FIG.4, where the hollow is an open ended-slot and the end-portion
is of diminutive thickness compared to the middle portion, the side
of the sloping-member interfaces with the end of the slat of the
cross-member.
[0140] Spacers--FIGS. 4, 27 and 28
[0141] Spacers 5 comprise 1.times.2 slats 5a about 22.5-inches
long, two 0.5-inch thick wood fillers 5b, and deck screws 5c
projecting through the slats, the fillers and into the vertical
face, or upstanding-face, of the high-ledger. The slats are
oriented with the 1.5-inch dimension vertical and the 0.75-inch
dimension horizontal. Fillers can be approximately square in
configuration, about 1.75-inches across and 0.5-inches thick. The
upper edge of each filler should be level with the upper edge of
the slat; the bottom edge of each filler is about 0.25-inches below
the bottom edge of each slat. Spacers can be pre-manufactured by
placing the two fillers and the slat into a template, basically to
keep the top edges even, pre-drilling a hole slightly smaller than
the screws, then inserting the screws. At installation spacers are
set such that the bottom edges of the fillers rest on the ledger,
then spacers are fastened to the vertical face of the high-ledger.
Regular sized spacers can be pre-manufactured and stocked.
[0142] Grid--FIG. 4
[0143] The cross-members in combination with the sloping-members,
the spacers, and the upper-edge of the low-ledger (when present)
form a grid with a substantially planer upper-surface. The
disposition of the spacers on the upstanding-face of the
high-ledger, in effect, makes slots into which the sloping-members
are fitted. The cross-members together with the spacers laterally
restrain the sloping-members. The vertical face, or
upstanding-face, of the low-ledger and the vertical face, or
upstanding-face, of the high-ledger restrain longitudinal movement
of the sloping-members. Fastening the sloping-members at the
extreme ends of the ledgers, for example by coming up through the
2.times.2s with screws, finishes containing the complete grid. When
using cross-members with brackets having open-ended slots, it is
necessary to secure the end-rafters, or rafters at the extreme end
of the grid.
[0144] Panels--FIGS. 1, 4, 36-38
[0145] A plurality of corrugated plastic panels 10 rest on the
upper-surface of the planer grid. Each panel has a nominal width of
2-feet and an actual width of about 26-inches. The panels are
oriented so the rise and the fall of their corrugation is parallel
to the low-ledger. The adjacent panels overlap each other about
2-inches, and are thus held to each other due to the corrugation.
The panels generally overlap each other over the sloping-member as
is illustrated in FIG. 36. The panels extend approximately from the
face of the 5/4 board of the high-ledger to about 2-inches beyond
the 5/4 board at the low-ledger. FIGS. 37 and 38 show
configurations of overlapping panels having single corrugations at
their edges The panels generally are held into place by clips 8 at
the low-ledger and by the projecting flashing 9 at the high-ledger.
The clips and the projecting flashing represent a panel holding
means in the proximity of the low-ledger and the high-ledger,
respectively.
[0146] Panel Holding Means--FIGS. 1, 32-35, 39, 40, 55
[0147] As is shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, the panel clips 8 can be
made from about 1-inch by about 4-inch strips of galvanized sheet
metal. Each strip is bent along its long dimension 1/2-inch from
one of its ends 90-degrees up, and bent at 1-inch from the same end
90-degress up to produce a j-configuration, with a slot 1/2-inch
deep and 1/2-inch wide. The clips are fastened by nail or screw to
the upper-edge of the low-ledger's 5/4 board generally one clip for
each sloping members, in line with the rafters, projecting
horizontally about 2-inches beyond the upper-edge corner of the 5/4
board away from the sloping member. Tightening clips is typically
done by reaching over the fascia-board, or beam, or over an
adjacent panel, and pulling the lip tight against the top of the
overlapping panels.
[0148] An improved design of a panel clip 8 is shown in FIG. 39.
This clip has a drip edge 8b bent in its formation, to prevent
water from traveling along the clip towards the low-ledger
underneath the panel. The typical deposition of a clip in relation
to a sloping-member is illustrated in FIG. 40. Alternately, if the
upper-edge of the low-ledger is small, the clips may be attached to
the upper-surface of the sloping-members at the low-end of the
sloping members, as is shown in FIG. 55.
[0149] The flashing 9 at the high-ledger is L-shaped, with the
short leg about 1.75-inches long and the other leg about 2-inches
long. The flashing is disposed with the short leg fastened to the
face of the 5/4 board with the bend of the L-shaped flashing at
about the same elevation as the upper edge of the 5/4 board, the
long leg projecting over the spacer with a slightly downward slope.
Generally the flashing extends the full length of the high-ledger.
The flashing profile can be varied to adapt to various conditions
of the deck header as is illustrated in FIGS. 32-35.
[0150] A length of 1.times.2 trim 11 is disposed longitudinally
with and projecting above the sloping-member at the extreme ends of
the assembly can help hide from view edges of panels and
flashing.
[0151] Gutter and Downspout--FIGS. 29-31
[0152] Having an aluminum gutter 12 with a flat side, the flat side
is fastened, by screw, nail, or staple, to the outside face of the
5/4 board of the low-side fascia 7, about one screw per foot length
of gutter. The flat side has a vertical dimension of about
3.5-inches. The screws are disposed about 1-inch from the top edge
of the gutter's flat side. The gutter has a high-end and a low-end.
The elevation of the gutter drops usually at least 1-inch in
20-feet from the high end to the low end. The upper-edge of the
flat side at the gutter's high-end is at about the same elevation
as the upper edge of the low-ledger's 5/4 board. The upper-edge of
the flat side at the gutter's low end is up to a maximum of about
2-inches below the upper-edge of the flat side at the gutter's high
end. A downspout protrudes from the gutter near its low end,
usually at a post of the deck.
[0153] Alternate Cross-Member Sloping-Member Interfaces--FIGS.
5-26, 56-63 Alternate cross-member sloping-member interfaces are
illustrated in FIGS. 5-16. Details of the present embodiment,
having a bracket 4b with an open-ended slot 4b1, are presented in
FIGS. 5-8. Other options are: a partially driven nail, or stub, 3b2
of the sloping-member combined with a drilled hole, or hollow, 4b2
in the bracket, FIGS. 9-12; partially driven nails, or stubs, 3b3
disposed on either side of a solid bracket 4b3, FIGS. 17-20; and a
peg 4b4 and hole 4b3 combination of FIGS. 13-16. The peg can be
accomplished by driving a nail or screw through the bracket. The
corresponding hole can be easily drilled into the sloping-member.
FIGS. 21 and 22 show a cross-member with a middle-portion the same
thickness as the end-portions. FIG. 24 and 25 show sloping-members
with a continuous series of holes, FIGS.22 and 23 show continuous
slots. FIGS. 56-59 show an end-portion projection of a cross-member
which fits into a hollow of a sloping-member. FIGS. 60-63 shows a
hollowed area that comprises the end-portions of adjacent
cross-members, which fits over a sloping member having two
projections. This embodiment was tried by the inventor and was
found to be inferior to the preferred embodiment. The preferred
embodiment is more modular. Generally, using the preferred
embodiment, one section, the area between two sloping-members can
be installed and removed without much disturbance to the adjacent
sections.
[0154] A commonality among alternative cross-member sloping-member
interfaces is insertion, or setting, of elements of one member
into, or proximate to, containing elements of the other, without
fastening. The end-portions of each cross-member are generally
disposed over the upper-surfaces of the sloping-members, allowing
the cross-members to be held without rigid fastening, to be placed
and lifted out with requiring tools, and to be placed and lifted
out without disturbing adjacently placed members. These
commonalities allow efficiency in placement and removal. Generally,
the upper faces of the cross-members and the sloping-members do not
have to be in the same plane, since panels can rest solely on the
cross-members, without touching the sloping members. However, it is
generally preferred that these be nearly in the same horizontal
plane so the less vertical space is taken up by the grid.
[0155] Presently, the bracket with open-ended slot and raised
staple, or stub, combination is preferred due to it's ease of
manufacture and installation. A generic and inclusive term for an
interface generally having the physical properties of the alternate
connecting means described in this document is hereby defined as a
projection-depression interface wherein a sloping-member having a
projection and/or a depression interfaces with a
projection-depression of a cross-member.
[0156] Alternate High-Side Configurations--FIGS. 32-35
[0157] Several alternate high-side configurations are shown in
FIGS. 32-35. Each has a ledger with an upper-face 1a1 and an
upstanding-face 1b1. For the high-ledger represented in FIG. 32,
the face of the adjacent structure represents an adjacent
upstanding-face. Offset bracket assemblies 22, FIG. 34 comprising a
Simpson deck-tie connector extended with a plate can be used to
fasten the high-ledger beneath a deck header 16.
[0158] The different configurations of flashing 9 of each figure,
contribute as a panel holding means. The panels are constrained
horizontally by the upstanding face of the high-ledger and from
above by the flashing. In addition, the flashing caulked acts as
capable weather-guard, directing infiltration onto the panels.
[0159] Alternate Low-Side Configurations--FIGS. 29-31
[0160] Several alternate low-side configurations are shown in FIGS.
29-31. FIG. 29 shows a low-ledger 2 held by an endboard 6. The
endboard can be fastened to a deck joist 13 with screws and to an
adjacent beam 14 with a bracket. The gutter 12 in this case is
fastened to an adjacent beam which is different than the case of
FIG. 1, where the gutter is fastened to a low-ledger. Fastening the
gutter to an adjacent beam is preferable since it takes weight off
the panels and grid. In both cases the gutter is hidden by the
adjacent deck beam. In FIG. 30, the low-ledger is fastened directly
to deck posts 15 and a fascia board ?? is fastened to deck posts,
the bottom of the fascia-board approximately level with the bottom
of the low-ledger. The fascia-board hides the gutter as well as
provides support for the gutter. The configuration of FIG. 31 is
sort of a hybrid of the configurations of FIGS. 29 and 30. FIG. 31
has endboards as well as a fascia-board and the deck beam. This is
used in cases where a deck beam is present but the required slope
of the paneling would place the bottom of the gutter below the deck
beam. The configuration is also used in cases where an obstacle,
such as an intervening deck post, displaces the gutter away from
the beam. In such a case the fascia board enhances appearance as
well as provides a surface for attaching the gutter.
[0161] The low-side configuration can vary with deck configuration,
however, each configuration includes a low-ledger 2. The low-ledger
may be fastened directly to deck posts or indirectly with
endboards
[0162] Advantage of High-Ledger and Low-Ledger Structures
[0163] The high-side and the low-side configurations have
alternates for adaptation to the deck and adjacent structure. A
commonality of the alternates is a high-ledger and a low-ledger
each with an upper-face and an adjacent upstanding-face. This
structure allows efficiency of installation, access and removal, by
placing and lifting. Another important result of these features is
that the grid can be adjusted during installation, to adapt to the
imperfect geometry of decks and adjacent buildings. Typically,
high-ledgers and low-ledgers in combination act as a fairly uniform
tray upon which a grid can be easily installed and adjusted. The
upstanding, or vertical faces, of the ledgers need not be above the
upper-faces of the ledgers. For example, for a 2.times.4 acting as
a sloping-member, a square notch cut out of the bottom corners has
the sloping-member resting on the upper-face of the ledger but
pressing against a vertical, or upstanding, which adjacent but
below the upper-face. Embodiments having joist hangers or a series
of slots have upper-faces and upstanding faces as do the ledgers,
but the addition of lateral faces obstructs adjustments, making
installation more complicated and difficult.
[0164] Generally, it is not required for the two ledgers--the
high-ledger and the low-ledger--that one be higher than the other.
This can be done simply by adding, to the preferred embodiment, at
the high-side a gutter and low-side type supporting structure.
However, the disadvantages of having a level system generally
include: having to supply an additional gutter, drainage and
support system, accumulation of debris over level panels,
accumulation of snow and ice over level panels; more difficulty in
keeping an area dry for installation of a device through panels,
such as a ceiling fan or a swing.
[0165] High-end, low-end, high-side, low-side and sloping-member
are descriptive terms convenient for describing and comprehending
the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Equivalent terms
for a more general characterization of the invention are
respectively, first-end, second-end, high-end, low-end,
rafter-member.
[0166] Other Panel Holding Means--FIG. 1, 43-46
[0167] Panels are supported by the grid surface. The panels holding
means then holding panels to the grid, restraining vertical or
horizontal displacement. In general panels rest on a grid and are
held, or contained, at the high-side and at the low-side.
Preferably, panels are held by flashing 9 at the high-side and by
panel clips 8 at the low-side. Generally, the holding means at the
high-side includes the upstanding-face 1b1 of the high-ledger and
the flashing. The flashing, when caulked, acts both as a holding
means and a moisture barrier. The clips hold panels at the
bottom.
[0168] An alternate panel holding means at the high-side is shown
in FIGS. 43-46. Holes 17a through the overlapping panels 10 are
aligned and fitted about a projection 17b from the upper-face of
the sloping-member, the projection can be a partially driven nail.
Using pre-drilled holes about 1/8-inch in diameter and finishing
nails seems to work well.
[0169] In rare instances, in very windy locations, it may be
necessary to fasten one or more panels. This may be done by sending
a wood screw through a rafter into a high portion of the panels
above. The penetration typically does not leak .In even more
demanding locations a wind-strap may be applied the full width of
an installation. FIGS. 42 and 43 show A 1/2.times.1-inch strip is
fastened at its ends typically at end rafters. The wind-strap
typically is positioned over a row of cross-members to avoid
detection from below.
[0170] Sloping-Member Support with Mid-Ledgers--FIGS. 47-49
[0171] Installations with sloping-member spans greater than 10-feet
usually require additional support. This may be accomplished though
the use of a mid-ledger.
[0172] FIG. 47 shows a mid-ledger 19 fitted into a mid-level
endboard 18. A mid-ledger is like a low-ledger except that it has
slots 19c, FIG. 48, for the sloping-members to pass through. FIG.
49 shows a side view of a mid-ledger held by a mid-level endboard
18, which is attached to a joist 13. A mid-ledger is made the same
way a low-ledger is made, except that it is preferable to trim
1/2-inch off the 5/4 board to make it 5 inches in height, which
gives a lighter look. The notches 19c are cut out generally every
24-inches to coincide with the location of the transverse
sloping-members. Panels are able to rest on the upper-edge of the
mid-ledger, such that the mid-ledger in effect replaces a row of
cross-members and becomes part of the grid.
[0173] Mid-Span Ledger Support with Mid-Span Hangers--FIGS.
50-54
[0174] Mid-Span supports are required along the length of the
ledgers (low-ledgers, mid-ledgers and high-ledgers) for otherwise
unsupported lengths greater than 13 feet. If a deck post is present
a wood post bracket 20, FIG. 50, can be used. The plate 20a for the
wood post bracket is made similarly as the plates for endboards, by
fastening 2 sheets of 3/4-inch plywood together and cutting to
shape. Brackets can be attached to the sides 20b and bottom 20c to
complete the unit, which can be stocked for later use. Mid-span
hangers 21, FIG. 52, can be used where no posts are available. FIG.
52 shows mid-span hangers utilized to increase the span for a
low-ledger 2 and a mid-ledger 19. Blocking 21c can be made by
fastening two 5/4 boards together. The blocking is then fastened to
deck joists 13, for which screws and washers 21d can be used. A
bracket 21b is fastened to the underside of the ledger's 2.times.2s
and the face of the ledger's 5/4 board, which extends below the
2.times.2. A hole is drilled through the bracket and 2.times.2.
After the panels are set, a long screw 21a is driven through the
hole and the high corrugation of the panels above and into the
blocking. The result is very leak resistant.
Other Embodiments
[0175] While the above description contains many specificities,
these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the
invention, but rather as exemplifications of embodiments thereof.
Many other variations are possible. Various plastic or sheet metal
panels can be used. The sloping members can be wood, metal, or
plastic. Presently, wood members are preferred mostly due to
aesthetics and ease of manufacturing. The equivalents of
cross-members could be metal or plastics. One inexpensive
embodiment with which the inventor has experimented is a plurality
of metal j-beads, 2 to 10 feet long, with the two short legs
notched out at the locations of the sloping members, with nails
projecting from the sloping members to hold the j-beads in place.
For example, sloping-member with continuous slots may be
manufactured from extruded aluminum. The sloping-members could have
a series of projections rather than the holes that are shown in
FIG. 25. If looking for strength, another embodiment the inventor
has constructed has been the use of 2.times.4s for sloping members,
2.times.6s with joist hangers replacing the lower-side ledger and
the upper-side ledger.
[0176] Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited
not by the embodiments illustrated.
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