U.S. patent application number 11/329563 was filed with the patent office on 2007-07-12 for capped foundation wall encapsulation system.
Invention is credited to Michael Delmolino, Lawrence M. Janesky.
Application Number | 20070157533 11/329563 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38231402 |
Filed Date | 2007-07-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070157533 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Janesky; Lawrence M. ; et
al. |
July 12, 2007 |
Capped foundation wall encapsulation system
Abstract
A wall sealing system for sealing a foundation against
infiltrating vapors is provided. The system has a wall cap adapted
for capping at least a portion of the foundation wall and for
closing at least one open hollow in the foundation wall
communicating with a source of infiltrating vapors. The wall cap
has a recess formed therein for admitting the cap portion of the
foundation wall. At least one surface of the recess forms a closure
substantially sealing the at least one open hollow.
Inventors: |
Janesky; Lawrence M.;
(Seymour, CT) ; Delmolino; Michael; (Monroe,
CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PERMAN & GREEN
425 POST ROAD
FAIRFIELD
CT
06824
US
|
Family ID: |
38231402 |
Appl. No.: |
11/329563 |
Filed: |
January 11, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/169.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02D 31/02 20130101;
E02D 31/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/169.14 |
International
Class: |
E02D 19/00 20060101
E02D019/00 |
Claims
1. A foundation wall sealing system for sealing a foundation wall
against infiltrating air and vapors, the system comprising a wall
cap adapted for capping at least a portion of the foundation wall
and for closing at least one open hollow in the foundation wall
communicating with a source of infiltrating vapors, the wall cap
having a recess formed therein for admitting the capped portion of
the foundation wall therein, wherein at least one surface of the
recess forms a closure substantially sealing the at least one open
hollow.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the foundation wall is
formed from open hollow core blocks, and wherein the at least one
hollow is defined by at least one of the open hollow core
blocks.
3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wall cap has a
general angle shape defined by adjoining flanges, and wherein one
of the flanges defines the at least one surface forming the
closure.
4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the general angle shape
defines the recess.
5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wall cap is a
plastic extrusion.
6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the wall cap is clear
plastic.
7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wall cap is
metal.
8. A sealing system for at least a partially subterranean chamber
of a building, the system comprising: a foundation wall cap for
capping a hollow block foundation wall; and a continuous sealed
liner barrier layer covering a floor of the chamber to provide a
barrier against the penetration of groundwater and water vapor
through the floor, said barrier layer having extensions which
extend up against the foundation wall to seal with the foundation
wall cap.
9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the liner barrier layer
is plastic.
10. The system according to claim 8, wherein the foundation wall
cap is a plastic extrusion.
11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the foundation wall
cap is clear plastic.
12. The system according to claim 8, wherein the foundation wall
cap is metal.
13. A foundation wall cap for capping a hollow block foundation
wall and holding an insulation panel in a predetermined position
relative to the foundation wall, the foundation wall cap having a
general angle shape forming a recess adapted to receive therein a
portion of the foundation wall and the insulation panel.
14. The foundation wall cap according to claim 13, wherein the
recess has at least one insulation panel holding surface and at
least another surface capping the foundation wall and angled
relative to the at least one insulation panel holding surface.
15. The foundation wall cap according to claim 13, wherein the
insulation panel is foam insulation.
16. The foundation wall cap according to claim 13, wherein the
foundation wall cap is a clear plastic extrusion.
17. The foundation wall cap according to claim 13, wherein the
foundation wall cap is metal.
18. A foundation wall cap for capping a hollow block foundation
wall, the cap having a general channel shape formed by a pair of
opposing flange members located on opposite sides of a span member
connecting the pair of opposing flange members and defining a wall
receiving channel receiving the foundation wall therein when the
foundation wall cap is installed and caps the foundation wall.
19. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, wherein the wall
receiving channel has a flared opening.
20. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, wherein at least
one flange member of the pair of opposing flange members has a
portion angled relative to an adjoining portion of the at least one
flange member.
21. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, wherein the
foundation wall cap is clear plastic.
22. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, wherein the
foundation wall cap is metal.
23. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, further
comprising a foam seal strip located in the wall receiving channel
to engage the top of the foundation wall.
24. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, further
comprising a foam seal strip located on an exterior of the wall
receiving channel to engage a bottom surface of a sill plate.
25. The foundation wall cap according to claim 18, further
comprising an inner foam seal strip, located in the wall receiving
channel to engage the top of the foundation wall, and an outer foam
seal strip, located on an exterior of the wall receiving channel to
engage a bottom surface of a sill plate.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The exemplary embodiment described herein relates to
foundation wall systems and particularly to a novel and efficient
system for closing foundation walls and wall blocks and preventing
the entry of outside air and undesired gases into interiors of
buildings such as homes.
[0003] 2. Brief Description of Related Developments
[0004] Many buildings and homes are supported on foundation
systems, with foundation walls, that for example may define
basements, crawlspaces or other such partially subterranean
chambers, made of open hollow core concrete blocks. FIG. 1 shows
one example of a conventional foundation system of hollow core
block construction. As will be described further below, in many
cases the crawlspace or basement formed by the building foundation
system, extends at least partially down to a level below the level
of the surrounding soil. Accordingly, the foundation walls extend
down below the level of the surrounding soil, and possibly below
the level of saturated soils in wet weather. The hollow core
concrete blocks are porous so that water vapor may enter into and
is absorbed up through the concrete blocks of the crawlspace or
basement walls, from adjacent ground areas of higher elevation and
up from the sub-soil. FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional foundation
system FDN for a building (either commercial or residential which
is not shown in FIG. 1 for clarity). The conventional foundation
system FDN may have footings FT, extending for example around a
periphery of the foundation system to distribute the building loads
to the supporting soil. As seen in FIG. 1, the footings FT may be
positioned well below the ground surface of the surrounding soil S,
and as noted before for example, below the level of saturated soil
in wet weather (this ensures that footings rest on stable
undersoil). As seen in FIG. 1, the foundation system FDN may have
walls W that carry and distribute the building loads onto the
footings FT. In this example a sill plate SP located well above the
ground surface to avoid the deleterious effects from being in
contact with the ground and which may form an interface between the
building structure (not shown) and foundation system FDN, is shown
seated on the foundation walls. The foundation walls W hence, may
extend through surrounding soil that is saturated with moisture in
wet weather. As may be realized, the foundation walls W may form a
basement or crawlspace B for the building. Many earlier
construction techniques employed open hollow core blocks HB in
erecting foundation walls as shown in FIG. 1. In conventional
systems, a solid cap block may be used as a top course to cap the
open cores of the open core blocks of the foundation wall W, to
prevent moisture and outside air from the exterior E of the
building/foundation system from entering the basement/crawlspace
through the sill plate foundation interface. This nevertheless is
not enough to prevent uncontrolled entry of water vapor (as noted
above), along with possibly radon gas, and outside air (e.g. hot
humid air in the summer, cold air in the winter) through the
foundation. FIG. 1 shows the infiltration routes IR (in phantom)
for some of these undesired vapors and gases from the exterior air
E or soil S through the conventional foundation system into the
basement/crawlspace B. The openings of open hollow cores HC of the
wall blocks HB (which as may be realized from FIG. 1 are oriented
vertically) extend inwards from and remain uncovered, at least in
part, by the sill plate SP. Also, the openings of the hollow cores
of stacked blocks HB may overlap to form substantially vertical
channels or passages extending in the foundation wall. The porous
nature of the foundation blocks HB allows the water vapor or radon
gas (from soil S, see FIG. 1) and undesired unconditioned outside
air (cold in winter, hot in summer; from exterior E) to infiltrate
through the block walls into the open hollow cores and from there
flow into the basement/crawlspace B. By way of example, buildings
have low air pressure in the basements and crawlspaces (lower
levels) as air escapes the upper levels of structures as heat rises
which then creates a suction on the ground, drawing make-up air in
from places such as the open cores of the top of block foundation
walls. The escape of dangerous radon gas from the ground into the
crawlspace and into the building is highly undesired. The water or
water vapor drawn into the basement/crawlspace penetrates the
wooden structural members of the building, possibly causing wood
rot, mold, odors, attraction of ants and other insects, rodents
etc. Also, unconditioned air causes an energy penalty for the
building and its occupants, as on entry it is either heated, or
cooled and/or dehumidified by interior ambient air with converse
effects on the ambient conditions inside the building ultimately
compensated for with the building air conditioning systems that
consume energy.
[0005] Mold spores exist in air and grow into destructive mold in
the presence of organic material, such as moist wood. Humidity
levels of from 50% to 90% are common in crawlspaces, even those
that have never flooded. Mold can grow on dirt, insulation, wood
framing and even under carpeting on the floor within the home. Mold
digests and destroys organic materials as it feeds on them. Damp
environments also provide an inviting environment for insects such
as termites, ants and similar critters which feed on moist organic
material such as structural support wood and can contribute to the
destruction and collapse thereof.
[0006] In an effort to prevent the penetration of water vapors and
other undesired air into building basement(s) and crawlspace(s),
through the open cavities at the top of the block foundation wall,
a number of conventional techniques have been employed. For
example, such conventional techniques include inserting fiberglass
insulation, injecting foam insulation, putting a 2.times.4 or
1.times.3 board on top of the wall alongside the 2.times.6 sill
plate and trying to caulk it, or trying to slide a piece of metal
flashing on top of the wall and caulking it. This is difficult as
after the building is built with the joists just 11/2'' above the
top of the foundation wall making access to work difficult. Then
there may be pipes and or wires on top of the wall making access
more difficult.
[0007] The conventional techniques for preventing the entry of
undesired vapors and air into basements crawlspaces through open
hollow core block foundation walls have proven unsuccessful. The
exemplary embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein
overcome the problems of conventional systems as described further
below.
SUMMARY OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0008] In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present
invention a wall sealing system for sealing a foundation against
infiltrating vapors is provided. The system comprises a wall cap
adapted for capping at least a portion of the foundation wall and
for closing at least one open hollow in the foundation wall
communicating with a source of infiltrating vapors. The wall cap
has a recess formed therein for admitting the cap portion of the
foundation wall. At least one surface of the recess forms a closure
substantially sealing the at least one open hollow.
[0009] In accordance with another exemplary embodiment a sealing
system for at least a partially subterranean chamber of a building
is provided. The system comprises a foundation wall cap for capping
a hollow block foundation wall, and a continuous sealed liner
barrier layer. The barrier layer covers a floor of the chamber to
provide a barrier against the penetration of ground water and water
vapor through the floor. The barrier layer has extensions which
extend up against the foundation wall to seal with the foundation
wall cap.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The foregoing aspects and other features of the present
invention are explained in the following description, taken in
connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of a conventional
foundation system;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a building having a
foundation system incorporating features in accordance with one
exemplary embodiment of the present invention,
[0013] FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the foundation
system in FIG. 1, showing a wall cap in installed and uninstalled
positions.
[0014] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the foundation
system according to another exemplary embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 5 is another magnified partial cross sectional view of
a foundation system in accordance with still another
embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 6 is another magnified partial cross-sectional view of
a foundation system in accordance with yet another embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 7 is another magnified partial cross-sectional view of
a foundation system in accordance with yet another embodiment;
[0018] FIG. 8 is another magnified partial cross-sectional view of
a foundation system in accordance with yet another embodiment;
[0019] FIG. 9 is another magnified partial cross-sectional view of
a foundation system in accordance with yet another embodiment;
and
[0020] FIGS. 10-12 are other magnified partial cross-sectional
views of foundation systems in accordance with yet other
embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT(S)
[0021] Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown a building 10 such as a
house is illustrated supported upon foundation system 11
incorporating features according to one exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. Although the embodiments disclosed will be
described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings,
it should be understood that the embodiments disclosed can be
embodied in many alternate forms of embodiments. In addition, any
suitable size, shape or type of elements or materials could be
used.
[0022] The foundation system 11 generally has footings 11FT and
foundation walls 11W. The foundation system shown in FIG. 2 is a
representative foundation system, and in alternate embodiments the
foundation system may have any other desired configuration. The
footings 11FT and walls 11W of the foundation system 11 are
arranged generally similar to the footings and walls of
conventional foundation systems. The footings 11FT may be arranged
around the perimeter of the foundation system. The wall 11W may be
formed of open hollow core foundation blocks 11HB and may rest on
the footings 11FT as shown. The foundation footings 11FT and wall
11W may be buried, at least in part, in soil. The foundation wall
open hollow core blocks 11HB are generally similar to conventional
open hollow core foundation blocks HB, shown in FIG. 1 and
described before. Similar to the conventional foundation system
(see also FIG. 1) the open hollow core blocks may be stacked, with
the hollow core openings of each block located to bottom, to form
the foundation wall 11W. As seen in FIG. 2, sill plate 12SP, such
as for example a 2.times.6 strip, may be seated atop the foundation
wall 11W, providing an interface between the building structure and
foundation system 11 (as may be realized, floor beams (not shown)
of the building may be seated on the sill plate and may be joined
by a tie member 12T also seated on the sill plate). The sill plate
12SP may only partially cover the topmost openings in the hollow
core blocks 11HB, similar to sill plate SP partially covering
openings HC shown in FIG. 1. In this exemplary embodiment, the
foundation system 11 includes a block capping system 16. The block
capping system 16 closes and seals the exposed openings in the open
hollow core blocks 11W (similar to openings HC shown in FIG. 1) as
will be described in greater detail below.
[0023] Referring now also to FIG. 3, there is shown a magnified
partial cross-sectional view of foundation system 11 and sill plate
shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 shows the capping system 16 in an installed
position, and in a displaced position for clarity. In the displaced
position, the capping system is identified as 16'.
[0024] In this exemplary embodiment, the capping system 16 includes
wall cap element(s) 18. The wall cap element(s) 18 may be formed
for example of extruded or molded plastic material including for
example clear plastic, that is water-impervious or may be made from
suitable metal such as aluminum. In alternate embodiments may be
formed of any suitable material in any suitable manner. The wall
cap element(s) 18 may be formed in any desired length and may be
cut to suit at installation or may have various different
predetermined lengths selected at installation to suit the given
configuration. As seen in FIG. 3, the wall cap element(s) 18 has a
general angle configuration with a generally horizontal flange 22
and a generally vertical or inner flange 20 extending at an angle
of about 90.degree. from each other. As shown in FIG. 3, the shape
of the wall cap element(s) 18 is generally conformal to the wall
11W so that when the cap element 18 is mounted over the inside
upper corner of the foundation walls 11, the horizontal flange 22
overlaps the uncovered portion of the top surface 11WS of the walls
11W, from the inner edge 11WE thereof into the interior side of the
sill plate 12SP mounted on top of the walls 11W. Thus flange 22
operates to cover the exposed portion of the top of the walls 11W
and close the open hollow cores (similar to cores HC in FIG. 1) in
the wall as will be described further below.
[0025] The terms generally vertical and generally horizontal are
used for example purposes when referring to flanges 20, 22 and are
meant to cover any flange orientation of flanges 20, 22 that are
generally aligned with inside and upper wall 11W surfaces. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the vertical flange 20 may be seated
against the inner wall surface 11WE when the wall cap element(s) is
placed into its installed/mounted position on the wall. In
alternate embodiments, a gap may remain or be formed between the
vertical flange, or at least part thereof, and the inner wall
surface. The gap may be filled or closed by a suitable
substantially impermeable seal, gasket or liner that may be
positioned at installation of the wall cap element(s), or may be
introduced into the gap after the wall cap element(s) is installed
on the wall. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the generally
horizontal flange 22 may rest on the upper surface 11WS of the wall
when the wall cap element(s) 18 is installed. The outer edge 22E of
the flange 22 may engage the sill plate 12SP. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 3, the flange 22 may engage the sill plate 12SP. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the flange 22 may have an outer
portion terminating in outer edge 22E that is tapered or ramped to
allow the outer edge of the flange to be interposed (or otherwise
tucked in) between the bottom of the sill plate 12SP and the top
surface 11WS of the wall. This allows the flange 22 of the wall cap
element(s) 18 to form a seal 24 between wall cap element(s) and
sill plate 12SP that is sufficiently tight so that undesired water
vapor, water, and other gases and airs (from within the hollows in
the wall) are substantially prevented from infiltrating past the
cap element(s) to sill plate seal and entering the
basement/crawlspace interior. In alternate embodiments, a seal or
gasket made of a suitable elastomer material may be attached to the
outer edge of the top flange to generally seal against the sill
plate. In other alternate embodiments, a caulk material may be
placed at the interface between flange edge and sill plate. As may
be realized the configuration of the wall cap element(s) 18 allows
formation of a cap or cover of the wall hollows by merely inserting
or placing the wall cap element(s) 18, as indicated by the arrow in
FIG. 3, without demanding direct access to the top of the wall for
the installer. The clearance provided by the sill plate thickness
is more than sufficient to allow the flange 22 to slide over the
top of wall 11W to engagement with the sill plate. Moreover, the
top flange 22 of the wall cap element(s) 18 is sufficiently thin to
pass readily under any pipes, conduits or wires (II, shown in
phantom in FIG. 3) that may be installed above the wall when the
cap element(s) 18 is installed. As noted before, placement of the
wall cap element(s) 18 to its installed position, with the outer
edge 22E of flange 22 engaging (e.g. tucked under) the sill plate
12SP, forms seal 24 thereby sealing the wall upper surface without
using or depositing caulk materials at the interface between sill
plate and wall cap element(s) 18. As also noted before, in
alternate embodiments caulking material (e.g. a caulk bead) may be
deposited if desired at the juncture between the top flange wall
cap element and sill plate. As may be realized, the outer surface
of the wall cap element top flange provides an appropriate contact
surface for any caulking material that may be deposited at the
interface with the sill plate. As may be realized, the caulking
material may be placed onto the interface using suitable caulking
material deposition dispenser, or in other alternate embodiments,
the caulk material may be deposited in a desired amount onto the
outer edge of the cap element top flange prior to placement into
its installed position, so as to automatically contact the sill
plate upon placement of the cap element to the installed
position.
[0026] Referring still to FIG. 3, in the exemplary embodiment the
inner flange 20 forms a seal 26, when the wall cap element(s) 18 is
installed, with the inner upper surface 11WE. As noted before, in
the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the inner flange 20 is
seated against the inner wall surface 11WE. An adhesive layer (not
shown) may be deposited between the flange 20 and wall surface 11WE
to secure the wall cap element(s) 18 in its installed position to
the wall. The adhesive layer may be provided by a sealing caulk
that forms seal 26. In alternate embodiments, an adhesive to hold
the cap element onto the wall may be used in addition to the
sealing caulk sealing the inner flange to the wall. In other
alternate embodiments, the seal between inner flange may be formed
by impermeable gaskets, seals or liners that may be attached to the
inner flange of the wall cap pre-mounting to the wall. In such
alternate embodiments, caulking seal material may not be used, the
gasket/seal on the wall cap flange providing the cap to wall seal
(similar to seal 26 in FIG. 3) alone. In the exemplary embodiment,
the adhesive/caulking material may be pressure sensitive applied to
either the wall cap element(s) inner flange, or if desired the wall
surface 11WE, prior to placement of the wall cap element(s) against
the wall. As also shown in FIG. 3, in this exemplary embodiment the
wall cap element(s) 18 may be held to the wall 11 by mechanical
fasteners 28. The fasteners 28 may be used in combination with an
adhesive/caulk to secure the wall cap element(s) to the wall, or
the fasteners may be used in place of an adhesive. Fasteners 28
(only one is shown for example purposes) may be of any suitable
type, for example wall anchors and screws, and may be used in any
desired size and number suitable to secure each of the wall cap
element(s) 18 to the wall 11. Holes may be drilled in the wall
surface 11WE and flange 20 for fasteners 28 at any time including
before or after placement of the wall cap element(s) in the
installed position (e.g. the wall cap element(s) flange may have
pre-formed fastener holes, or they may be drilled in place). As may
be realized, the general angle configuration of the wall cap
element(s) 18 enable the wall cap element(s) 18 to serve not only
as a cap for the open hollow cores of the wall 11, but also
overcome problems of conventional systems with the in place sealing
of the cap to the sill plate or other structure resting on the top
of the wall. By effectively automatically sealing the cap to
structure interface on top of the wall on placement, and presenting
an easy to access inner flange on the inside of the wall, the wall
cap element(s) 18 transforms the problem of sealing the hard to
access top of the open hollow core wall 11W to an easy to seal
flange to wall interface. It may be further realized that the inner
flange also serves as a user handling feature for holding and
handling the cap element(s) 18 during installation, which upon
installation becomes substantially flush with the surface of the
wall (thereby avoiding further work to remove or position out of
the way).
[0027] Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a cross-sectional
view of a foundation sealing or capping system 11C in accordance
with another exemplary embodiment, Capping system 116 is
substantially similar, except as otherwise noted below, to capping
system 16 described before and shown in FIG. 3. Similar features
are similarly numbered. In this embodiment, the capping system''
element(s) 118 may be used in conjunction with an impermeable
continuous sealed plastic film barrier 13 sealing the
basement/crawlspace. FIG. 2 illustrates film barrier 13 placed to
seal the interior of the basement/crawlspace. One example of a
suitable sealing film barrier is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,575,666, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by
reference. U.S. Pat. No. 6,525,666 discloses a system for
waterproofing a basement crawlspace against the entry of sub-soil
water vapor and also against the entry of external ground water
through the crawlspace walls and further completely isolates the
building from water vapor from the earth or subterranean gases. The
system of U.S. Pat. No. 6,575,666 comprises a applying over the
floor of the basement crawlspace, for example a dirt floor but
sometimes a poured concrete floor, a continuous sealed plastic film
barrier layer similar to barrier 13 in FIG. 2, and extending the
barrier film vertically-upwardly to cover and seal the interior
peripheral walls similar to walls 11W enclosing the crawlspace to a
desired elevation. The film barrier 13, such as of plastic film,
which may be a monofilm but preferably is a 16 mil thick durable
heavy duty, fiber-reinforced multi-ply plastic film or rubber
sheeting. This encapsulates the inner surface of the entire
crawlspace against the penetration of external ground water or
flood water and also sub-soil water and water vapor onto the
surface of the plastic barrier film and into the
basement/crawlspace atmosphere. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2,
the film barrier 13 is extended along the walls 11W to a region
proximate the tops of walls 11W so that the barrier 13 may be
interface with and sealed to the capping system 116 as will be
described below. The wall cap element(s) 118 of capping system 116,
are shaped, as shown In FIG. 4, substantially similar to element(s)
18 described before. Thus cap element(s) 118 have a general angle
shape complementing the top inner corner of wall 11W, with a top
flange 122 which is designed to extend along the top surface
(similar to surface 11WS in FIG. 2) of the block wall substantially
into contact with the inside edge of the sill plate supported on
the cement block wall, to seal the top surface of the cement block
wall from the edge of the sill plate inwardly to the inside surface
of the wall. The cap element(s) 118 may also have inner flange 120
which is designed to extend downwardly at least a slight distance
along the inner surface of wall 11W to provide a continuous bonding
surface for the top edge of a plastic film barrier 13.
[0028] As seen in FIG. 4, the inner flange 120 of the cap
element(s) 18 may be bonded to the inside surface of the
water-impervious film barrier 13, around the inner periphery of the
foundation walls 11W to provide a continuous sealing system or
barrier around the basement/crawlspace to foundation system
interface.
[0029] The inner peripheral flange 120 of the cap element(s) 118
extends and is supported against the inner surfaces of the
foundation walls 11 and bonded thereto at an elevation which may be
above the exterior ground level, to the top inner wall 11W of the
foundation walls 11. The continuous film barrier 13 may be sealed
or bonded to the inner flange 20 around the entire inner periphery
of the foundation wall 11 by means of an adhesive tape or a
continuous bead of suitable adhesive or caulk composition 126 such
as a polyurethane composition. Nylon fasteners may be used to
support the barrier film 13 vertically over the foundation 11
during installation and prior to attachment to cap element(s)
18.
[0030] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the barrier film 13 may
be sealed adjacent barrier film 13 of the walls 11 peripherally,
adjacent the uppermost edges 13T of the liner 13 by a continuous
sealing bead 21b, as illustrated. Any exterior ground water or
condensation or water vapor which might penetrate the foundation
11, such as through a concrete block wall, is trapped beneath the
barrier film 13 and flows down to the floor of the crawl space
and/or into a perimeter drain and sump, if present (see FIG. 2).
The inner flange 120 of the capping element(s) 118 may be also
secured to the wall 11W by a fastener system similar to system 28
shown in FIG. 3. The fasteners and fastener holes of the fastener
system may be located in a suitable location such as above the
sealing area 21b between barrier film 13 and inner wall surface. In
alternate embodiments, a fastener system may not be used. As noted
before, cap element(s) 118 may be clear plastic thereby allowing an
installer to visually inspect the interface between barrier film 13
and inner flange 120 to ensure sufficient overlap is present and
desired seal is provided. Furthermore, the clear element(s) may
enable inspection of the underlying region to detect or identify
undesired activity such as termite or insect activity.
[0031] Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a partial
cross-sectional view of a wall cap system 216 in accordance with
another exemplary embodiment, and a portion of a foundation wall
11W. Except as otherwise noted below, wall cap system 216 is
substantially similar to cap systems 16, 116 described before.
Similar features are similarly numbered. In this exemplary
embodiment the wall cap system 216 has cap element(s) 218 having a
general angle shape with top and inner flange 222, 220 (similar to
flanges 22, 20 of the cap element(s) 18 shown in FIG. 3) but sized
to include insulation panels 213 as shown. The insulation panels
may be of any suitable type, such as hard foam insulation panel
213. The insulation panels 213 may have the foam core enclosed in
suitable facia material (not shown) of suitable metal or plastic.
The insulation panels 213 may be of any desired thickness. In
alternate embodiments the panels may be any desired type of panel.
As seen in FIG. 5, the panels 213 may be positioned against the
foundation wall(s) 11W. For example, the panels 213 may be placed
so that a space or air gap 218G is formed between the panel face
and inner wall surface. The gap may allow water penetrating the
wall or condensation to run to the floor for collection and
discharge. A suitable panel mounting or positioning system (not
shown) may be used to locate and mount the panels 213 in the
desired position relative to the foundation wall. If desired, the
panel mounting system may depend from or engage the foundation
wall. A caulking bead or caulk panel may be placed between the top
of panels 213 and foundation wall if desired. In alternate
embodiments, a barrier film, similar to barrier film 13 in FIG. 4,
or other desired seal material may be interposed between panel and
inner wall surface. In other alternate embodiments, the panel outer
facia may be formed from a seal material, and the panel positioned
with the seal material against the wall. As seen in FIG. 5, in this
embodiment the top 213T of the wall panels(s) 213 is located within
the angle of the cap element(s) 218 when the cap element(s) 218 is
in the installed position. The top flange 222 of the cap element(s)
218 extends over the panel 213 and covers the open top of the walls
11w to engage and seal against the sill plate 12SP as previously
described. As may be realized the panel 213 may have any desired
height so that when the cap element(s) 218 is installed inner
flange 220 overlaps an upper portion of the panel sufficiently to
form a seal 226 therewith. A suitable caulking material or layer
may be deposited or installed to seal the interface between the
inner flange 220 and inner face of panel(s) 213. The cap element(s)
218 may otherwise be mounted in a manner similar to cap element(s)
18, 118 described before.
[0032] Referring now to FIG. 6 there is shown a partial
cross-sectional view of a wall cap system 316 in accordance with
another exemplary embodiment and foundation wall 11W'. In this
embodiment, the foundation wall 11W' may represent foundation walls
such as during new construction or other such state of construction
in which the top surface 11WS' of the foundation wall 11W' may be
generally entirely accessible. Otherwise foundation walls(s) 11W'
is substantially similar to foundation wall(s) 11W (formed of open
hollow core construction in blocks) described before. The
foundation wall(s) 11W' is shown in FIG. 6 at a stage of
construction before placement of a sill plate or other building
support structure onto the top of the foundation wall(s). The wall
cap system 316 has wall cap element(s) 318 which though generally
similar to cap element(s) 18, 118, 218 described before, cap over
substantially the entire top surface 11WS' of the foundation wall
11W' as will be described below. In this exemplary embodiment, the
cap element(s) 318 has a general channel shape defining a recess
substantially conformal to the top of the foundation wall(s) 11W'.
The cap element(s) 318 may have inner and outer flanges 320I, 320O,
oriented to extend respectively along inner and outer wall surfaces
11WE', 11WO', and connected by spanning member 322, extending over
the top wall surface 11WS' as shown in FIG. 6. The wall cap
element(s) 318 may be of unitary construction. In alternate
embodiments, each wall cap element(s) may be formed from multiple
independent wall cap element sections, such as two or more angle
shaped cap element sections that may be positioned on the wall in
an opposing relationship to each other (i.e. one angle section
capping the inner top wall corner and the opposing angle section
capping the outer top wall corner) with an overlap of the top
flange. In still other alternate embodiments, the wall cap
element(s) may have a general angle shape (e.g. inner flange, or
upper flange and top flange) with the top flange extending
sufficiently to cover substantially the entire top surface (similar
to surface 11WS'') of the wall. Seal or caulk material may be
placed between the outer flange 322O and outer wall surface 11WO'
to form outer seal 326O between cap element(s) 318 and wall 11W' on
the exterior of the building A foam seal strip 340 may be
positioned between span member 322 of cap element(s) 318 and top
wall surface 11WS'. The foam seal strip 340 may be pliant, helping
to close off any opening or gaps between the top wall surface 11WS'
and span member 322 of the wall cap element(s) 318. The foam seal
strip 340 may thus form an insulating space (i.e. dead space) to
prevent infiltration of outside air between cap element(s) and top
of wall. In this embodiment the span member 322 defines a seating
surface for building structure members such as sill plate 12SP.
[0033] As seen in FIG. 6, in this embodiment the cap element(s) 318
may have an intermediate flange 320B positioned between inner and
outer flanges 320I, 320O. The intermediate flange 320B is
positioned to be located immediately adjacent and interface with
the inner wall surface 11WS' when the cap element(s) 318 is mounted
on the wall 11W'. The intermediate and inner flanges 320B, 320I
define a secondary channel or recess 320R in the cap element(s)
318. The secondary channel 320R may be sized to admit the top of a
foam panel 313 (which may be substantially similar to foam panel
213 described before). Hence, the secondary channel 320R may
provide the cap element(s) 318 with a panel holding or locating
system capable of holding or locating panel(s) 313. In alternate
embodiments, the cap element(s) 318 may have any other desired type
of panel holding/locating system. In other alternate embodiments,
the cap element(s) may be without the intermediate flange, the
panel (similar to panel 313) being held by the inner cap element
flange against the wall in a manner similar to that shown in FIG.
5. Caulk material may be placed between the panel 313 and inner and
intermediate flange 320I, 320B to form a seal 326 between panel and
cap element(s) 310. As may be realized from FIG. 6, the open access
over the top of foundation wall 11W' allows the cap element(s) 318
to be placed over the wall top surface 11WS' and top of panel 313,
by lowering the cap element(s) 318 (in the direction indicated by
arrow Z) until seated on the wall 11W' as shown. Once seated
caulking material may be applied if desired. The cap element(s) 318
may be secured to the wall 11W' in a similar manner to cap
element(s) 18 shown in FIG. 3.
[0034] Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown a cross-sectional
view of a wall capping system 416 in accordance with yet another
exemplary embodiment. The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 7 may
be used/installed during new construction and seals either open
cavities of blocks before installation of a sill plate, or may stop
water vapor infiltration, by capillary action, from a block wall
with a solid course of cap blocks on top or even with a poured
concrete wall. The capping system in this embodiment may further
serve for example in a termite, or other insect, barrier protecting
the sill plate. Capping system 416 is substantially similar to
capping system 316 except as otherwise noted. The cap element(s)
418 of the capping system 416 does to have an intermediate flange
(similar to flange 320B) for locating a wall panel. In this
embodiment, the cap element(s) 418 has inner and outer flanges
420I, 420O and span member 422 extending therebetween. The inner
and outer flanges 320I, 320O are respectively sealed to inner and
outer faces of wall 11W' by seals 426, 426O. The top span member
422 may have a suitable flexible or elastomeric foam seal strip 440
on the surface facing the top of the wall. The seal strip 440 may
be secured to the span member with suitable adhesive (e.g. pressure
sensitive adhesive or tape) or with mechanical fasteners (such as
clamps, flex tabs, screws) to allow installation of the cap
element(s) 418 onto the wall 11W' with the seal strip already
secured thereto.
[0035] FIG. 8 shows a wall cap system 516 in accordance with yet
another embodiment. The exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8 may be
used/installed during new construction and seals either open
cavities of blocks before installation of a sill plate, or may stop
water vapor infiltration, by capillary action, from a block wall
with a solid course of cap blocks on top or even with a poured
concrete wall. The capping system in this embodiment may further
serve for example in a termite, or other insect, barrier protecting
the sill plate. The cap element(s) 518 of the wall cap system in
this embodiment is similar to cap element(s) 418, but with the
opening to the channel formed by the cap element(s) 518 flared
outwards. As seen in FIG. 8, the lower portion 520L of both inner
and outer flanges 520I 520O is angled with respect to the rest of
the flange, and hence also with respect to the adjacent wall
surface. The angled portion 520L are angled away from the wall
thereby providing the channel an outward flare. The angled portions
520L of the flanges may serve as placement guide surfaces aiding in
the positioning of the cap element(s) 518 when the cap element(s)
518 is lowered over the top of the wall, the guiding/angled surface
520L allow the inner and outer flanges 520I, 520O to be positioned
closer together, thereby forming a smaller clearance gap with the
wall 11W' (which is more readily sealed), without impairing the
ease of installation of the cap element(s) 518 onto the wall. In
alternate embodiments, the cap element(s) may have one flange (e.g.
either inner or outer) that has an angled portion and one flange
which has no angled portion.
[0036] FIG. 9 shows a wall cap system 616 in accordance with yet
another exemplary embodiment. The cap system 616 has wall cap
element(s) 618 substantially similar to cap element(s) 418. In this
embodiment the cap element has seal strips 440L, 440V on both the
inside and outside of the span member 622 (spanning between inner
and outer flanges 620O, 620I) seal strips 640L, 640V may be similar
to each other and to seal strip 440 described before. The seal
strips 640L, 640V may be of any desired thickness and may be
secured to the span member 622 or other portions of the cap
element(s) by any suitable adhesive or fastening system. As seen in
FIG. 9, the seal strip 640L on the inside of span 622 is sandwiched
between span member 622 and top of wall 111W'. The seal strip 640O
on the outside of span member 622 (opposite seal strip 640L)
provides a pliant sealing surface for building support structure
member, for example sill plate, 12SP, that may be seated onto the
cap element(s) 618 of capping system 616.
[0037] In FIG. 10, another wall cap system 716 is shown in
accordance with another exemplary embodiment. Wall cap system 716,
is similar to cap system 616 shown in FIG. 9, having a cap
element(s) 718 (similar to element 618) and a seal strip 740V
(similar to seal strip 640V). The seal strip 740V is affixed to
outside of span member 722. In this embodiment there may be no seal
strip between span member 722 and top of wall 11W'. The cap
element(s) 718 may be sealed to wall by seals 726, 726O
respectively between inner and outer flanges 720I, 720O of the
element(s) and inner and outer surface of wall 11W'.
[0038] Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown another wall cap
system 816 in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment.
Wall cap system 816 is generally similar to cap systems 16, 216,
(see FIGS. 3, 5) as well as cap system 316 (see FIG. 6) described
before. Similar features are similarly numbered. In the exemplary
embodiment, the cap system 816 may have cap element(s) 818 having a
general angle shape with top and inner flanges 822, 820 (similar to
flanges 22, 20 of cap element(s) 18 shown in FIG. 3). The flanges
are shed and shaped to seat substantially flush against top and
inner surfaces of wall 11W, and seal the exposed top of the hollow
core block wall as previously described. Cap element(s) may be
clear plastic, or may include a clear plastic portion for example
in flange 820, enabling visual inspection of the underlying wall
section. This may allow inspection of the adequacy of the fit up at
installation between cap and wall, as well as post installation
inspections for detection of undesired insect activity proximate
the sill plate (similar to sill plate 12SP). As seen in FIG. 11, in
this embodiment cap 318 has a recess or channel 820R formed on the
vertical flange 800. The recess 820R is generally similar to
channel 320R of cap element(s) 318 shown in FIG. 6, and is sized
and shaped to stably hold the top of a foam panel (similar to panel
313 described before). The location of the channel 820K shown in
FIG. 11 is merely exemplary, and in alternate embodiments the
channel may be positioned as desired. The cap element(s) 818 may be
a one piece member, with flanges 820I, 820T forming channel 820R
being integrally formed with flange 820. In alternate embodiments,
the flanges defining the panel retaining channel being fastened, or
attached otherwise to the inner flange of the cap element(s). As
may be realized, the cap element(s) 818 of capping system 816, may
be retrofit to existing structure, though if desired capping system
816 may be installed also during new construction. Retrofit
installation may be accomplished in a manner generally similar to
installation to cap element(s) 18, 216 described before. For
example, in crowded conditions, where multiple interferences
(similar to conduit, wiring, pining I) are located in close
proximity to the top of the wall, the cap element(s) 818 may be
mounted by sliding the cap elements outward to the seated position
shown. The panel(s) (similar to panels 313) may be installed into
channels 820R and the cap element(s) may be sealed to sill plate
and wall as previously described. The cap element(s) may be allowed
to float (i.e. remain unsealed) to facilitate panel fit up into the
channel(s) 820R. In alternate embodiments any other desired method
of installation may be employed.
[0039] FIG. 12 shows another wall cap system 916 in accordance with
yet another exemplary embodiment. Wall cap system 916 is generally
similar to cap system 816 described before and shown in FIG. 12
(Similar features are similarly numbered). In the exemplary
embodiments, cap system 916 may have cap element(s) 918. As seen in
FIG. 12, in this embodiment the cap element(s) 918 may have
vertical 920 and horizontal flanges 922 that form a general angle
configuration. Vertical flange 920 has a general stepped
configuration, formed by flange portions 920I, 920T, providing the
cap element(s) with a first wall receiving recess, and a second
recess 920R. The wall receiving recess is shaped to conform to the
exposed corner of the block wall 11W as seen in FIG. 12.
Accordingly, when the cap element(s) 918 is installed on the wall,
the flanges 920, 922 may be seated against the wall, as shown
closing off the exposed top of the wall. The second recess 920R is
sized and shaped to receive the top of an insulation panel 913
(similar to panels 213, 313) and stably secure the panel top when
the cap element(s) 918 is mounted on the wall as shown as will be
described below. In the exemplary embodiment, the cap element(s)
918 may be of unitary construction, though in alternate embodiments
the cap element(s) may be formed from sections (e.g. flange
sections) that are assembled and joined together to form the cap
element(s). The cap element(s) 918 may be made from clear plastic,
alternatively or the upper portion 920U of the vertical flange 920
may be clear plastic, or any other suitable transparent material.
This, as noted before facilitates visual inspection of the wall
portion behind the flange for installation fit up and post
installation conditions. Installation of the cap element(s) 918 may
be similar to installation of cap element(s) 818. In this exemplary
embodiment, the size of the second recess 920R may be such that the
lower portion of the inner flange 920I contacts the insulation
panel 913 and biases the insulation panel against the wall. As may
be realized, the flange portion 920I, or vertical flange 920 may be
resiliently flexible, or may have any suitable biasing elements
(e.g. adjustable clamps) mounted thereon to enable flange portion
920I in contact with insulating panel to bias the panel against the
wall. As may also be realized, the bias generated by flange portion
920I also allows a liner or vapor barrier 13 to be captured and
held at the top of the insulation panel(s) 913 as shown in FIG. 12.
In alternate embodiments, the vapor barrier may be exterior to the
panels (i.e. between panel and wall). Thus, installation of the cap
element(s) 918 of cap system 916 seals the exposed portion of the
top of the block wall 11W, and facilitates securing insulation
panels with or without a vapor barrier to the wall.
[0040] It should be understood that the foregoing description is
only illustrative of the invention. Various alternatives and
modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without
departing from the invention. Accordingly, the present invention is
intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and
variances which fall within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *