CA2326252C - Post cladding assembly with sheet retaining means - Google Patents
Post cladding assembly with sheet retaining means Download PDFInfo
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- CA2326252C CA2326252C CA002326252A CA2326252A CA2326252C CA 2326252 C CA2326252 C CA 2326252C CA 002326252 A CA002326252 A CA 002326252A CA 2326252 A CA2326252 A CA 2326252A CA 2326252 C CA2326252 C CA 2326252C
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- post
- panel
- cladding element
- channel
- cladding
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Abstract
An elongate modular post cladding element is adapted for cooperating with. at least one other cladding element to cover a post. The cladding element includes a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally- extending side edges. A female fastener extends along the first side edge of the panel. A complementary male fastener extends along the opposed second side edge of the panel. The female fastener has spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove having a depth at least twice as great as its width. The groove defines a position adjustment zone for receiving a selected portion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post. A, retaining assembly provided for securing a flexible sheet material to the panel.
Description
POST CLADDING ASSEMBLY WITH SHEET RETAINING MEANS
Technical Field and Background of Invention The present invention relates to a post cladding assembly including means for retaining a sheet material, such as a wire mesh screen or plastic film, used for enclosing an outdoor deck or porch. The invention is essentially maintenance free, is quickly and easily assembled, and is adjustable to accommodate minor size variations in the post.
In addition to post cladding, the invention provides convenient means for securing a flexible wire mesh screen or plastic film between adj acent, spaced-apart posts of the outdoor deck or porch.
The screen and film is readily attached to and removed from the post cladding without the use of special tools or penetrating fasteners.
Summary of the Invention Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which improves the appearance and weather-resistance of wood posts commonly used in outdoor decks and porches.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which requires relatively little maintenance.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding element which is quickly and easily applied to the post.
12-20-00;1~:34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 3a6 359 6956 # 7/ 26 It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which is adjustable to accommodate slight size variations in the post.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding elezzzent which interconnects with like elements to form a cladding assembly.
It is another object ofthe izzvention to provide apost cladding assembly which is permanently attached to the post using fasteners which are concealed.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which includes means for readily attaching a wire mesh screen or plastic fxlrrz sheet to the post to enclose the area of the outdoor deck or porch.
'~ hese and other objects o~the present in~rention are achieved in the preferred err~bodiments disclosed below by providing an elongate modular post cladding element adapted for cooperating with at least one othe>c cladding elezruent to cover a post. The cladding element includes a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extendiuag side edges. A female ~astener extends along the first side edge 1:5 of the panel. A complementary male fastener extends along the opposed second side edge of the panel. The fenr><aIe fastener has spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove. The groove has a depth at least twice as great as its width. The groove defines a position adjustment zone ~or receiving a selected portion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post. Retaini,z~g means are provided for securing a
Technical Field and Background of Invention The present invention relates to a post cladding assembly including means for retaining a sheet material, such as a wire mesh screen or plastic film, used for enclosing an outdoor deck or porch. The invention is essentially maintenance free, is quickly and easily assembled, and is adjustable to accommodate minor size variations in the post.
In addition to post cladding, the invention provides convenient means for securing a flexible wire mesh screen or plastic film between adj acent, spaced-apart posts of the outdoor deck or porch.
The screen and film is readily attached to and removed from the post cladding without the use of special tools or penetrating fasteners.
Summary of the Invention Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which improves the appearance and weather-resistance of wood posts commonly used in outdoor decks and porches.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which requires relatively little maintenance.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding element which is quickly and easily applied to the post.
12-20-00;1~:34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 3a6 359 6956 # 7/ 26 It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which is adjustable to accommodate slight size variations in the post.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding elezzzent which interconnects with like elements to form a cladding assembly.
It is another object ofthe izzvention to provide apost cladding assembly which is permanently attached to the post using fasteners which are concealed.
It is another object of the invention to provide a post cladding assembly which includes means for readily attaching a wire mesh screen or plastic fxlrrz sheet to the post to enclose the area of the outdoor deck or porch.
'~ hese and other objects o~the present in~rention are achieved in the preferred err~bodiments disclosed below by providing an elongate modular post cladding element adapted for cooperating with at least one othe>c cladding elezruent to cover a post. The cladding element includes a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extendiuag side edges. A female ~astener extends along the first side edge 1:5 of the panel. A complementary male fastener extends along the opposed second side edge of the panel. The fenr><aIe fastener has spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove. The groove has a depth at least twice as great as its width. The groove defines a position adjustment zone ~or receiving a selected portion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post. Retaini,z~g means are provided for securing a
2() flexible sheet material to the panel.
According to another prefe~ed embodiment of the invention, the retaining means includes a longitudinal channel forzzzed with the panel, and an elongated flexible - 26~/7.z1 Page 2 --12-20-00;10:34AM;Furman & Kalllo Rga ;+t 306 359 6956 # 8/ 26 spline adapted for being inserted into the chanzxel to wedge the flexible sheet material between the spline and the panel.
According to yet arxother preferred embodiment of the invention, spaced-apart, inwardly extending shoulders axe' integrally formed with the channel arzd cooperating to secure the spline within the channel.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the male an,d female fasteners extend longitudinally from one end edge of the panel to the other.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the inve~ttion, the male and female fasteners are iutegrally~formed with the panel.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the ~aaale fastener includes at least one longitudinally-extending notch therein de~rning a wealc~ness line for being cut to shorten a lateral dimension of the cladding elernez~t.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, a longitudinally-extending attachment flange is ;formed adjacent the female fastener for receiving attachment rrzeans therethro~ugh to the post for pertnanentlpmounting the cladding element to the post.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the cladding element xs integrally-molded of a plastic material.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the retaining means includes a longitudinal channel formed with the panel, and a cap overlying the panel and including a longitudinally-extending, resilient connector strip for being inserted into the channel to Iavld the cap to the panel, thereby sandwiching the flexible sheet material between the cap and the panel.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, spaced-apart, inwardly 12-20-00;10~34aM;FUrmen & Kalllo Rge ;+1 306 359 6956 # 9/ 26 extending shoulders are integrally formed with the channel and cooperate to hold the connector strip within the channel.
Aceord,ing to yet anothez- preferred embodiment of the invention, the connector strip has a generally V-shaped profile, and includes outwardly extending shoulders cooperating with the S shoulders of the channel to Further secure the cap to the panel.
Tn another embodiment, the invention is a post cladding assembly including a plurality of post cladding elements for covering a post. Each of the post cladding elements includes a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges. A female fastener extends along the first side edge of the panel. A complementary male fastener extends along the opposed second side edge of the panel. fhe female fastener has spaced-apart surfaces forming a gezterally U-shaped groove having a depth at least twice as great as its width. The groove defines a position adjustment zone for receiving a selected poztion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post. Retaining means are provided fox securing a flexible 1.5 sheet material to the panel.
According to another pz~efeired embodiment of the invention, fist and second longitudinally-extending ridges are integrally formed with, the panel of th,e post cladding element, and are spaced-apart for residing adjacent opposite longitudinal side edges of the cap upon attachment of the cap to the panel.
Brief Description of the Drawings Some of the objects of the invention have been set forth above. Other obj ects and advantages of the invention vc~ill appear as the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with tlxe - 261/1.2x 'age 4 -12-20-00;10:34AM;Furman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # 1G/ 26 following dzawings, izx which:
Figure 1 is a plan view of two post cladding assemblies formed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and applied to the sides of respective posts with a wine mesh;
sezeen and plastic flrn extending between the posts;
Figure 2 is an end view of a post cladding element according to one preferx-ed embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 is an end view of a post cladding elezz~tent according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the post cladding assembly including a post cladding element shown in Figure 2, and showing the screen retained in the locking channel and the cap removed;
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the post cladding assembly including a post cladding element shown in Figure 3, az~d showing the screen retained in the locking channels and the cap removed; and 1~igtxre 6 is fragmentary, perspective view oftwo post cladding elements applied to respective sides of adjacent posts with the wire mesh screen secured within the locking channels and extending between the posts.
l~Jesc ' ~ n f the Preferred Embodiment antd Best Mo a Refexxing now specifically to the drawings, post cladding assemblies according to the present invention are illustrated in fiigure 1 and shown generalky at reference numerals 1 Q and 10', respectively. The cladding assemblies x 0 and 10' are particulazly applicable for cladding standard 4x4 and 2x4 wood posts commonly used in outdoor decks and poz~ches. For square posts "P", the ~2-20-00;~0:34AM;Furman & Kaillo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # tai 26 cladding assembly 10 is formed o,f four identical, elongate, modular post cladding elezztents 1 OA, I OB, l OC, and l OD adapted for covez'i,ng respective sides of the post. For 2x4 posts "P "', the cladding assembly 10' is formed of cladding elements 1 OA' and 10B' identical to those applied to the square past "P" and smaller cladding elements 10C' and 10D' for covering the narrower sides S of the post "P "'. The cladding assemblies 10 and 10' preferably extend the entire length of the posts and function to provide an aesthetic, generally maintenance-free exterior coveting.
The cladding elements l0A-lOD and l0A'-10D' cooperate ~uvith elongated flexible splines I 1A, 1 IB, 1 IC, 11D, 11E, and 11F and caps 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D, as described ftuther below, to secure a plastic filxxx 14 and/or wire screen 15 to the posts to enclose the outdoor deck or porch.
X 0 The post cladding elements l0A-I OD and l0A'-I OD' and caps 12A-12D are preferably indiwi,dually formed of extruded, 11.V. stabilized, high-impact rigid PV'C. The splines 11A-11F are preferably forztaed of a resilient plastic' or rubber material.
Description of Post Claddine Element 20 A single post cladding element 20 according to the invention is shown in Figure 2. 'fhe l :p cladding element 20 includes a panel 22 having opposing end edges and opposing longitudinal side edges. The panel 22 defines spaced-apart locking channels 24, 25, and 26 extending parallel to the side edges anal longitudinally from one end edge to ttxe other. The locking channels 24, 25, and 26 include respective pairs of spaced shoulders 27A, 27B, 28A, 28B, and 29A, 29B.
A female fastener 30 is integz~ally-formed along the first side edge of the panel 22, and includes spaced walls 3 I and 20 32 i'ozming a groove 33 oriented generally perpendicular to the exterior plane of the panel 22. A
complementary male fastenez~ 35 is integrally-formed along the opposed second side edge of the panel 22, and cooperates with a female fastener of an adj acent cladding element to interlock the two ~- z6I/121 Page 6 --12-20-00;10:34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # 12/ 26 cladding elements together on adjacent sides of the post. Preferably, the female fastener 30 and rxiale fastezzer 35 extend the entire length of the panel 22, and include respective engaging serrations (not shown).
The groove 33 of the female fastener 30 has a gezrerally U'-shaped profile adapted for receivir>,g the male fastener of an adjacent cladding element. The depth "y"
of the groove 33 is preferably about 3-4 tunes greater tban its width "x", such that the amount of male fastener received into the groove 33 eau be adjusted within an adjustment zone defined by the distance "y" for increasing or decreasing the lateral coverage of the adjacent cladding element on the post. For added size adjustment, the male fastener 35 includes spaced notches 37 and 38 which define respective weakness lines for being cut to shorten the lateral dimension of the cladding element 20. The notches 37, 38 preferably extend the entire length of the panel 22 from one end edge to the other.
In additibn, an attachment flange 39 is formed with the female fastener 30, and extends generally pezpendicular to the plane of the panel 22 for receiving nails or other suitable attachment means, such as tacks, staples, or the Like. The nails pass through the attachment flange 39 and iza,to 1,5 the wood post to permanently attach the cladding element to the post.
DesCriDtion of Post Cladding Element 40 A post cladding element 40 adapted for covering the narrower sides of the 2x4 wood post "P "' is best shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6. The cladding element includes a panel 42 having opposing end edges and opposing longitudinal side edges. The panel 42 defines spaced-apart lockaz~.g channels 44, 45, and 46 extending parallel to the side edges and longitudinally from one end edge to the other.
The lucking channels 44, 45, and 46 include respective pairs o~ spaced shoulders 47A, 47B, 48A, 4$B, and 49A, 49B. A female fastener 50, identical to that previously described, is integrally-12-20-00;10~34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rge ;+1 306 359 6956 # 13/ 26 formed along the first side edge of the panel 42, and includes spaced walls 51 az~d 52 forzxxing a groove 53 oriented generally perpendicular to the exterior plane of the panel 42. A, compiernentary male fastenex 55 is integrally-formed along the opposed second side edge of the panel 42, and cooperates with a fern.ale fastener of an adjacent cladding element to interlock the two cladding elements together on adjacent sides of the post. The male fastener 55 includes a notch S6 which defines a weakness line for being cut to shorten the lateral dimension of the cladding element 40.
The notch 56 preferably extends the entire length of the panel 42 from one end edge to the other.
An attachment flange 59 is formed with the female fastenez 50, and extends generally pezpendicular to the plane of the panel 42 for receiving nails or otlier suitable attachment means, such as tacks, staples, or the like. The nails (not shown) pass through the attachment flange 59 and into the wood post to permanently attach the cladding element 40 to the post.
Attachment of the Wire Scre~4E ~~nd 'Plastic F~lm to the Posts After assembly of the cladding elements 10A-1 OD and 1 OA'-l OD' on the posts "P" and "P"', as shown in Figure I, the plastic film 14 and/or wire mesh screen' 15 is attached to enciose the 1 a outdoor deck or porch area. Whale the following description refers only to the screen 15, it is understood that the means for attaching the plastic film 14 is identical.
Referring now to Figures 4 and 6, with the cap 12 removed, the marginal edge portion of the screen 15 is first placed against the cladding element 20 of the post "P" to cover the locking channel 24. The resilient spline 11 is then forced into the channel 24 between the locking shoulders 27A and 2C1 27B to tightly wedge the screen 15 between the spline 1 I and the cladding element 20. The diameter of the spline 11 is sufficiently large relative to the channel 24 to secure the screen 15 to the cladding element 20. The locking shoulders 27A and Z7B cooperate to hold the spline 11 in the channel 24, -- 261/1~2Z Page 8 -~2-20-~0;1~:34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # ~4i 26 and to prevent the spline 11 from being inadvertently dislodged. If necessary, a hammer or other suitable tool may be used to force the spline 1 1A into the chancel 24.
After attaching the screen 15, the cap 12 is placed between laterally-spaced ridges 61 and 62 formed with the outside sur~Face of the panel 22. The cap 12 includes a generally v-shaped, longitudinally extending, resilient connector strip 65 integrally formed on its inside surface for being inserted into the locking chanzaeI 25 of the cladding element 20. The connector strip 65 preferably includes locking shoulders 66 and 67 which cooperate with tho shoulders 28A
and 28B to secure the cap 12 to the cladding element 20. The cap I2 provides an aesthetic eoveziza,g for concealing the channels 24, 25, and 26, and cooperates with the ridges 61 and 62 to fu:ther secure the screen 15 to the cladding element 20.
Attachment of the screen 15 to cladding element 40 is best shown xn Figures 5 and 6. As previously descn'bed, with the cap I3 removed, the ~anarginal edge portion of each screen 15 is first placed against the cladding element 40 of the post "P "' to cover the locking channels 44 and 46, respectively. Resilient splines 1 x are then forced into the ehanzxels 44 and 46 between the Iocltiz~g shoulders 47A, 47B and 49A, 49B to tightly wedge the screens 15 between the spline 1 I and the cladding element 40. The locking shoulders 47A, 47B and 49,A,, 49B cooperate to hold the splines 11 in the channels 44 and 46.
After attaching the screen 15, the cap 13 is placed between spaced longitudinal ridges 71 and 72 formed with the outside surface of the panel 42. The cap I3 includes a generally v-shaped, longitudinally extending, resilient connector strip 75 integrally formed on its inside surface for being inserted into the locking channel 45 of the cladding element 40. The connector strip 75 preferably includes locking shoukders 76 and 77 which cooperate with the shoulders 48A
and 48B to secure the - 261/121. Page 9 --~2-20-00;10:34AM;Furman & K81110 Rge ;t1 306 359 6956 # 15/ 26 ' ~ I
cap 13 to the cladding element 40. The cap 13 provides an aesthetic covering for concealing the channels 44, 45, and 46, az~d cooperates with the ridges 71 az~d 72 to further secure the screen 15 to tlae cladding element 40.
Post cladding assemblies 10 and 10' are described above. 'Various details of the invention may be changed venthout departing from its scope. Furthermore, the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the best mode for practicing the invention are provided for the purpose of illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation-the invention being defined bar the claims.
- 26I/X27, page x0 --
According to another prefe~ed embodiment of the invention, the retaining means includes a longitudinal channel forzzzed with the panel, and an elongated flexible - 26~/7.z1 Page 2 --12-20-00;10:34AM;Furman & Kalllo Rga ;+t 306 359 6956 # 8/ 26 spline adapted for being inserted into the chanzxel to wedge the flexible sheet material between the spline and the panel.
According to yet arxother preferred embodiment of the invention, spaced-apart, inwardly extending shoulders axe' integrally formed with the channel arzd cooperating to secure the spline within the channel.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the male an,d female fasteners extend longitudinally from one end edge of the panel to the other.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the inve~ttion, the male and female fasteners are iutegrally~formed with the panel.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the ~aaale fastener includes at least one longitudinally-extending notch therein de~rning a wealc~ness line for being cut to shorten a lateral dimension of the cladding elernez~t.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, a longitudinally-extending attachment flange is ;formed adjacent the female fastener for receiving attachment rrzeans therethro~ugh to the post for pertnanentlpmounting the cladding element to the post.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the cladding element xs integrally-molded of a plastic material.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, the retaining means includes a longitudinal channel formed with the panel, and a cap overlying the panel and including a longitudinally-extending, resilient connector strip for being inserted into the channel to Iavld the cap to the panel, thereby sandwiching the flexible sheet material between the cap and the panel.
According to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention, spaced-apart, inwardly 12-20-00;10~34aM;FUrmen & Kalllo Rge ;+1 306 359 6956 # 9/ 26 extending shoulders are integrally formed with the channel and cooperate to hold the connector strip within the channel.
Aceord,ing to yet anothez- preferred embodiment of the invention, the connector strip has a generally V-shaped profile, and includes outwardly extending shoulders cooperating with the S shoulders of the channel to Further secure the cap to the panel.
Tn another embodiment, the invention is a post cladding assembly including a plurality of post cladding elements for covering a post. Each of the post cladding elements includes a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges. A female fastener extends along the first side edge of the panel. A complementary male fastener extends along the opposed second side edge of the panel. fhe female fastener has spaced-apart surfaces forming a gezterally U-shaped groove having a depth at least twice as great as its width. The groove defines a position adjustment zone for receiving a selected poztion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post. Retaining means are provided fox securing a flexible 1.5 sheet material to the panel.
According to another pz~efeired embodiment of the invention, fist and second longitudinally-extending ridges are integrally formed with, the panel of th,e post cladding element, and are spaced-apart for residing adjacent opposite longitudinal side edges of the cap upon attachment of the cap to the panel.
Brief Description of the Drawings Some of the objects of the invention have been set forth above. Other obj ects and advantages of the invention vc~ill appear as the description proceeds when taken in conjunction with tlxe - 261/1.2x 'age 4 -12-20-00;10:34AM;Furman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # 1G/ 26 following dzawings, izx which:
Figure 1 is a plan view of two post cladding assemblies formed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and applied to the sides of respective posts with a wine mesh;
sezeen and plastic flrn extending between the posts;
Figure 2 is an end view of a post cladding element according to one preferx-ed embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 is an end view of a post cladding elezz~tent according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the post cladding assembly including a post cladding element shown in Figure 2, and showing the screen retained in the locking channel and the cap removed;
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the post cladding assembly including a post cladding element shown in Figure 3, az~d showing the screen retained in the locking channels and the cap removed; and 1~igtxre 6 is fragmentary, perspective view oftwo post cladding elements applied to respective sides of adjacent posts with the wire mesh screen secured within the locking channels and extending between the posts.
l~Jesc ' ~ n f the Preferred Embodiment antd Best Mo a Refexxing now specifically to the drawings, post cladding assemblies according to the present invention are illustrated in fiigure 1 and shown generalky at reference numerals 1 Q and 10', respectively. The cladding assemblies x 0 and 10' are particulazly applicable for cladding standard 4x4 and 2x4 wood posts commonly used in outdoor decks and poz~ches. For square posts "P", the ~2-20-00;~0:34AM;Furman & Kaillo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # tai 26 cladding assembly 10 is formed o,f four identical, elongate, modular post cladding elezztents 1 OA, I OB, l OC, and l OD adapted for covez'i,ng respective sides of the post. For 2x4 posts "P "', the cladding assembly 10' is formed of cladding elements 1 OA' and 10B' identical to those applied to the square past "P" and smaller cladding elements 10C' and 10D' for covering the narrower sides S of the post "P "'. The cladding assemblies 10 and 10' preferably extend the entire length of the posts and function to provide an aesthetic, generally maintenance-free exterior coveting.
The cladding elements l0A-lOD and l0A'-10D' cooperate ~uvith elongated flexible splines I 1A, 1 IB, 1 IC, 11D, 11E, and 11F and caps 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D, as described ftuther below, to secure a plastic filxxx 14 and/or wire screen 15 to the posts to enclose the outdoor deck or porch.
X 0 The post cladding elements l0A-I OD and l0A'-I OD' and caps 12A-12D are preferably indiwi,dually formed of extruded, 11.V. stabilized, high-impact rigid PV'C. The splines 11A-11F are preferably forztaed of a resilient plastic' or rubber material.
Description of Post Claddine Element 20 A single post cladding element 20 according to the invention is shown in Figure 2. 'fhe l :p cladding element 20 includes a panel 22 having opposing end edges and opposing longitudinal side edges. The panel 22 defines spaced-apart locking channels 24, 25, and 26 extending parallel to the side edges anal longitudinally from one end edge to ttxe other. The locking channels 24, 25, and 26 include respective pairs of spaced shoulders 27A, 27B, 28A, 28B, and 29A, 29B.
A female fastener 30 is integz~ally-formed along the first side edge of the panel 22, and includes spaced walls 3 I and 20 32 i'ozming a groove 33 oriented generally perpendicular to the exterior plane of the panel 22. A
complementary male fastenez~ 35 is integrally-formed along the opposed second side edge of the panel 22, and cooperates with a female fastener of an adj acent cladding element to interlock the two ~- z6I/121 Page 6 --12-20-00;10:34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # 12/ 26 cladding elements together on adjacent sides of the post. Preferably, the female fastener 30 and rxiale fastezzer 35 extend the entire length of the panel 22, and include respective engaging serrations (not shown).
The groove 33 of the female fastener 30 has a gezrerally U'-shaped profile adapted for receivir>,g the male fastener of an adjacent cladding element. The depth "y"
of the groove 33 is preferably about 3-4 tunes greater tban its width "x", such that the amount of male fastener received into the groove 33 eau be adjusted within an adjustment zone defined by the distance "y" for increasing or decreasing the lateral coverage of the adjacent cladding element on the post. For added size adjustment, the male fastener 35 includes spaced notches 37 and 38 which define respective weakness lines for being cut to shorten the lateral dimension of the cladding element 20. The notches 37, 38 preferably extend the entire length of the panel 22 from one end edge to the other.
In additibn, an attachment flange 39 is formed with the female fastener 30, and extends generally pezpendicular to the plane of the panel 22 for receiving nails or other suitable attachment means, such as tacks, staples, or the Like. The nails pass through the attachment flange 39 and iza,to 1,5 the wood post to permanently attach the cladding element to the post.
DesCriDtion of Post Cladding Element 40 A post cladding element 40 adapted for covering the narrower sides of the 2x4 wood post "P "' is best shown in Figures 3, 5, and 6. The cladding element includes a panel 42 having opposing end edges and opposing longitudinal side edges. The panel 42 defines spaced-apart lockaz~.g channels 44, 45, and 46 extending parallel to the side edges and longitudinally from one end edge to the other.
The lucking channels 44, 45, and 46 include respective pairs o~ spaced shoulders 47A, 47B, 48A, 4$B, and 49A, 49B. A female fastener 50, identical to that previously described, is integrally-12-20-00;10~34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rge ;+1 306 359 6956 # 13/ 26 formed along the first side edge of the panel 42, and includes spaced walls 51 az~d 52 forzxxing a groove 53 oriented generally perpendicular to the exterior plane of the panel 42. A, compiernentary male fastenex 55 is integrally-formed along the opposed second side edge of the panel 42, and cooperates with a fern.ale fastener of an adjacent cladding element to interlock the two cladding elements together on adjacent sides of the post. The male fastener 55 includes a notch S6 which defines a weakness line for being cut to shorten the lateral dimension of the cladding element 40.
The notch 56 preferably extends the entire length of the panel 42 from one end edge to the other.
An attachment flange 59 is formed with the female fastenez 50, and extends generally pezpendicular to the plane of the panel 42 for receiving nails or otlier suitable attachment means, such as tacks, staples, or the like. The nails (not shown) pass through the attachment flange 59 and into the wood post to permanently attach the cladding element 40 to the post.
Attachment of the Wire Scre~4E ~~nd 'Plastic F~lm to the Posts After assembly of the cladding elements 10A-1 OD and 1 OA'-l OD' on the posts "P" and "P"', as shown in Figure I, the plastic film 14 and/or wire mesh screen' 15 is attached to enciose the 1 a outdoor deck or porch area. Whale the following description refers only to the screen 15, it is understood that the means for attaching the plastic film 14 is identical.
Referring now to Figures 4 and 6, with the cap 12 removed, the marginal edge portion of the screen 15 is first placed against the cladding element 20 of the post "P" to cover the locking channel 24. The resilient spline 11 is then forced into the channel 24 between the locking shoulders 27A and 2C1 27B to tightly wedge the screen 15 between the spline 1 I and the cladding element 20. The diameter of the spline 11 is sufficiently large relative to the channel 24 to secure the screen 15 to the cladding element 20. The locking shoulders 27A and Z7B cooperate to hold the spline 11 in the channel 24, -- 261/1~2Z Page 8 -~2-20-~0;1~:34AM;FUrman & Kalllo Rga ;+1 306 359 6956 # ~4i 26 and to prevent the spline 11 from being inadvertently dislodged. If necessary, a hammer or other suitable tool may be used to force the spline 1 1A into the chancel 24.
After attaching the screen 15, the cap 12 is placed between laterally-spaced ridges 61 and 62 formed with the outside sur~Face of the panel 22. The cap 12 includes a generally v-shaped, longitudinally extending, resilient connector strip 65 integrally formed on its inside surface for being inserted into the locking chanzaeI 25 of the cladding element 20. The connector strip 65 preferably includes locking shoulders 66 and 67 which cooperate with tho shoulders 28A
and 28B to secure the cap 12 to the cladding element 20. The cap I2 provides an aesthetic eoveziza,g for concealing the channels 24, 25, and 26, and cooperates with the ridges 61 and 62 to fu:ther secure the screen 15 to the cladding element 20.
Attachment of the screen 15 to cladding element 40 is best shown xn Figures 5 and 6. As previously descn'bed, with the cap I3 removed, the ~anarginal edge portion of each screen 15 is first placed against the cladding element 40 of the post "P "' to cover the locking channels 44 and 46, respectively. Resilient splines 1 x are then forced into the ehanzxels 44 and 46 between the Iocltiz~g shoulders 47A, 47B and 49A, 49B to tightly wedge the screens 15 between the spline 1 I and the cladding element 40. The locking shoulders 47A, 47B and 49,A,, 49B cooperate to hold the splines 11 in the channels 44 and 46.
After attaching the screen 15, the cap 13 is placed between spaced longitudinal ridges 71 and 72 formed with the outside surface of the panel 42. The cap I3 includes a generally v-shaped, longitudinally extending, resilient connector strip 75 integrally formed on its inside surface for being inserted into the locking channel 45 of the cladding element 40. The connector strip 75 preferably includes locking shoukders 76 and 77 which cooperate with the shoulders 48A
and 48B to secure the - 261/121. Page 9 --~2-20-00;10:34AM;Furman & K81110 Rge ;t1 306 359 6956 # 15/ 26 ' ~ I
cap 13 to the cladding element 40. The cap 13 provides an aesthetic covering for concealing the channels 44, 45, and 46, az~d cooperates with the ridges 71 az~d 72 to further secure the screen 15 to tlae cladding element 40.
Post cladding assemblies 10 and 10' are described above. 'Various details of the invention may be changed venthout departing from its scope. Furthermore, the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the invention and the best mode for practicing the invention are provided for the purpose of illustration only and not for the purpose of limitation-the invention being defined bar the claims.
- 26I/X27, page x0 --
Claims (18)
1. An elongate modular post cladding element adapted for cooperating with at least one other cladding element to cover a post, said cladding element comprising:
(a) a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges;
(b) a female fastener extending along the first side edge of said panel;
(c) a complementary male fastener extending along the opposed second side edge of said panel;
(d) said female fastener comprising spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove, said groove having a depth thereof at least twice as great as a width thereof to defuse a position adjustment zone for receiving therein a selected portion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding clement on the post; and (e) retaining means for securing a flexible sheet material to said panel.
(a) a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges;
(b) a female fastener extending along the first side edge of said panel;
(c) a complementary male fastener extending along the opposed second side edge of said panel;
(d) said female fastener comprising spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove, said groove having a depth thereof at least twice as great as a width thereof to defuse a position adjustment zone for receiving therein a selected portion of a male fastener of an adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding clement on the post; and (e) retaining means for securing a flexible sheet material to said panel.
2. A post cladding element according to claim 1, wherein said retaining means comprises a longitudinal channel formed with said panel, and an elongated flexible spline adapted for being inserted into said channel to wedge the flexible sheet maternal between said spline and said panel.
3. A post cladding element according to claim 2, and comprising spaced-apart, inwardly extending shoulders integrally formed with said channel and cooperating to secure said spline within said channel.
4. A post cladding element according to claim 1, wherein said male and female fasteners extend longitudinally from one end edge of the panel to the other.
5. A post cladding element according to claim 1, wherein said male and female fasteners are integrally-formed with said panel.
6. A post cladding element according to claim 1, wherein, said male fastener includes at least one longitudinally-extending notch therein defining a weakness line for being cut to shorten a lateral dimension of the cladding element.
7. A post cladding clement according to claim 1, and including a longitudinally-extending attachment flange formed adjacent the female fastener for receiving attachment means therethrough to the post for permanently mounting the cladding element to the post.
8. A post cladding element according to claim 1, wherein said cladding element is integrally-molded of a plastic material.
9. A post cladding element according to claim 1, wherein said retaining means comprises a longitudinal channel formed with said panel, and a cap overlaying said panel and including a longitudinally-extending, resilient connector strip for being inserted into said channel to hold said cap to said panel, thereby sandwiching the flexible sheet material between said cap and said panel.
- page 13 -
- page 13 -
10. A post cladding element according to claim 9, and comprising spaced-apart, inwardly extending shoulders integrally formed with said chapel and cooperating to hold said connector strip within said channel.
11. A post cladding element according to claim 10, wherein said connector strip has a generally V-shaped profile, and includes outwardly extending shoulders cooperating with the shoulders of said channel to further secure said cap to said panel.
12. A post cladding assembly comprising a plurality of post cladding elements for covering a post, each said post cladding elements comprising:
(a) a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges;
(b) a female fastener extending along the first side edge of said panel;
(c) a complementary male fastener extending along the opposed second side edge of said panel;
(d) said female fastener comprising spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove, said groove having a depth thereof at least twice as great as a width thereof to define a position adjustment zone for receiving therein a selected position of a male fastener of are adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post; and (e) retaining means for securing a flexible sheet material to said panel.
(a) a panel for being applied to the post, and having first and second opposed end edges and first and second opposed, longitudinally-extending side edges;
(b) a female fastener extending along the first side edge of said panel;
(c) a complementary male fastener extending along the opposed second side edge of said panel;
(d) said female fastener comprising spaced-apart surfaces forming a generally U-shaped groove, said groove having a depth thereof at least twice as great as a width thereof to define a position adjustment zone for receiving therein a selected position of a male fastener of are adjacent cladding element to adjustably position the adjacent cladding element on the post; and (e) retaining means for securing a flexible sheet material to said panel.
13. A, post cladding assembly according to claim 12, wherein said retaining means of said post cladding element comprises a longitudinal channel formed with said panel, and an elongated flexible spline adapted for being inserted into said channel to wedge the flexible sheet material between said spline and said panel.
14. A post cladding assembly according to claim 13, and comprising spaced-apart, inwardly extending shoulders integrally formed with said channel of said post cladding element and cooperating to secure said spline within said channel.
15. A post cladding assembly according to claim 12, wherein said retaining means comprises a longitudinal channel formed with said panel of said post cladding element, and a cap overlying said panel and including a longitudinally-extending, resilient connector strip for being inserted into said channel to hold said cap to said panel, thereby sandwiching the flexible sheet material between said cap and said panel.
16. A post cladding assembly according to claim 15, and comprising spaced-apart, inwardly extending shoulders integrally formed with said channel of said post cladding element and cooperating to hold said connector strip within said channel.
17. A post cladding assembly according to claim 16, wherein said connector strip has a generally V-shaped profile, and includes outwardly extending shoulders cooperating with the shoulders of said channel to further secure said cap to said panel.
18. A post cladding assembly according to claim 15, and comprising first and second longitudinally-extending ridges integrally formed with said panel of said post cladding element, and spaced-apart for residing adjacent opposite longitudinal side edges of said cap upon, attachment of said cap to said panel.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US09/401,907 US6295783B1 (en) | 1997-08-25 | 1999-09-23 | Post cladding assembly with sheet retaining means |
| US09/401,907 | 1999-09-23 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2326252A1 CA2326252A1 (en) | 2001-03-23 |
| CA2326252C true CA2326252C (en) | 2003-05-13 |
Family
ID=23589734
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002326252A Expired - Fee Related CA2326252C (en) | 1999-09-23 | 2000-07-03 | Post cladding assembly with sheet retaining means |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2326252C (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA2731003A1 (en) | 2011-02-01 | 2012-08-01 | Alpa Lumber Inc. | Synthetic deck panel |
| US8443576B2 (en) | 2011-06-22 | 2013-05-21 | Alpa Lumber Inc. | Post casing |
-
2000
- 2000-07-03 CA CA002326252A patent/CA2326252C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2326252A1 (en) | 2001-03-23 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20190703 |