CA3179964A1 - A method of constructing a building - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of constructing a building frame is described. Initially a concrete slab is poured according to the design specification, with sufficient strength to both provide a building ground-level floor and a foundation around the perimeter. A number of primary frames (2) are provided, each spanning the width of the building and having opposed wall frame members (30, 31, 34) and at least one ceiling joist (35). Each primary frame is mounted in turn on base plates (20) on the concrete slab (10) in succession at desired longitudinal spacings, while temporarily interconnecting the primary frames (2) to keep them at a vertical orientation. Roof trusses (3) are then mounted onto the primary frames, and the primary frames and the roof trusses are interconnected to provide a building frame on the slab.

Description

"A METHOD OF CONSTRUCTING A BUILDING"
Introduction The invention relates to construction of buildings, especially single-storey buildings for domestic or light commercial use.
An object of the invention is to achieve erection of a building with a shorter on-site time requirement, and/or to achieve improved versatility.
Summary of the Invention We describe a method of constructing a building frame comprising the steps of:
providing primary frames each spanning width of the building or a portion thereof, each primary frame comprising:
opposed wall frames of wall frame members, and at least one ceiling joist;
providing a foundation;
mounting on the foundation a base plate at the location of at least one side wall, said base plate or plates extending in a longitudinal direction;
mounting each primary frame in turn on the at least one base plate and the foundation in succession at desired longitudinal inter-frame spacings, while temporarily supporting the primary frames to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof trusses onto the primary frames, or the roof trusses being integral with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses in the longitudinal direction to provide a building frame over the foundation.
Preferably, the base plates are elongate, extending for longitudinal length of the building.
Preferably, there are at least two parallel base plates (20) extending in parallel for each wall frame.
Preferably, at least some primary frames comprise a tie interconnecting the frame's opposed wall frame members for temporary additional strength of the primary frame during construction.
Preferably, the tie is at floor level. Preferably, the tie is removably fixed in the primary frame, and

2 is removed before the building is completed. Preferably, at least one tie which has been removed is used as an inter-frame brace support at least until the primary frames and the roof trusses form the building frame.
In some examples, at least some primary frames each comprise at least one outer stud, at least one intermediate stud, at least one floor plate member interconnecting the outer and intermediate studs.
In some examples, at least some primary frames comprise at least one diagonal brace between the outer stud and the intermediate studs. In some examples, there is a gap between the inner stud and the intermediate stud sufficient to provide a space for insulation when the primary frames have been erected. In some exatnples, the primary frame is mounted with the horizontal floor plate member mounted on the base plate, at its innermost end, where it is also fixed to the inner stud and to the intermediate stud.
In some examples, there are at least two parallel base plates for each building side, and each wall frame comprises a horizontal floor plate member which spans said base plates.
Preferably, the primary frame is mounted with the outer end of the floor-level member is mounted on a base plate, and the outer stud resting on the floor plate member.
In some examples, the method comprises the further step of pouring a concrete floor after erection of the primary frames. In some examples, the method comprises the further step of fixing at least one three-dimensional bracket to the slab, a base plate, and a primary frame.
In some examples, at least some primary frames comprise a sloped member provided to align with the lower end of a rafter of the roof truss. In some examples, the erected primary frames are inter-connected with horizontal braces at joist level.
Preferably, at least some primary frames are provided in a first part comprising one wall frame and a second part comprising the opposed wall frame, and said parts are joined together on site. In some examples, each said part comprises roof members. The method may comprise providing outer base plates at building opposed wall locations and also at least one inner base plate between said outer base plates, and each said frame part rests on both outer and inner base plates. In some examples, there are at least two inner base plates, and each frame part is placed on an outer base plate and an inner base plate.

3 In some examples, the first and second parts are joined by a central bridging part. In some examples, said central bridging part forms a frame for a roof apex.
In some examples, the method comprises tying the first and second parts with a lateral tie. In some examples, said tie includes a joint with a bracket. In some examples, the bracket comprises opposed plates which clamp opposed surfaces of tie members at the joint.
In some examples, at least some base plates include transverse notches and a primary frame fits in each notch. In some examples, at least some primary frames include downward extensions for engaging a lateral surface of a base plate.
We also describe a method of constructing a building or a building extension comprising the steps of:
providing primary frames each comprising a wall frame of wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist;
providing a foundation;
mounting on the foundation a base plate at the location of at least one side wall, said base plate or plates extending in a longitudinal direction;
mounting each primary frame in turn on the at least one base plate and the foundation in succession at desired longitudinal inter-frame spacings, while temporarily supporting the primary frames to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof trusses onto the primary frames, or the roof trusses being integral with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses in the longitudinal direction to provide a building frame over the foundation.
In some examples, the frame comprises a single wall frame and is mounted both on the base plate and against a wall-mounted base plate to form a lean-to extension. In some examples, at least one wall-mounted base plate has a horizontal ledge for engaging he frame. In some examples, the primary frame comprises both a horizontal tie and a vertical tie which are joined, and said ties are removed after erection of the frames.
We also describe a method of constructing a building comprising the steps of:

4 providing primary frames each comprising a wall frame of wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist;
providing a foundation;
mounting each primary frame in turn on the foundation in succession at desired radial spacings and each frame extending from a central vertical axis, while temporarily supporting the frames to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof trusses onto the primary frames, or the roof trusses being integral with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses to provide a building frame over the foundation.
In some examples, the frames are secured to the foundation by brackets. In some examples, at least some of said brackets each comprises a base web for engaging the foundation and a pair of upstanding flanges, and engaging a loser edge of a frame between said flanges.
We also describe a building frame comprising:
a plurality of primary frames each spanning width of a building and having opposed wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist;
each primary frame being adapted for mounting on a foundation base plates in succession at desired longitudinal spacings, a floor-level tie interconnecting the opposed wall frame members for temporary additional strength of the primary frame during construction, the tie being removably fixed in the primary frame, elongate base plates arranged to be fixed to a slab for engagement with the series of primary frames.
In some examples, there are at least two parallel base plates for extending in parallel on a slab on each side of the primary frames. In some examples, at least one floor-level tie is adapted for longitudinal bracing of primary frames.
In some examples, at least some primary frames each comprise at least one outer stud, at least one intermediate stud, at least one floor plate member interconnecting the outer and intermediate studs.

In some examples, the frame comprises and at least one diagonal brace between the outer and intermediate studs.
In some examples, the primary frame is adapted to be mounted with the horizontal floor plate

5 member mounted at its inner end on a base plate, where it is also fixed to the inner stud and to the intermediate stud.
In some examples, there are at least two parallel base plates for each lateral primary frame side, and each wall frame comprises a horizontal floor plate member which spans said base plates.
In some examples, the primary frame is adapted to be mounted with the outer end of the floor-level member is mounted on a base plate, and the outer stud resting on the floor plate member.
Additional Statements A method of constnicting a building frame is described. Initially a concrete slab is poured according to the design specification, with sufficient strength to both provide a building ground-level floor and a foundation around the perimeter. A number of primary frames are provided, each spanning the width of the building and having opposed wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist. Each primary frame is mounted in turn on base plates on the concrete slab in succession at desired longitudinal spacings, while temporarily interconnecting the primary frames to keep them at a vertical orientation. Roof trusses are then mounted onto the primary frames, and the primary frames and the roof trusses are interconnected to provide a building frame on the slab.
In various aspects we describe a method of constructing a building frame comprising the steps of:
providing primary frames each spanning width of the building or a portion thereof between and including opposed walls, and having opposed wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist;
mounting each primary frame in turn on base plates on a concrete slab in succession at desired longitudinal spacings, while temporarily supporting the primary frames with a brace to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof trusses onto the primary frames, or the roof trusses being integral with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses to provide a building frame over the slab.

6 Preferably, the base plates are elongate, extending for the length of the building.
Preferably, the base plate comprises an elongate plate fixed to the slab along the length of each wall frame before placement of the primary frame.
Preferably, there are at least two parallel base plates extending in parallel for each wall frame.
Preferably, at least some primary frames comprise a floor-level tie interconnecting the opposed wall frame members for temporary additional strength of the primary frame during construction, the tie is removably fixed in the primary frame, and is removed before the building is completed.
Preferably, at least one tic which has been removed is used as said temporary support until the primary frames and the roof trusses form the building frame. Preferably, at least some primary frames each comprise at least one outer stud, at least one intermediate stud, at least one floor plate member interconnecting the outer and intermediate studs, and at least one diagonal brace between the inner and intermediate studs, and an inner stud.
Preferably, the primary frame is mounted with the horizontal floor plate member mounted on the base plate, at its innermost end, where it is also fixed to the inner stud and to the intermediate stud.
Preferably, there are at least two parallel base plates for each lateral primary frame side, and each wall frame comprises a horizontal floor plate member which spans said base plates.
Preferably, the primary frame is mounted with the outer end of the floor-level member mounted on a base plate, and the outer stud resting on the floor plate member.
We also describe a building frame comprising:
a plurality of primary frames each spanning width of a building and having opposed wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist;
each primary frame being adapted for mounting on concrete slab base plates in succession at desired longitudinal spacings, a floor-level tie interconnecting the opposed wall frame members for temporary additional strength of the primary frame during transport from an off-site location and construction, the tie being removably fixed in the primary frame,

7 roof trusses connectable to, or integral with, the primary frames, and elongate plates arranged to be fixed to a slab for engagement with the series of primary frames.
Preferably, there are at least two parallel base plates for extending in parallel on a slab on each side of the primary frames.
Preferably, at least one floor-level tie is adapted for longitudinal bracing of primary frames as a temporary support before the primary frames and roof trusses have been interconnected to form the building frame.
Preferably, at least some primary frames each comprise at least one outer stud, at least one intermediate stud, at least one floor plate member interconnecting the outer and intermediate studs, and at least one diagonal brace between the inner and intermediate studs, and an inner stud.
Preferably, the primary frame is adapted to be mounted with the horizontal floor plate member mounted at its inner end on a base plate, where it is also fixed to the inner stud and to the intermediate stud.
Preferably, there are at least two parallel base plates for each lateral primary frame side, and each wall frame comprises a horizontal floor plate member which spans said base plates.
Preferably, the primary frame is adapted to be mounted with the outer end of the floor-level member is mounted on a base plate, and the outer stud resting on the floor plate member.
Detailed Description of the Invention The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some embodiments thereof, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Fig. 1 is a front view of a number of structural assemblies which are used to construct a building;

8 Fig 2 is an enlarged detail of the right-hand side location, D1, in Fig. 1, showing interconnection of the wall members and the slab in the internal side;
Fig. 3 is an enlarged detail, D2, showing interconnection of the wall members on the right-hand outer side with the slab;
Fig. 4 is an overview perspective view showing building construction underway;
Fig. 5 is a perspective view and an enlarged detail of a raft foundation and base plates for the start of a method of a construction method of another example;
Fig. 6 is a perspective view showing placement of a primary frame to form a part of a gable wall, and Fig. 7 is a detail showing use of a temporary support for the frame;
Fig. 8 shows the situation after placement of a number of additional frames in sequence, together with an enlarged detail showing a three-dimensional support bracket for each frame;
Fig. 9 is a perspective view after placement of more frames, omitting the runners linking them along the top, and with an enlarged detail of the top and side part of a frame where a member forms an extension of a rafter;
Fig. 10 shows in diagrammatic form addition of diagonal braces to the inside surfaces of the outer studs, and also vertical braces;
Fig. 11 shows addition of an apex to the first frame, and Fig. 12 shows addition of an apex to all of the frames, together with a temporary support;
Figs. 13 and 14 are perspective views showing erection of a primary frame in three parts, a first wall part, a second wall part, and a central part with an apex; and base plates located centrally at support points on a raft foundation;

9 Fig. 15 shows an alternative method of connection of the central part with additional structural strength provided by overlapping members as one example, and metal brackets are another example;
Figs. 16 and 17 show erection of further primary frames ("M Frames") along the length of the foundation;
Fig. 18 is a pair of perspective views showing connection of a high-level tie linking the first and second parts, and a joint being made with use of a coupler; and Fig.
19 is a front view of a completed frame with the high-level tie in place;
Fig. 20 is a perspective view of two frames erected over the base plates, in this case having two high-level ties, making provision for two floor levels;
Fig. 21 is a perspective view showing an alternative pair of base plates, having notches for improved engagement with the primary frames;
Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing erection of a number of primary frames to construct a "lean-to" extension, in this case having base plates on the foundation and wall plates on a wall; Fig. 23 shows interconnection to the wall plates, and Fig. 24 shows a frame after removal of horizontal and vertical temporary ties;
Fig. 25 shows a number of primary frames erected, also to construct an extension, in this case having a flat roof, Fig. 26 is a front view of the frame, Fig. 27 shows connection to a wall-mounted base plate, and Fig. 28 shows the situation after removal of horizontal and vertical temporary ties;
Fig. 29 is a perspective view of a primary frame comprising the first and second parts, without a central part (steel brackets could also be used to join the first and second parts);
Fig. 30 is a perspective view showing erection of a primary frame first part on a round foundation, in which the second parts are on diagonally opposed sides extending from a central vertical axis, Fig. 31 shows the situation after erection of a number of the frames, and Figs. 32 and 33 show use of a fixture to secure the frames to the foundation;

Fig. 34 shows a method of construction which is broadly similar, but with fewer frames and on a hexagonal foundation (in other examples any other polygon shape is used), each frame extending to a corner of the foundation; and Fig. 35 is a perspective view of a bracket for joining aligned members together for example where first and second frame pars are joined.
Referring to Fig. 1, this drawing shows a number of components 1 which are used to erect a

10 building. Fig. 1 illustrates what the components include and how they are interconnected.
The components shown in Fig. 1 are a primary frame 2, a roof truss 3, and a temporary floor-level tie 4. They are shown mounted on a concrete slab raft foundatonl 0 on which there arc base plates for wall structural frames. The base plates are timber 50mm x 100mm members.
In other examples, the base plates may be of metal, and in some cases they are notched as described below.
In some examples the roof truss is modular, being supplied separately for ease of transport and joined to the primary frame on site.
All structural members above the level of the base plate are of wood, but in other examples some or all may be of metal or other suitable building material. The base plate itself may be pair of parallel timber beams for each side as illustrated, but in other examples may be steel.
The primary frame 2 has members for forming the structural frames of opposed walls, and a ceiling joist. So, when a number of about say 20 of the frames 2 are mounted in series they form the structure of the walls and ceiling of a building.
In more detail the wall frame members on each lateral side are in this example:
outer stud 30, intermediate stud 31, floor plate member 32 interconnecting the outer and intermediate studs 30 and 31, diagonal brace 33 between the inner and intermediate studs 30 and 31, and inner stud 34.
The gap between the inner stud 34 and the intermediate stud 31 is to allow a space for insulation when the frames have been erected.

11 The wall structural members may have a different arrangement. For example. the diagonal brace 33 may be replaced by a pair of shorter braces forming a K-shape with the stud 31.
The primary frame 2 also comprises a ceiling joist 35 spanning the primary frame and interconnecting the opposed wall frame members 30-34. There may be spacers along the length of the joist 35 for abutting the lower surface of the truss member closest to it.
These spacers may be in the form of runners which run longitudinally, parallel to the base plates 20, to interconnect the primary frames in the longitudinal direction.
The roof truss 3 comprises roof joist 40, rafters 41, and braces 42. It is of itself of conventional construction. It may be manufactured off-site in an integrated manner with the primary frame, or it may be manufactured and transported separately for inter-connection on site. The separate manufacture is especially versatile for choice of the characteristics of the roof, such as pitch. As noted above there may be spacers such as longitudinal inter-connection runners between the joists 35 and 40.
Not shown in Figs 1 to 3 are three-dimensional brackets which engage the slab 10, a base plate 20, and a frame 2 to secure the frame 2 temporarily in the upright position.
Referring also to Fig. 4, a method of constructing a building using the components 1 includes the following structural steps.
Step 1 Prepare site and pour the foundation slab 10 according to the design specification, with provision for damp and radon barriers/membranes as is conventional, insulation, and reinforcement bars as required. The slab 10 needs to have the structural characteristics for providing an internal ground-level floor and foundation-level strength around the perimeter.
Step 2 Install the base plates 20. These are elongate beams running the length of the building, as best shown diagrammatically in Fig. 4, and they are fixed to the slab by bolting.
There are two in parallel for each wall.

1") Step 3 Mount a first primary frame 2 together with the temporary tie 4 to the base plates 20, and provide a temporary support (Fig. 7) to keep upright. The temporary support may be of any suitable arrangement, engaging the primary frame and/or the apex truss.
The primary frame 2 is mounted to the foundation and base plate 10 as shown in Figs. 2 and 3.
The inner stud 34 rests on the foundation 10, and is temporarily fastened to the tie 4. The tie 4 is provided during off-site manufacture, and is under tension as the wall frames have a tendency to push laterally outwardly. The horizontal wall plate member 32 is mounted on both of the base plates 20, and at its inner end it is fixed to the inner stud 3 and to the intermediate stud 31. This arrangement is particularly robust.
On the outer side of the wall members, the interconnections are as shown in Fig. 3, Detail 2. The outer end of the floor-level member 32 is mounted on a base plate 20, and the outer stud rests on the member 32 at this location.
The fixing of members together is by way of any suitable fastener, preferably of metal, in one example of the type marketed by Simpson . The fasteners are indicated generally by the numeral 50.
Step 4 Referring also to Fig. 4 a second primary frame 2 with attached roof truss 3 is mounted to the base 6/20 at a longitudinal separation of 600mm, with repetition of steps 1 to 3.
The separation may be of any desired distance according to the building design. For example, the two frames at each end may be closer together say 300mm apart, to form a gable wall, while the others are at spaces of say 600mm or 900mm.
This is in turn repeated for a number of additional frames at 600mm separations until the desired length of the building is reached. The primary frames 2 and the roof trusses 3 are interconnected longitudinally by roof members including runners along the tops of the joists.
These steps provide a structural frame for the building, with the slab 10 providing the floor and foundation, the primary frames 2 providing the wall frames, and the trusses 3 providing the roof structure. The building is then completed in conventional manner according to the design, using the building frame provided by the above steps.
The major advantages of the invention are that building construction is particularly fast and cost-effective due to the extent of off-site manufacture, while there is excellent versatility in choice of features such a roof pitch, wall thickness, strength, and insulation. In particular, there is good frame strength because of the integration of the frame members as described, the frame being accurately manufactured off-site. Excellent insulation properties are achieved without need for a considerable amount of insulating material, due to the thickness/depth of the wall frame.
The wall frames also allow for easy installation of utility services.
The method lends itself to straight-forward building design and use of software, and it is envisaged that existing roof truss manufacturing facilities could easily be adapted to manufacture of the frames. The method allows construction to be faster as a result of the pre-connection of the framing components with truss plates, and it is lightweight due to the triangulation joints.
The short lead time for manufacture opens the possibility of building manufacture and erection under emergency conditions for situations such as disaster relief.
Another Example (Figs. 5 to 12) Referring to Figs. 5 to 12 an alternative method is described. As shown in Fig. 5 a raft foundation 110 is provided, and there are two base plates 120 on each side as shown. It is preferred that the raft foundation has a power-floated finish to help ensure accuracy of all construction.
Figs. 6 and 7 show erection of a first frame, 100, at one end, with detail of how it engages the rail.
The structure of the frame 100 is broadly similar to that of the frame 1, with a similar set of three studs and a brace at each side. There is a downwardly-extending protrusion 122 to fit inside the inner base plate 120 and a three-dimensional bracket is secured in place here, and a temporary support 125 is provided to keep the frame 100 upright.
Fig. 8 shows erection of further frames 100, and one or more runners 135 are secured to the frames in the longitudinal direction (parallel to the base plates 120) along the tops of the frames 100. This drawing shows a three-dimensional bracket 130 for providing support across the rail 120, the base 110, and the frame 100. It is fixed in position outside the inside rail 120 in this example. There may be a number of these used per frame 100.
Fig. 9 shows the situation after erection of further frames 100, with enlarged detail shown of a sloped member 140 at a corner, for alignment with a rafter of a roof truss to be fixed in place. At this stage additional members may be secured to the outer studs to provide a frame for a window or door which is wider than the space between two frames 100. Fig. 10 shows the site after erection of all of the frames, and there are a number of bracing runners 135.
Interrupted lines 145 and 150 show the positions of additional braces which are fixed as desired to ensure sufficient strength.
The braces 150 are secured preferably to the inside surfaces of the outer studs. There are also one or more vertical uprights 145 to provide additional temporary support.
As shown in Fig. 11 roof trusses 160 are fixed to the frames 100, with the rafters aligned with the sloped members 140. This drawing shows a temporary support 170 for an end frame, and in other examples this may extend to contact the roof truss. The situation with all of the frames 100 in place is shown in Fig. 12. This drawing shows the temporary ties 4 still in place;
these are then removed once all of the combined frames 100 and trusses 160 are interconnected.
It will be appreciated that in the invention individual frames are used in an innovative way to construct a house frame. The frames can be used for small and large house construction, including bungalows, dormers and two-storeys. The construction method is also adaptable to most forms of extensions.
The base plates can be fixed with any desired separation, preferably in the range of 500mm to 1000mm apart and parallel to the sides of the foundation. There may be additional base plates, located more centrally on the foundation. The specific location of the base plates will be in accordance with engineers' specifications and will vary depending on various loadings and regulations in different countries. The frames are fixed to the base plates and concrete by nailing and various brackets, again according to the loadings. The brackets are preferably three-dimensional, to engage the frame, the base plate, and the foundation.
As described in detail below, the primary frame may be different, and it may be provided in multiple parts which are joined together on site.

Dormer house Construction Example Referring to Fig. 13, a primary frame is provided in first and second parts 200, one for each side of the foundation. Each frame part 200 comprises a wall frame akin to that of the frame 1, and this 5 engages a pair of base plates 222 in a similar manner. In addition, there are a pair of central base plates, and each frame part 200 has an upright 20 corresponding to this location. Such additional base plates 211 may be provided for single-part primary frames such as the frames 1. Each frame part has a horizontal structural member203 at mid-height, and a temporary floor-level tie 202. As shown in Fig. 14 a third, central, frame part 230 is fixed to the first and second parts 200 to span 10 the gap between them and provide a roof apex.
Fig. 15 shows a variation on the central part connection, with splints 231 at joints providing additional connection structural strength (metal bracket may additionally or alternatively be used as described in more detail blow). Figs. 16 and 17 show a number of further full frames 240 to 15 construct a frame for a dormer bungalow, having been erected on the foundation 210 in the longitudinal direction. The spacings are as desired. For example, there may be a small spacing of say 300mm between the two frames at each end, these frames together providing the gable wall frames. Other spacings are according to engineer specifications according to loadings and window and door opes. On large sites it may be possible to assemble the complete frame 240 on the ground and mechanically lift it into position. The frames 240 can be fitted at centres varying from 600mm to 900mm. To accommodate manufactured boards the centres may have spacings of 900mm, 900mm and 600mm centres, adding up to 2400mm (manufactured board size). In one example all centres are 900mm and 2700mm boards could be used.
The frame structure is manufactured and assembled with truss clip connectors.
The floor joists 202 are fixed in position to tie the structure together. A combination of nails, truss clips and bolted brackets will be used in accordance with engineers' specifications. Where mechanical lifting equipment is available on site the complete frame 240 could be assembled on the horizontal and lifted into position.
Fig. 18 shows a bracket 260 to join horizontal ties 250 at any desired lateral joint or where extra strength is required for example for stairwell opes. The bracket 260 advantageously has a pair of plates 261 for engaging and clamping opposed tie surfaces. In this case the two opposed parts 261 of the bracket are bolted together by bolts 262, but they could be snap-fitted or fastened by any other known means. The engineers' specifications for racking strength will be adhered to in order to achieve full structural integrity.
Following the racking work the horizontal floor ties 202 are preferably removed to reveal a finished concrete unimpeded walk space. Horizontal bracing or diagonal bracing may be applied as shown in Fig. 10 for example.
Bungalow Construction Referring to Fig. 19, a frame 300 is configured for bungalow construction, and has first and second lateral parts 301 and a central part 302 providing the apex. Again, there are floor-level ties and vertical upright ties over a central base plate on the foundation. There is an upper horizontal tie 303, which includes one joint using a bracket 260.
Two Storey Fig. 20 shows primary frames also assembled from three parts, in this case the frame having a similar layout to the others described herein.
Alternative Base Plate Fig. 21 shows base plates 400 having a series of transverse notches 402 for a friction fit with the frames, at 600mm to 900mm separations. The frame has downward projections 411 to engage side surfaces of the base plate. There may be any desired configuration of frame projections to increase the surface-to-surface engagement of the frame with the base plates. Also, in one example the base plate notches have dimensions of 100mm in the longitudinal direction and are 75mm wide (75mm high, 100mm wide). This arrangement gives an accurate on-site spacing of the frames; it will provide a stronger fixing point for the base plate in the centre of the building.
Extensions Referring to Fig. 22 a frame 500 has the overall configuration of the first or second part 200 described above. This is used on its own to provide a primary frame for a -lean-to" extension, engaging foundation base plates 510 and wall-mounted base plates 520. The latter includes a lower base plate 521which has a ledge and an upper base plate 522. The frame 500 has a wall frame portion akin to that of any of the above embodiments, and it engages the base plates 510 in the same way. The difference is that it also engages the wall-mounted base plate system 522 so that it forms a lean-to extension frame when the frames are erected in series. Each frame 500 has a floor-level horizontal tie 511 and a vertical tie 512, both of which are for integrity of the frame during construction but removal as shown in Fig. 24 when the structure is complete.
Flat Roof Extension Frame Figs. 25 and 26 show frames 600 mounted in series on base plates 601, and also engaging wall-mounted base plates ("wall plates") 602 on a wall at ceiling height. The roof structure comprises a pair of parallel beams joined by struts to provide a flat roof structure, which engages the wall-mounted base plate 602. There are horizontal and vertical temporary ties 612 and 613. As shown in Fig. 27 the frame is notched to engage the single wall-mounted base plate 602. A firring slope piece can be included on top of the frame, and the frame is factory notched to sit in wall plate position as shown in Fig. 27. The vertical and horizontal ties 612 and 613 are removed when the structure is complete, as shown in Fig. 28.
Small House Frame Construction Fig. 29 shows that frame parts 700 akin to the frame parts 200 can be used for small house design without a central part. The foundation, 710, has only the building wall base plates and no central base plates. The ceiling joists span to the outer walls and the vertical and horizontal ties can be removed. An additional support beam could be inserted running the length of the middle of the build. A metal bracket could also be used as a midpoint jointing system, and this frame system is also suitable for dormer and two-storey buildings.
In any example, straw bales could be used as the insulation to build between the frames, further demonstrating the flexibility of the frames' use.
Figs. 30 to 33 show that the frames 700 could be mounted on a circular foundation 520 in an arrangement extending radially from a central vertical axis. In this case a pair of inter-connected frames 700 extend diagonally and there are no longitudinal base plates. The frames 700 are secured to the foundation 700 by fasteners 730 having a foundation-engaging web 733 and a pair of upstanding flanges 731 and 732 framing a channel to receive the frame. In other examples simple L-shaped brackets may be used in at least some locations. When the structure is complete the horizontal ties can be removed to give clear walk space.
Fig. 34 shows that the frames 700 could be erected on a hexagonal foundation 750, and again a pair of aligned frames 700 extend across the full diagonal dimension. In general, the frames can be used to provide a wide variety of structure shapes, or combinations of different shapes, and any polygon shape in plan could be used.
It will be appreciated that the frames and their method of use provide the core structure of a building in a simple, fast manner with excellent structural integrity. There is excellent versatility as described above. The same size frame can be chosen for any of a wide range of houses of varying widths. Where the frame is provided in multiple parts the opposed first and second parts may be of a standard size, with versatility being provided by choice of central part, and indeed choice of whether to use a central part. The height of the frame can be adapted to accommodate bungalow, dormer, or two-storey buildings.
The frames can be easily adapted to build extensions, with flat or pitched roofs. There is versatility in terms of the shape in plan of the building, and we have described rectangular, round, and hexagonal as examples. The frames also work on most shape concrete pad foundations. The frames provide the structure for constniction of the internal partitions. The spacings of the frames also allow for the provision of door and window openings to suit standard building components. The construction method allows for the creation of spaces such as wardrobe spaces.
By way of example, 800mm x 800mm shower units could be fitted off a main bathroom, creating extra space.
kitchen larder units and appliances could be built in between the 900mm truss spaces, creating a lot of extra space. The frames and their methods of use allow for a lot of creativity for design of interiors and provides for space-saving opportunities within the walls of the building.
Referring to Fig. 35 an elongate backet 800 may be used for providing additional strength in joints of parallel members, or any other joint such as butt joints. The bracket 800 comprises elongate plates 801 and 802 and transverse legs 803 and 804 which extend from the plate 801 to be fastened to the opposed plate 802. Such a bracket provides a strong clamping force, and could be used for example to secure two frame parts directly together in the arrangement for example of Fig. 29.
The invention is not limited to the embodiments described but may be varied in construction and detail. For example, while we have described removal of floor-level ties, these may in other examples be retained to form part of a floor structure. Also, we have described removal of some vertical ties, but there are more likely to be required in many examples, to provide part of the building frame. Also, where we have described a primary frame being in two parts joined directly together, they may have flat-roofed top structures instead of an apex truss, to suit the building design.

Claims (42)

Claims

1. A method of constructing a building frame comprising the steps of:
providing primary frames (2) each spanning width of the building or a portion 5 thereof, each primary frame comprising:
opposed wall frames of wall frame members (30, 31, 34), and at least one ceiling joist (35);
providing a foundation (10, 110);
mounting on the foundation a base plate (20, 120) at the location of at least one side 10 wall, said base plate or plates extending in a longitudinal direction;
mounting each primary frame in turn on the at least one base plate and the foundation in succession at desired longitudinal intcr-fraine spacings, while temporarily supporting the primary frames (2) to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof trusses onto the primary frames, or the roof trusses being integral 15 with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses in the longitudinal direction to provide a building frame over the foundation.

2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the base plates (20) are elongate, extending for 20 longitudinal length of the building.

3. A method as claimed in claim 2, wherein there are at least two parallel base plates (20) extending in parallel for each wall frame.

4. A method of any preceding claim, wherein at least some primary frames (2) comprise a tie (4) interconnecting the frame' s opposed wall frame members (30, 31, 34) for temporary additional strength of the primary frame during construction.

5. A method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the tie (4) is at floor level.

6. A method as claimed in claims 4 or 5, wherein the tie is removably fixed in the primary frame, and is removed before the building is completed.

7. A method as claimed in claim 6, wherein at least one tie which has been removed is used as an inter-frame brace support at least until the primary frames and the roof tmsses form the building frame.

8. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least some primary frames each comprise at least one outer stud (30), at least one intermediate stud (31), at least one floor plate member (32) interconnecting the outer and intermediate studs (30, 31).

9. A method as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least some primary frames comprise at least one diagonal brace (33) between the outer stud (30) and the intermediate studs (31).

10. A method as claimed in claims 8 or 9, wherein there is a gap between the inner stud (34) and the intermediate stud (31) sufficient to provide a space for insulation when the primary frames have been erected.

11. A method as claimed in any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the primary frame (2) is mounted with the horizontal floor plate member (32) mounted on the base plate (20), at its innermost end, where it is also fixed to the inner stud (34) and to the intermediate stud (31).

12. A method as claimed in any of claims 8 to 11, wherein there are at least two parallel base plates (20) for each building side, and each wall frame comprises a horizontal floor plate member (32) which spans said base plates (20).

13. A method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the primary frame (2) is mounted with the outer end of the floor-level member (32) is mounted oil a base plate (20), and the outer stud (30) resting on the floor plate member (32).

14. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising the hirther step of pouring a concrete floor after erection of the primary frames.

15. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, comprising the further step of fixing at least one three-dimensional bracket (130) to the slab, a base plate, and a primary frame.

16. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least some primary frames comprise a sloped member (140) provided to align with the lower end of a rafter of the roof truss .

17. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the erected primary frames arc inter-connected with horizontal braces (135) at joist level.

18. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least some primary frames are provided in a first part (200) comprising one wall frame (201) and a second part comprising the opposed wall frame (201), and said parts are joined together on site.

19. A method as claimed in claim 18, wherein each said part comprises roof members (204).

20. A method as claimed in claims 18 or 19, comprising providing outer base plates (222) at building opposed wall locations and also at least one inner base plate (211) between said outer base plates, and each said frame part rests on both outer and inner base plates.

21. A method as claimed in claim 20, wherein there are at least two inner base plates (211), and each frame part (200) is placed on an outer base plate and an inner base plate.

22. A method as claimed in any of claims 18 to 21, wherein the first and second parts are joined by a central bridging part (230).

23. A method as claimed in claim 22, wherein said central bridging part forms a frame for a roof apex.

24. A method as claimed in any of claims 18 to 23, comprising tying the first and second parts (200) with a lateral tie (303).

25. A method as claimed in claim 24, wherein said tie includes a joint with a bracket (260).

26. A method as claimed in claim 25, wherein the bracket comprises opposed plates which clamp opposed surfaces of tie members at the joint.

27. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least some base plates include transverse notches (401) and a primary frame fits in each notch.

28. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least some primary frames include downward extensions (411) for engaging a lateral surface of a base plate.

29. A method of constructing a building or a building extension comprising the steps of:

providing primary frames (500) each comprising a wall frame of wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist (525);
providing a foundation;
mounting on the foundation a base plate (510) at the location of at least one side wall, said base plate or plates extending in a longitudinal direction;
mounting each primary frame in turn on the at least one base plate and the foundation in succession at desired longitudinal inter-frame spacings, while temporarily supporting the primary frames (2) to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof trusses onto the primary frames, or the roof trusses being integral with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses in the longitudinal direction to provide a building frame over the foundation.

30. A method as claimed in claim 29, wherein the frame comprises a single wall frame and is mounted both on the base plate and against a wall-mounted base plate (520) to form a lean-to extension.

31. A method as claimed in claim 30, wherein at least one wall-mounted base plate (521) has a horizontal ledge for engaging he frame.

32. A method as claimed in any of claims 29 to 31, wherein the primary frame comprises both a horizontal tie (612) and a vertical tie (613) which are joined, and said ties are removed after erection of the frames.

33. A method of constructing a building comprising the steps of:
providing primary frames (700) each comprising a wall frame of wall frame members and at least one ceiling joist (525);
providing a foundation (720);
mounting each primary frame in turn on the foundation in succession at desired radial spacings and each frame extending from a central vertical axis, while temporarily supporting the frames to keep them at a vertical orientation, mounting roof tnisses onto the priniary frames, or the roof trusses being integral with the primary frames; and interconnecting the primary frames and the roof trusses to provide a building frame over the foundation.

34. A method as claimed in claim 33, wherein the frames are secured to the foundation by brackets (730).

35. A method as claimed in claim 34, wherein at least some of said brackets each comprises a base web (733) for engaging the foundation and a pair of upstanding flanges (731, 732), and engaging a loser edge of a frame (700) between said flanges.

36. A building frame comprising:
a plurality of primary frames (2) each spanning width of a building and having opposed wall frame members (30, 31, 34) and at least one ceiling joist (35);
each primary frame being adapted for mounting on a foundation base plates in succession at desired longitudinal spacings, a floor-level tie (4) interconnecting the opposed wall frarne rnernbers for temporary additional strength of the prirnary frarne during construction, the tie being removably fixed in the primary frame, elongate base plates arranged to be fixed to a slab for engagement with the series of prirnary frames.

37. A building frame as clairned in clairn 36, wherein there are at least two parallel base plates (20) for extending in parallel on a slab on each side of the primary frames.

38. A building frarne as claimed in either of claims 36 or 37, wherein at least one floor-level tie (4) is adapted for longitudinal bracing of primary frames (2).

39. A building frame as claimed in any of claims 36 to 38, wherein at least some primary frarnes each cornprise at least one outer stud (30), at least one interrnediate stud (31), at least one floor plate rnernber (32) interconnecting the outer and interrnediate studs (30, 31).

40. A building frarne as clairned in clairn 39, further cornprising and at least one diagonal brace (33) between the outer and intermediate studs (30, 31).

41. A building frame as claimed in claims 39 or 40, wherein the primary frame (2) is adapted to be mounted with the horizontal floor plate member (32) mounted at its inner end on a base plate (20), where it is also fixed to the inner stud (34) and to the intermediate stud (31).

42. A building frame as claimed in claim 41, wherein there are at least two parallel base plates (20) for each lateral primary frame side, and each wall frame comprises a horizontal floor plate member (32) which spans said base plates (20).
10 43. A building frame as claimed in claim 42, wherein the primary frame (2) is adapted to be mounted with the outer end of the floor-level member (32) is mounted on a base plate (20), and the outer stud (30) resting on the floor plate member (32).