GB2505277A

GB2505277A - Worktop joint

Info

Publication number: GB2505277A
Application number: GB201309621A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Thomas Peter Edward Cass; James Anthony Shanks
Original assignee: Project Ff & E Ltd
Current assignee: Project Ff & E Ltd
Priority date: 2013-05-30
Filing date: 2013-05-30
Publication date: 2014-02-26
Anticipated expiration: 2033-05-30
Also published as: WO2014191774A1; GB2505277B; GB2505277C; GB201309621D0

Abstract

A worktop joint comprises a first worktop arranged in an end-to-end relationship with a second worktop, the first and second worktops having an upper surface and a lower surface. A jointing strip is arranged between the worktops. The strip comprises a vertical connecting portion 14 located intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops, an upper flange 12 arranged to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each worktop and a lower flange 22 arranged to support the a lower surface of at least one of the worktops.

Description

Jointing strip and joint

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a design for a worktop jointing strip, and a joint including such a strip and adjacent worktops. The present invention further relates to a method ofjoining worktops.

BACKGROUND OF THE iNVENTION

Worktops are commonly used in fitted kitchens above cabinets, appliances etc as a solid and durable surface for food preparation and storage. Often worktops are constructed from a particle based core. For example, single or double post-formed laminate worktops with a chipboard core and Kraft paper and melamine backing are common. Sometimes, because of worktop length or features such as corners, it is necessary to use two pieces of worktop that are joined together to provide a continuous surface.

Water/liquid is often spilled onto worktops, or used to clean the surface. If liquids come into contact with the chipboard core there is the potential for damage as the core will expand and dc-laminate, resulting in damage to the worktop over time.

The joints between adjacent pieces of worktop are a common area of weakness, where liquid ingress can occur.

Where there is a joint in a run of work-surface, such as an in-line joint, the standard methodology for joining the two pieces is via edge to edge joining using worktop connector bolts, biscuits' and sealant. The join is achieved by cutting a series of holes and grooves in the worktop panels to accept the connector bolts and biscuits'.

A sealant such as silicone sealant is also applied to the exposed core board for sealing and protecting the joint.

This method of joining allows the worktops to be pulled tight together using the connector bolts with the biscuits' glued in place to aid holding the join and also aid levelling of the work-surfaces, the sealant gives protection to the joint from water ingress. However, the accuracy and quality of these joints can be variable, depending on the expertise and attention to detail of the person doing the jointing and also the quality of the tools and cutters used for the machining processes required.

Problems occur if the joint between the two work-surfaces are not level, whereby any exposed particle core board can be left exposed and subject to water/liquid and dirt ingress. The problem is compounded if the sealant has not been properly applied to the core board prior to joining. If the laminate covering of the worktop has been poorly cut, leaving small chips in the surface of laminate or what is known as break-out it can also be subject to water/ liquid ingress. A common cause of this problem is using worn or un-sharp cutters resulting in poor quality cut edges.

The present invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems encountered from poor quality joints in worktops, whether it be from workmanship or otherwise and to protect against the effects of watet'liquids on work-surface joints, therefore increase the life expectancy of a worktop joint.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention provides a worktop joint comprising a first worktop arranged in an end-to-end relationship with a second worktop, the first and second worktops having an upper surface and a lower surface, and having a jointing strip arranged therebetween, the strip comprising: a vertical connecting portion located intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops; an upper flange arranged to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each worktop; a lower flange arranged to support the lower surface of at least one of the worktops.

This provides easier alignment between the first and second worktops, so less skill is required for accurate installation, resulting in less risk of the worktop ends being exposed and therefore liable to be contacted by liquid and damaged.

The lower flange may be arranged to support both worktops.

The lower flange may have an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof This may result in a closer fit between upper flange and worktops. thereby further improving the seal.

The lower flange can have a tapering thickness and/or has an angle of greater than 900 with respect to the vertical connecting portion.

The lower flange may have apertures therein fin receiving fasteners to secure at least one of the worktops thereto to enhance securement of worktop.

The joint may further comprise at least one connector extending between the first and second worktops and wherein the vertical connecting portion has at least one aperture therein tbr the connector to extend therethrough. This ensures the jointing strip does not affect nonnal way of attaching worktops together.

The upper flange may be nanower than the lower flange. This makes the upper flange less visually obtrusive.

Optionally, the upper flange is less than half the width of the lower flange.

The upper flange may have a curved upper surface.

The upper flange may further extend around at least a portion of the front of the worktops. This may provide a better seal at front of worktops.

The jointing strip may have a substantially constant profile, except at a front thereof where the jointing strip is shaped to match the shape of front of the worktops.

The worktop joint according may further comprising sealant material located between the ends of the worktops and the jointing strip. Advantageously this further improves water resistance of seal.

At least one of the worktops may comprise a particle board core covered on at least an upper surface with a water resistant sheet covering.

A second embodiment of the present invention provides ajointing strip for connecting together two worktops in an end-to-end relationship comprising: a vertical connecting portion for locating intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops, in use; an upper flange to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each worktop, in use; a lower flange arninged to support the a lower surface of at least one of the worktops, in use; optionally wherein the lower flange has an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof This provides easier alignment between the first and second worktops, so less skill is required for accurate installation and results in closer fit between upper flange and worktops, thereby improving the seal.

The lower flange can have a tapering thickness and/or the lower flange can have an angle of greater than 900 with respect to the vertical connecting portion.

The lower flange may have apertures therein for receiving fasteners to secure at least one worktop thereto. This may enhance securement of the worktop.

The jointing strip may further comprise at least one aperture therein to enable a connector to extend therethrough. This ensures the jointing strip does not affect normal way of attaching worktops together.

The upper flange may be narrower than the lower flange. This makes the upper flange less visually obtrusive.

The upper flange may be less than half the width of the lower flange.

The upper flange may have a curved upper surface.

The upper flange may further extend downwardly at the front of the strip to cover at least a portion of the front of the worktops, in use. Advantageously, this may provide a better seal at front of worktop.

The jointing strip may have a substantially constant profile, except at a front thereof where the jointing strip is shaped to match the shape of front of the worktops between which it is to be fitted, in use.

The jointing strip can be formed as an extrusion or as a moulding The jointing strip may made from a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminium and/or from plastics material, such as PVC.

A third aspect of the present invention provides a method of joining first and second worktops in an end-to-end relationship, comprising the steps of: providing a jointing strip having vertical connecting portion, an upper flange, and a lower flange; positioning the jointing strip between the ends of the worktops such that the upper flange overlies an upper surface of the worktops and the lower flange supports a lower surface of at least one worktop; connecting the worktops together.

The method can further comprise a step of providing sealant between the ends of the worktops and/or a step of providing a water resistant sheet covering over at least a portion of the ends of the worktops to enhance the liquid resistance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is an isometric view of a worktop jointing strip according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is an enlarged isometric view of an end of the strip of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a cross-section through the strip of Figure 1; Figure 4 is an exploded isometric view of a part assembled joint according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is an isometric view of a fully assembled joint; Figure 6 is a cross-section through a worktop joint of Figure 5 on a plane 6-6; Figure 7 is an isometric view of a strip according to another embodiment of the present invention; and FigureS is an isometric view ofajoint incorporating the strip of Figure 7.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)

A worktop jointing strip 10 as shown in Figure 1 has been designed for use on work-tops such as those found in typical domestic and non-domestic kitchens and described above.

With reference to Figures 1, 2 and 3, the jointing strip 10 comprises from top to bottom a relatively nanow rounded upper flange 12 that sits centrally on top of a thin vertical web section 14. The upper flange 12 is visible in use above the upper surface 16 of the worktop 18 (Figure 5). The upper flange 12 is significantly narrower than conventional jointing strips but is still able to cover the cut edges of two pieces of worktop positioned either side of the jointing strip. In this embodiment the width is 4.8mm, but in other embodiments is preferably less than 10mm, more preferably less than 7mm.

The centrally positioned web section 14 is provided with clearance holes 20 at regular locations along the length of the strip 10 to accommodate standard worktop connector bolts as described in more detail below. In other embodiments, additional slots or holes can be provided to accommodate biscuits ifa biscuit joint is also required.

At the base of the web section 14 there is a centrally positioned with respect to the web a generally horizontal flange 22. The flange in this embodiment thins slightly towards its outer edges 24 in such a way that an upper surface of the flange 26 is lower proximate the edges 24 than the web 14. In this embodiment the angle with respect to the web section 14 is approximately 9 1.3° by virtue of a 0.2mm thinning, but in other embodiments the angle could preferably be in the range of 90.5° to 1000, more preferably 91° to 95°.

In other embodiments the flange 22 may have a constant thickness, but be angled downwardly from the web 14 at each side, or a combination of thinning and angling.

Thus, the cross-section of the strip is generally that of an unequal I'.

The flange 22 also has clearance holes 28 at regular intervals along its length to receive screws (not shown) to give added hold to the joint as described below.

In this embodiment, the strip 10 has been designed for use with 650mm or 600mm deep worktops (cut to length accordingly), but could be made to suit any depth of worktop. Further, the strip is dimensioned to accommodate a standard kitchen worktop board thickness of approx. 38mm -39mm (accounting for the finish laminate and mclamine foil/Kraft paper backing).

The strip 10 has also been dimensioned to offer a closer fit to a standard worktop "bull nose" front edge profile, with a 6mm radius curves 30 and 31 to the top and bottom corners 32 of the worktop front profile. Additionally the upper flange 12 is chamfered at the front 34 thereof where it meets the curve 30 to provide a smooth transition that minimises sharp edges.

The flange 22 preferably terminates short of the lower curve 30 so as not to interfere with hardware that may be located under the worktop, but this may not be the case in other embodiments.

The worktop jointing strip 10 can be formed in various ways and made from various materials. In a preferred embodiment, the strip is formed from a section of aluminium that has been extruded to the desired profile and is then cut to a desired length. The various sections and holes punched or drilled out to achieve the desired design and to accommodate commonly used worktop-joining hardware. An anodised finish can be applied for protection to the aluminium and also to give a more appealing aesthetic.

Assembly ofa joint using the strip is as follows: With reference to Figures 4, 5, and 6, first and second worktops 36 and 38 intended to form a contiguous work surface are optionally first cut to a desired length.

Additionally, if not already provided, transverse bores 40 and intersecting wells 42 are drilled into the edges and 44 and undcrsidcs 46 of the first and second worktops 36 and 38 so as to accommodate worktop joining bolts 48, with suitable washers and nuts (not shown).

Silicone sealant (not shown) is then preferably applied liberally to the entire surface of edges 44 of both worktops 36 and 38. This provides a protective barrier to the cut edges of the worktop. It is also preferred that prior to applying a sealant to the ends of the worktops to be joined, the cut edges be protected by applying edging tape or edging laminate to the cut ends of the worktop pieces; again to aid sealing the core board of the worktops.

The strip 10 is thcn offered-up to one end 44 as shown in Figure 4, the bolts 48 are inserted into bores 40 and through holes 20, and the second worktop 38 is offered up to the other side of the strip 10, as shown in Figure 5. The bolts 48 are tightened to bring the strip 10 and worktops 36, 38 into close contact. Any excess sealant expelled as the worktops are brought to together is wiped away. The I' profile ensures accurate alignment of the two worktops.

In this preferred embodiment, the shape of the strip 10 additionally achieves a tighter fit to the cut ends of a worktop due to the tapered bottom section of the 1' profile. As the two worktop 36 and 38 are pulled together via the worktop connector bolts 48 they are essentially pulled inwards and wedged tightly in to either side of the worktop jointing strip therefore achieving a much tighter fit, particularly against the undersides of the upper flange 12.

Having a better, closer fitting jointing strip greatly reduces the possibility of water, liquid or dirt ingress along the joint of the worktop. Furthermore, the lifespan of the joint is also aided by the use of silicone sealant acting as a water barrier.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate a second embodiment of the present invention in which like parts are labelled by like numerals with the prefix 1'.

In this embodiment the strip 110 is moulded, enabling the narrow rounded top profile 112 to extend around the front 132 edge of the strip. Therefore, yet further protection is provided to the joint, by covering the front edge and then carrying the rounded profile detail back round to the underside of the worktops.

By being moulded, the second embodiment would lend itself to being manufactured from other material to metals such as plastics (e.g. PVC), which could in tum be more easily coloured to be manufactured in colours to match the worktop colour.

Essentially this variation to the design gives a more complete seal around both sections of worktop to be joined. Moulding the worktop jointing strip, rather than extruding the profile would allow this variation to the design to be achieved at minimal cost. Using a moulding process allows for different tooling for the front edge profile, therefore being able to accommodate numerous worktop shapes and profiles as are common at minimal cost.

Iitstallation would be carried out in the same way as for the first embodiment.

It will be apparent that the jointing strip and joint of the present invention has been designed to address the problem of water ingress on work surface joints, particularly for laminated particleboard core worktops. This problem is particularly acute in high use kitchens such as those found in student accommodation sites where the kitchens have multiple occupant usage. The worktop jointing strip has been designed to give greater protection to the joint and also to give a greater lifespan to the joint compared to that of a standard worktop joint constructed using worktop connectors, biscuits and sealant. Additionally, the tighter fit may reduce the risk of dirt being trapped under the upper flange.

The overall profile of the worktop jointing strip has been designed to be thinner in section and less prominent than currently available worktop jointing strips, which often have a stigma associated with them due to the look, the association with low end affordable kitchens and the intrusive aesthetic they leave on a run of work-surface.

The worktop jointing strip in this instance is a slender extruded aluminium I' profile.

Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example the front shape could be changed so as to match differing worktop front profiles. The shape and size of the upper flange 12, 112 may be altered as desired, e.g. to have a flat or trapezoidal shape. The jointing strip may have curved or cranked sections in plan view for particular joints, such as at worktop corners.

It will be appreciated that although the present invention has been described primarily in relation to laminate particle board applications, a number of benefits of the present invention nevertheless apply to worktops manufactured from different materials, such as solid wood.

Claims

Claims 1. A worktop joint comprising a first worktop arranged in an end-to-end relationship with a second worktop, the first and second worktops having an upper surface and a lower surface, and having a jointing strip arranged therebetween, the strip comprising: a. a vertical connecting portion located intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops; b. an upper flange arranged to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each worktop; c. a lower flange arranged to support the lower surface of at least one of the worktops.
2. A worktop joint according to claim I wherein the lower flange is arranged to support both worktops.
3. A worktop joint according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the lower flange has an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof 4. A worktop joint according to claim 3 wherein the lower flange has a tapering thickness.5. A worktop joint according to claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the lower flange has an angle of greater than 90° with respect to the vertical connecting portion.6. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the lower flange has apertures therein for receiving fasteners to secure at least one of the 7. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim further comprising at least one connector extending between the first and second worktops and wherein the vertical connecting portion has at least one aperture therein for the connector to extend therethrough.8. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the upper flange is narrower than the lower flange.9. A worktop joint according to claim 8 wherein the upper flange is less than half the width of the lower flange.10. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the upper flange has a curved upper surface.11. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the upper flange further extends around at least a portion of the front of the worktops.12. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the jointing strip has a substantially constant profile, except at a front thereof where the jointing strip is shaped to match the shape of front of the worktops.13. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim further comprising sealant material located between the ends of the worktops and the jointing strip.14. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein at least one of the worktops comprises a particle board core covered on at least an upper surface with a water resistant sheet covering.15. A jointing strip for connecting together two worktops in an end-to-end relationship comprising: a. a vertical connecting portion for locating intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops, in use; b. an upper flange to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each c. a lower flange arranged to support the a lower surface of at least one of the worktops, in use; wherein the lower flange has an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof 16. A jointing strip according to claim 15 wherein thc lowcr flallgc has a tapcring thickncss.17. A jointing strip according to claim 15 or claim 16 whcrein the lower flange has an angle of greater than 900 with respect to the vertical connecting portion.18. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 17 wherein the lower flange has apertures therein for receiving fasteners to secure at least one 19. A jointing strip according to any onc of claims 15 to 18 further comprising at least one aperture therein to enable a connector to extend therethrough.20. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 19 wherein the upper flange is narrower than the lower flange.21. A jointing strip according to claim 20 wherein the upper flange is less than half the width of the lower flange.22. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 21 wherein the upper flange has a curved upper surface.23. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 22 whcrein the upper flange further extends downwardly at the front of the strip to cover at least a portion of the front of the worktops, in use.24. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 23 wherein the jointing strip has a substantially constant profile, except at a front thereof where the jointing strip is shaped to match the shape of front of the worktop between which it is to be fitted, in use.25. A jointing strip according to ay one of claims 15 to 24 formed as an extrusion.26. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 24 formed as a moulding 27. A jointing strip according to anyone of claims 15 to 26 made from a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminium.28. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 15 to 26 made from plastics material, such as PVC.29. A method of joining first and second worktops in an end-to-end relationship, comprising the steps of: a. providing a jointing strip having vertical connecting portion, an upper flange, and a lower flange; b. positioning the jointing strip between the ends of the worktops such that the upper flange overlies an upper surface of the worktops and the lower flange supports a lower surface of at least one worktop; c. connecting the worktops togcther.30. A method according to claim 29 ifirther comprising a step of providing sealant between the ends of the worktops.31. A method according to claim 29 or claim 30 further comprising a step of providing a water resistant sheet covering over at least a portion of the ends of the worktops.Amendments to claims have been filed as follows Claims 1. A worktop joint comprising a first worktop arranged in an end-to-end relationship with a second worktop, the first and second worktops having an upper surface and a lower surface, and having a jointing strip arranged therebetween, the strip compnsing: a. a vertical connecting portion located intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops; b. an upper flange arranged to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each worktop; c. a lower flange alTanged to suppoit the lower surface of at least one of the worktops.wherein the lower flange has an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof r r 2. A worktop joint according to claim I wherein the lower flange is arranged to If) 15 support both worktops.3. A worktop joint according to claim 2 wherein the lower flange has a tapering thickness.
4. A worktop joint according to claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the lower flange has an angie of greater than 9Q0 with respect to the vertical connecting portion.
5. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the lower flange has apertures therein for receiving fasteners to secure at least one of the
6. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim further comprising at least one connector extending between the first and second worktops and wherein the vertical connecting portion has at east one aperture therein for the connector to extend therethrough.
7. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the upper flange is narrower than the lower flange.
8. A worktop joint according to claim 7 wherein the upper flange is less than hail the width of the lower flange.
9. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the upper flange has a curved upper surface.
10. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the upper flange further extends around at least a portion of the front of the worktops.
11. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein the jointing strip has a substantially constant profile. except at a front thereof where the jointing strip is shaped to match the shape of front of the worktops.
12. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim further comprising sealant material located between the ends of the worktops and the jointing strip. r1
13. A worktop joint according to any preceding claim wherein at least one of the U') worktops comprises a particle board core covered on at least an upper surface with a water resistant sheet covering.
14. A jointing strip for connecting together two worktops in an end-to-end relationship comprising: a. a vertical connecting portion for thcating intermediate the ends of the first and second worktops, in use; b. an upper flange to extend over a portion of the upper surfaces of each c. a lower flange arranged to support the a lower surface of at least one of the worktops, in use; wherein the lower flange has an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof
15. A jointing strip according to claim 14 wherein the lower flange has a tapering thickness.
16. A jointing ship according to claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the lower flange has an angie of greater than 930 with respect to the vertical connecting portion.
17. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein the lower flange has apertures therein for receiving fasteners to secure at least one
18. A jointing stnp according to any one of claims 14 to 17 further comprising at least one aperture therein to enable a connector to extend therethrough.
19. A jointing stnp according to any one of claims 14 to 18 wherein the upper flange is narrower than the lower flange.CV)
20. A jointing strip according to claim 19 wherein the upper flange is less than half the width of the lower flange. r1
21. A jointing stnp according to any one of claims 14 to 20 wherein the upper LI") flange has a curved upper surface.
22. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 14 to 21 wherein the upper flange further extends downwardly at the front of the strip to cover at least a portion of the front of the worktops, in use.
23. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 14 to 22 wherein the jointing strip has a substantially constant profile, except at a front thereof where the jointing stnp is shaped to match the shape of front of the worktop between which it is to be fitted, in use.
24. A jointing strip according to any one of dairns 14 to 23 formed as an extrusion.
25. A jointing stnp according to any one of claims 14 to 23 formed as a moulding
26. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 14 to 25 made from a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminium.
27. A jointing strip according to any one of claims 14 to 25 made from plastics material, such as PVC.
28. A method of joining first and second worktops in an end-to-end relationship, comprising the steps of: a. providing a jointing strip having vertical connecting portion, an upper flange, and a lower flange; wherein the lower flange has an upper surface higher adjacent the vertical connecting portion than at an opposing outer edge thereof b. positioning the jointing stnp between the ends of the worktops such that the upper flange overlies an upper surface of the worktops and the thwer flange supports a lower surface of at least one worktop; CV) c. connecting the worktops together.
29. A method according to claim 28 further comprising a step of providing sealant 1 between the ends of the worktop s.
30. A method according to claim 28 or claim 29 further comprising a step of providing a water resistant sheet covering over at least a portion of the ends of the worktops.