GB2615855A

GB2615855A - Jointing means

Info

Publication number: GB2615855A
Application number: GB2218572.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Duffin John; Coyle Sean
Original assignee: Keyfix Ltd
Current assignee: Keyfix Ltd
Priority date: 2021-12-09
Filing date: 2022-12-09
Publication date: 2023-08-23
Also published as: GB202117817D0; GB202218572D0; IE20220200A2

Abstract

A jointing arrangement or fastener 1 for use with building components 20, 30 which overlap and extend into the cavity of a cavity wall such as cavity trays or brick trays 40. The device has three sections or members. The first section (2, Fig 1) which contacts the upper surface of the overlying components, a second section (3, Fig 1) to contact with a lower surface and an intermediate portion (4, Fig 1) that joins the first and second sections. The clip may sit at a front 23 or trailing edge of the building component and may compress the overlapping components together. The first and/or second sections may have a guide for guiding the overlapping components and this may be a lip. The joint may be spring loaded and may have a means for draining moisture 8 (weep vent) which may be a hole or a slot. Also claimed is a non-combustible weep vent, with first and second members which engage upper and lower surfaces of a building component and has an intermediate portion which connects them, and that has a draining means or hole.

Description

JOINTING MEANS

The present invention relates to building components. In particular, the present invention relates to building components for use in cavity walls.

A cavity wall is a type of wall consisting of an inner leaf and an outer leaf with a cavity therebetween. The two leaves of the cavity wall are typically formed of masonry but may also be formed of any other suitable material. In order to maintain the structural integrity of a cavity wall, various structural supports may be used to ensure reinforcement of the two leaves and to distribute the weight of the building between the two leaves as evenly as possible.

A major problem associated with buildings having cavity walls is dampness. Dampness usually occurs due to penetration of moisture through the masonry of the outer leaf which can then travel across the cavity and permeate the inner leaf of the cavity wall. To prevent moisture permeating the inner leaf of a cavity wall, building components such as damp-proof courses and/or cavity trays are installed in the cavity. These building components typically extend across the cavity and comprise a sloping portion which slopes downwardly from the inner leaf of the cavity wall to the outer leaf of the cavity wall. This enables any moisture in the cavity to flow downwardly towards the outer leaf of the cavity wall. Weep vents and/or holes are also required to be installed in the outer leaf of the cavity wall to enable drainage of any moisture in the cavity to the external surface of the outer leaf. Therefore, weep vents typically extend between masonry and/or bricks of the outer leaf of the cavity wall to provide a drainage path for the moisture between the masonry and/or bricks.

One problem associated with building components in the cavity of the cavity wall, such as structural supports, damp-proof courses and/or cavity trays, is that moisture on the building components may cascade over the ends of the structural supports, into the cavity. Overtime, this ingress of moisture in the cavity may result in internal dampness within the building. One solution to this problem is to overlap adjacent building components in the cavity. However, if the joint between the building components is not sealed then moisture may escape through a gap in the joint. Therefore, it is important to maintain a sealed connection between overlapping building components in the cavity to enable a continuous barrier to moisture ingress along the length of the cavity, as far as the inner leaf and outer leaf extend around the building. Furthermore, during building, it is common for an unwanted accumulation of mortar to occur between overlapping building components which can block a desired flow path for moisture, in a direction from the inner leaf to the outer leaf, out of the cavity of the cavity wall. Therefore, this would prevent moisture escaping towards the outer leaf of the cavity wall and/or results in an accumulation of moisture between the overlapping building components.

Maintaining a sealed connection between overlapping building components is also important to prevent movement of the building components relative to one another which could compromise the structural integrity of a building or the wall structure of a building.

One problem associated with weep vents and/or drainage holes is that these can become clogged with mortar during construction of the building and its walls. As a result, moisture in the cavity of a cavity wall cannot be drained out of the cavity, causing an accumulation of moisture in the cavity.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to mitigate the above-mentioned problems associated with overlapping building components in a cavity wall.

It is also an object of the present invention to prevent movement of overlapping building component relative to one another.

It is also an object of the present invention to prevent weep vents and/or drainage holes from becoming clogged with mortar and/or other debris.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a jointing means for use with building components which extend into the cavity of a cavity wall, the jointing means being configurable to engage with and prevent relative movement between overlapping building components.

Advantageously, this prevents a gap forming between overlapping building components through which moisture could ingress before falling off the building component into an area of the cavity below the building component and/or in which mortar could accumulate. Thereby, this also prevents moisture from becoming stagnant and/or accumulating in the cavity.

By overlapping building components, we mean building components that are arranged such that one extends over the top of the other.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable for use with overlapping building components comprising a brick tray.

By brick tray we mean the portion of a building component configured to engage with bricks and/or mortar and/or masonry of the outer leaf of the cavity wall.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to engage with and maintain contact between the brick trays of overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable for use with overlapping building components comprising a substantially vertical and/or sloping portion.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to engage with and maintain contact between substantially vertical portions and/or sloping portions of overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises a first engaging member configurable to engage with an upper surface of an overlying building component.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises a first engaging member configurable to engage with an upper surface of the brick tray, substantially vertical portion and/or sloping portion of an overlying building component.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises a second engaging member configurable to engage with a lower surface of an underlying building component.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises a second engaging member configurable to engage with a lower surface of the brick tray, substantially vertical portion and/or sloping portion of an underlying building component.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to engage with any type of surface on a building component.

Ideally, the engaging members are configurable to engage with any type of surface on a building component.

By type of surface, we mean any surface regardless of whether the surface is planar, smooth, rough, uneven, textured, patterned stippled and/or comprising ribs, indentations protrusions and/or deformations. In this case, the jointing means and/or engaging members would engage with the apex of the ribs, indentations protrusions and/or deformations.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises an intermediate portion.

Preferably, in a first embodiment of the invention, the intermediate portion is elongate having two longitudinal ends and two lateral ends.

Preferably, in the first embodiment, the first engaging member extends from one of the longitudinal ends of the intermediate portion and the second engaging member extends from the other of the longitudinal ends of the intermediate portion.

Preferably, in a second embodiment of the invention, the intermediate portion is formed as a substantially u-shaped bend.

Preferably, in the second embodiment, the first engaging member and the second engaging member extend from opposing ends of the intermediate portion.

Preferably, in the second embodiment, the intermediate portion is not elongate. The remaining statements and description apply to both embodiments of the intermediate portion unless otherwise stated.

Preferably, the first engaging member comprises a trailing edge.

Preferably, the first engaging member trailing edge is connected to and/or extends from the intermediate portion.

Preferably, in the first embodiment of the invention, the first engaging member trailing edge is connected to and/or extends from one of the longitudinal ends of the intermediate portion.

Preferably, the first engaging member comprises a leading edge which is opposite to the first engaging member trailing edge.

Preferably, the first engaging member comprises a main portion which extends between the first engaging member leading edge and the first engaging member trailing edge.

Preferably, the second engaging member comprises a trailing edge.

Preferably, the second engaging member trailing edge is connected to and/or extends the intermediate portion.

Preferably, in the first embodiment, the second engaging member trailing edge is connected to and/or extends from one of the longitudinal ends of the intermediate portion. Preferably, the second engaging member comprises a leading edge which is opposite to the second engaging member trailing edge.

Preferably, the second engaging member comprises a main portion which extends between the second engaging member leading edge and the second engaging member trailing edge.

Preferably, the first engaging member and/or the second engaging member are substantially perpendicular to the intermediate portion.

Preferably, the first engaging member and/or the second engaging member extend from the intermediate portion at an acute angle.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge of overlapping building components and/or the front edge of the brick trays of overlapping building components.

Preferably, the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge of overlapping building components and/or the front edge of the brick trays of overlapping building components.

Preferably, where either of the overlapping building components comprise one or more ribs, the jointing means and/or intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge of the one or more ribs.

By front edge, we mean the edge of the building component and/or brick tray and/or ribs that faces away from the cavity, towards the external environment.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the trailing edge of the overlapping building components and/or substantially vertical portions and/or sloping portions of the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the trailing edge of the overlapping building components and/or substantially vertical portions and/or sloping portions of the overlapping building components.

Preferably, where either of the overlapping building components comprise one or more ribs, the jointing means and/or intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the trailing edge of the one or more ribs.

By trailing edge, we mean the edge of the building component locatable within the cavity of a cavity wall and/or the edge furthest from the front edge of the building component and/or brick tray.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to press against an upper surface of an overlapping building component and a lower surface of an underlying building component to compress the overlapping building components together.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to press against an upper surface of an overlapping building component and a lower surface of an underlying building component to compress the overlapping building components together such that a relative movement between the building components is prevented.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to engage with and maintain a sealed connection between overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to press against an upper surface of an overlapping building component and a lower surface of an underlying building component to compress the overlapping building components together such that a sealed connection is maintained between the building components.

Preferably, the first engaging member is configurable to compress against an upper surface of an overlapping building component to press the overlying building component against an underlying building component.

Preferably, the second engaging member is configurable to compress against a lower surface of an underlying building component to press the underlying building component against an overlying building component.

Advantageously, pressing one or both of the overlapping building components against the other prevents movement between the overlapping building components and/or prevents a gap forming between the overlapping building components. Thereby, this prevents moisture escaping between the overlapping building components and cascading over the end of the underlying building component into the cavity and/or prevents unwanted accumulation of mortar in a gap between the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to sandwich at least a portion of the overlapping building components between the first engaging member and the second engaging member.

Preferably, the jointing means is slidable over one or both of the overlapping building components to maintain the connection between the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive one or both of the building components between the engaging members of the jointing means.

Ideally, the jointing means is slidable over one or both of the overlapping building components to clip the overlapping building components together.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive one or both of the building components to clip the overlapping building components together.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive one or both of the building components between the engaging members of the jointing means to lap and connect building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is slidable over one or both of the overlapping building components to sandwich a portion of the overlapping building components between the first engaging member and the second engaging member of the jointing means.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive one or both of the building components between the first engaging member and the second engaging member such that a portion of the overlapping building components is sandwiched between the first engaging member and the second engaging member of the jointing means.

Advantageously, this enables a sealed connection between the overlapping building components to be maintained. Thereby, this prevents the formation of a gap between the overlapping building components through which moisture could ingress.

Preferably, one or both of the engaging members comprise a guide means configurable to guide one or both of the overlapping building components between the engaging members.

Preferably, the guide means is a lip.

Preferably, the guide means projects from the main portion of the first engaging member and/or the second engaging member.

Preferably, the guide means projects away from the main portion of the first engaging member and from the main portion of the second engaging member.

Preferably, the leading edge of the guide means forms the leading edge of the first engaging member and/or second engaging member.

Preferably, the guide means is configurable to engage with a building component to enable the building component to move one or both of the engaging members away from the other so that the building component can be installed between the engaging members.

Preferably, the guide means is configurable to provide leverage for a building component to move one or both of the engaging members away from the other so that the building component can be installed between the engaging members.

Preferably, the first engaging member comprises a guide means to enable the front edge and/or trailing edge of a building component to be guided and/or slid into position between the first and second engaging members.

Preferably, the first engaging member comprises a guide means to enable the front edge of a building component to be guided and/or slid downwardly, from above, into position between the first and second engaging members.

Preferably, the first engaging member comprises a guide means to enable the trailing edge of a building component to be guided and/or slid upwardly, from below, into position between the first and second engaging members.

Preferably, the jointing means is slidable over the front edge and/or trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Ideally, the jointing means is slidable over the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means engages with the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Ideally, the jointing means is slidable over the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means engages with the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components. Ideally, the jointing means is slidable over the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means abuts the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Ideally, the jointing means is slidable over the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means abuts the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means engages with the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means engages with the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Ideally, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of the jointing means abuts the front edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Ideally, the jointing means is configurable to slidably receive the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components to a point where the intermediate portion of

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the jointing means abuts the trailing edge of one or both of the overlapping building components.

Preferably, one or both of the engaging members is biased towards the other.

Preferably, one or both of the engaging members extends from the intermediate portion towards the other.

Preferably, one or both of the engaging members extend from the intermediate portion towards the other such that, in use, this causes the one or both engaging members to press against one or both overlapping building components.

Preferably, prior to installation of the jointing means, the distance between the first engaging member and the second engaging member is equal to the combined height of the front edges and/or trailing edges of the overlapping building components for which the jointing means is to be used.

Preferably, prior to installation of the jointing means, the distance between the first engaging member and the second engaging member is less than the combined height of the front edges and/or trailing edges of the overlapping building components for which the jointing means is to be used.

Advantageously, this means that, in use, the one or both engaging members will press against one or both overlapping building components to prevent relative movement between the building components and/or to maintain a sealed connection between the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the height of the intermediate portion is equal to the combined height of the front edges and/or trailing edges of the overlapping building components for which the jointing means is to be used.

Ideally, the height of the intermediate portion is less than the combined height of the front edges and/or trailing edges of the overlapping building components for which the jointing means is to be used.

Ideally, the jointing means is spring loaded.

Preferably, one or both of the engaging members are configurable to be moved away from the other upon the application of force to one or both of the engaging members.

Advantageously, this enables the distance to be increased between the engaging members so that the jointing means can be installed over one or both of the overlapping building components and/or so that one or both of the overlapping building components can be installed between the engaging members.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable such that the distance between the first engaging member and the second engaging member may be increased upon the application of force to one or both of the engaging members.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to be manipulated such that the distance between the first engaging member and the second engaging member may be increased upon the application of force to one or both of the engaging members.

Preferably, the one or both of the engaging members can be bent away from the other at the joint between the one or both engaging members and the intermediate portion to increase the distance between the engaging members.

Preferably, the one or both engaging members can be bent towards the other at the joint between the one or both engaging members and the intermediate portion to decrease the distance between the engaging members and to press the engaging members against a to surface of overlapping building components.

Preferably, the joint between one or both of the engaging members and the intermediate portion can be bent, without breaking, upon the application of force.

Preferably, the jointing means is spring loaded such that one or both of the engaging members is biased towards the other.

Advantageously, this means that the one or both engaging members will spring back towards the other once the force moving one or both engaging members away from the other is removed. Further advantageously, this means that the pressing force of the engaging members against a surface of overlapping building components will be retained upon installation of the jointing means.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall.

Preferably, the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall is at least one hole and/or slot Preferably, the at least one hole and/or slot is elongate.

Preferably, the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall is locatable on the intermediate portion of the jointing means.

Advantageously, when the jointing means is installed over the front edges of the overlapping building components, this enables internal moisture travelling towards the front edge of the overlapping building components and/or moisture travelling between ribs and/or other upstanding portions on the overlapping building components to be drained from the cavity to the external surface of the outer leaf via the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall.

Preferably, only a jointing means having an intermediate portion according to a first embodiment of the invention comprises a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall.

Preferably, the intermediate portion is configurable to abut the front edge of overlapping building components such that internal moisture cannot ingress in a gap between the front edge of the building components and the intermediate portion.

Preferably, the jointing means is a clip.

Preferably, the jointing means is a weep vent.

Preferably, the jointing means is a combined clip and weep vent.

Advantageously, this reduces the number of components required in a cavity wall system.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to be used only as a weep vent where to there is only one building component. Advantageously, the jointing means is not limited to use with overlapping building components.

Preferably, the first engaging member is configurable to engage with and/or press against an upper surface of a building components and the second engaging member is configurable to engage with and/or press against a lower surface of the same building component. Preferably, the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against a front edge of a building component such that moisture can be drained from the building component and/or cavity into which the building component extends via the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall. Advantageously, this means that the jointing means is configurable to attach to/join to a building component to be used as a weep vent for the building component.

Preferably, the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall is configurable to receive an insert to prevent mortar from accumulating in the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall and/or from entering into the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall and between overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to prevent lateral and/or vertical movement between overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means comprises fastening means to fasten the jointing means to one or more overlapping building components.

Preferably, the fastening means is configurable to fasten to the underside of a building component.

Preferably, the fastening means comprises one or more protrusions which extend from the one or more engaging members.

Preferably, the one or more protrusions extend from an edge of the one or more engaging members.

Preferably, the one or more protrusions are configurable to grip the building component.

Ideally, the one or more protrusions are configurable to fasten the jointing means to a building component via friction.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable to used with a single building component in the same manner it is configurable to be used with overlapping building components.

Preferably, the jointing means is impervious to moisture.

Preferably, the jointing means is non-combustible.

Advantageously, in the event of a fire the jointing means will not burn.

Further advantageously, in the event of a fire the jointing means will not release flammable vapours which contribute to combustion.

Preferably, the jointing means is formed from steel.

Ideally, the jointing means is formed from stainless steel.

Alternatively, the jointing means may be formed from any other, non-pervious, non-combustible material.

Preferably, the jointing means is configurable for use with building components such as cavity trays and/or lintels.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a non-combustible weep vent comprising a first engaging member configurable to engage with an upper surface of a building component and a second engaging member configurable to engage with a lower surface of the same and/or an underlying building component, the weep vent comprising a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall. Preferably, the weep vent comprises an intermediate portion which extends between the first engaging member and the second engaging member.

Preferably, the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall is locatable on the intermediate portion of the weep vent.

Preferably, the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge of a building component so that any moisture on the building component can be drained via the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of the intermediate portion and/or so that no gaps form between the weep vent and the building component in which moisture could accumulate.

Preferably, the weep vent is configurable to be used in the same manner as the jointing means of the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided an insert configurable to be removably inserted between opposing surfaces of one or more building components and/or through an aperture and/or means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means and/or weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to be inserted between engaging members of a jointing means and/or weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to be inserted between opposing surfaces of a jointing means and/or weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to prevent mortar accumulating and/or falling between engaging members of a jointing means/weep vent and/or in a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

to By jointing means/weep vent we mean jointing means and/or weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to prevent mortar collecting between engaging members of a jointing means/weep vent and/or in a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

Advantageously, this ensures that no obstructions are created which would hinder the installation of the jointing means/weep vent and/or building components with respect to one another. This further ensures that no obstructions are created which would hinder the flow of moisture out of the cavity through a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall on a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to prevent mortar entering through an aperture between engaging members of a jointing means/weep vent and/or in a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

Advantageously, this means that during building, mortar is prevented from ingressing into the aperture. This is particularly advantageous during pointing.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to block any openings of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to block a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the insert comprises a first portion and a second portion.

Preferably, the first portion is configurable to be removably inserted through a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent and/or between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the first portion is configurable to block any openings of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the first portion is configurable to block a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent according to a first and/or second aspect of the invention.

Advantageously, this enables the insert to be inserted/slid through a means draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent according to a first aspect and/or second aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the first portion is dimensioned to correspond to the dimensions of a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent according to a first aspect and/or second aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the insert is of equal or less dimensions in relation to the dimensions of a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent according to a first aspect and/or second aspect of the invention. Preferably, the first portion is of equal or less dimensions to the dimensions of a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent according to a first aspect and/or second aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the insert comprises a leading edge and a trailing edge.

Preferably, the leading edge of the insert is formed as part of the first portion. Preferably, the trailing edge of the insert is formed as part of the second portion. Preferably, the insert comprises one or more incisions configurable to be inserted between one or more ribs on a building component.

Preferably, the insert comprises one or more incisions configurable to be inserted between one or more ribs on a building component which is installed between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the first portion comprises one or more incisions configurable to be inserted around one or more ribs on a building component.

Preferably, the first portion comprises one or more incisions configurable to be inserted around one or more ribs on a building component which is installed between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the one or more incisions extend through the leading edge of the insert and along at least a part of the first portion of the insert.

Preferably, the insert comprises one or more fingers configurable to be installed between two ribs on a building component.

Preferably, the insert comprises one or more fingers configurable to be installed between two ribs on a building component which is installed between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the first portion comprises one or more fingers configurable to be installed between two ribs on a building component.

Preferably, the first portion comprises one or more fingers configurable to be installed between two ribs on a building component which is installed between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the one or more fingers extend from the leading edge of the insert and along at least part of the first portion.

Preferably, the one or more fingers are formed by two or more incisions.

Preferably, the second portion is a user engaging portion to enable a user to handle the insert to insert or remove the insert through a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent and/or between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the second portion extends from the first portion.

Preferably, when installed, the second portion extends from the first portion through a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, when installed, the second portion extends beyond the outer surface of courses of masonry elements forming the outer leaf of a wall between which the jointing means/weep vent is installed.

Advantageously, after completion of a part or all of a wall, the insert can be removed from a jointing means/weep vent to enable moisture to drain through the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of the jointing meansNveep vent.

Preferably, the insert comprises a stop means to prevent the insert being inserted so far through the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent and/or between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent such that the insert cannot be removed.

Preferably, each of the one or more incisions comprise a stop means which abuts against the front edge of a rib around which each of the incisions are inserted.

Preferably, an end of each of the one or more incisions opposite to the leading edge of the insert abuts against the front edge of a rib around which each incision is inserted. Alternatively, or additionally, the second portion of the insert is dimensioned such that it does not fit through a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the second portion of the insert is dimensioned such that it abuts against a portion of a jointing means/weep vent adjacent to a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of the jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is formed of foam.

Advantageously, this enables the insert to be compressed between opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent and a building component which is installed between engaging members/opposing surfaces of a jointing means/weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to be placed between and/or compressed between opposing surfaces of overlapping building components.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to be placed between and/or compressed between opposing surfaces of overlapping building components which are installed and/or sandwiched between a jointing means and/or weep vent.

Preferably, the insert is configurable to be placed between and/or compressed to between an upper surface of an underlying building component and a lower surface of an overlapping building component. Advantageously, this prevents mortar accumulating between the overlapping building components. Further advantageously, this ensures that no obstructions are created between the overlapping building components which would hinder the flow of moisture between the overlapping building components.

Preferably, the insert is reusable.

Preferably, according to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a jointing apparatus/draining apparatus comprising one or more jointing means/weep vents according to a first aspect and/or second aspect of the invention and one or more inserts according to a third aspect of the invention.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings: -Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a second perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a third perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention, in use.

Figure 5 is a second perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention, in use.

Figure 6 is a third perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention, in use.

Figure 7 is a fourth perspective view of a jointing arrangement/weep vent according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention, in use.

Referring to figures 1-7 there is provided a jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 for use with building components 20 and/or 30 (shown in figures 4-7) which extend into the cavity of a cavity wall, the jointing arrangement 1 being configured to engage with and to prevent relative movement between the overlapping building components and/or to maintain a sealed connection between overlapping building components 20, 30. This prevents a gap forming between overlapping building components 20, 30. Thereby, this prevents moisture cascading over the overlapping ends of building components 20, 30 into the cavity of the cavity wall. By overlapping building components, we mean building components that are arranged such that one extends over the top of the other.

Referring specifically to figures 4 and 5, the jointing arrangement 1 is configured for use with overlapping building components 20, 30 having a brick tray 40. By brick tray we mean the portion of a building component configured to engage with bricks and/or mortar and/or masonry of the outer leaf of the cavity wall. The jointing arrangement is configured to engage with and maintain contact between the brick trays 40 of overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement is configured for use with overlapping building components 20, 30 having a substantially vertical portion and/or sloping portion such as that indicated by reference numeral 50. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to engage with and maintain contact between substantially horizontal portions and/or sloping portions 50 of overlapping building components 20, 30. The building components 20, 30 illustrated in figure are for use in cavity walls. The building components 20, 30 are configured to extend into the cavity from the outer leaf 60 towards the inner leaf of the cavity wall (not shown). Insulation 61 is also visible in figure 5. Multiple jointing arrangements 1 may be used. In the embodiment shown in figure 5, five jointing arrangements la to le are used.

As illustrated in the figures, specifically figures 1-3, the jointing arrangement 1 has a first engaging member 2 configured to engage with an upper surface 31 of an overlying building component 30 and/or of the brick tray 40, and/or the substantially vertical portion and/or the sloping portion 50 of an overlying building component 30. The jointing arrangement 1 has a second engaging member 3 configured to engage with a lower surface 21 of an underlying building component 20 and/or of the brick tray 40, and/or the substantially vertical portion and/or the sloping portion 50 of an underlying building component 20. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to engage with any type of surface on a building component. The engaging members 2, 3 are configured to engage with any type of surface on a building component. By type of surface we mean any surface regardless of whether the surfaces is planar, smooth, rough, uneven, textured, patterned, stippled and/or comprising ribs, indentations protrusions and/or deformations. In this case, the jointing arrangement 1 and/or engaging members would engage with the apex of the ribs, indentations, protrusions and/or deformations.

Referring to figures 4-7, the jointing arrangement 1 is configured for use with building components 20, 30 having ribs 22 and/or indentations 32.

The jointing arrangement 1 has an intermediate portion 4. In a first embodiment, illustrated in figures 1-7, the intermediate portion 4 is elongate having two longitudinal ends 5 and two lateral ends 6. In the first embodiment, the first engaging member 2 extends from one of the longitudinal ends 5 of the intermediate portion 4 and the second engaging member 3 extends from the other of the longitudinal ends 5 of the intermediate portion 4.

However, in a second embodiment of the invention (not shown), the intermediate portion is formed as a substantially u-shaped bend and the first engaging member and the second engaging member extend from opposing ends of the intermediate portion. In the second embodiment, the intermediate portion is not elongate. The remaining statements and description of the invention applies to both embodiments of the intermediate portion unless otherwise stated.

The first engaging member 2 has a trailing edge 2c which is connected to and/or extends from the intermediate portion 4. In the first embodiment, the trailing edge of the first engaging member 2 is connected to and/or extends from one of the longitudinal ends 5 of the intermediate portion 4. The first engaging member 2 has a leading edge 2a which is opposite to the first engaging member trailing edge of the first engaging member 2. The first engaging member 2 has a main portion 2b which extends between the first engaging member leading edge 2a and the first engaging member trailing edge 2c. The second engaging member 3 has a trailing edge 3c which is connected to and/or extends the intermediate portion 4. In the first embodiment, the trailing edge 3c is connected to and/or extends from one of the longitudinal ends 5 of the intermediate portion 4. The second engaging member 3 has a leading edge 3a which is opposite to the second engaging member trailing edge 3c. The second engaging member 3 has a main portion 3b which extends between the second engaging member leading edge 3a and the second engaging member trailing edge 3c. The first engaging member 2 and/or the second engaging member 3 are substantially perpendicular to the intermediate portion 4. In the embodiment illustrated in figure 3, the first engaging member 1 and/or the second engaging member 2 extend from the intermediate portion 4 at an angle that is substantially 900. Alternatively, one or both of the engaging members 2, 3 may extend from the intermediate portion at an angle that is less than 90°, potentially creating a clipping effect.

The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to engage with and/or abut against the front edge 23 of overlapping building components and/or the front edge 23 of the brick trays 40 of overlapping building components 20, 30. The intermediate portion 4 is configured to engage with and/or abut against the front edge 23 of overlapping building components and/or the front edge 23 of the brick trays 40 of overlapping building components 20, 30. By front edge, we mean the edge of the building component and/or brick tray that faces away from the cavity, towards the external environment. The jointing arrangement 1 is also configured to engage with the trailing edge 33 of the overlapping building components and/or the trailing edge of the substantially vertical portions and/or the trailing edge 33 of the sloping portions 50 of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The intermediate portion 4 is configurable to engage with the trailing edge 33 of the overlapping building components and/or the trailing edge of substantially vertical portions and/or the trailing edge 33 of the sloping portions 50 of the overlapping building components 20, 30. By trailing edge, we mean the edge of the building component locatable within the cavity of a cavity wall, opposite to the front edge of the building component and/or brick tray.

The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to abut against the trailing edge 33 of the overlapping building components and/or the trailing edge of the substantially vertical portions and/or the trailing edge 33 of the sloping portions 50 of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The intermediate portion 4 is configurable to abut against the trailing edge 33 of the overlapping building components and/or the trailing edge of the substantially vertical portions and/or the trailing edge 33 of the sloping portions 50 of the overlapping building components 20, 30. Figure 5 illustrates five jointing arrangements la, lb, lc, id and le in use with overlapping building components 20 and 30. The intermediate portion 4 of jointing arrangement la abuts against the front edge 23 of building component 20. The intermediate portion 4 of jointing arrangement lb abuts against the front edge 23 of underlying building component 20 and the front edge 23 of overlying building component 30. The intermediate portion 4 of lc abuts against the front edge 23 of overlying building component 30. The intermediate portion 4 of lc may also abut against the front edge 23 of underlying building component 20 or another underlying building components positioned to the right of the overlying building component 30. The intermediate portion 4 of jointing arrangement id abuts against the trailing edge 33 of the underlying building component 20 and of the overlying building component 30. The intermediate portion 4 of jointing arrangement le abuts against the trailing edge 33 of overlying building component 30. le may also but against the trailing edge 33 of an underlying building component 20 or another underlying building component (not shown) positioned to the right of overlying building component 30.

The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to press against an upper surface 31 of an overlying building component 30 and a lower surface 21 of an underlying building component 20 to compress the overlapping building components 20, 30 together. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to compress against an upper surface 31 of an overlying building component 30 and a lower surface 21 of an underlying building component 20 to compress the overlapping building components 20, 30 together such that a sealed connection is maintained between the building components 20, 30. The first engaging member 2 is configured to compress against an upper surface 31 of an overlying building component 30 to press the overlying building component 30 against the underlying building component 20. The second engaging member 3 is configured to compress against a lower surface 21 of an underlying building component 20 to press the underlying building component 20 against the overlying building component 30. Pressing one or both of the overlapping building components against the other prevents a gap forming between the overlapping building components.

The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to sandwich at least a portion of the overlapping building components 20, 30 between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3. The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to maintain the connection between the overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to slidably receive one or both of the building components 20, 30 between the engaging members 2, 3 of the jointing arrangement 1. The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to clip the overlapping building components 20, 30 together. The jointing arrangement 1 is configurable to slidably receive one or both of the building components 20, 30 to clip the overlapping building components 20, 30 together. The jointing arrangement is configured to slidably receive one or both of the building components 20, 30 between the engaging members 2, 3 of the jointing arrangement 1 to lap and connect building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to sandwich a portion of the overlapping building components 20, 30 between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3 of the jointing arrangement 1. The jointing arrangement 1 is configurable to slidably receive one or both of the building components 20, 30 between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3 such that a portion of the overlapping building components 20, 30 is sandwiched between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3 of the jointing arrangement 1. This enables a sealed connection between the overlapping building components to be maintained.

One or both of the engaging members 2, 3 have a guide arrangement 7 configured to guide one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 between the engaging members 2, 3. In the embodiment illustrated in figures 1-3, the first engaging member 2 has a guide arrangement 7. The guide arrangement 7 is a lip. The guide arrangement 7 projects from the main portion 2b of the first engaging member 2 away from the main portion 2b of the first engaging member 2 and from the main portion 3b of the second engaging member 3. The leading edge of the guide arrangement 7 forms the leading edge 2a of the first engaging member 2. The guide arrangement 7 is configured to engage with a building component 20, 30 to enable the building component 20, 30 to move the first engaging member 2 away from the second engaging member 3 so that the building component 20, 30 can be installed between the engaging members 2, 3. The guide arrangement 7 is configured to provide leverage for a building component 20, 30 to move the first engaging member 2 away from the second engaging member 3 so that the building component 20, 30 can be installed between the engaging members 2,3. The first engaging member 2 has a guide arrangement 7 to enable the front edge 23 and/or trailing edge 33 of a building component 20, 30 to be guided and/or slid into position between the first and second engaging members 2, 3. The first engaging member 2 has a guide arrangement 7 to enable the front edge 23 of a building component 20, 30 to be guided and/or slid downwardly, from above, into position between the first and second engaging members 2, 3. The first engaging member 2 has a guide arrangement 7 to enable the trailing edge 33 of a building component 20, 30 to be guided and/or slid upwardly, from below, into position between the first and second engaging members 2,3. The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over the front edge 23 and/or trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement is slidable over the front edge 23 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 engages with the front edge 23 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30.

The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement engages with the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over the front edge 23 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 abuts the front edge 23 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. Where either of the building components have one or more ribs 22, the jointing arrangement 1 and/or intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 is configured to abut the front edge 23a of the one or more ribs 22. The jointing arrangement 1 is slidable over the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 abuts the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. Where either of the building components 20, 30 have one or more ribs 22, the jointing arrangement 1 and/or intermediate portion 4 is configured to abut against the trailing edge 33a of the one or more ribs 22. The jointing arrangement 1 is configurable to slidably receive the front edge 23 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 engages with the front edge 22 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to slidably receive the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 engages with the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to slidably receive the front edge 22 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 abuts the front edge 22 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to slidably receive the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to a point where the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1 abuts the trailing edge 33 of one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30.

One or both of the engaging members 2, 3 is biased towards the other. One or both of the engaging members 2, 3 extends from the intermediate portion 4 towards the other. One or both of the engaging members 2, 3 extends from the intermediate portion 4 towards the other such that, in use, this causes the one or both engaging members 2, 3 to press against one or both overlapping building components 20, 30. Prior to installation of the jointing arrangement 1, the distance between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3 is equal to or is less than the combined height of the front edges 23 and/or trailing edges 33 of the overlapping building components 20, 30 for which the jointing arrangement 1 is to be used. This means that, in use, the one or both engaging members 2, 3 will press against one or both overlapping building components 20, 30 to maintain a sealed connection between the overlapping building components 20, 30. The height of the intermediate portion 4 is equal to or less than the combined height of the front edges 22 and/or trailing edges 33 of the overlapping building components 20, 30 for which the jointing arrangement 1 is to be used.

The jointing arrangement 1 is spring loaded. One or both of the engaging members 2, 3 are configured to be moved away from the other upon the application of force to one or both of the engaging members 2, 3. This enables the distance to be increased between the engaging members 2, 3 so that the jointing arrangement 1 can be installed over one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 and/or so that one or both of the overlapping building components 20, 30 can be installed between the engaging members 2, 3. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured such that the distance between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3 may be increased upon the application of force to one or both of the engaging members 2, 3. The jointing arrangement 1 is configured to be manipulated such that the distance between the first engaging member 2 and the second engaging member 3 may be increased upon the application of force to one or both of the engaging members 2, 3. The one or both of the engaging members 2, 3 can be bent away from the other at the joint between the one or both engaging members and the intermediate portion to increase the distance between the engaging members.

Preferably, the one or both engaging members can be bent towards the other at the joint 2d, 3d between the one or both engaging members 2, 3 and the intermediate portion 4 to decrease the distance between the engaging members 2, 3 and to press the engaging members 2, 3 against a surface of overlapping building components 20, 30. The joint 2d, 3d between one or both of the engaging members 2, 3 and the intermediate portion 4 can be bent, without breaking, upon the application of force. The jointing arrangement 1 is spring loaded such that one or both of the engaging members 2, 3 is biased towards the other. This means that the one or both engaging members 2, 3 will spring back towards the other once the force moving one or both engaging members 2, 3 away from the other is removed. This also means that the pressing force of the engaging members 2, 3 against a surface of overlapping building components 20, 30 will be retained upon installation of the jointing arrangement 1.

The jointing arrangement has an arrangement for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall 8 which is at least one elongate hole and/or slot. The arrangement for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall 8 is locatable on the intermediate portion 4 of the jointing arrangement 1. When the jointing arrangement 1 is installed over the front edges 23 of the overlapping building components 20, 30, this enables internal moisture travelling towards the front edge 23 and/or between ribs 22 of the overlapping building components 20, 30 to be drained from the cavity to the external surface of the outer leaf via the arrangement 8 for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall. Only a jointing arrangement having an intermediate portion 4 according to a first embodiment of the invention (see figure 1) has an arrangement 8 for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall. In the embodiment illustrated in figure 3, the elongate slot/hole is formed between two end portions 4a and 4b of intermediate portion 4. End portions 4a and 4b are adjacent lateral ends 6.

The intermediate portion 4 is configured to abut the front edge 23 of overlapping building components 20, 30 such that internal moisture cannot ingress in a gap between the front edge 22 of the building components 20, 30 and the intermediate portion 4. The jointing arrangement 1 is a clip and/or a weep vent and/or a combined clip and weep vent. This reduces the number of components required in a cavity wall system. The jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is impervious to moisture and is non-combustible. This means that in the event of a fire the jointing arrangement 1 will not burn. This also means that in the event of a fire the jointing arrangement 1 will not release flammable vapours which contribute to combustion. The jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is formed from steel, most preferably from stainless steel. Alternatively, the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 may be formed from any other, non-pervious, non-combustible material. The jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is configured for use with building components such as cavity trays and/or lintels.

The skilled person will also understand that the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 illustrated in figures 1-7 and previously described is configured to be used only as a weep vent where there is only one building component 20 and/or 30. This means that the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is not limited to use with overlapping building components. The first engaging member 2 is configured to engage with and/or press against an upper surface of a building component 20 and the second engaging member 3 is configurable to engage with and/or press against a lower surface of the same building component 20, as illustrated in figures 4-7. The intermediate portion 4 is configured to engage with and/or abut against a front edge 22 of a building component 20 such that moisture can be drained from the building component 20 and/or cavity into which the building component 20 extends via the arrangement for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall 8. This means that the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is configured to attach to/join to a building component 20 to be used only as a weep vent 1 for the building component 20. The jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is configured to used with a single building component 20 in the same manner it is configured to be used with overlapping building components 20, 30. Figures 6 and 7 illustrates the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 in use with a corner piece 20. A second building component may be positioned to overlap or underlie the corner piece 20. The jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 may be used as a jointing arrangement to join overlapping building components such as the corner piece 20 and a second building component. The corner piece 20 and a second building component may be sandwiched between the engaging members 2, 3 of the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1. Alternatively, the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 may be used only as a weep vent for a single building component, as illustrated in figures 6 and 7 where the jointing arrangement/weep vent 1 is being used only with corner piece 20.

The skilled man will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A jointing means for use with building components which extend into the cavity of a cavity wall, the jointing means being configurable to engage with and prevent relative movement between overlapping building components.
2 A jointing means as claimed in claim 1, wherein the jointing means is configurable for use with overlapping building components comprising a brick tray.
3 A jointing means as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the jointing means comprising a first engaging member configurable to engage with an upper surface of an overlying building component, the jointing means comprising a second engaging member configurable to engage with a lower surface of an underlying building component, the jointing means further comprising an intermediate portion joining the first and second engaging members.
4 A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge and/or trailing edge of overlapping building components and/or the front edge and/or the trailing edge of the brick trays of overlapping building components.
A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge and/or trailing edge of one or more ribs of the building components.
6 A jointing means as claimed in claim 3, wherein the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge and/or trailing edge of overlapping building components and/or the front edge and/or trailing edge of the brick trays of overlapping building components.
7 A jointing means as claimed in claim 6, wherein the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge and/or trailing edge of one or more ribs of the building components.
8 A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is configurable to press against an upper surface of an overlapping building component and a lower surface of an underlying building component to compress the overlapping building components together.
9 A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is configurable to press against an upper surface of an overlapping building component and a lower surface of an underlying building component to compress the overlapping building components together such that a relative movement between the building components is prevented.
A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is configurable to engage with and maintain a sealed connection between overlapping building components.
11 A jointing means as claimed in any of claims 3 or 4 to 10 when dependent on claim 3, wherein the jointing means is configurable to sandwich at least a portion of the overlapping building components between the first engaging member and the second engaging member.
12 A jointing means as claimed in any of claims 3 or 4 to 11 when dependent on claim 3, wherein one or both of the engaging members comprise a guide means configurable lit to guide one or both of the overlapping building components between the engaging members.
13 A jointing means as claimed in claim 12, wherein the guide means is a lip.
14 A jointing means as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the guide means projects from a main portion of the first engaging member and/or the second engaging member.
A jointing means as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the guide means is configurable to engage with a building component to enable the building component to move one or both of the engaging members away from the other so that the building component can be installed between the engaging members.
16 A jointing means as claimed in any of claims 3 or 4 to 15 when dependent on claim 3, wherein one or both of the engaging members is biased towards the other.
17 A jointing means as claimed in any of claims 3 or 4 to 16 when dependent on claim 3, wherein one or both of the engaging members extends from the intermediate portion towards the other.
18 A jointing means as claimed in any of claims 3 or 4 to 17 when dependent on claim 3, wherein prior to installation of the jointing means, the distance between the first engaging member and the second engaging member is equal to the combined height of the front edge portion and/or trailing edge portion of the overlapping building components for which the jointing means is to be used.
19 A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is spring loaded.
A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means comprises a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall.
21 A jointing means as claimed in claim 20, wherein the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall is at least one hole and/or slot.
22 A jointing means as claimed in any claims 20 or 21, wherein an insert is provided for releasably blocking/filling the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall.
23 A jointing means as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the jointing means is a combined clip and weep vent.
24 A non-combustible weep vent comprising a first engaging member configurable to engage with an upper surface of a building component and a second engaging member configurable to engage with a lower surface of the same and/or an underlying building component, the weep vent comprises an intermediate portion which extends between the first engaging member and the second engaging member and the weep vent further comprising a means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall.A non-combustible weep vent as claimed in claim 25, wherein the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall is locatable on the intermediate portion of the weep vent, the intermediate portion is configurable to engage with and/or abut against the front edge of a building component so that any moisture on the building component can be drained via the means for draining internal moisture to the external surface of a cavity wall of the intermediate portion and/or so that no gaps form between the weep vent and the building component in which moisture could accumulate.