JP6084566B2 - Compound termite barrier - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to pest control, and more particularly to composite pest barriers and to protecting buildings and other structures from such pests.

  The pest barrier according to the present invention has been devised especially as a termite barrier, but can also function as a barrier for other pests, in particular insects such as spiders and ants.

  The following discussion of the background art is merely intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. This discussion does not acknowledge and approve that any of the materials referred to are part or part of common general knowledge as of the priority date of this application.

  Various proposals have been made for barriers that prevent or control termites from entering buildings and other structures. Typically, such barriers include either chemical or physical barriers.

  Although chemical barriers have been used for many years, physical barriers tend to be preferred recently because of the health issues that arise from using several chemicals to establish chemical barriers. It has become. In particular, the problem is that for the purpose of establishing a chemical barrier, chemicals are usually supplied by pouring, spraying or injecting a sufficient dose of insecticide to allow long-term protection. Related to the method.

  In view of addressing issues related to the supply of chemicals in establishing chemical barriers, chemicals are incorporated into membranes or other configurations placed in place, thereby spraying, pouring chemicals, or It has been proposed that there is no need to spray. These are sometimes called physicochemical barriers.

  The physical barrier can take a variety of forms including wire mesh and graded stone. Stainless steel wire mesh barriers have proven to be particularly effective and therefore every improvement is eagerly sought.

  Since stainless steel is a commodity traded by the financial market, improvements based on more efficient use stainless steel mesh materials are desirable.

  Typically, stainless steel termite barriers comprise a woven wire mesh having wire strands of approximately 0.18 mm diameter with a spacing of less than 0.7 mm, the spacing being the type of termite that the mesh is to be disinfected. It is considered suitable to provide a mesh opening size sufficient to eliminate.

  In view of maximizing the efficient use of the mesh function as a barrier, it is desirable to reduce the amount of stainless steel employed in the mesh. This can be accomplished in several ways, one way is to reduce the diameter of the strands and another way is to increase the spacing between the strands. Alternatively, or in addition, wire materials other than stainless steel may be used for the mesh. In such cases, the wire material need not be a metal wire and can be made from any other one or more materials, including plastic materials.

  Reducing the amount of stainless steel employed in the mesh, such as by reducing the strand diameter and / or increasing the spacing between strands, can result in a poor mesh with respect to strain resistance in the plane of the mesh There is a possibility that the mesh may be “floppy” or “sleeness” (the latter term is in the field of mesh termite barriers). Used by certain people engaged to describe the properties of the mesh). The characteristic of sleezyness is evident when the mesh sheet is placed in a plane and both hands are placed side by side on the mesh in a spaced relationship and moved in parallel but opposite directions. The resulting distortion in the plane of the mesh can result in an unacceptable increase in the mesh opening. In particular, mesh distortion in the plane of the mesh can cause the mesh opening of the mesh to change size or shape to the extent that it does not further eliminate the type of termite to be removed.

  Another improvement in the use of stainless steel mesh relates to the method to be installed to provide an effective termite barrier. Usually, the mesh is integrally fixed to a structure, such as a concrete slab, a wall or other component of the structure, and the like. In some barrier applications, the mesh is secured together by gluing using a predetermined cementitious adhesive composition known as “parge”. It is advantageous to use currently available adhesives that are suitable for use with termite barriers. This is especially true in the case of such adhesives that can be applied by spraying. However, it has been found that stainless steel mesh is not suitable for use with termite barriers and can be used with commonly available adhesives that can be applied by spraying.

  The present invention has been developed against this background and the problems and challenges associated therewith.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the target pest is allowed to pass through the mesh by changing the size or shape of the mesh sheet material and one or more mesh openings adapted to prevent the target pest from passing therethrough. A composite pest barrier is provided comprising means coupled to the mesh sheet material to resist mesh distortion as acceptable.

  Where the pest barrier is intended as a termite barrier, the target pest includes a termite from a termite species that is intended to be controlled by the termite barrier.

  Generally, the mesh includes a mesh opening sized to prevent the termite head from passing therethrough. In particular, the opening has a length dimension in every direction that is smaller than the maximum length dimension of the cross-section of the termite seed head to be disinfected.

  The mesh sheet material can be in any suitable form. The mesh sheet material is preferably a woven mesh, but may conveniently include a sheet material in which perforations are formed after formation of the sheet material.

  Preferably, the mesh sheet material is formed from a material that is resistant to breakage in the environment of use, substantially resistant to termite secretions, and substantially resistant to termite chewing. Is done. Such materials preferably have a hardness of at least Shore D60, more preferably at least Shore D70, and in some applications desirably at least Shore D80.

  The mesh sheet material is preferably a woven mesh as described above. The woven mesh can have longitudinal and transverse strands in any suitable type of weave.

  If the mesh sheet material comprises a woven mesh, the strain may include displacements at their intersection between the longitudinal and transverse strands that change the size or shape of adjacent mesh openings.

  Preferably said means coupled to the mesh sheet material to resist mesh distortion as described above constrains the longitudinal and transverse strands from being displaced relative to each other at the intersection between them. It is adapted to. Displacement constraints prevent adjacent strands from shifting laterally to the extent that the size of each mesh opening is increased so that no further type of termites to be removed can be excluded. The constraint may be that the longitudinal and transverse strands are fixed against displacement relative to each other at the intersection between them. Alternatively, the constraint may be that some lateral displacement may occur, but not to the extent that it is unfavorable for the elimination of the type of termite to be removed. Furthermore, the constraints can allow some angular movement at their intersection between the longitudinal and transverse strands.

  Preferably, said means coupled to the mesh sheet material to resist mesh distortion as described above may comprise a reinforcing structure.

  The reinforcing structure may be a unitary structure or a split structure. In the case of a split structure, the reinforcing structure can include a plurality of parts adapted to cooperate to provide the necessary reinforcement.

  The reinforcing structure can include a membrane attached to the mesh sheet material to provide reinforcement to the mesh sheet material. In such a configuration, the reinforcing structure is a unitary structure in that the membrane is a single piece.

  The membrane can include a continuous film. Alternatively, the membrane can be discontinuous, for example, the membrane can have perforations or other openings. In this regard, the membrane can be a mesh.

  In another configuration, the reinforcement structure may include a plurality of sections attached to the mesh sheet material in a pattern that provides the necessary reinforcement. The sections can be of suitable structure, such as strips, and can be placed in an overlying relationship. In such a configuration, the reinforcing structure is a divided structure.

  The reinforcing structure can include two membranes disposed on both sides of the mesh.

  In another configuration, the means coupled to the mesh sheet material to resist mesh distortion as described above comprises anchoring means at the intersection between the longitudinal and transverse strands. it can. The anchoring means may include a bond, such as a chemical bond or a mechanical bond, at the intersection between the longitudinal and transverse strands between them.

  In yet another configuration, the means coupled to the mesh sheet material to resist mesh distortion as described above is woven so that the longitudinal and transverse strands are anchored together at the latter location therebetween. A coating applied to the mesh can be included. The coating can be applied by any suitable method such as, for example, powder coating, painting or hot dipping.

  The mesh sheet material can be formed from any suitable material or materials such as, for example, metal, plastic material, fabric material, or combinations thereof.

  If the mesh sheet material comprises a woven mesh, the woven strand can comprise a round wire (which is a wire of circular cross section). Other cross-sectional forms of wire can be used, including flat wires (which are wires that have flat sides and are interconnected by rounded edges). A flat wire is advantageous in that it reduces the cross-sectional profile between both flat surfaces and thus facilitates increasing the mesh pore size when properly oriented.

  The membrane can include a plastic sheet material. Suitable materials for the membrane can include polyethylene. Of course, other suitable materials can be used including PVC, polypropylene and polyamide.

  The membrane can include a continuous film, but this need not be the case.

  The membrane can be adapted to provide a fluid barrier (usually a moisture barrier), or the membrane can be perforated, or the membrane can be otherwise fluid permeable.

  There are two such membranes, one can be applied to each side of the mesh sheet material.

  The advantage of having two membranes is that relatively thin films can be used for each membrane. It also provides symmetry that can facilitate ease of installation in the sense that the barrier can be placed in either orientation.

  The properties of the membrane or each membrane are selected according to the physical properties of the mesh sheet material. If the mesh sheet material is such that the composite barrier requires a relatively high level of reinforcement in order to function well for use, a stronger membrane and / or two membranes may be required. There is sex. Alternatively, the natural use of a lighter membrane with a denser mesh may be applied.

  If two membranes are utilized, they can be the same material. Alternatively, the two membranes do not necessarily have to be the same material or have the same physical properties, i.e. different materials can be used for the two membranes, with different thicknesses Can also be used.

  The membrane, or one or both of the membranes (if there are membranes on both sides of the mesh sheet material), can incorporate a pest repellent that serves to prevent or help prevent the passage of pests. Pest repellents in one or more membranes can serve to keep or kill approaching pests.

  The membrane can be attached to the mesh sheet material in any suitable manner that provides the necessary reinforcement. The membrane can be attached to the mesh at a plurality of attachment locations. Preferably, the plurality of attachment points are distributed throughout the plane of the membrane.

  The membrane can be joined to the mesh by ultrasonic welding, but it should be understood that a variety of other attachment methods can be used including, but not limited to, hot roller lamination and adhesive joining.

  The membrane can be joined to the mesh at the attachment site.

  If the mesh comprises a woven mesh, the membrane is joined to the strands of mesh. The woven strands exhibit an array of peaks on each side of the mesh. In such a configuration, the membrane can be attached to all or at least some of those peaks.

  In addition to providing a reinforcing function, the membrane can serve as a protective membrane that protects the person handling the composite pest barrier from direct contact with the pest repellent. Thus, the protective film generally does not contain any pest repellent, or at a level that is considered safe for handling purposes, at least any pest repellent present.

  Preferably, the composite termite barrier is flexible to facilitate molding into a form that can be maintained. In this way, the composite barrier can be deformed into an outer shape necessary for installation, for example, by bending, bending or folding the composite termite barrier.

  The composite termite barrier can be adapted to facilitate storage in roll form, from which a portion can be expanded and cut to the appropriate length.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a composite pest barrier comprising a mesh sheet material adapted to prevent pests from passing through and a membrane attached to the mesh sheet material to provide reinforcement to the mesh sheet material. Is done.

  In this configuration, the film contributes to the structural integrity of the barrier.

  The mesh sheet material functions to provide an active pest barrier, i.e. prevents the pests from passing therethrough. The mesh sheet material can be adapted to prevent the passage of pests in any suitable manner.

  In one configuration of the second aspect of the invention, the mesh sheet material may have a mesh opening of a size adapted to eliminate the pests to be controlled.

  In another configuration of this second aspect of the invention, the mesh may incorporate a pest repellent that serves to prevent or help prevent the passage of the pest mesh. The pest repellent can include a pest resistant material applied to the mesh. In this configuration, a pest-resistant material can be impregnated in the coating applied to the mesh. The coating can be applied to the mesh in any suitable manner. The coating can be applied, for example, by laminating it on one side of the mesh or by painting on the mesh. If the mesh includes woven strands, a coating can be applied to the strands. The strands can be coated before weaving to form a mesh or after weaving. The coating can be any suitable material. The coating includes, for example, plastic materials including some nylons and polyolefins along with thermoplastic materials such as polyethylene and polypropylene. The coating can also be some thermoset plastic material such as polyurethane and some polyesters. The coating can also include a foamed plastic material. Further, the coating can include a metal coating. The coating can be applied as a powder coating. Alternatively, the pest repellent can be incorporated into the mesh sheet material itself, for example, the pest repellent includes a pest resistant material impregnated in the mesh sheet material, particularly when the mesh sheet material is made of a plastic material. be able to. All or part of the mesh sheet material can be impregnated with the pest resistant material. When the mesh sheet material is formed of a plastic material, the plastic material can be impregnated with a pest-resistant material.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, a pest barrier material roll, wherein the pest barrier material is adapted to prevent the passage of pests, and the mesh sheet to provide reinforcement to the mesh sheet material. A roll is provided comprising a membrane attached to the material.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pest barrier installed in a building structure, the pest barrier including the compound pest barrier according to the first aspect or the second aspect of the present invention.

  Preferably, the composite termite barrier is integrally attached to a portion of the building structure with an adhesive that provides a bond between the membrane and said portion of the building structure.

  The adhesive can include a pest repellent.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is a method for installing a pest barrier in a building structure, the mesh sheet material adapted to prevent the passage of pests and the mesh sheet material to provide reinforcement to the mesh sheet material A method is provided that includes providing a portion of a pest barrier material comprising a membrane attached to the membrane and establishing an adhesive bond between the membrane and a portion of the building structure.

  The mesh sheet material can have additional membranes and two membranes are applied to both sides of the mesh sheet material. One or both of the two membranes can contribute to the structural integrity of the barrier. In addition, one or both of the two membranes can incorporate a pest repellent.

  In general, the pest barrier according to the preceding embodiment comprises a termite barrier.

  The invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of its two given embodiments as shown in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a composite barrier according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is an end view of the composite termite barrier shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is an end view of the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the composite barrier according to the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is an end view of the composite termite barrier shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the composite barrier according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the composite barrier according to the third embodiment. FIG. 11 is a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of the composite barrier according to the third embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a composite barrier according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a composite barrier according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of a composite barrier according to a second embodiment installed in a building. FIG. 15 is a schematic side view of a composite barrier according to a fifth embodiment installed in a building. FIG. 16 is a schematic side view of one of several stages in the composite barrier installation process according to the fifth embodiment as shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a schematic side view of one of several stages in the composite barrier installation process according to the fifth embodiment as shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a schematic side view of one of several stages in the composite barrier installation process according to the fifth embodiment as shown in FIG. FIG. 19 is a schematic side view of one of several stages of an alternative installation process for a composite barrier according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a schematic side view of one of several stages of an alternative installation process for a composite barrier according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 21 is a schematic side view of one of several stages of an alternative installation process for a composite barrier according to a fifth embodiment.

  Embodiments relate to termite barriers that protect buildings and other structures from termites. Termite barriers according to embodiments may be installed in buildings and other structures in any suitable manner, some typical examples of which are described in Australian Patent Nos. 633256 and 696436. Including the facilities described and exemplified in Termite barriers according to embodiments can be arranged in various other ways, and they are not limited to such installations.

  1-4, the composite termite barrier 10 provided with the mesh sheet | seat 13 and the film | membrane 15 attached by being joined to the single side | surface of the mesh sheet | seat 13 is shown. Actually, the film 15 is laminated on one side of the mesh sheet 13. In general, the membrane 15 covers the entire surface of the mesh sheet 13 to which it is joined. In the present embodiment, the mesh sheet 13 includes a metal mesh, typically a stainless steel mesh. Of course, other forms of mesh can be used, including plastic mesh.

  In the configuration shown, the mesh sheet 13 is a woven wire mesh and includes strands 17 that cooperate to define openings 19 in the mesh. In this configuration, the woven pattern provides an array of peaks 21 on each side of the mesh sheet 13 at the junction between the intersecting strands.

  The mesh sheet 13 functions as an active termite barrier, i.e., the mesh sheet is configured to exclude the passage of termites. In particular, the opening 19 of the mesh sheet 13 has a length dimension in every direction that is smaller than the maximum length dimension of the cross-section of the termite seed head to be disinfected.

  By way of example only and without limitation, the mesh may comprise a stainless steel woven mesh woven from a wire having a diameter of 0.18 mm or less. In some examples, the wire from which the mesh is woven can be 0.17 mm in diameter. The wire is woven to provide an appropriately sized mesh opening for the termite target termites to be controlled. For some termite species, the mesh opening size can be about 0.8 mm x 0.8 mm, but for some other termite species, the opening size is about 0.45 mm x 0.45 mm obtain. The mesh sheet material 15 can be made of stainless steel wire having a smaller wire diameter than that currently used in stainless steel woven mesh termite barriers, resulting in significant cost advantages as described above.

  The membrane 15 includes a sheet of flexible plastic material such as polyethylene. Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, if desired, the membrane 15 can have perforations and air and moisture can pass therethrough for ventilation and drainage.

  The membrane 15 is attached to the mesh sheet 13 to provide reinforcement to the mesh. More particularly, the membrane 15 can reinforce the mesh sheet 13 against distortion in the plane of the sheet, thereby suppressing the type of termites that are to be further removed by restraining against displacement. Adjacent wire strands 17 are prevented from shifting laterally to the extent that each mesh opening 19 is increased in size so that it cannot.

  In this embodiment, the membrane is positioned in contact with and attached to each peak 21a of the adjacent surface of the mesh sheet.

  The membrane 15 is joined to the mesh sheet strand by ultrasonic welding. Of course, other attachment methods can be used, including but not limited to hot roller lamination and adhesive bonding.

  The membrane 15 can be colored for identification purposes.

  The membrane 15 can also function as a waterproof barrier.

  The membrane is of a thickness selected to suit the purpose. In general, the membrane has a thickness in the range between about 40 microns and 500 microns. The membrane can be over 500 microns thick if it needs to function as a waterproof barrier. In the termite barrier according to the prior art described and exemplified in the above-mentioned facilities described and exemplified in Australian Patent Nos. 633256 and 696436, the termite barrier material is subject to damage in the environment of use. A mesh sheet of material resistant to termite and substantially resistant to termite secretions, having a hardness of about Shore D70 or higher, and the mesh pores having length dimensions in all directions Less than the maximum length dimension of the cross-section of the head of the termite species to be disinfected.

  In the present embodiment, a mesh material that is not relatively robust can be used as the mesh sheet 13. In particular, a mesh material with a reduced amount of stainless steel material incorporated can be used, thereby enabling significant cost savings of the mesh. Reduction of the amount of stainless steel can be achieved by both selecting mesh materials with smaller diameter strands, or increasing the spacing between the strands, or increasing the spacing between the smaller diameter strands and the strands. In the present embodiment, the wire strand 19 may have a diameter of 0.18 mm or less and an interval of 0.8 or less. These dimensions are indicative and are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. Various other mesh sizes can be employed for the practice of the present invention, with the goal of reducing the amount of mesh material. This is also expected to provide a mesh pore size that allows for significant efficiency improvements and is sufficient to eliminate the type of termite that the mesh is to be disinfected.

  By using such a relatively non-robust mesh, a mesh that is poor in terms of structural stability, i.e., the mesh may "sag" or "sleezy" when separated. is there. Thus, the mesh may have insufficient structural rigidity for handling and installation. This is addressed by the presence of the membrane 15 that supports the mesh and acts to give the composite termite barrier 10 sufficient structural rigidity for its intended purpose, thereby preventing termite movement. To the extent that the mesh opening changes size or form so that it is no longer effective to provide a barrier to the mesh is avoided.

  It is not essential for the mesh sheet 13 to have an opening 19 of a sufficiently small size so that termites that are being controlled do not pass through. In other words, the mesh sheet 13 does not necessarily have to provide a physical barrier by itself. The mesh sheet 13 can incorporate a termite repellent (termite repellent or other repellent) that plays a role in preventing or assisting in the passage of termite mesh. The effect of the repellent is obtained by not bringing termites approaching the mesh sheet 13, or alternatively by killing termites that contact the mesh sheet 13. Thus, the mesh sheet 13 still performs the function of an active barrier, but includes chemical properties as well as physical properties to perform that function as found in physicochemical barriers.

  The mesh sheet 13 is flexible so as to facilitate selective deformation from the plane of the sheet, but has sufficient rigidity to maintain the deformed state. In this way, the composite barrier 10 can be shaped to the outer shape required for installation, for example by folding, bending or crease the composite termite barrier.

  The composite termite barrier 10 can be stored in roll form so that it can be partially expanded and cut to an appropriate length.

  Longer rolls can be produced by the use of mesh material with smaller diameter strands and / or increased spacing between strands. This makes it easy to complete the termite barrier installation on a typical building structure such as a house using only one roll, eliminating the need to join a new roll to a used up roll, Cost reduction in roll conveyance and handling becomes possible.

  The use of mesh material with smaller diameter strands and / or increased spacing between strands also provides a product with a lower mass per unit area, thereby enabling cost savings in transport.

  In addition to providing support for the mesh sheet 13, the membrane 15 can function as a protective membrane. In particular, the membrane 15 allows a person handling the composite pest barrier 10 to avoid contact with any termite repellent incorporated into the mesh sheet 13. The overcoat serves to protect the person handling the complex pest barrier from direct contact with the pest repellent and therefore generally does not incorporate any pest repellent or at least handles any pest repellent present A level that is considered safe for the purpose.

  The membrane 15 provides the particular advantage of facilitating the use of an adhesive system that can supply and apply the adhesive in any suitable manner. In one configuration, the adhesive can be dispensed and applied from the cartridge using an applicator gun, i.e., the adhesive can comprise a so-called caulking gun tunable adhesive. In another configuration, the adhesive can be supplied and applied from a bulk source as a spray. In any case, the presence of the film facilitates the use of adhesives that are currently available and that are effective and convenient for use primarily because of the ease of application. Such adhesives include solvent-based polymer adhesives including PVC, polyurethane and acrylic resin adhesives. Such adhesives are particularly convenient for use, especially when in the form of spray adhesives. Aqueous spray adhesives may also be suitable.

  In the prior art, termite barriers using stainless steel mesh (eg, as used in the above-described facilities described and illustrated in Australian Patent Nos. 633256 and 696436) In order to integrally secure the mesh to a part of the building structure so as to establish a barrier, it is necessary to use a predetermined adhesive composition known as “stucco”. The use of currently available adhesives that are currently available and suitable for use with some termite barriers cannot facilitate use, as many of these adhesives are made of stainless steel mesh. This is because it is limited to the joining.

  This is addressed in this embodiment by the presence of a membrane 15 that can be used with any available adhesive suitable for use with termite barriers. In this way, the composite termite barrier 10 can be bonded and fixed to a part of the building structure via the membrane 15.

  If desired, the adhesive can incorporate a termite repellent, such as a termite control agent.

  Referring now to FIGS. 5-9, a composite termite barrier 10 according to a second embodiment is shown. The termite barrier according to the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, but a further membrane 25 is attached to the other side of the mesh sheet 13. In this embodiment, the additional membrane 25 is the same material as the membrane 15, but in other embodiments it can be a different material and a different thickness.

  The membrane 25 is attached to the mesh sheet 13 to provide reinforcement to the mesh, similar to the membrane 15. In this embodiment, the membrane 25 is located in contact with and attached to each strand of adjacent faces of the mesh sheet.

  The advantage of having two membranes 15, 25 is that a relatively thin film can be used as each membrane. In addition, the presence of the two membranes 15 and 25 provides further structural support to the mesh sheet 13 and symmetry that facilitates installation in the sense that the barrier can be placed in either orientation. And is given. Thereby, it is possible to use a mesh material that is not more robust than the first embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 9, the two membranes 15 and 25 follow the contours of the respective surfaces of the mesh sheet 13 to which they are applied, and do not extend as much as they come into contact with each other. Partially extending inside.

  Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, a composite termite barrier 10 according to a third embodiment is shown. The termite barrier according to the third embodiment is similar to the second embodiment, but as best shown in FIG. 11, the two membranes 15, 25 are in the mesh opening 19 so as to contact each other in the mesh opening. It is fully extended. In this configuration, the membranes 15, 25 can actually encapsulate the woven mesh and allow several advantages such as enhanced protection against the woven mesh.

  Referring now to FIG. 12, a composite termite barrier 10 according to a fourth embodiment is shown. The termite barrier according to the fourth embodiment is similar to the second embodiment and the third embodiment in that there are films 15 and 25 on both sides of the mesh sheet 13. In this embodiment, the membranes 15, 25 expand beyond the mesh sheet 13 on at least one side of the mesh sheet 13, and the expanded portions 15 a, 25 a are joined together to provide a woven end 27.

  Referring now to FIG. 13, a composite termite barrier 10 according to a fifth embodiment is shown. The termite barrier according to the fifth embodiment is similar to the second embodiment, the third embodiment, and the fourth embodiment in that there are films 15 and 25 on both sides of the mesh sheet 13. In the fifth embodiment, the membranes 15 and 25 are disposed inside two opposing edges 29 of the mesh sheet 13. Thus, the composite termite barrier 10 according to the fifth embodiment includes the center portion 31 and the two side portions 33, and the center portion includes a combination of mesh material and membrane material, and each side portion 33 includes only the mesh. Including. The lateral portion thus provides two longitudinal bands of mesh on both sides of the central membrane. Generally, the longitudinal bands are each about 100 mm in width, although other widths can be used.

  This arrangement can be fixed integrally to the adjacent structure by embedding in the adjacent structure, or joined to the adjacent surface using an adhesive compatible with the mesh material. It can be advantageous in an environment where it can. These adhesives include cement-based adhesives, including adhesives known as stucco, suitable for use to allow termite-free connections between them by adhesively bonding the mesh material to the surface An agent can be included.

  In a modification of this configuration, the two membranes 15 and 25 can be shifted to one side of the mesh sheet 13 so as to provide a mesh band only on one side.

  In yet another variation, there may be a membrane on only one side of the mesh sheet.

  Referring now to FIG. 14, the termite barrier 40 installed in the building structure 50 is shown. The termite barrier 40 includes a strip 41 of the composite termite barrier 10 according to the second embodiment. The strip 41 has a first longitudinal portion 43 and a second longitudinal portion 44 on both sides thereof.

  The building structure 50 includes a concrete slab 51 on or near the ground surface. The concrete slab 51 supports a wall structure 53 having an outer wall 55 and an inner wall 57 with a wall cavity 59 therebetween.

  The slab 51 is configured as a box slab and incorporates an integral footing 61. A rebate 63 is incorporated in the side surface of the slab 51 to provide a footing 65 to the outer wall 55. The inner wall 57 is supported by the upper surface 66 of the slab 51 immediately adjacent to the groove 63. The groove 63 presents a side surface 67 that faces the cavity 59.

  In the configuration shown, the outer wall 55 is a brick structure with a plurality of steps of brick 71 assembled in a known manner with a mortar between them, and the inner wall 57 is a known type of frame structure.

  The composite termite barrier strip 41 is integrally fixed between the outer wall 55 located above the ground surface and the side surface 67 of the groove 63 to provide a barrier that prevents termites from entering the building structure 50. To do.

  The first longitudinal portion 43 of the strip 41 is integrally fixed to the side surface 67 of the groove 63 by adhesive bonding with an adhesive 77. The presence of the membranes 15, 25 on both sides of the mesh sheet 13 allows the use of commonly available adhesives suitable for use with termite barriers. Adhesive 77 is sprayed on either one or both of the surfaces before the surfaces meet and provide an adhesive bond between the first longitudinal portion 43 of the strip 41 and the side 67 of the groove 63. It can apply | coat by all suitable methods, such as by application | coating. To secure the first longitudinal portion 43 of the strip 41 in place on the side surface 67 of the groove 63 until the time when the adhesive joint is effective, auxiliary fixing, such as nailing at intervals along the length of the strip A system (not shown) can be provided.

  The second longitudinal portion 44 is integrally fixed to the outer wall 55 by being positioned between the two steps of the brick 71.

  The wall structure 53 in the illustrated configuration also includes a moisture barrier layer 80.

  Referring now to FIG. 15, another form of termite barrier 90 installed in the building structure 50 is shown. The termite barrier 90 includes a strip 91 of the composite termite barrier 10 according to the fifth embodiment. The strip 91 has a first longitudinal portion 93 and a second longitudinal portion 94 on both sides thereof. As described above, the composite termite barrier 10 according to the fifth embodiment includes the central portion 31 and the two lateral portions 33, and the central portion 31 includes a combination of mesh material and membrane material, and each lateral portion 33 is a mesh. Including only. In this configuration, one lateral portion 33 defines a first longitudinal portion 93 and the other lateral portion 33 defines a second longitudinal portion 94.

  The first longitudinal portion 93 of the strip 91 is integrally fixed to the side surface 67 of the groove 63 by adhesive bonding with an adhesive 97. Since the first longitudinal portion 93 includes only the mesh, the adhesive 97 includes an adhesive that is compatible with the mesh material. Such adhesives include cement-based adhesives, including adhesives known as stucco, suitable to be used to allow termite-free connections between them by adhesively bonding the mesh material to the surface An agent can be included. In this configuration, since the adhesive can penetrate into the mesh opening 19, excellent bonding can be achieved between the mesh and the side surface 67.

  The second longitudinal portion 94 is integrally fixed to the outer wall 55 by being positioned on the outer wall 55 in a mortar bed between the two steps of the brick 71. In this configuration, since the mortar between the two-stage bricks can permeate the mesh opening, excellent bonding can be achieved between the mesh and the outer wall 55.

  In the termite barrier 90, the central portion 31 extends across the wall cavity 59 as shown in the drawing.

  In FIGS. 16, 17 and 18, several stages in the installation of the termite barrier 90 are shown.

  Referring now to FIGS. 19, 20 and 21, several stages in the installation of the termite barrier 100 are shown. The termite barrier 100 includes a strip 101 having a composite termite barrier 10, and the composite termite barrier 10 is fixed to the upper surface 66 of the slab 51 by an adhesive 97 so as to be integrally fixed. It has a portion 103 and a second longitudinal portion 104 that is fixedly secured to the outer wall 55 by being positioned between the two steps of the brick 71. In the illustrated configuration, the outer wall 55 is supported by a footing 65 formed separately from the slab 51.

  The configurations shown in FIGS. 14-21 merely illustrate several ways in which the composite barrier 10 according to embodiments can be installed. It should be understood that the composite barrier 10 according to embodiments can be installed in a variety of other ways to provide a termite barrier, and the composite barrier 10 is not limited to the installation configuration shown.

  In the described embodiment, the mesh sheet 13 comprises a stainless steel wire mesh. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the use of stainless steel wire mesh. Other metal wire meshes can be used, which themselves can allow increased efficiency. Similarly, the wire mesh need not be metal. The mesh can include, for example, a suitable plastic material.

  The mesh can also incorporate a termite control agent as described above.

  From the foregoing, the embodiments each provide a composite termite barrier that includes a mesh structure and a support membrane, by reducing the material used for the mesh structure than is possible with the prior art configurations described above. Alternatively, the use of a lower cost mesh material allows for increased efficiency.

  Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” or “comprises” or “comprising” Variations such as “comprising” are meant to include the complete or complete group described, but are not meant to exclude any other complete or complete group. It will be understood.

Claims (19)

A mesh sheet material having a mesh opening, the mesh sheet material adapted to prevent the passage of target pests;
A first film applied to one surface of the mesh sheet material, and a second film applied to the other surface of the mesh sheet material,
The first membrane and the second membrane resist the mesh distortion such that the size or shape of the one or more mesh openings can be changed to allow the target pest to pass through the mesh. Extending sufficiently within the mesh opening to contact each other within the mesh opening, providing reinforcement for the mesh sheet material;
The composite pest barrier, wherein the first film provides an outer surface opposite to the mesh sheet material for receiving an adhesive for bonding an outer surface to the surface of an adjacent structure.   The composite pest barrier according to claim 1, wherein the mesh sheet material comprises a woven mesh, and the distortion changes the size or form of the adjacent mesh openings, the longitudinal strands and the transverse strands of the woven mesh. A compound pest barrier characterized in that it includes displacement at the intersections between them. 3. The compound pest barrier of claim 2, wherein the first and second membranes constrain the longitudinal and transverse strands from being displaced relative to each other at the intersections between them. Compound pest barrier characterized by being adapted. In the composite pest barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 3, composite pest barrier, characterized in that said first and second membranes comprise a respective continuous film. The compound pest barrier according to claim 4, wherein the first film and the second film each include a plastic sheet material. 6. The compound pest barrier according to claim 4 or 5 , wherein the first film and the second film are made of the same material. The composite pest barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein the first film and the second film are joined to the mesh sheet material, respectively . The compound pest barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the first film and the second film cover the mesh sheet material. The compound pest barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the first film and the second film are disposed within a range of the mesh sheet material, thereby at least the mesh sheet material. A compound pest barrier characterized by a mesh band along one side. The compound pest barrier according to any one of claims 5 to 9 , wherein the first film and the second film are respectively joined to the mesh sheet material. 3. The composite pest barrier according to claim 2 , wherein the woven mesh includes wire strands, and the wire strands have a diameter of 0.18 mm or less and an interval of 0.8 mm or less. Compound pest barrier. 12. The compound pest barrier according to any one of claims 2 to 11 , wherein each of the first and second membranes has a thickness in the range between about 40 microns and 500 microns. Characteristic compound pest barrier. 3. The composite pest barrier of claim 2 , wherein the woven mesh exhibits an array of peaks, each of the first membrane and the second membrane being attached to at least some of the peaks. A compound pest barrier. 14. A pest barrier system installed in a building structure, comprising the compound pest barrier according to any one of claims 1 to 13 . 15. The pest barrier system according to claim 14 , wherein the composite pest barrier provides a bond between a portion of the building structure between the first membrane and the portion of the building structure. A pest barrier system characterized by being integrally attached by In a pest barrier system installed in a building structure, a mesh sheet material adapted to prevent target pests from passing through, a first film applied to one surface of the mesh sheet material, and the mesh sheet material A second film applied to the other surface,
The first membrane and the second membrane resist the mesh distortion such that the size or shape of the one or more mesh openings can be changed to allow the target pest to pass through the mesh. Extending sufficiently within the mesh opening to contact each other within the mesh opening, providing reinforcement for the mesh sheet material;
The pest barrier system, wherein the first film provides an outer surface opposite to the mesh sheet material, and the outer surface is joined to a surface of the building structure. 17. The pest barrier system according to claim 16 , wherein the first membrane has a thickness in the range between about 40 microns and 500 microns. 17. The pest barrier system of claim 16 , wherein each of the first and second membranes has a thickness in the range between about 40 microns and 500 microns. A method for installing a composite pest barrier in a building structure, the method comprising:
Providing a portion of the pest barrier material, wherein the pest barrier material comprises:
A mesh sheet material having a mesh opening of a size adapted to prevent the passage of pests;
A first membrane attached to one side of the mesh sheet material;
A second membrane attached to the opposite side of the mesh sheet material,
The first and second membranes extend sufficiently within the mesh opening to contact each other within the mesh opening and provide reinforcement for the mesh sheet material;
Establishing an adhesive bond between a portion of the building structure and at least one of the first and second membranes;
A method comprising the steps of:

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