WO2024113025A1

WO2024113025A1 - Vapour barrier for slab on ground construction

Info

Publication number: WO2024113025A1
Application number: PCT/AU2023/051250
Authority: WO
Inventors: Salvatore SANFILIPPO; James Laurence Curtin
Original assignee: Edge Vapour Barrier Investments Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2022-12-02
Filing date: 2023-12-04
Publication date: 2024-06-06
Also published as: WO2024113025A9

Abstract

A slab wall vapour barrier 35 for coordination with a first planar sheeting 36 and a plurality of preformed, presized and shaped edge strip membranes 49 preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes covers 44, 54 for providing a planar vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the upwardly extending slab walls 25.

Description

VAPOUR BARRIER FOR SLAB ON GROUND CONSTRUCTION

Field of the Invention

[001 ] The present invention relates to a vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction and in particular to a vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction having multiple inward and outward angled corners of the slab.

[002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in/with house construction on slabs and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use but could be for commercial building construction, and all concrete slabs with ground vapour prevention.

Background of the Invention

[003] A vapour barrier must be installed under slab-on-ground construction where the slab is continuous. Direct ground contact of the slab would lead to condensation, leaching and other water damage that will quickly affect the structural integrity of the slab. With the slab being the solid base of the building any defect to the slab causes immediate effect to the integrity of the entire building. In particular, vertically extending wall structures or other supporting structures having their base become unstable or falling away will result in the entire vertical support structure leaning or falling and thereby amplifying the damage to the extent of making the entire building unsafe.

[004] A slab-on-ground construction generally is at least rectangular with four outward rectilinear corners. However, house or building designs can include inward corners or other rectilinear corners. There is a need for the vapour barrier to extend around the corners.

[005]The vapour barrier must be 0.2 mm nominal thickness polyethylene film and be medium impact resistant and be formed for being concrete underlay. Generally, a vapour layer must be installed to lap not less than 200 mm at all joints and be taped or sealed with a close-fitting sleeve around all service penetrations and be fully sealed when punctured.

[006] A problem with prior art vapour barriers is that they do not follow the concept of the vapour barrier 11 in elinating contact of the slab to the ground and environment as shown in the cross-sectional representations of Fig 1 and 2. Generally for a vapour barrier 11 to be successful a vapour barrier sheeting 15 must extend completely under the slab 22 and the footings 23 and up the vertical slab walls 25 and over the ledge 24 of the footings and between the vertical support 29 mounted on the ledge 24. The vapour barrier 15 must extend to above the ground level G, which includes any finished ground such as including paving.

[007] A problem with prior art vapour barriers as shown in the highlighted element shown in the representations of Fig 3 is that the vapour barrier sheeting 15 does that extends under the slab 22 does not extend up the side walls 25 of the slab 22 but falls down and is covered by ground or loose stone or cement. Therefore, the whole basis of a vapour barrier is readily destroyed.

[008] This occurs because there is merely a folding upwards of the planar vapour barrier sheeting15 which primarily underlies the slab. Clearly protruding parts of such sheeting is not formed to readily fold upwardly. The use of fold overs like “hospital corners” used on beds in hospitals to fold around corners of mattresses are time consuming and not used in the concreting busdiness. Further the use of cutouts such as used in making corners on box-like presents in a present wrapping situation are not used oin the industry and if they did the cuts could lead to a whole in the vapour barrier anyway. The lack of time does not allow the concept of a vapour barrier 11 to be properly implemented with prior art methods.

[009] A further problem with prior art vapour barriers 15 is if they are merely using the vapour barrier in the form of a continuous sheet 15 under the slab 22 and folded up the sides and over the outer ledge 24, there is a unwieldy result in excess material and bulkiness on the outer side and on the ledge. This excess material and bulkiness affects and limits the building against the side and on the ledge 24. In particular, any vertical support 29 such as brick or masonry wall mounted on the ledge will be unstable as there is no longer a smooth firm base for constructing metal or masonry walls. Further the bulging outer structure caused by the excess material and bulkiness of the vapour barrier causes limitations to restrict any use of tightly aligned structures onto or against the slab.

[0010] Another major problem is when waffle pod slab edge beam is used, which is sometimes referred to as D-typical edge beam. A failure of a correct vapour barrier is the development of slab edge dampness at the bottom edge, such as at a waffle pod slab edge beam. [0011 ] Moisture is absorbed into concrete by capillary suction. One effect of this is a resulting slab edge dampness which generally only affects the surface layer. However with prolonged and repeated exposure of slab edge dampness, a failure of the slab begins to occur. This will happen much more quickly if the concrete is of a poor quality.

[0012] The initial indication of a problem is usually persistent dampness of the exposed face of the concrete slab/footing. However since the problem is often not found until well after construction the secondary effects often include a resulting associated efflorescence (a build-up of a white coloured powdery substance) below the damp-proof course (DPC), a development of pungent odours in floor coverings i.e. damp carpets, watermark stains on wall linings and/or joinery, mould growth, rusting, surface corrosion or oxidisation of metal near or adjacent to the edge of the slab/footing, loss of bond of adjacent wall and floor tiles, external paint blistering/peeling below the DPC and delaminating of render below the DPC.

[0013] Also there is a high probability of efflorescence appearing in a garage floor slab and leaving mineral salts behind in the cement component when water evaporates. This has a high probability of occurring due to garage slabs being closer to the natural ground level than living areas of residential slabs so as to accommodate vehicle driveway gradients.

[0014] Generally four major factors give rise to the conditions that promote slab edge dampness and moisture ingress. Acting in isolation but more usually in combination are: a) Concrete slab/footing is in direct contact with the soil providing a ready source of moisture b) Concrete slab/footing has been poorly constructed resulting in increased permeability c) Poor site drainage or stormwater discharge allowing water to pond against the slab or footing d) Inadequate detailing and or installation of moisture barrier systems around the slab edge and external walls.

[0015] It can be seen that known prior art vapour barriers for slab on ground construction have the problems of: a) Ready likelihood of failure of vapour barrier due to difficulty in installing b) Rarely installed to required standards C) Tendency to slab edge dampness d) Bulkiness of excess material of the vapour barrier causing limitations to restrict any use of tightly aligned structures onto or against the slab e) Inadequate moisture barrier systems f) breaks down in sunlight and from exposure to external chemical cleaning products which are often used during the construction of a building

[0016] The present invention seeks to provide vapour barrier for slab on ground construction, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0017] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary of the Invention

[0018] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction comprising a first planar sheeting for providing a vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground; a plurality of side slab walls extending from the first planar sheeting for extending at an angle to the plane of the first planar sheeting; at least one external corner arrangement at the intersection of adjacent side slab walls for allowing continuous sealing around at least one external corner of the slab.

[0019] The first planar sheeting and the plurality of side slab walls provide a vapour barrier of the entire concrete slab up to a required above ground height which is the greater of: a) The height of the slab; b) at least the height of the surrounding ground adjacent the slab;

C) at least the height of the finished ground including paving adjacent the slab.

[0020] Preferably the plurality of side slab walls extend from the first planar sheeting for extending at an angle substantially normal to the plane of the first planar sheeting.

[0021 ] The intersection of the side slab walls of the at least one external corner of the slab can be at an angle ranging up to 180°. Due to normal building construction, many of the side slab walls of the at least one external corner of the slab is at an angle substantially at 90°.

[0022] The invention further provides an improved vapour barrier for slab on ground construction by use of at least one external corner arrangement which includes a) a cut at the intersection to form two flaps and b) a continuous sealing at the joins and edges.

[0023] Preferably the two flaps of the at least one external corner arrangement extend at least 400 mm from the corner and extend at least 200 mm from the periphery edge

[0024] The external corner arrangement can include an external corner cover which combines with the two flaps to provide a sealed vapour barrier at the inside of the external corner. The external corner cover can include a ground overlap having two connected parts extending at an angle to each other for overlying a corner periphery of the slab having such angle, and a wall section extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts and connected substantially at the corner axis of the two intersecting wall sections extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts at the external corner, wherein the ground overlap and at least one external corner are sealed thereto which in position provides a height extension to the required above ground height.

[0025] A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction can further include at least one internal corner arrangement at the intersection of adjacent side slab walls for allowing continuous sealing around the internal corner.

[0026] The corner arrangement can be an internal corner arrangement includes a) a cut at the intersection to form two flaps and b) a cutout at the ends of the two flaps and c) an internal corner cover for overlapping the ends of the two flaps and overlay the cutout between the ends of the two flaps d) continuous sealing at the joins and edges and corner axis of the two intersecting wall sections extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts at the internal corner wherein the side slab walls extends substantially over a perimeter of the slab on ground construction before extending normal. [0027] It can be seen that the invention of a vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to the invention provides and one or more of the benefits of: a) Effective vapour barrier around varying corners b) Effective vapour barrier up to the required height c) Effective vapour barrier while eliminating bulkiness d) Effective vapour barrier using premade elements e) Effective vapour barrier that is more quickly installed f) Effective vapour barrier that reduces user error g) Effective vapour barrier that minimises failures h) Effective slab construction with minimizing of defects. i) Use of different counteracting characteristics of vapour barrier material to the under slab material but with vapour interengagement for use on the corner covers and edge strips and a drop edge strips to directly counteract the sunlight and external environment degradation

[0028] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0029] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figs. 1 , 2 and 3 are diagrammatic views of the need for vapour barrier system to a height above the water height of the height of the slab; or the height of the surrounding ground adjacent the slab; or the height of the finished ground including paving adjacent the slab, so as to avoid damage by pooling;

Figs 4 and 5 are diagrammatic views of a slab using a slab wall vapour barrier in accordance with an embodiment of the invention and highlighting the external and internal corner covers, the edge strip and a drop edge strip;

Figs 6, 7 and 8 are diagrammatic views of the external and internal corner covers, and an edge strip respectively used in the slab wall vapour barrier of the invention shown in Figs 4 and 5; Figs 9, 10 and 11 are diagrammatic overhead and perspective detail views of the use of the internal corner covers, an edge strip used in the slab wall vapour barrier of the invention shown in Figs 4 and 5 when held in position with the formwork and holding elements before slab pouring;

Figs 12, 13, 14 and 15 are diagrammatic views showing a collection of angled corner covers including internal or external corner covers at 90° the edge strip and the drop edge strip respectively that can be used in the vapour barrier system of the invention and highlighting examples of the external and internal corner covers, and the edge strip and the drop edge strip respectively and showing typical dimensions and sealing overlap sections for ensuring sealed vapour barrier with adjoining vapour barrier elements and the base sheet;

Figs 16 and 17 are diagrammatic views of an internal and an external corner with formwork and membrane anchors for use in attaching the sheeting to the concrete or formwork while slab is being formed of a detail of the membrane with the formwork showing the holding of the upright edge strip to the formwork;

Figs 18, 19 and 20 are diagrammatic views of optional forms of EVB in edge strip L- shaped embodiment of the invention with different forms of anchor strips;

Figs 21 , 22 and 23 are diagrammatic views of optional forms of edge strip embodiments of the invention for use with insulation;

Figs 24 to 27 are diagrammatic views of T-shape forms of edge strip embodiments of the invention;

Figs 28 and 29 are diagrammatic views of optional forms of edge strip embodiments of the invention for use with termite barrier; and

Fig 30 is a box diagram of the steps of a method of providing a slab wall vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Description of Preferred Embodiments

[0030] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0031 ] A slab 20 formed with a vapour barrier 35 according to the invention includes or works with the planar sheeting vapour barrier 36 that extends across the ground and on which the slab is formed. [0032] However instead of folding up the edges of the planar sheeting 36 to extend up the sides the vapour barrier includes a plurality of edge strip membranes 44, 54, 49 and 64 for extending from the first planar sheeting and extending at an angle to the plane of the first planar sheeting substantially along the adjacent side slab walls and for attaching to the first planar sheeting 36 for providing a vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground.

[0033] The edge strip membranes include one or more of external corner covers 44, internal corner covers 54, linear edge strips 49, and drop edge strips 64 that coordinate with the vapour barrier sheet 36 to form the improved vapour barrier 35. However some linear edge strips 49 can be formed by uplifting some of the first planar sheeting 36 protruding from under the slab 20.

[0034] A plurality of preformed internal covers 54 and external corner covers 44 which are predetermined shaped and sized membranes for arrangement at the intersection at corners 43, 53 of adjacent side slab walls 25 and coacting with each other and the intermediate linear edge strips 49, for allowing continuous sealing around external and internal corners 43, 53 of the slab 20.

[0035] The first planar sheeting 36 the plurality of edge strip membranes 49 and the preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes 44, 54 provide a vapour barrier relative the ground of the entire concrete slab up the side slab walls 25 to a required above-ground height.

[0036] Therefore, a slab wall vapour barrier can be pre-made made for coordination with a first planar sheeting which provides the primary planar vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground slab in on ground constructions. However, as discussed part of the slab wall barrier can comprise a continuous edge strip that can be cut to the required size matching the length of one continuous linear side of the slab. Such strips can be premade, as the dimensions of the slab are predesigned and therefore pre-known at the outset and definitely by the time the slab is shaped by formwork and the concrete is to be poured.

[0037] A plurality of edge strip membranes can be created or be preformed for extending from the first planar sheeting and extending at an angle to the plane of the first planar sheeting substantially along the adjacent side slab walls.

[0038] The plurality of preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes can be ready for arrangement at the intersection at corners of adjacent side slab walls and coacting with the base sheeting for allowing continuous sealing around all corners of the slab.

[0039] A common element of the plurality of edge strip membranes whether they are external corner covers 44, internal corner covers 54, linear edge strips 49, and drop edge strips 64 is that they have a planar base 45, 55, 50 and 65 respectively, which is to overly and be sealed to the linear planar sheet 36. They also have an upward extending flap 46, 56, 51 , 66 respectively which is to extend up the side slab wall 25 of the slab and they have sealed joins at each intersection whether that is at the intersection of the planar base 45, 55, 50 and 65 and the respective upward extending flap 46, 56, 51 , 66 or at the axial vertices 43, 53. Further there is an overlay edge portion to overly and join adjacent portions. Therefore, by premaking these sealed shaped structures and with efficient predetermined sized and shaped overlaps there is an effective vapour seal 35 in combination with the underlying the linear planar sheet 36.

[0040] In this way the first planar sheeting 36 the plurality of edge strip membranes 49 and the preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes 44, 54 provide a vapour barrier 35 relative the ground of the entire concrete slab 20 and up the side slab walls 25 to a required above ground height.

[0041 ] Referring to the drawings and particularly Figs 9, 10 and 11 there is shown a vapour barrier 35 according to an embodiment of the invention for slab 20 on ground construction. The vapour barrier 35 includes primarily a first planar sheeting 36 for providing a vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab 20 and the ground. However as shown, instead of using excess sheeting at the perimeter, preformed edge strips 49 and corner covers 44, 54, having bases and upwardly extending flaps are for sealing to each other and the first planar sheeting 36 at internal and external corners 43, 53.

[0042] Corner Covers

[0043] As shown in Figs 6 and 7 and with reference to their use shown in Figs 9, 10 and 11 , corner covers are preformed structures that can be premade to size and brought to the site. All slabs 20 will include corners as generally all slabs are generally based on one or more rectangles. Therefore, usually two types of corners occur - external corner 43 and internal corner 53. Each has a right angle of the base 45, 55 and a connection between two parts of the upwardly extending flaps 46, 56 to fit around a right angle corner 43, 53 that is usually encountered in slab construction. [0044] It should be understood that this system can be used to make preformed angles which are not right angles but some other angle. For example, if the designer wanted an octagonal slab, corner covers can be preformed which are each 22.5°.

[0045] The two main types of corners 43, 53 of a rectangular structure are covered by premade and pre-sized external corner covers 44 and internal corner covers 54. As shown in Fig 10 an external corner cover 44 is to fit at the external corner 43 of the slab 20 but to overlie and connect with the underlying planar sheet 36. The two pieces of formwork 30 meet at right angles to define the outside perimeter of the slab to be poured. The corner at the intersection will be an outwardly facing corner which is defined as an external corner.

[0046] Alternatively as shown in Fig 11 an internal corner cover 54 is to fit at the internal corner 53 of the slab 20 but to overlie and connect with the underlying planar sheet 36. The two pieces of formwork 30 meet at right angles to define the inside perimeter of the slab to be poured. The corner at the intersection will be an inwardly facing corner which is defined as an internal corner.

[0047] The corner covers are for overlaying the vertical edge at the internal or external corner 43, 53. The elements of the corner covers are shown in Figs 6 and 7. In Fig 6 the external corner cover 44 includes a base which has a planar L-shape with an sharp right angle edge. At that edge are two upwardly extending flaps 46 that are at right angles to the base 45 and right angles to each other around the corner axis 43. Each of the corners are preformed and presealed relative to each other and at the intersection of the base 45 and at the horizontal edges to the upward flap 46 and at the upwardly extending vertical edge along the axis 43. Further as shown in Fig 12 by having a length of edges which extend there is a 200 millimetres overlap at each end for overlying and sealing to the adjacent edger strips.

[0048] In Fig 7 the internal corner cover 54 includes a base 55 which has a planar L- shape with an sharp right angle edge. At the smaller inner edge are two upwardly extending flaps 56 that are at right angles to the base 55 and right angles to each other around the corner axis 53. Each of the corners are preformed and presealed relative to each other and at the intersection of the base 55 and at the horizontal edges to the upward flap 56 and at the upwardly extending vertical edge along the axis 53. Further as shown in Fig 13 by having a length of edges which extend there is a 200 millimetre overlap at each end for overlying and sealing to the adjacent edge strips. [0049] Edge Strips

[0050] An edge strip 49 with a perforated anchor 71 as shown in Fig 8 and as used in Figs 9, 10 and 11 is a barrier which transitions from the external corner cover or internal of the slab to under the slab to form a continuous barrier with the separate under-slab linear sheet 36 vapour barrier. The edge strip is an L -shaped linear member. It has a linear planar base 50 connected to upward extending flap 51 forming the L -shaped cross section. Along the upward extending flap 51 but spaced from the ends to not interfere with overlap connection to other membranes such as external corner covers 44, 54 is an elongated linear edge reinforcement strip 71 acting as a protruding perforated anchor 71 .

[0051 ] The perforated anchor 71 gets embedded in the concrete during the pour and holds the edge strip 49 vertically in place permanently stopping it from pulling away. Clearly the perforations allow for better intermeshing with the concrete.

[0052] Referring to Figs 18, 19 and 20 there are three different design solutions for the anchor strip. In a first embodiment of Fig 18, the edge reinforcement strip 71 is fixed along a longitudinal middle section of the elongated upward extending flap 51 and thereby if it is imbedded in and held up by the concrete of the slab then the upward extending flap 51 will be held up along the slab wall 25 extending between the corner covers at either end.

[0053] Retainer clips are used to maintain the position of the edge strip to prevent spillage during concrete pours and help the edge strip pull away from the edge board during installation.

[0054] In a second embodiment of Fig 19 the perforated anchor 71 has a removable anchor strip 71 A that slidably fits within a track 71 B glued onto the elongated upward extending flap 51 .

[0055] In a third embodiment of Fig 20 the perforated anchor 71 has a pivotable anchor strip 71 C that pivotably fits within a holding track 71 D glued onto the elongated upward extending flap 51 .

[0056] The edge strip with a perforated anchor is a barrier which transitions from the external/internal edge of the slab to under the slab to form a continuous barrier with a separate under-slab vapour barrier. The perforated anchor gets embedded in the concrete during the pour and holds the edge strip vertically in place permanently stopping it from pulling away. [0057] A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction can have the edge strip membranes with a substantially L-shape or the vapour barrier for slab on ground construction can have edge strip membranes with a substantially T-shape.

[0058] An L-shape or T-shape can be used on corner covers, edge strips or drop edge strips.

[0059] Clips

[0060] Retainer clips are used to maintain the position of the edge strip to prevent spillage during concrete pours and help the edge strip to not pull away from the edge board during installation. There are a number of holding clips to improve the positioning of the edge strips and its interaction with the slab before and after formed so as to be held in place.

[0061 ] There are four primary holding members as shown in Fig 16. A first is a linear edge reinforcement strip 71 as described on the edge strips 49. The second , a concrete bracket 72 used for overfitting the formwork and edge vapour barrier and engaginmg the support wall 29 being a brick or masonary wall. , a retainer clip 73 and a member anchor 74.

[0062] In construction, it is important to have the edge strip 49 retain in place along the upper outer wall of the slab. To effect this a linear edge reinforcement strip 71 is attached to inner side of the edge strip 49 and extends inwards. By having perforations, the linear edge reinforcement strip 71 is able to be encased by the liquid cement when poured and fixed in place when set. The perforated anchor gets embedded in the concrete during the pour and holds the edge strip vertically in place permanently stopping it from pulling away.

[0063] The concrete bracket 72 is an inverted h-shape clip that is mounted over edge striop and formwork to support brick or masonary wall 29. The system eliminates the bulkiness of the folded up vapour barrier of the prior art and thereby improves construction.

[0064] Further in construction there are used U-shaped clips 73 shown in use in Figs 10 and 11 that overly the formwork 30 and the adjacent upwardly extending flaps 51 of the edge strip 49. [0065] The invention includes “membrane anchor” 74 which is shaped to hold the edge membrane against the slab once the concrete is poured and after the form boards are removed. Another version of this will have a tear away cleat that will temporarily hold the edge membrane against the timber form board during the concrete pour. Once the concrete is poured and before stripping the form boards the tear away cleats are snapped off leaving the membrane anchor. We will develop this version at a later stage.

[0066] The membrane anchor 74 holds the upright portion 46, 56, 51 of the edge strip 44,54 49 to the formwork 30. However after the formwork 30 is removed the membrane anchor 74 is assisting holding the upright portion 51 of the edge strip 49 in an upright position to retain it in position and form the edge barrier vapour system with the internal and external corners 44, 54.

[0067] Drop Edge Beam Edge Strips

[0068] As shown in Figs 4, 5 and 642, the preform drop edge beam edge strip 64 is a continuous barrier where it is found necessary to accommodate step-downs in slabs and sloping blocks. This drop edge strip 64 helps to transition down a step 22 of a slab between the edge strip making it a continuous vapour barrier with the rest of the slab vapour barrier 35.

[0069] The preform drop edge beam edge strip 64 is a continuous barrier where it is found necessary to accommodate step-downs in slabs and sloping blocks. This strip helps to transition between the edge strip making it a continuous vapour barrier.

[0070] T Section

[0071 ] As discussed, the edge strips 49, 64 and corner strips 44, 54 are often L- shaped in cross section as they have a planar base and an upwardly extending flap extending normal to the base along one elongated edge of the base. This allows for the base to be attached to the underlying sheet 36 and the upwardly extending flaps to extend along the slab walls 25. However, an improved form is a "T" section edge strip with a perforated anchor is a barrier which is use for saline soil that contain large amount of salt in the soil.

[0072] Referring to Figs 24 to 27 there are shown T section forms of the external and internal corner covers 44, 54 and the drop edge beam edge strip 64 and the edge strip 49. Each of these forms has the planar base 45, 55, 50, 65 on the inner side of the respective upwardly extending flap 46, 56, 51 , 66 so that it can be attached to the planar sheeting vapour barrier 36 that is to extend under the slab. However with the T section form there is now included a planar outer base 47, 57, 52, 67 on the outer side of the respective upwardly extending flap 46, 56, 51 , 66 so that it can away from the slab but provide extended protection of the slabs from the surrounding ground.

[0073] The "T" section prevents salts raising above the slab and affecting brickwork above the slab, The "T" section design creating a larger protective zone around the slab edges reducing any exposure to brickwork. The perforated anchor gets embedded in the concrete during the pour and holds the edge strip vertically in place permanently stopping it from pulling away and this "T" section design add extra support after stripping formwork. [0074] This edge strip is a continuous barrier along all slab edges and provide as a continuous vapour barrier under slabs but mainly used for problem saline sites.

[0075] The preform "T" Section Edge strip with a perforated anchor can be manufactured to have an insulation barrier installed along its front edge adjacent to the edge boards. The insulated Barrier is to help prevent thermal loss to the edge of the slab and reduce heating bills.

[0076] A "T" section edge strip with a perforated anchor is a barrier which can be used for saline soil that contains a large amount of salt in the soil. The "T" section prevents salts rising above the slab and affecting brickwork above the slab. The "T" section design creates a larger protective zone around the slab edges reducing any exposure to brickwork. The perforated anchor is embedded in the concrete during the pour and holds the edge strip vertically in place permanently stopping it from pulling away. This "T" section design adds extra support after the stripping away of the formwork.

[0077] This edge strip is a continuous barrier along all of the slab edges and provide a continuous vapour barrier under slabs but mainly used for problem saline sites.

[0078] Insulation

[0079] The preform edge strip 49 with a perforated anchor 71 can be manufactured to have an insulation barrier installed along its front edge adjacent to the edge boards. The insulation barrier 81 is to help prevent thermal loss to the edge of the slab and reduce heating bills.

[0080] Referring to Figs 21 , 22 and 23 there are proposed embodiments of different design solutions for the edged strip 49. In Fig 21 the insulation barrier 81 can fit inside the L-shaped preform edge strip 49 within the formwork 30 and having the perforated anchor 71 . However the insulation barrier and L-shaped preform edge strip 49 and perforated anchor 71 are preferably preformed to a single body.

[0081 ] In Fig 22 the insulation barrier can be a hollow extrusion such that the enclosed sealed cavities form a thermal barrier that restricts heat flow. In the form of Fig 23 the insulation barrier 81 is on the outer side of the L-shaped preform edge strip 49 and connected perforated anchor 71

[0082] Termite

[0083] Referring to Figs 28 and 29, the preform strip can be manufactured with a termite barrier 91 to help prevent termite infestation around the perimeter of the slab. This option to edge strip helps to maintain a termite-free home and provides both a continuous vapour barrier and termite barrier in one application.

[0084]

[0085] Referring to Fig 30 there is shown that the invention provides a method of providing a vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction for concrete slab building industry including step 111 of providing a first planar sheeting for providing a vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground. This is followed by step 112 of providing a plurality of corner covers including one or more of external or internal corner covers extending at an angle corresponding to the angle for extending adjacent side slab walls of external internal corners at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls.

[0086] Step 113 has a plurality of side slab walls which extend from the first planar sheeting and substantially around the periphery of the entire slab and then in step 114 undertaking continuous sealing around the entire periphery including at external and internal corners of the slab wherein in step 115 there results the first planar sheeting and the plurality of side slab walls providing a vapour barrier of the entire concrete slab up to a required above ground height.

[0087] With reference to Fig 30 there is the typical layup procedure for each internal or external corners involves the steps of: i) Laying a continuous planar polythene sheeting on the ground where the slab is to be formed so as to create a vapour barrier base (step 121 ) ii) Lay internal and external formed corners in position around the corners and against the formwork surrounding the slab and secure with tape or clip to the formwork (step 122) iii) Lay edge strip in position over the internal and external formed corners and secure with tape or clip (step 123) iv) Ensure overlaps are minimum of 200mm and tape or seal all joins (step 124)

[0088] There can be variations to the disclosed embodiments as understood by a person skilled in the art and such variations are included within the scope of the invention. For example, another way of having the edge membrane adhere to the slab by having etching or texture finish to the internal face of the edge vapour barrier for concrete to hold on to.

[0089] The corner covers are preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes for arrangement at the intersection at corners of adjacent side slab walls and coacting with for allowing continuous sealing around at least one external corner of the slab. They interfit at the ends of the linear edge strips or drop edge beam strips to allow the insulation to extend around the perimeter of the slab and work with the underslab barrier to form a continuous barrier. In use, the external corner the preform external corner edge strip will sit on the external corner of concrete slabs. This external corner is used to support the transition between the edge strip making it a continuous external vapour barrier along corners, this corner will overlap the edge strip where necessary. For the internal corner the preform internal corner edge strip will sit on the internal corner of concrete slabs. This internal corner is used to support the edge strip making it a continuous internal vapour barrier along corners, this corner will overlap the edge strip where necessary.

[0090] A particular improvement is the use of premade corner covers. As shown in

Figs 1 and 2 and 3 the periphery of the vapour sheet needs to provide walls that extend up to above the required above ground height, which is the greater of:

• The height of the slab;

• at least the height of the surrounding ground adjacent the slab;

• at least the height of the finished ground including paving adjacent the slab. [0091 ] These are needed around the perimeter of the slab due to the various shaped constructions of the building there is needed not only straight edges that extend up from the ground engaging vapour barrier 36 can include apart.

[0092] The external formed corners can be premade to the required angle and as an internal corner or external corner for ready application on site with continuous planar polythene sheeting and edge sheet to quickly form a continuous sealed vapour barrier around the perimeter of the slab. The premade corners can comprise an angled external corner 45 an angled internal corner 55 a right-angled external corner 44 and a right angled internal corner 54. As the vapour barrier must encircle the slab there will be other corners around the perimeter.

[0093] By having these premade corner covers that are sealed and with walls extending from base and sealed at upright edge there is a ready sealed external cover that quickly covers the external corners 43 or internal corners 53 and readily makes the vapour barrier.

[0094] As shown in Fig 5, when the formwork is removed after slab is poured the internal and external covers 44, 54 together with the upright section 40 of the edge strips 49 are clearly performing the edge vapour function up the side of the slab to the height of the ledge 24.

[0095] The preform external corner edge strip will sit on the external corner of concrete slabs. This external corner is used to support the transition between the edge strip making it a continuous external vapour barrier along corners, this comer will overlap the edge strip where necessary.

[0096] The preform internal corner edge strip sits on the internal corner of concrete slabs. This internal corner is used to support the edge strip, making it a continuous internal vapour barrier along corners. The comers cover overlap the edge strip to ensure no separation and a continuous vapour barrier.

[0097] An edge strip with a perforated anchor is a barrier which transitions from the external/internal edge of the slab to under the slab to form a continuous barrier with a separate under-slab vapour barrier.

[0098] The perforated anchor is embedded in the concrete during the pour and holds the edge strip vertically in place permanently stopping it from pulling away.

[0099] The preform drop edge beam edge strip is a continuous barrier where it is found necessary to accommodate step-downs in slabs and sloping blocks. This strip helps to transition between the edge strip making it a continuous vapour barrier with the slab vapour barrier.

[00100] Retainer clips to maintain the position of the edge strip to prevent spillage during concrete pours and help the edge strip pull away from the edge board during installation.

[00101] Membrane anchors are to maintain the position of the edge strip and anchor the edge strip to the slab while the slab cures. This is important during installation to help prevent edge strips from pulling away during concrete pours and stripping formwork.

[00102] The preform strip can be manufactured with a termite barrier to help prevent termite infestation around the perimeter of the slab. This option to edge strip helps to maintain a termite-free home and provides both a continuous vapour barrier and termite barrier in one application.

[00103] The premade sized and shaped comer covers, edge strips and drop edge strips allows for the concreters to easily install with the under-slab sheet while the formwork is in place to easily and cleanly pour the slab. Since the premade shaped comer covers, edge strips and drop edge strips are to predetermined sizes and shapes as the slab design is known before formwork, the system ensures that there is a higher likelihood of attaining a continuous vapour barrier under the slab and up the external side slab walls. This was not achievable in a timely manner by prior systems and thereby failure in vapour barrier occurred and damage and even failure of slabs occurred previously.

Interpretation

Embodiments:

[00104] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present Invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "In one embodiment" or "In an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[00105] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[00106] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

Different Instances of Objects

[00107] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

Specific Details

[00108] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology

[00109] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Comprising and Including

[00110] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[00111] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.

Scope of Invention

[00112] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[00113] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Industrial Applicability

[00114] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the building industries.

Claims

Claims The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A slab wall vapour barrier for coordination with a first planar sheeting for providing a planar vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground slab in on ground constructions the slab wall barrier comprising: a. a plurality of edge strip membranes for extending from the first planar sheeting and extending at an angle to the plane of the first planar sheeting substantially along the adjacent side slab walls; b. a plurality of preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes for arrangement at the intersection at corners of adjacent side slab walls and coacting with the first planar sheeting for allowing continuous sealing around at least one external corner of the slab; wherein the first planar sheeting the plurality of edge strip membranes and the preformed internal and/or external corner shaping membranes provide a vapour barrier relative the ground of the entire concrete slab up the side slab walls to a required above ground height.

2. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the edge strip membranes are substantially L-shaped for overlapping the first planar sheeting and extending up the side slab walls.

3. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the edge strip membranes are substantially T-shaped for overlapping the first planar sheeting and extending up the side slab walls and further extending under insulation and/or termite barrier adjacent the side slab walls.

4. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the required above ground height is the greater of:

I. The height of the slab; ii. at least the height of the surrounding ground adjacent the slab;

HL at least the height of the finished ground including paving adjacent the slab.

5. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the plurality of side slab walls extending from the first planar sheeting for extending at an angle substantially normal to the plane of the first planar sheeting.

6. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the intersection of the side slab walls of the at least one external corner of the slab is at an angle ranging up to 180°.

7. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the intersection of the side slab walls of the at least one external corner of the slab is at an angle substantially at 90°.

8. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the at least one external corner arrangement includes a. a cut at the intersection to form two flaps and b. a continuous sealing at the joins and edges.

9. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the two flaps of the at least one external corner arrangement i. extend at least 400 mm from the corner ii. extend at least 200 mm from the periphery edge

10. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the at least one external corner arrangement includes an external corner cover which combines with the two flaps to provide a sealed vapour barrier at the inside of the external corner.

11. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the at least one external corner cover includes a. a ground overlap having two connected parts extending at an angle to each other for overlying a corner periphery of the slab having such angle b. a wall section extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts and connected substantially at the corner axis of the two intersecting wall sections extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts at the external corner c. wherein the ground overlap and at least one external corner are sealed thereto which in position provides a height extension to the required above ground height.

12. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 9 wherein the at least one external corner arrangement further includes an external corner cover for overlaying the vertical edge at the external corner and at the intersection the horizontal edges extending at an angle from the base of the vertical edge.

13. A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 further including at least one internal corner arrangement at the intersection of adjacent side slab walls for allowing continuous sealing around the internal corner.

14. A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 11 wherein the at least one internal corner arrangement includes a. a ground overlap having two connected parts extending at an angle to each other for overlying a corner periphery of the slab having such angle b. a wall section extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts and connected substantially at the corner axis of the two intersecting wall sections extending substantially normal to the plane of the ground overlap parts at the internal corner c. wherein the ground overlap and at least one internal corner are sealed thereto which in position provides a height extension to the required above ground height.

15. A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the side slab walls extends substantially over a perimeter of the slab on ground construction before extending normal.

16. A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the side slab walls extends substantially over a perimeter ledge of the slab on ground construction before extending normal wherein the ledge provides a base for a wall construction on the base slab on ground construction.

17. A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the side slab walls extends substantially up a normal extending formwork at a perimeter of the slab on ground construction.

18. A vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to any one of the preceding claims including a. the first planar sheeting for providing a vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground; b. a plurality of corner covers including one or more of: i. external corner covers extending at an angle corresponding to the angle for extending adjacent side slab walls of external corners at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls ii. internal corner covers extending at an angle corresponding to the angle for extending adjacent side slab walls of internal corners at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls

C. a plurality of side slab walls or edgr strips which extend from the first planar sheeting and substantially around the periphery of the entire slab over a plurality of one or more of:

I. external corners extending at an angle for extending at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls;

II. internal corners extending at an angle for extending at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls; iii. for allowing continuous sealing around at least one external corner of the slab; wherein the first planar sheeting and the plurality of side slab walls provide a vapour barrier of the entire concrete slab up to a required above ground height.

19. A slab wall vapour barrier for slab on ground construction according to claim 1 wherein the predefined input framework identifying a plurality of prizes includes: a. taping; b. plastic welding; c. adhesives; d. sealing;

20. A corner cover for use in overlapping to form a continuous vapour barrier around the perimeter of a slab the corner cover including one or more of: I. external corner covers extending at an angle corresponding to the angle for extending adjacent side slab walls of external corners at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls; and

II. internal corner covers extending at an angle corresponding to the angle for extending adjacent side slab walls of internal corners at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls

21. A corner cover according to claim 20 wherein the corner cover fits an angled corner.

22. A corner cover according to claim 20 wherein the corner cover fits a right-angled corner.

23. A corner cover according to claim 20, 21 or 22 wherein the corner cover is an inside corner cover that fits an inward corner.

24. A corner cover according to claim 20, 21 or 22 wherein the corner cover is an outside corner cover that fits an outward corner.

25. A method of providing a slab wall vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction including the steps of: a. provide first planar sheeting for providing a vapour barrier between a substantially planar concrete slab and the ground b. providing a plurality of corner covers including one or more of external or internal corner covers extending at an angle corresponding to the angle for extending adjacent side slab walls of external internal corners at an angle ranging up to 180° to adjacent side slab walls c. plurality of side slab walls which extend from the first planar sheeting and substantially around the periphery of the entire slab d. continuous sealing around the entire periphery including at external and internal corners of the slab e. wherein the first planar sheeting and the plurality of side slab walls provide a vapour barrier of the entire concrete slab up to a required above ground height.

26. A method of using a corner cover in a system of providing a slab wall vapour barrier for a slab on ground construction including the steps of: a. Laying a continuous planar polythene sheeting on the ground where the slab is to be formed so as to create a base vapour barrier; b. Laying internal and external formed corners in position around the corners and against the formwork surrounding the slab and secure with tape or clip to the formwork; c. Laying edge strip in position over the internal and external formed corners and secure with tape or clip; d. Ensuring overlaps are minimum of 200mm and tape or seal all joins.

27. A method according to claim 25 or 26 wherein the external formed corners are premade to the required angle and as an internal corner or external corner for ready application on site with continuous planar polythene sheeting and edge 5 sheet to quickly form a continuous sealed vapour barrier around the perimeter of the slab.