Modular deck structure

Abstract

The modular deck structure has an open frame with interconnected crisscross framing members defining a plurality of polygonal cells (14). Each of the cells has a top, a bottom and an inner wall (20) delimiting an opening. The inner wall has a sloping portion (26) for draining water out of the open frame. The modular deck structure also has a plurality of flagstones (24) with side edges (23). Each of the flagstones is sized and shaped to adjustably fit within a respective one of the cells. The modular deck structure may also have conforming means for conforming the side edges of the flagstone to the sloping portion of the respective cells, thereby allowing each of the flagstones to sit properly on said sloping portion of the cell.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to general deck construction. More particularly, it concerns a structure and a kit for building a modular structure having to support a plurality of flagstones to form a deck structure. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Decks, patios and terraces are all very popular structures among owners of houses or other types of lodging. These structures are typically adjoined to houses and are host to many activities, receptions, meetings and other social activities. One can sit down or lay down on patio furniture to relax or to discuss between friends. In fact, these structures are used very often during summer time and even year round. That is why it is important to have a solid structure that will last long and will be resistant to different climates. Since they can be very costly to build, it is also very important that these structures keep their original look as long as possible. Moreover, the look of the structure is also very impor...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a modular deck structure which comprises an open frame with interconnected crisscross framing members defining a plurality of polygonal cells. Each of the cells comprises a top, a bottom and an inner wall delimiting an opening. The inner wall comprises a sloping portion. The modular deck structure also comprises a plurality of flagstones with side edges. Each of the flagstones is sized and shaped to adjustably fit within a respective one of the cells. The sloping portion drains water out of the open frame to prevent water accumulation between the side edges of the flagstones and the inner walls.

[0013] The present invention also relates to a kit for assembling a modular deck structure. The kit comprises framing members being connectable to one another in order to form an open frame having a plurality of polygonal cells. Each of the cells comprises a top, a bottom and an inner wall delimiting an opening. The inner wall comprises a sloping portion. The kit also comprises a plurality of flagstones with side edges. Each of the flagstones is sized and shaped to adjustably fit within a respective one of the cells. The sloping portion drains water out of the open frame to prevent water accumulation between the side edges of the flagstones and the inner walls.

[0014] Preferably, both the previous modular deck structure and the kit for assembling the same also comprise conforming means for conforming the side edges of the flagstone to the sloping portion of the respective cell, thereby allowing each of the flagstones to sit properly on the sloping portion of the cell.

[0015] The present invention also relates to a modular deck structure which comprises an open frame with interconnected crisscross framing members defining a plurality of polygonal cells. Each of the cells comprises a top, a bottom and an inner wall delimiting an opening. The inner wall comprises a sloping portion. The modular deck structure also comprises a plurality of flagstones with side edges. Each of the flagstones is sized and shaped to adjustably fit within a respective one of the cells. The modular deck structure also comprises conforming means for conforming said side edges of the flagstone to the sloping portion of the respective cell, thereby allowing each of said flagstones to sit properly on said sloping portion of the cell. The sloping portion drains water out of the open frame to prevent water accumulation between the side edges of the flagstones and the inner walls.

[0017] Preferably, the deck is made with a plurality of modular deck structures interchangeable with each other, thereby providing a modular and easy-to-assemble patio construction. The modules may consist of prefabricated single piece structures. However, in accordance with a preferred aspect of the invention, the modules are made of interconnectable individual framing members.

[0018] A modular deck structure construction according to the invention makes it very easy and fast for any non handy person to build a nice looking deck made with flagstones. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Problems solved by technology

Since they can be very costly to build, it is also very important that these structures keep their original look as long as possible.

It is difficult to combine wood and concrete for forming a resistant, easy to assemble and nice looking patio.

Building these prior art patios is not an easy task for someone who is not an expert in construction.

Planning the construction of the patio deck and building it are very time consuming.

Furthermore, to complicate the matters, the different components needed to assemble the patio deck are often sold separately.

Almost the same issues arise for the construction of concrete decks.

The size and shape of the frameworks have to be planned in advance and it is not an easy task to build them.

Moreover, the different components needed to assemble the deck can be very bulky, thus pretty difficult to be carried by car.

However, a drawback to the modular patio construction of U.S. Pat. No. 4,628,645 is that since the ledges of the frame, cross and transverses planks are L-shaped, there is a risk of water accumulation in the comers of the ledges.

This situation can result in structural damages to the module.

Actually, the accumulation of water can weaken the strength of the ledge.

The planks can even rot.

Another drawback is that constraints are applied to the corner of the ledges by the weight of the flagstones on these ledges.

Again, these constraints can result in structural damages to the module.

A drawback of the modular patio constructions of the prior art is that they are often difficult to assemble and require that the user have good skills in construction, and more particularly in patio construction.

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