Connecting System For Surface Coverings

Abstract

A plank is provided that has opposing first and second ends extending along a width of the plank, opposing first and second longitudinal sides extending along a length of the plank, and opposing top and bottom surfaces. The plank can have a tongue edge at the first end and a groove edge at the second end. The tongue edge can be detachably lockable into the groove edge of an adjacent, identical plank. Surface covering systems having a plurality of the planks connected together are also provided.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of prior U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 033,979, filed Mar. 5, 2008, which is incorporated in its entirety by reference herein.[0002]The present invention relates to surface-coverings, like flooring, and methods of installing the same.[0003]Various types of glueless mechanical locking systems (including straight tongue and groove arrangements) have been utilized in the flooring industry. Flooring with glueless mechanical locking systems (tongue and groove arrangements) are becoming increasingly popular, as they are easy to lay, and, thus, it is not necessary to utilize highly trained personnel to lay such floor tiles.[0004]Current floor systems have suffered, however, from disadvantages. One disadvantage experienced with current floor systems is that if each of the side edges of a plank includes a mechanical locking tongue or groove, once one of the side edges is connected to ano...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0015]Another feature of the present invention is to provide a flooring system for flooring planks and other surface-coverings that do not require any connecting accessories such as an insert, spline, metal clip, or the like, and which permits easy and fast installation and flexibility.

[0016]Still another feature of the present invention is to provide a flooring system that has significant improvements with respect to ease of installation at confined areas, and includes a foolproof installation design and technique.

[0017]Another feature of the present invention is to provide a plank that can be easily connected to other planks.

[0018]Another feature of the present invention is to provide a flooring system that can avoid the use of the application of a wet adhesive composition.

[0019]Also, a feature of the present invention is to provide a surface-covering system that has the ability to withstand water damage, such as swelling, delamination, and weakening, can withstand heavy traffic wear, tearing, and gouging, and exhibits stain resistance, chemical resistance, and ease of maintenance.

[0021]Another feature of the present invention is to provide a joint system that combines mechanical locking and chemical welding to provide improved joint strength, ease of installation, and water sealability.

Problems solved by technology

Current floor systems have suffered, however, from disadvantages.

One disadvantage experienced with current floor systems is that if each of the side edges of a plank includes a mechanical locking tongue or groove, once one of the side edges is connected to another similar plank, it is difficult to connect the other side edges of the plank with yet another similar plank.

This problem particularly accentuates itself while installing a click system floor in a very limited-free-space and / or confined area such as in corners of a room, under or around a door jamb, or under or around closets or kitchen islands, and the like.

For example, the straight side edges that are connected to one another may not be water tight and could potentially slide open to form a gap.

If an adhesive is used, the adhesive can be pressed out of the seams and create messy seams.

The integrity of such systems, however, is questionable and there is difficulty in making such a joint.

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