Terrace construction system

Abstract

A terrace and method with improved building members that may have weather and ultraviolet resistant members that are bonded to one another when forming a terrace finished product. When assembled, these members will also have a water diversion system that directs water falling on the terrace surface, whether rainfall or cleaning water, and draws said water away from the foundation of the terrace and the foundation of the related building. The water diversion system has two layers, the upper layer is mainly formed by a terrace plank sink (310) and a wall transition plank sink (630), and the lower layer is formed by a mullion sink (410) and a side cover sink (510), all of which are in fluid communication with a water spout (720).

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present invention claims priority to prior U.S. Application No. 63 / 362,448, filed on April 4, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of building construction, and more particularly to a comprehensive full deck system for achieving long-term performance associated with resisting the forces of nature and an effective and efficient systematic installation process for building a deck (attached to or detached from a residence) with an integrated water control and diversion system. The deck system also provides a self-contained full support substructure to accommodate a full deck deck cladding, stairs and railings on the support structure. Background Art

[0003] A common improvement to a home is the addition of a deck (i.e., a raised patio) that usually extends from one of the walls of the home, but can also be a freestanding structure. A deck can be located anywhere in the home, but is usually flush with the first or second floor. If placed on the second floor, the deck can serve as an extended roof over the area below it, like a covered patio.

[0004] Whether the deck is attached or detached, the construction of the deck can be summarized as follows: First, the foundation is prepared; then, after the foundation is prepared, a support structure consisting of posts, joists and beams is built on the foundation. Obviously, a higher deck will have higher posts than a lower deck. The posts raise the deck to the desired height, while the joists and beams define the plan area on which the deck boards are positioned. Blocks can be added between the joists for torsional support (especially for longer joists). If the deck is attached to a building, the deck is usually secured by one or more joist crossbars positioned on the side of the building. After the support structure is built, the deck boards and other components (such as wall transition boards, side caps, stairs and finally railings) are installed and fixed to the posts, joists and beams of the support structure. These deck boards and other components define the floor of the deck. Stairs and roofing materials (such as trellises or awnings) can be added during construction as needed. Therefore, many connection points are required to hold the deck together. At a minimum, the posts can be firmly attached to the foundation. The joists are mechanically connected to the cross beams, and the cross beams need to be mechanically connected to any mid-span posts at the top and bottom and to the corner posts (usually with joist rails) or butt joints at the top and bottom. Each connection structure can be improved to make it easier to build with durable materials, resulting in an easy-to-assemble deck that is more durable than prior art decks.

[0005] One problem with decks is that they are inevitably exposed to the elements and will eventually be damaged by water, solar radiation, and the natural expansion and contraction of components as temperature changes. Therefore, a deck should be constructed of materials that will resist each of these environmental threats. Ideally, a deck would also have some way of directing water to prevent it from sitting on the surface of the deck (which would typically exacerbate water-induced decay). An ideal deck would also allow both the supporting structure and the components and members of the deck finish to work in unison, allowing the deck components to expand and contract naturally without stressing the inherent structure of the member. Finally, ideally, the internal structure of the member would help offset extreme temperatures (especially extreme heat).

[0006] The present invention is a patio system that is not only constructed of weather resistant materials, but is also designed with an integrated water diversion system. The system is also constructed of modular components that can be easily adapted to a given project. The present invention differs from the prior art in that the patio system of the present invention allows for the construction of a weather resistant patio that is easy to design and construct, while incorporating an integrated water control system. Summary of the invention

[0007] In view of the above-mentioned disadvantages inherent in known types of decks, an improved deck construction system can provide a deck construction system that meets the following objectives: is easy to design and construct; includes weather-resistant materials; its components are easily modified for a given project; can provide more than just deck construction; and the completed deck will have an integrated water diversion system to reduce water accumulation on the deck surface and substructure. Therefore, a new and improved deck system can be composed of deck components that have multiple internal water control channels at at least two different heights and multi-directional anti-leakage drains located below the deck surface, which continuously transfer water contained in multiple levels of water tanks and direct the water to controlled outlets. The system can also include standard structural members that are adapted with connectors to construct decks and related deck structures and accessories (such as furniture). The system should also be constructed of wood / polymer composites to promote weather resistance; however, any suitable durable material (such as wood, polymer or metal) will suffice in actual structural construction.

[0008] In order that the following more detailed description may be better understood and the contribution of the present invention to the prior art may be better appreciated, the more significant features of the present invention are summarized below. Additional features of the present invention will be described hereinafter and will form the subject matter of the appended claims.

[0009] Many objects of the present invention will appear from the following description and appended claims, reference being made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, wherein like reference characters designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0010] Before describing in detail at least one embodiment of the present invention, it should be understood that the application of the present invention is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present invention is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced and implemented in several ways. In addition, it should be understood that the wording and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered limiting.

[0011] Therefore, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the concepts upon which the present disclosure is based can be readily used as the basis for designing other structures, methods and systems for achieving the multiple purposes of the present invention. Therefore, it is important that the claims should be considered to include these equivalent constructions as long as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In order to describe the manner in which the above and other advantages and features of the present invention can be obtained, the present invention briefly described above will be described in more detail with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, which are shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the present invention and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope thereof, and the accompanying drawings will be used to more specifically and more detailedly describe and illustrate the present invention.

[0013] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary patio constructed using the teachings of the present invention in a preferred embodiment. All references to subsequent figures are essentially Figure 1 citations.

[0014] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial exploded view of the terrace.

[0015] Figure 3 is like Figure 1 and Figure 2 Perspective view of the central pillar used in the terrace.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A top plan view of the central pillar.

[0017] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an angle support and shows, by way of example, Figure 2 Columns, beams and factory bearings used in terraces.

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A top plan view of the corner support.

[0019] Figure 7 is like Figure 2Perspective view of the center post base anchors used in the patio.

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A top plan view of the center pillar base anchor.

[0021] Fig. 9 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the center pillar base anchor taken along line IX-IX.

[0023] Fig.10 is like Figure 2 Perspective view of the 90 degree angle post base anchors used in the patio.

[0024] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 Top plan view of the 90 degree angle post base anchor.

[0025] Fig.12 yes Fig.11 Section view of the 90 degree angle pillar base anchor taken along line XII-XII.

[0026] Fig.13 is like Figure 2 Perspective view of the single joists used in the patio.

[0027] Fig.14 yes Fig.13 Front view of a single joist.

[0028] Fig.15 is like Fig.12 Perspective view of the double joists used in the patio.

[0029] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 Front view of the double joist and double joist structural insert.

[0030] Fig.17 is like Figure 2 Perspective view of the three-piece joist used in the patio.

[0031] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Front view of the three-piece joist and the three-piece joist structural insert.

[0032] Fig.19 is like Figure 2 A perspective view of a center pillar head bracket hold-down used in a patio.

[0033] Fig. 20 yes Fig.19 Exploded view of the center pillar head bracket hold-down.

[0034] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 Front view of the center pillar cross beam bracket of the center pillar head bracket clamp.

[0035] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 Side view of the center pillar crossbeam bracket.

[0036] Fig.23 yes Fig. 20 A front view of the center pillar top bracket of the center pillar head bracket hold-down.

[0037] Fig.24 yes Fig.23 Bottom plan view of the center pillar top bracket.

[0038] Fig.25 is like Figure 1 and Figure 2 Exploded view of the assembled center pillar joint cross member bracket used in.

[0039] Fig.26 is Figure 2 Perspective view of a corner support beam receiving bracket used in a patio.

[0040] Fig. 27 yes Fig.26 Side view of a corner strut cross member receiving bracket.

[0041] Fig.28 is like Figure 2 Exploded view of the corner joints used in the patio.

[0042] Fig.29 is a cross-sectional view of a patio deck constructed using the teachings of the present invention in one preferred embodiment.

[0043] Fig.30 yes Fig.29 Close-up of the patio deck, highlighting the joist rails and upper gutter gutters.

[0044] Fig.31 Yes Fig.30 An exploded perspective view of a patio deck is shown including joist hangers, hanger guards, and hanger guard slots.

[0045] Fig.32 is like Fig.29 and Fig.30 A top plan view of the assembled joists used in the patio deck with the wall gutter flashing removed.

[0046] Fig.33 is a perspective view of the joist hanger end caps.

[0047] Fig.34 is a perspective view of a monocoque crossbeam bridging bracket.

[0048] Fig.35 This is a perspective view of an alternative ring beam.

[0049] Fig.36 yes Fig.29 Close-up of the patio deck, highlighting the patio perimeter cap and transom skirt, and side views of the joist hangers, structural beams, and railing post bottom brackets and connections.

[0050] Fig.37 is a perspective view of the joist hanger anchors and joist hanger brackets.

[0051] Fig.38 yes Fig.37 A perspective view of the joist hanger anchors.

[0052] Fig.39 is a front view of a joist cross bridge bracket block, which is vertically positioned below the field vertical frame and located between two joists to support the field vertical frame.

[0053] Fig.40 yes Fig.29 Close up view of patio deck highlighting patio planks, railing base rails, removable square baluster posts, and mid-span base railing brackets.

[0054] Fig.41 is a perspective view of a patio perimeter edge cap transition flashing as used in a patio.

[0055] Fig.42 yes Fig.38 Side view of the patio perimeter edge cap transition flashing.

[0056] Fig.43 yes Fig.38 Front view of the terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing.

[0057] Fig.44 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of a portion of the patio, highlighting the corner adjacent to the exterior wall with siding.

[0058] Fig.45 is a partial exploded view of the patio adjacent to the stucco wall.

[0059] Fig.46 yes Fig.44 Close up view of box XLVI.

[0060] Fig.47 yes Fig.45 Close-up view of Box XLVII.

[0061] Fig.48 yes Fig.41 A close up, partially exploded view of the corner of a , showing the end cap transition flashing, to the beam of the building flashing.

[0062] Fig.49 yes Fig.41 Assembled close up cutaway view showing buttresses, end cap transition flashing, and beams to building buttresses.

[0063] Fig.50 is a top plan view of another exemplary patio showing parallel and vertical gutters at multiple levels.

[0064] Fig.51 yes Fig.50 Partial cross-sectional view of the terrace.

[0065] Fig.52 yes Fig.39 A close-up view taken in the box L11 of FIG. Fig.51 of lower perimeter gutter gutters.

[0066] Fig.53 yes Fig.50 Exploded view of the exterior corner of the patio.

[0067] Fig.54 yes Fig.50 Alternative view of the corner of the inside of the pillar (viewed from the outside).

[0068] Fig.55 yes Fig.47 A partial sectional close-up plan view of the joint taken in box LV.

[0069] Fig.56 yes Fig.50 A close up plan view of a partial cross section of the joint taken in Box LVI.

[0070] Fig.57 It is a perspective view of the water control plug seam piece at the corner joint of the terrace perimeter edge cover.

[0071] Fig.58 It is a perspective view of the water control plug seam piece of the terrace perimeter edge cover butt joint.

[0072] Fig.59 is a cross-section of a deck side cap attached to a beam.

[0073] Fig.60 is a perspective view of the patio beam skirt fastened to the beam.

[0074] Fig.61 yes Fig.60 Section view of the terrace beam skirt.

[0075] Fig.62 It is a perspective view of the terrace skirt board straight plug seam piece.

[0076] Fig.63 Is with Fig.62 Perspective view of the inside corner of the patio skirt with the straight caulking piece attached.

[0077] Fig.64 Is with Fig.62 Perspective view of the outside corner of the patio skirting with the straight caulking piece attached.

[0078] Fig.65 It is a perspective view of the straight plug seam of the wall transition drain ditch.

[0079] Fig.66 yes Fig.65 A perspective view of a wall transition gutter straight plug used to connect adjacent wall transition gutter components.

[0080] Fig.67 is a perspective view of an inside corner wall transition gutter member with an integral tenon.

[0081] Fig.68 yes Figure 1 Sectional view of the railing of the terrace shown.

[0082] Fig.69 yes Figure 1 Sectional view of the staircase to the terrace shown.

[0083] Fig.70 Such as Fig.69 A perspective view of the ladder carpet bracket used in FIG.

[0084] Fig.71 is attached to Figure 1 Perspective view of a trellis on a terrace similar to the one shown.

[0085] Fig.72 is a perspective view of stair tread end caps suitable for LED lights and solar cells. Description of reference numerals:

[0086] 10. Terrace 40——House exterior 45 - Siding 50 - Plaster wall 55 - Plaster groove 70——Terrace substructure 100 - Concrete slab 104——Positioning footing 110 - Central Pillar 114 - Center pillar internal compartment 117 - Center pillar structure plug-in 120——Center pillar base bracket 124——Center pillar mounting plate 127 - Center pillar mounting port 130——Corner post 132——Corner post shoulder 134 - Internal compartment of corner post 137——Corner column structure plug-in 140——Corner column base bracket 144——Corner column mounting plate 147——Corner post mounting port 148——Internal beam corner cover 150——Single joist 153 - Single joist head 156——Single joist wall 160——Double joist 163 - Double joist head 164 - Double joist compartment 166——Double-body joist wall 167——Double-body joist structure plug-in 170——Three-body joist 173——Three-body joist head 174——Three-body joist compartment 176——Three-body joist wall 177——Three-body joist structure plug-in 180——Center pillar head bracket clamp 182——Center pillar top bracket 184——Center pillar mounting plate 186——Center pillar crossbeam bracket 188——Center pillar crossbeam bracket interface boss 190——Corner column beam bracket 192——Corner column beam bracket interface boss 200 - joist crossbar 210——Hanger guard plate 215 - Hanger guard / crossbeam slot 220——Joist hanger structure bracket / end cap 225——Joist hanger guard plate narrow groove boss 230——Joist hanger 240——Joist stop hanger 245——Joist stop connection tab 250——Single beam bridge bracket 255 - Joist hanger anchor slot 270——Ring beam 300——Deck planks 301——Water control entrance gap 310——Gutter on terrace board 320——Lock slots for terrace edge covers and terrace planks 330——Deck Board Slide Lock 340 - Surface Wood Interlocking Clips 345 - Surface plank interlocking clip tenon 350——Bottom-mounted hold-down clamp 355——T-shaped head for bottom-mounted hold-down clamp 360 - Bottom-mounted hold-down clip receiving slot 400——On-site vertical frame wood board 410——On-site vertical frame sink / shoulder 500——Terrace perimeter cover 510——Gutter / shoulder under terrace perimeter cover 520 - Deck perimeter cap joist attachment flange 530——Slot at the head of the transom skirt 540——Transverse skirt 541——Transverse beam skirt straight plug seam 542——Beam skirt integrated drip eaves 545 - Transom skirt attachment port 550——Outer corner of beam skirt 560——Inner angle of transom skirt 570 - Attachment screws 580——Screw washer 590——Screw shoulder 600——Wall transition board 610——Wall transition board water control displacement to wall drainage ditch flashing board sink 620 - Wall transition gutter flashing for siding 630 - Wall transition gutter for siding, flashing under gutter 636——Wall transition drain flashing flange 640 - Wall transition gutter flashing for plaster walls 643 - Internal and external corner plaster wall drain caulking plates and center caulking plates 646——Plaster wall gutter snap-on cover 649 - Plaster wall gutter end caps 650——Terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing board 652——Terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing plate boss 654——Terrace perimeter cover transition flashing back gutter 656——Terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing plate rear nail flange 658——Terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing under sink / shoulder 660——Wall transition drainage ditch straight plug 670 - Interior corner wall transition gutter member (with integral tenon) 700——Drainage downspout structure 710——Drainage downspout 720——Drainage sprinkler 810——Terrace perimeter edge cover corner joint water control plug 820——Terrace perimeter edge cover butt joint water control plug 900——Top rail of terrace railing 905——Bottom railing of terrace 910 - Terrace railing support base bracket 920——Terrace railing support 930 - Terrace railing top crossbar anchor 935 - Terrace railing bottom crossbar anchor 940——Stair beam 945——Stair beam bracket 950——Stair treads 955——Staircase drain trough 957——Staircase fixing groove 960——Stair skirting 965——Stair skirting support 970——Lattice joist 975 - Grid Joist Slip-Fit Ring End Caps 980 - LED and solar adapter end caps. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Referring now to the drawings, a preferred embodiment of the patio building system is described herein.It should be noted that the articles "a", "an" and "the" as used in this specification include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Material

[0088] Align to one line The deck components are specifically designed for the practice of the present invention. Ideally, the deck components are made of wood / polymer composites and extruded into standard lengths. In this way, the components can be designed to have maximum strength at a minimum weight, while also incorporating the features described below for water control, air circulation, and ease of assembly. The components can then be cut to length at the factory or on-site and used in the construction project. The use of wood / polymer composites allows the components to utilize sawdust and other waste wood from other industries in their own manufacture, thereby utilizing materials that would otherwise be waste in a finished product that is functional, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Although wood / polymer composites are preferred, the practice of the present invention is by no means limited to the use of these materials, as any suitable building material may be used. The assembly hardware is typically made of metal (such as aluminum or steel), but any suitable metal or alloy may be used.

[0089] Although other materials may be used, wood / polymer composites have several other distinct advantages over more traditional building materials that make them more suitable for the practice of the system of the present invention. First, wood / polymer composites are inherently waterproof, and when suitable polymers are used, the resulting material is also UV and sunlight resistant. Second, when the wood / polymer members are extruded, the members have hollow compartments designed within the volume of the member. These hollow compartments not only reduce the weight of the member while maintaining structural strength, but also provide channels for airflow, thereby helping to balance temperature differences and assist in resisting weather damage caused by excessive temperatures. Third, when extruded, the connection and water control structures can also be formed within the body of the patio member along with the internal compartments. put up

[0090] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2, a deck 10 is constructed adjacent to an exterior wall of a house 40. The surface of the deck is constructed of a matrix of deck planks 300 contained within three exterior deck perimeter edgings 500, 600 (for a rectangular attached deck) connected to the exterior wall 40. If appropriate, at least one field mullion 400 may be present in the matrix, extending perpendicular to the deck planks 300. The deck surface is supported on a scaffold 70 of joists and beams supported by a combination of center posts and corner posts. Posts 110, 130 stand on footings or foundations and support beams 170. Typically, a ring beam 270 defines the perimeter of the deck, in combination with joist rails 200 for attaching the deck, and may be added to the interior of the perimeter as needed for additional support, for example, to support heavy features (such as a hot tub). Joists 150 are present within the perimeter and provide support for the deck planks, edgings, and mullions. Blocks are often added between the joists and beams to provide torsional support for the joists and to support the field mullion planks that run parallel to the joists.

[0091] In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each component is designed to maximize construction efficiency while providing long-term resistance to wear and tear caused by use and environment. It should be readily understood that each component can be used alone, as each component individually represents an improvement over the prior art, and therefore, the present invention should not be understood as requiring the inclusion of each component described herein, but should be interpreted based on the wording of the appended claims.

[0092] When properly built, each patio should be supported on some form of foundation. Typically, this is a concrete slab 100 or a plurality of concrete footings 104 upon which the posts rest. Typically, the locating footings 104 will be positioned and then the concrete slab 100 will be laid on the locating footings 104, which are located where the posts 110, 130 will be located. In the absence of a concrete slab 100, the bottom of the posts and foundation can be buried for additional support. This post-foundation interface is a critical structural point that supports the patio. This interface has been improved by introducing both modified posts and specially constructed post base brackets to provide a durable interface.

[0093] The pillars are usually square or rectangular, but the corner pillars 130 are uniquely L-shaped and can be designed in other shapes. For the square center pillar 110 (which is usually six inches by six inches) Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), a square perimeter with two vertical internal brackets 113 is extruded, thereby forming a pillar with four internal compartments 114 extending along the length of the pillar. These compartments 114 are then used to connect with the pillar base bracket 120 ( Figure 7 ) and mounting hardware for crossbars 180( Fig.19 ) are joined. Support inserts 117 may also be manufactured to fit inside compartment 114. These inserts 117 are preferably made of aluminum or some other suitable metal or composite material. Corner posts 130 ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 ) is used to engage with the beams forming the corners of the perimeter of the patio and is generally L-shaped with two legs, each 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. The L-shaped corner simulates the construction of a square corner post and has four internal compartments, while each leg may have at least one bracket 133 extending along its length to form at least two additional internal compartments 134. These additional compartments may also be reinforced with internal structural inserts 137. The shoulder 132 of the corner post 130 may be notched at the factory or notched in the field.

[0094] manufacture Figures 7 to 9 The square post base bracket 120 is shown to engage with the post 110. Ideally, the square post base bracket is formed from machined aluminum. One of the more noteworthy features of the post base bracket is the presence of four back mounting tabs 124. In use, the post base bracket is mounted to a concrete slab foundation above a positioning footing via ports 127, and the post is positioned on the post base bracket with each compartment aligned with and surrounding one back mounting tab 124. The post can then be screwed into each back mounting tab with one or more self-tapping screws. Similarly, a corner post base bracket 140 ( Figures 10 to 12 As shown), the corner post base bracket can cooperate with the corner post 130.

[0095] Beams and joists provide a platform for the decking planks to rest on. Beams are usually wider and are supported by posts, which then support the joists. Figures 13 to 18 In the preferred embodiment shown, the joists 150, 160, 170 have two heads 153, 163, 173 with a single vertical wall bracket 156, a double vertical wall bracket 166, or a triple vertical wall bracket 176 extending therebetween. Like the posts, these joists are extruded with compartments in each head and between the vertical walls in the form of double joists 164 and triple joists 174 for mass reduction. The type of joist used will depend on the function of the joist and the loads the member is required to carry. Typically, the single joist 150 and double joist 160 ( Figures 13 to 16 ) will be used primarily to support the deck surface, while the three-body joists (such as Fig.17 and Fig.18A three-piece joist (shown as a three-piece joist) will be used to achieve greater load bearing capacity. The ring beam 270 will serve as a cross beam placed on the pillar. Inserts 167, 177 (similar to the inserts used in pillars 110 or 130) can be assembled into the cross beam to achieve additional support. The compartments 164, 714 can be made to have the same dimensions as the compartments 114 or 134 in the pillar, allowing the same inserts 117, 137 to be used in multiple applications. It should also be understood that as Fig.36 As shown, the insert can simulate the shape of the compartment in the head of each beam.

[0096] Connecting the cross beam to the pillars involves a combination of compression members that engage with the compartments formed in the pillars and cross beams. A center pillar head bracket compression member 180 is designed to work with the center pillar and cross beam adjacent to each other ( Figures 19 to 24 ), and the corner column beam bracket 190 ( Fig.28 and Fig.29 ) is designed to work with corner posts and two cross beams at right angles to each other. The center post head bracket hold-down 180 is formed of two parts, a center post top bracket 182 and a center post cross beam bracket 186 that are bolted together. The center post cross beam bracket 186 is centrally located above the center post top bracket 182 and has bosses 188 on opposite sides for connecting with the compartments of two adjacent ring beams (which would normally serve as the outer cross beams). The center post top bracket 182 has webs 184 (similar to the back of the base bracket) which engage with the center post 110. When installed ( Fig.25 ), the center pillar top bracket 182 forms two shoulders when installed on the pillar 110, which in turn support the cross beam 270.

[0097] To form the corner joint, the top of the diagonal post 130 is notched at the two legs of the L-shape before shipment, thereby forming two vertical shoulders 132 ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). This structure is unique to the practice of the present invention, but is not the only definition of the present invention. Then two corner column beam brackets 190 ( Fig.26 and Fig. 27 The cross beam brackets (shown) are mounted over the shoulder 132, on the remaining center corner structure of the corner post. These cross beam brackets can be screwed into the body of the corner post. Each corner post cross beam bracket has a set of interface bosses 192 (similar to the post base brackets) that engage with spaces formed in the three body joist. When the three body joist 170 is positioned over the bosses, it then rests on and is supported by the shoulder 132 in the corner post 130 ( Fig.28). The bosses can be any shape that will fit properly within the beam compartment, as shown by the upper and lower sets of bosses in the figure. In the embodiment shown, the upper bosses retain a general circumference to fit within the compartment, and also have circular cutouts between the bosses to allow the ratchet head to tighten the screw into the beam during the process of securing the bracket to the beam.

[0098] like Fig.29 and Fig.30 As shown, the joists 150, 160 or 170 will then be positioned within the perimeter of the patio, generally perpendicular to the exterior walls 40 and joist rails 200 of the structure. Generally, the material, thickness and length of the joists will determine the spacing between the joists. The preferred patio construction will have joist hanger guards 210 that rest over the tops of the building's joist rails 200 (attached to the building 40). A freestanding patio will have multiple sets of opposing beams, rather than joist rails and hanger guards. Fig.31 and Fig.32 As shown, each hanger guard 210 has a plurality of evenly spaced vertical slots 215. The hanger guard slots 215 can be positioned at even center distances (e.g., 4 inches or 6 inches) apart to provide variable spacing for attached joists. The placement of the joists will then follow a similar logic to conventional placement: thinner and / or longer joists will need to be closer together, while thicker and / or shorter joists may have larger spacing. During the construction process, the joists are measured and cut to length, and then two end caps are installed on the joists, which are then secured to the joists with screws or other fasteners. One end cap is a joist hanger 220, which will be bolted deep into the joist rails of the building through the joist hanger and the hanger guard. Each joist hanger end cap ( Fig.33 ) have a boss 225 which will fit within the slot 215 of the hanger guard 210. The joist hanger guard may be integral with the beam to provide opposing anchor points for the joists. Fig.34 and Fig.35 This fusion of a single beam bridging support 250 and a ring beam 270 is depicted. These can be used to support joists and beams in the structure. Fig.36 As shown, opposite the joist hanger guard, the cross beam 270 is designed to match both the specific layout and the slots 215 to receive the opposing end caps 220 (having slide pins and carter lock pins for connecting the joists to 220) into the cross beam 270. The joist hanger 220 will then be screwed onto the joist cross beam 270, thereby securing the joists at both ends of the joist. Therefore, to assemble, simply position the joist hanger 220 over one of the hanger guard slots and follow the Fig.32 and Fig.36The joist hanger is lowered into position according to the desired segmented layout shown; the joist hanger is then secured into the hanger guard and mechanically screwed deep into the building beams ( Fig.32 ); then matching the slots 215 inherent in the opposing beam 270 on the opposite side; then mechanically screwing the hanger 220 (with slide and lock pins for connecting the joist to 220) into the opposing beam 270. Thicker joists can also have joist hanger end caps 220; these end caps will allow insertion into two adjacent slots if the slots on the hanger guard are close enough. If using tripod joists, the corner post crossbeam brackets 190 can also be used to secure the tripod joists 170 and the ring beam 270 to the joist rails ( Fig.45 ), give up in with Fig.42 The hanger slot 215 at the junction of 650 and 190. If the crossbeam 270 is used, when the side cover 500 is parallel to Figure 2 When the joists are extended, the hanger slots on the 270 will turn toward the interior of the patio to accommodate the "bridging brackets" to support the side caps.

[0099] Bridging brackets can be added between joists as needed, e.g. Fig.37 As shown. Each joist 150 can be cut to fit between adjacent joists and positioned accordingly. When the side cover 500 ( Fig.51 ) and / or on-site vertical frame 400( Fig.39 ) When extending parallel to the supporting joists that extend the beam to the horizontal beam, the bridge bracket is usually placed on the layout to support the edge cap and / or field mullion primarily, but not limited to. A single beam bridge bracket 250 is used instead of a standard joist 150, and a hanger 220 is used that is inserted into the hanger guard / beam slot 215.

[0100] like Fig.37 and Fig.38 As shown, an alternative anchor may be provided for connecting the beams. This anchor fits over a boss 225 on the back of a brace plate 220 (shown in these figures as a double-body cross-beam brace plate) and provides a contoured back face that will fit within the outer contour of a cross-beam 170 or 270. In this way, a joist or cross-beam may be attached to the outside of the anchored cross-beam, which is useful for forming cross-beam connections that are at right angles to each other.

[0101] After the joists are positioned, the surface members can be placed on the joists, e.g. Fig.29 The surface components mainly include terrace wood panels 300 ( Fig.31 ), but may also include a vertical frame 400 ( Fig.39 ), wall transition board 600 ( Fig.30 ) and terrace perimeter cover 500( Fig.36 ). Fig.37Each deck board 300 is shown having at least two grooves (one groove is a locking groove 320 having two solid retaining walls, and the other groove is a sliding groove 330 having only one retaining wall). Typically, the deck perimeter edge cover 500 will only have a locking groove 320 ( Fig.36 ), while the wall transition plank 600 will only have the runner 330 ( Fig.30 ). Surface plank interlocking clips 340 are provided to hold the planks tight against the joist surface, while interlocking the planks together and allowing the deck planks, mullions, wall transitions, joists and beams to move to absorb most normal expansion and contraction without causing stress-reverse torsion damage to the overall surface, beam and joist components. Fig.40 As shown, the surface wood board interlocking clip 340 is generally a U-shaped rod with open ends or tenons 345 (with installation finger-shaped tabs to facilitate installation). Each tenon will fit into the locking groove 320 and sliding groove 330 of the wood board. The surface wood board interlocking clip 340 is rotated relative to the wood board to fit into the locking groove 320 of the deck perimeter edge cap 500 or conventional deck wood board 300. The surface wood board interlocking clip 340 is then rotated into the locking groove 320 and mechanically secured to the top of the joist or beam. The next wood board 300 to be installed is then positioned on the deck joist surface and slid so that the sliding locking groove 330 of the deck wood board 300 surrounds the opposing tenon 345 of the interlocking clip 340. In order to secure the wood board in its predetermined position, the curved portion of the U-shape allows the surface wood board interlocking clip 340 to positively connect with the deck wood board and the deck joist and avoid mechanical deformation between the deck and the joist connection. At this time, the wall transition wood board 600 ( Figure 29 to Figure 31 ) to decorate the style. Of course, the process could be reversed (starting at the wall transition plank 600 and ending at the patio perimeter edge cap 500), but the positioning of the lock and slide slots would also have to be reversed. The plank interlocking clip 340 can be manufactured with a keying structure 443 to allow further interaction with the plank structure.

[0102] The individual boards are secured to the underlying joists using a board hold down clamp 350. The board hold down clamp 350 is generally flat with a T-shaped assembly 355 on its top edge. The receiving slot is positioned in the field vertical frame 400 ( Fig.39 ) and wall transition boards ( Fig.30 )Side cover 500( Fig.35), but may also be positioned in deck planks and deck perimeter edge caps. When the T-assembly is in place, the T-assembly 355 is positioned in the receiving slot 360 by rotating the T-assembly parallel to the receiving slot 360 and twisting the board hold down clip 350. The board hold down clip 350 is then positioned against the joist and tightened against the joist, thereby holding the planks in place. By using both types of clips, the planks and joists are allowed to be loosely but securely secured with enough flexibility to allow thermal and other expansion and contraction to occur without stressing the components. This tolerance provides a longer life cycle for the finished deck.

[0103] Field Mullion 400 is more like a decking plank that can be crossed with a grid and eliminates the need for undesirable butt joints ( Figure 1 and Fig.39 ). They also help control water as described below. These vertical frames 400 are generally perpendicular to the deck boards and have two longitudinal edges that flare outward to provide supporting shoulders. These flared bottom edges also provide gutters over which the deck boards will rest. The butt ends of the deck boards 300 are engaged with the V-shaped tip drip edges (which will directly direct water from the deck surface into the lower gutter 410 to avoid the formation of a water vacuum at their cut ends) to fit over the flared supporting edges of the vertical frames 400 and, where applicable, over the deck perimeter edge caps 500, where these components are in vertical contact with each other in the longitudinal direction. The vertical frames 400 can be fastened to the bridging brackets between the joists with board hold-down clamps 350.

[0104] Fig.36The deck perimeter edge cap 500 shown is a special wood board that is constructed to fit and extend over the edge of the deck, conforming in profile to the side of the beam or joist and allowing the 500 to be positively connected to the hidden outer edge of the beam 270 or joist. The deck perimeter edge cap 500 has a locking groove 320 that matches a conventional deck board near the inner edge, but can have a sliding groove depending on construction preferences. This continues the pattern of the surface board interlocking clips 340 for the deck perimeter edge cap that are parallel to the deck board 300. Since the deck perimeter edge cap will also be positioned perpendicular to the deck board, the inner edge also has a flared bottom edge 510 (similar to a field mullion) that provides a gutter / support shoulder and drainage under the edge cap when positioned perpendicular to the deck board 300. The outer edge of the deck perimeter edge cap 500 has a flared edge that extends over the edge of the edge joist and the inner attachment flange 520 and partially obscures the edge joist and the inner attachment flange. A hidden vertical groove 530 is located between the wider edge and the attachment flange 520, into which the decorative beam skirt 540 slides and is secured. If the patio is not built against a structure, the entire perimeter will be formed by the patio perimeter edge cap. The patio perimeter edge cap 500 can be screwed directly into the support beam 270, rather than relying on retaining clips. As shown, set screws can also be used to attach railings or other structures to the patio perimeter edge cap 500.

[0105] Fig.30 The wall transition plank 600 is shown assembled against the joist rails of the structure. Similar to the deck perimeter cap, the wall transition plank has a locking groove or slide groove common to conventional deck planks, usually opposite the deck perimeter cap. The wall transition plank 600 also has a number of plank hold-down T-slots 360 because the wall transition plank is intended to be modified, shortened and / or cut to size to form a modified surface cantilever extending above the gutter gutter to collect water to maintain water control 301 is so cut by exposing a portion of the fixed narrow slot structure. It should be noted that the necessary cut will not be completely perpendicular to the plank, but will follow the contour of the narrow slot structure to form the necessary gap 301 with the adjacent plank. The opposing edges provide an upper finger-like cantilever 610, which will engage with the wall transition gutter flashing board trough 630 in the wall transition gutter flashing board 620 positioned above the joist rail and assist in water control ( Fig.30 and Fig.31 ). The wall transition gutter flashing 620 has a rear flange 636 that extends below the siding 45 of the wall 40. The flashing can be attached directly to the wall via the flange 636 and rely on the siding to cover the joint.

[0106] Terrace perimeter edge cover 500 for terrace 10( Figure 1) around the entire perimeter of the house, except for the house. Thus, two (or more) patio perimeter covers 500 will typically abut the wall 40, while other patio perimeter covers may be mitered in the corners of other joints. To facilitate these butt joints, a patio perimeter cover transition flashing 650 is provided, such as Figure 41 to Figure 43 As shown. The terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing plate 650 is a right angle plate having a rear flange 656 and a gutter channel 654 similar to the wall transition gutter flashing plate 620. However, the front wall of the channel 654 has a plurality of interface bosses 652, which are spaced and positioned to engage with the hollow space at the end of the terrace perimeter edge cover 500. It also has a shoulder structure 658 in fluid communication with the gutter channel 654 [the shoulder structure allows water to overflow into the lower channel of the terrace perimeter edge cover ( Fig.47 )] to connect the gutter. The patio perimeter cap transition flashing 650 can be mounted on the top building rails connected to the building 40, or just mounted inside the hanger guard 210. To install the patio perimeter cap 500, simply push it into position above the boss 652 ( Fig.48 and Fig.49 ). Depending on the installation location, the terrace perimeter edge cover transition flashing will have a left and right mirrored form.

[0107] Make a special plaster adapter 640 to cover the rear flange of the wall transition gutter flashing 636 and the patio perimeter edge cover transition flashing 656 ( Fig.45 and Fig.47 ). The stucco adapter 640 is an extrusion with a back caulking piece 643 that fits into a groove 55 cut into the stucco wall 50. The adapter is spaced to cover the flashing and remain flush with the wall 50. Once in place, the adapter is fastened to the wall and a cap 646 is positioned over the surface of the adapter to cover any screws used to fasten the adapter to the wall. The adapter 640 can be cut to size and an end cap 649 is positioned at the end of the adapter 640 to trim and seal it. Water control system

[0108] Fig.50 and Fig.51The surface components shown incorporate a water diversion system to drain water from the surface (after cleaning, rain or other precipitation) and direct the water to controlled drains around the perimeter of the patio. This feature not only keeps the patio surface drier due to the ease of drainage, but also directs water away from the foundations of both the building and the patio, and for double-layered patios, prevents water from seeping through the patio onto the usable area below. The drainage and diversion system is a double-layer gutter system specifically designed into the components of the patio construction system. In most cases, each surface component has at least one gutter formed into the surface component for draining, collecting and directing water from the patio surface.

[0109] refer to Fig.53 and Fig.54 , the drainage and water diversion system includes two sets of gutters divided into two layers within the edge of the decking elements. Upper gutters 310 are formed along the sides of the decking planks 300. In the illustrated deck 10, these gutters extend parallel to the sides of the building 40. Water seeps into the upper gutters 310 through the gaps 301 and gravity forces the water to flow toward the end edge of each decking plank 300. From there, the water falls into the second set of gutters 410, 510 [along the site vertical frame 400 ( Fig.52 ) and the sides of the patio perimeter cover 500 and the wall transition gutter flashing gutter 630]. Typically, these components will extend perpendicular to the patio planks 300, but are not limited to this. As with the patio plank gutter 310, gravity will force water into the lower gutter, pushing the water toward the drain point 700. Fig.53 and Fig.54 The drainage structure 700 shown has a port 710 and a downspout 720 that drains water from the system drain and directs the water away from the foundation. In order to collect water from the joints in the structure, water control plugs are provided for the corner joints (such as the water control plugs 810 in the corner joints formed by vertically joining the patio perimeter edge cover 500, as shown in FIG. Fig.55 and Fig.57 ), or a water control plug is provided for the butt joint (such as a water control plug for a terrace plank butt joint or a terrace perimeter edge cover butt joint 820, such as Fig.56 and Fig.58 The water control plugs collect water and drain it into the nearest sink or directly into the drainage structure 700. Terrace decoration

[0110] As mentioned above, the terrace perimeter edge cover 500 ( Fig.36 ) extends over the edge of the edge joist 270 and partially obscures the attachment flange 520 and the attachment slot 530. Fig.59A closer view is shown. The attachment flange 520 is fitted with a gasket 580 and positioned against the crossbar exterior 270. The attachment flange is then screwed into place with the attachment screws 570. The crossbar skirt 540 is then slid into the hidden attachment slot 530 and likewise secured to the crossbar, as shown in FIG. Fig.60 and Fig.61 As shown. The screw shoulder 590 fits into the oval hole 545 in the lower portion of the beam skirt 540, and then the screw 570 is screwed into the beam 270 through the shoulder 590. The lower screw 570 secures the lower half of the skirt, while the attachment slot 530 secures the top. The skirt also effectively hides the attachment of the side cover 500. By using the shoulder 590 and the washer 580 (especially when used with the oval hole), structural expansion due to weather is allowed without unduly stressing the trim members.

[0111] Another feature that allows the structure to expand is the use of mortise and tenon joints between the decorative elements. Fig.62 The straight plug slit coupling member 541 and Fig.63 and Fig.64 The interior trim corners 560 and exterior trim corners 570 shown allow the beam skirts 540 to be secured together. The tenons provided on the butt joint couplings fit into the compartments shown in each patio skirt 540 and corner member. This same concept can be used for transition gutters between a patio and an attached wall [having a Fig.65 The transition drain straight plug seam piece 660 shown in the figure can be installed between two drain flashing plate components 620 ( Fig.66 )]. It should be understood that the tenon can be connected to any end member (such as an inner corner piece or an outer corner piece, such as Fig.67 The flashing member 670 in the illustration is integral and still adheres to the principles of patio construction in that by using mortise and tenon joints for these members, expansion and contraction of the structural members is facilitated and stress on the trim and other connections is minimized.

[0112] By fixing the anchor 910 to the patio perimeter cover 500 and installing the support 920 on the anchor 910, the railing 900 can be easily added. Fig.37 The railings may take any form and may also be extruded and cut to length, with railing post brackets 930 securing the railings to the installed posts ( Fig.54 ).stairs( Fig.55 ) can be installed and attached to the patio perimeter cap 500 and the triple joist 170 using a 2×12 sized redwood stair beam 940 or equivalent ( Fig.69), then nailing 2×4 redwood stair beam braces to the concrete or ground. The exposed wood can then be clad in composite material depending on local codes. The stair 950 can then be placed on the stair beam 940 in a conventional manner, with stair risers 960 extending from the stairs at different heights. The beam skirt 540 can be used as an upper stair riser, or the stair riser 960 can be used as a beam skirt in this area. The stair beam 940 is fastened to the beam 270 by a special stair beam bracket 945, which is contoured to match the concave outer surface of the beam 270. The stair treads 950 can be cut to length and finished with end caps with internal gravity drain functions. However, it is preferred that the inside of the stair has a drain gutter 955 and each of the risers has a foot 965 that covers the drain gutter and provides the desired final appearance. The stair tread 950 can be fixed to the stair beam 940 by the wood board clamping clip 350 through the stair fixing groove 957 (the same way as other components are arranged).

[0113] Other elements of the patio can be formed from beams and planks, including but not limited to furniture, planters or trellises. All that is required is to make a suitable cover or adapter to suit the design. Fig.56 In the example, the grid 970 is constructed from three-body joists 170 and is decorated with grid end caps 975.

[0114] Since the components are manufactured according to their use, individual components can be designed to have multiple uses. For example, the end caps for terrace railings and staircase components can be equipped with LED lights and / or solar cells (such as Fig.72 The end cap 980 in the embodiment of the present invention is provided to provide safety lighting measures for the final completed building. Of course, these modifications must be properly designed to accommodate the final size restrictions of the components attached to their supporting components. Industrial Applicability

[0115] The present invention has industrial applicability because it can be manufactured or used industrially. Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, many modifications and variations can be made and the results will still be within the scope of the present invention. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive. It is not intended to limit the specific embodiments disclosed herein, or should not be inferred to limit the specific embodiments disclosed herein. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than the above description. All changes within the meaning and scope of the equivalents of the claims should be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A terrace, comprising: a plurality of deck planks, the plurality of deck planks defining an upper surface, the deck planks collectively providing at least one upper control gutter below the upper surface and at least one lower control gutter below the at least one upper control gutter, the lower control gutter being in fluid communication with the at least one upper control gutter and at least one drain; a structural support system disposed beneath the terrace surface and elevating it from the ground, the structural support system further comprising: a plurality of joists, the plurality of joists being equipped with joist end caps, each end cap having a boss, at least one structural support having a plurality of slots to receive bosses of the joist end caps, at least one of the structural supports being a cross beam; At least one strut supports the at least one structural support.

2. The patio of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of patio side covers extending beyond a perimeter defined by the structural support system, the patio side covers further comprising: a flange extending below an upper surface of the patio cover and engaging at least one beam; A slot is located forward of and adjacent to the flange for receiving a patio skirt.

3. The terrace according to claim 1, further comprising: At least one hanger guard is positioned adjacent the joist rail and has a plurality of slots to receive the bosses of at least one end cap.

4. The terrace according to claim 1, further comprising a wall transition structure, wherein the wall transition structure is further provided with at least one upper control water trough.

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