Floor surface, especially terrace surface

Abstract

The invention relates preferably to floor profiles (1) for outdoor use, for forming a floor surface (5), in particular a terrace surface, wherein the floor profiles (1) are manufactured as WPC profiles by extrusion and are attached to a substructure (3) formed by profile parts (2). In order to provide a floor profile that is easy to handle, it is proposed that the floor profiles (1) be designed as elongated rectangular or square tile profiles (4), with a length (a) that is significantly shorter than the extent of the formed floor surface (c), such that a tile-like pattern results when installed.The invention further relates to a spacer (25) for floor profiles (1), preferably to be laid outdoors, for forming a floor surface (5), in particular a terrace surface, wherein the floor profiles (1) are manufactured as WPC profiles by extrusion and are attached to a substructure (3) formed by profile parts (2), wherein the floor profiles (1) are arranged in a laying state with a circumferential, joint-like gap (d, e) to one another. In order to improve the design of a spacer of the type in question, it is proposed that the spacer (25) is designed only for support against the floor profiles (1). The invention also relates to a method for laying floor profiles outdoors.

Description

field of technology

[0001] The invention relates to a floor surface, in particular a terrace surface, according to the features of the preamble of claim 1. State of the art

[0002] Floor profiles for creating such a floor surface are well known in practice, for example, for the construction of a balcony or terrace floor. The floor profiles are preferably manufactured using an extrusion process, and more preferably as profiles made of wood-plastic composites.

[0003] US 2005 / 0 193 663 A1 discloses floor profiles that are each attached directly to the substructure by means of a spacer. This creates a tight, grid-like installation pattern with respect to the substructure.

[0004] Elongated rectangular or square floor profiles supported on a substructure by spacers are also known from US 2011 / 0 203 200 A1. Here, too, the floor profiles are directly attached to the substructure via the spacers, ensuring a tight installation profile for the substructure.

[0005] KR 10-13780777 B discloses a floor surface in which a substantially Z-shaped spacer is provided, with spring-loaded elements also being provided in a vertical area. The floor profiles can be spaced apart only transversely to their longitudinal direction using the spacer. The spacer is attached to a substructure.

[0006] From JP 3739255 B2 a floor surface is known in which the spacer is supported only on the floor profiles and has an under-grip area and plate-shaped engagement parts.

[0007] WO 2007 / 036095 A1 discloses a floor surface in which the floor profiles engage with each other via a tongue and groove connection with virtually no gap. This connection is maintained by holders attached to the floor and engaging in grooves in both profiles held together. Summary of the invention

[0008] Based on the prior art according to JP 3739255 B2, the invention is concerned with the task of specifying a floor surface with advantageously laid profile parts.

[0009] This object is achieved by the subject matter of claim 1, wherein the spacer forms two ribs extending perpendicularly to one another, which simultaneously determine the distance between two perpendicularly extending separating surfaces of three floor profiles, wherein the ribs extend in a T-shape relative to one another, with a T-leg and a T-beam extending transversely thereto, wherein the T-beam is designed for elastically yielding engagement with one or more spring arms extending at an angle to the extension of the T-beam, wherein one or more under-gripping regions are formed on the T-beam and / or on the T-leg, wherein, in addition, the spacer has two opposing plate-shaped engagement parts for engagement in the facing tile profile groove, wherein the under-gripping region is plate-shaped or designed by under-gripping arms and is provided for engagement with the lower surface facing away from the visible surface of the floor profile,that the spring arms are provided for elastically yielding contact with one of the floor profiles and that the floor profiles are arranged with a circumferential, joint-like distance from one another in the installed state.

[0010] The proposed ratio of the floor profile's extension dimensions allows for convenient handling. Furthermore, a tile-like installation pattern can be achieved using a plurality of such floor profiles. If the length of a floor profile exceeds the width of the same floor profile viewed perpendicularly to the extension direction, such a floor profile can be installed, for example, both in the direction of extension of the profile parts of the substructure and, as is further preferred, perpendicular to the extension direction.

[0011] The spacers, which are only supported on the floor profiles, enable cost-effective installation.

[0012] The ratio of the length of a soil profile to the width of the same soil profile viewed transversely thereto can, for example, correspond to approximately 5:1 up to approximately 1:1, further, for example, as is also preferred, approximately 3:1 or approximately 2:1. Thus, further lengths of the soil profile of approximately 300 to 1300 mm, more preferably of approximately 400 to 1200 mm, with a more preferred width of approximately 350 to 450 mm, more preferably approximately 400 mm, can result.

[0013] This preferably results in a virtually floating arrangement of the spacer between the profile parts to be kept apart. Preferably, there is no direct contact between the spacer and the substructure, for example, in the form of a fastening or the like. Rather, due to this design, the spacer is suitable for movement within the floor area created by the floor profiles, for example, in the event of any thermal length changes.

[0014] The spacer is only supported on two or more profile parts, the latter possibly, for example, in a corner area where more than two profile parts meet.

[0015] The spacer has one or more spring arms for elastically yielding contact with a floor profile, furthermore an under-gripping area for under-gripping the floor profile and an engagement part for engaging in a groove of the floor profile, wherein the under-gripping area can be designed to project further in an evasive direction of the spring arm than the engagement part.

[0016] The design and arrangement of the spring arms allows the spacer to achieve a visually appealing adjustment of the joint pattern, even in the event of, for example, temperature-related expansion. The advantageous oversize of the undercut area that engages the floor profile compared to the engaging part that engages in the groove of the floor profile results in a secure attachment of the spacer to the floor profile. This design is particularly, but not exclusively, effective in conjunction with supporting the spacer solely on the floor profile.

[0017] In the installed state, the floor profiles are arranged with a circumferential, joint-like spacing from each other. This joint-like spacing between two floor or tile profiles is formed uniformly all the way around in an ideal installed state. In particular, it is preferred that the joints running in the same direction in the resulting floor surface be of the same or approximately the same width.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the spacing in the area of ​​a joint can correspond to approximately one-fiftieth to approximately one-two-hundredth, or furthermore, approximately one-hundredth of the covering width viewed transversely to the longitudinal extent of the floor profiles. The covering width is preferably calculated by adding the tile profile width and the distance on one side of the tile profile to an immediately adjacent tile profile. Accordingly, for an exemplary covering width of approximately 350 to 450 mm, or furthermore, for example, 400 mm, a distance of approximately 3.5 to 4.5 mm, or furthermore, for example, 4 mm, can result, with a corresponding floor profile width of approximately 346.5 to 445.5 mm, or furthermore, for example, 396 mm.

[0019] The smallest distance between the floor profiles that is visible to the observer is essentially the decisive factor, ie when viewed from above onto the usable floor area, the smallest distance between the floor profiles that results in a cross-section through the floor profiles that are spaced apart from one another in an upper third up to an upper fifth of the total thickness of the tile profiles.

[0020] The above-described spacing can also be continuous in a vertical direction across the entire thickness of the floor profile, aligned with a vertical plane. In a further preferred embodiment, this can result in an at least approximately constant spacing across the above-described entire thickness of the floor profile. Thus, in particular, starting from the above-described smallest visible spacing between the floor profiles across the entire thickness of the floor profile, the spacing can optionally vary within a range of approximately 5 to 10%, whereby, viewed across the entire thickness of the floor profile, at least the visible spacing is maintained, assuming an ideal installation state of the floor profiles.

[0021] Because the spacers are only supported on the floor profiles, the spacers appear to be floating between the floor profiles.

[0022] The preferably continuous spacing can also preferably be provided essentially completely over the entire circumference of a floor profile. This is particularly true if the floor profile does not simultaneously form an edge of the floor surface. The spacing can also be interrupted along the circumference by one or more spacers.

[0023] The floor profiles can shift, for example, due to thermal expansion or external mechanical influences on the substructure or on the profile components forming the substructure. This can lead to some gaps becoming larger and others becoming smaller, possibly even partially closing the existing joints. This can result in an inconsistent joint pattern within the floor area and, in addition, potentially lead to injuries, for example, for children or if the gaps are too large. This problem can be counteracted by installing the spacers described above.

[0024] By arranging spacers between the floor profiles, a significant homogenisation of the joint pattern is achieved while maintaining at least approximately equal distances between the floor profiles.

[0025] The spring arms on the spacers, which elastically adapt to a floor profile, allow for a favorable adjustment of the joint spacing, for example, in the event of a thermal change in the length of the floor profiles. The elastically resilient, correspondingly resilient design of the spring arms allows for an overall homogenization of the joint pattern, for example, in the event of temperature-related elongation of the floor profiles.

[0026] The elastically resilient design of the spring arms can, as is also preferred, result from the structural design of the spring arm and preferably from the selected material. The spring arm(s) can, as is also preferred, be formed integrally and from the same material as the spacer as a whole, for example, using a plastic injection molding process.

[0027] The spacer has an under-gripping area for gripping the floor profile and an engagement part for engaging in the groove of the floor profile.

[0028] The under-gripping area can, for example, be designed in the shape of a plate, more preferably to rest on the under-surface facing away from the visible surface of the floor profile.

[0029] In the arrangement position of the spacer, the engagement part extends at a distance above the under-gripping area, so that a section of the tile profile can be encompassed in an approximately U-shaped cross-section between the engagement part engaging in the groove and the under-gripping area.

[0030] The spacer forms two mutually perpendicular ribs, which simultaneously determine the distance between two mutually perpendicular separating surfaces of three floor profiles. The ribs of the spacer can be suitable for determining the distance between a longitudinally running joint, possibly extending through the floor surface, between essentially parallel floor profiles and a transversely running joint between two longitudinally successive floor profiles. Accordingly, an essentially T-shaped arrangement of the aforementioned joints can result in this area, the spacing of which is defined by the corresponding positioning and design of the ribs of the spacer, at least with regard to a predetermined minimum dimension.

[0031] The ribs of the spacer, which are essentially perpendicular to each other, can specify the same or different minimum spacing dimensions.

[0032] The ribs extend in a T-shape, with a T-leg and a T-beam running transversely to it. The T-beam can serve, as is preferred, to space two floor profiles running longitudinally and parallel to each other, while the T-leg preferably defines the spacing between two floor profiles running longitudinally consecutively in the area of ​​the resulting transverse joint.

[0033] The T-beam is designed to elastically yield to a floor profile. This can result in a further adjustment of the distance with further contact of the T-beam against the facing floor profile, for example in the event of a thermal change in the length of the floor profiles. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, the T-beam or another section of the spacer which is designed to be elastically yielding can, at a preferred and generally assumed distance of, for example, 4 mm between the floor profiles, elastically yield in such a way that with further contact of the T-beam, a reduction in the distance of, for example, up to 50% or more, for example up to 60% or more, of the target distance of, for example, 4 mm can be achieved, and thus a further reduction of the distance to, for example, 3 mm. Due to the elastically resilient, correspondingly springy design of the T-beam orFor example, if the soil profile width is subsequently reduced, it is possible to reset the distance to the desired nominal size in sections of the same.

[0034] The T-beam is formed with one or more spring arms that extend at an angle to the T-beam's length. The spring arm(s) can, as is also preferred, be formed integrally and of the same material with the T-beam and, through this, with the spacer as a whole, for example, using a plastic injection molding process.

[0035] One or more under-gripping areas are formed on the T-beam and / or on the T-leg.

[0036] In the vertical direction, spaced apart from these under-gripping areas, the engagement part can, as is also preferred, be designed to engage in the groove of the floor profile. Accordingly, the spacer can optionally be held suspended on the floor profile(s) solely due to the engagement of the engagement part in the groove and the under-gripping of the under-gripping arms.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, a lower gripping area is designed as a lower gripping arm, with a length that can correspond to a multiple of the width of a lower gripping arm viewed transversely thereto.

[0038] Opposite a first lower gripping arm, a second or further lower gripping arm can extend so that, if necessary, an underside support is provided on all floor profiles kept at a distance from one another by the spacer.

[0039] For example, two lower gripping arms can be provided on both sides and running parallel to the T-leg, while a third lower gripping arm extending opposite to these lower gripping arms can optionally be designed as an extension of the T-leg.

[0040] The floor profiles can be secured to the substructure formed by profile parts by means of a fixing element. This can furthermore result in a type of floating fastening, as is preferred, which allows the floor profiles to be displaced relative to the profile parts, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the profile parts, for example, in the event of thermally induced length changes in the floor profiles. For this purpose, a profile part of the substructure can furthermore have a mounting groove serving to hold the fixing element.

[0041] Such a fixing part is known, for example, from DE 20 2007 002 282 U1. This is preferably designed with engagement elements that are configured to engage in the same groove of the base profile in which the engagement part of the spacer can also engage. The content of this utility model application is hereby incorporated in its entirety into the disclosure of the present invention, also for the purpose of incorporating features of this utility model application into the claims of the present invention.

[0042] The floor profiles mounted in the edge area of ​​the floor surface, which may be shortened in terms of their length and / or width compared to the other floor profiles, can be displaced outwards towards the possibly open edge of the floor surface without further measures, for example by external mechanical action, further for example by stopping movements in the longitudinal and / or width direction of the floor profile, since no further support, for example via a spacer, is provided at the end (edge ​​side). To counteract this effect, according to a further embodiment, a fixing part is provided for the floor profile, which is held on the profile part of the substructure. The holder of the fixing part on the substructure can, as is also preferred, be designed the same or similarly to that of the fixing part.On the one hand, the fixing part prevents the unwanted movement of the floor profile, for example due to mechanical influences from outside, but on the other hand allows the necessary movement, for example due to longitudinal growth of the floor profile caused by moisture.

[0043] The fixing part can further preferably be an aluminum part, for example an aluminum extruded part.

[0044] Furthermore, the fixing part can be arranged adjacent to the fastening part in alignment with the profile part of the substructure. The fixing part and the fastening part are preferably not connected. However, at least in a first installation position, a partial vertical overlap of sections of the fixing part and the fastening part can result.

[0045] In a further preferred embodiment, fixing parts are provided adjacent to the fixing part on both sides for interaction with the floor profiles connected to the substructure via the associated fixing part.

[0046] Such a base profile advantageously interacts with the fixing part in a force-locking manner. For this purpose, the fixing part can have a profile that creates or increases the force connection between the fixing part and the base profile. For example, tooth-shaped protrusions pointing toward the underside of the base profile can be formed, which can be used to achieve mechanical anchoring in the area of ​​the base profile's underside, particularly when the base profile is subjected to corresponding mechanical stress.

[0047] In a preferred rectangular floor profile configuration, for example, with a length / width ratio of 3:1 or 2:1, the profiled parts of the substructure can extend transversely to a longitudinal direction of the floor profiles. Furthermore, the profiled parts can also be aligned parallel to the longitudinal extension of the floor profiles. In a further embodiment, the floor surface formed in the installed state can, for example, be formed by floor profiles whose longitudinal extension can be laid both in the longitudinal direction of the profiled parts of the substructure and perpendicular to this direction.

[0048] With regard to the further proposed method, advantages also arise from the laying of elongated rectangular floor profiles which have a ratio of a length to a width of approximately 5:1 or less, for example up to a ratio of approximately 1:1, further for example, as is also preferred, approximately 3:1 or approximately 2:1. In this regard, floor profiles can be laid in a tile pattern which have a length of approximately 300 to 1300 mm, more preferably approximately 400 to 1200 mm, with a further preferred width of the floor profiles of approximately 350 to 450 mm, more preferably approximately 400 to mm.

[0049] During installation, a floor profile can also be installed with approximately the same distance to all adjacent floor profiles.

[0050] The ranges or value ranges or multiple ranges specified above and below also include all intermediate values ​​with regard to the disclosure, in particular in 1 / 10 increments of the respective dimension, thus possibly also dimensionless. For example, the specification 350 to 450 mm also includes the disclosure of 350.1 to 450 mm, 350 to 449.9 mm, 350.1 to 449.9 mm, etc. This disclosure can serve, on the one hand, to delimit a specified range limit from below and / or above, but alternatively or additionally, to disclose one or more singular values ​​from a respectively specified range. Short description of the drawings

[0051] The invention is explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which, however, only represent exemplary embodiments. A part that is explained only with reference to one of the exemplary embodiments and is not replaced by another part in another embodiment due to the special feature highlighted therein is thus also described for this further embodiment as a possible part present at any rate. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 shows a plan view of a floor surface formed by floor profiles, relating to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 shows a floor profile in the manner of a tile profile in a perspective individual view; Fig. 3 shows the section along the line III-III in Figure 2 ; Fig. 4 the enlargement of area IV in Figure 1 ; Fig. 5the section along the line VV in Figure 4; Fig. 6 in partially sectioned perspective view the arrangement of a spacer arranged between floor profiles; Fig. 7 the section along the line VII-VII in Figure 5 ; Fig. 8 the spacer in perspective view; Fig. 9 the spacer in another perspective view; Fig. 10 the spacer in view according to arrow X in Figure 8 ; Fig. 11the view according to arrow XI in Figure 10 ; Fig. 12the view according to arrow XII in Figure 10 ; Fig. 13the view according to arrow XIII in Figure 10 ; Fig. 14 in a further perspective view, a bottom view of laid floor or tile profiles with arranged spacers; Fig. 15 the section through a profile part of a substructure as well as a fixing part held on the profile part and the floor or tile profile resting thereon according to the line XV-XV in Figure 4 ; Fig. 16the section along the line XVI-XVI in Figure 4; Fig. 17 the fixing part in perspective view; Fig. 18 in perspective view a fixing part for fixing a floor or tile profile to the substructure; Fig. 19 the section along the line XIX-XIX in Figure 16 ; Fig. 20 a representation according to Fig. 1 , but concerning an alternative design of the floor surface; Fig. 21 a partially sectioned perspective view according to Figure 6 , concerning the execution of the floor area according to Figure 20 , when arranging a spacer in a second embodiment; Fig. 22 the spacer of the second embodiment in a perspective individual view; Fig. 23 the front view against the spacer; Fig. 24 a side view against the spacer and Fig. 25 the section along the line XXV - XXV in Fig. 23 . Description of the embodiments

[0052] Shown and described is, firstly, with reference to Figure 1, the arrangement of a plurality of floor profiles 1 on a substructure 3 formed by profile parts 2.

[0053] This is preferably a substructure 3 for supporting floor profiles 1 arranged in a common horizontal plane, which are preferably produced by extrusion as so-called WPC profiles. As can be seen further, for example, from the enlarged illustration in Figure 3 This can also be a two-layer, co-extruded material or a hollow profile.

[0054] The floor profiles 1 are formed according to the illustrated embodiment with an elongated rectangular floor plan, so that in the laying state, as shown in Figure 1 For example, as shown, a tile-like pattern of the floor profiles 1 can be achieved. Accordingly, the floor profiles 1 are designed as tile profiles 4.

[0055] Such a tile profile 4 has a length a which is significantly smaller than an extension c of the formed floor surface 5 in the longitudinal direction of the tile profiles 4. Thus, the length a of a floor or tile profile 1, 4 can correspond, for example, to one third or less, further, for example, to one fifth or less, up to one tenth or less of the extension c.

[0056] Further preferably, this previously described length a of a tile profile 4 corresponds approximately to two to three times the width b of the same tile profile 4 viewed transversely to the length a. Thus, for example, a tile profile 4 can have a length a of approximately 800 mm with a length-width ratio of preferably 2:1.

[0057] The tile profiles 4 of a profile row 6 preferably have the same widths b, so that, viewed in the longitudinal extension of such a profile row 6, a joint-like distance d is obtained which essentially runs continuously over the entire extension c in the region of a longitudinal joint 7 which is formed thereby.

[0058] Such a joint-like distance e also arises in the area of ​​a transverse joint 8 resulting in the direction of extension c between two consecutive tile profiles 4.

[0059] The spacings d and e of the longitudinal joints 7 and the transverse joints 8 can, as is also preferred, be chosen to be equal or at least approximately equal, at least in a first installation state, for example, each approximately 3 to 5 mm, more preferably approximately 4 mm, particularly in the area of ​​the visible surface 12 of the floor profiles 1. The spacings preferably extend over the entire thickness t of the tile profile 4.

[0060] Further preferably, two adjacent profile rows 6 are arranged offset from one another with respect to their transverse grooves 8. Thus, an offset dimension f, viewed in the direction of extension c, can result between two consecutive transverse grooves 8 of adjacent profile rows 6, which offset dimension f can correspond to approximately 0.5 times or less, for example, one-third of the length a of a tile profile 4.

[0061] As can be seen from the illustrations in the Figures 2 and 3 As can be seen, each tile profile 4 is preferably provided with continuous grooves 10 extending longitudinally along both longitudinal side edges 9. The narrow side edges 11, which run transversely to the longitudinal side edges 9, can, however, be groove-free. The corresponding end faces of the narrow side edges 11 preferably run perpendicular to the tile profile surface 12 with respect to a cross-section through such a tile profile 4.

[0062] The grooves 10 are further preferably open outwards in the direction of the longitudinal side edge 9, wherein with reference to a cross-sectional view, for example according to Figure 3 a groove ceiling 21 preferably extends at an acute angle α to a horizontal plane in the installed state, such that, starting from a groove base 22, the groove 10 widens outward toward the longitudinal side edge 9 and upward toward the surface 10. Starting from the groove base 22, the groove bottom 39 is preferably aligned substantially parallel to the surface 12.

[0063] This results in remaining ceiling and floor webs 23, 24 on the top and bottom sides of the groove 10 in the region of the longitudinal side edge 9, wherein according to a preferred embodiment the ceiling web 23 can project beyond the floor web 24, for example, by a dimension of 1 to 5 mm, further, for example, by approximately 3 to 3.5 mm, with respect to a projection into a common horizontal plane.

[0064] The substructure 3 is essentially composed of a plurality of profile parts 2, preferably of identical cross-section. As is also preferred, such a profile part 2 can be designed as an aluminum extruded part, whereby identical profile parts 2 can be achieved in different dimensions with regard to their longitudinal extent L.

[0065] As in Figure 1As shown, a plurality of such profile parts 2 can be provided in a parallel alignment, evenly spaced from one another, to form the substructure 3. Depending on the surface to be created, profile parts 2 can also be provided in an alignment different from the parallel arrangement.

[0066] The formed profile rows 6 of the tile profiles 4 preferably extend transversely to the longitudinal extension L of the profile parts 2. Accordingly, as also shown, an alignment of the tile profiles 4 with respect to their length a in the transverse direction to the extension direction of the profile parts 2 can result. Alternatively, or in combination with this, an alignment of the tile profiles 4 with their longitudinal extension in the longitudinal direction of the profile parts 2 is also possible.

[0067] As can be seen from the sectional view in Figure 15As can be seen, the profile part 2 can have a receiving pocket 14 in the area of ​​a support ceiling 13, which is preferably provided continuously with respect to the longitudinal extent L and for the preferably locking reception of a Figure 18 in perspective individual view shown fixing part 15.

[0068] The fixing part 15 can be constructed in tiers. Below, based on the installed state, for example according to Figure 16 , a rear gripping plate 16 is formed, which is essentially designed with a rectangular base area. The narrow sides of the rear gripping plate 16 can be rounded. Overall, the extension dimensions of the rear gripping plate 16 are selected such that after the rear gripping plate 16 is inserted into the receiving pocket 14 of the profile part 12, a rotation of the fixing part 15 by preferably 90° provides a positive fit to prevent the fixing part 15 from being pulled off upwards.

[0069] A plate part 18 is connected upwards via a preferably circular base section 17, which forms engagement sections 19 in the extension direction of the narrow side of the rear gripping plate 16. These engagement sections protrude significantly beyond the longitudinal edge of the rear gripping plate 16.

[0070] Preferably, integrally formed spring elements 20 extend transversely to the alignment of the engagement sections 19. The two spring elements 20, which are preferably arranged symmetrically to one another with respect to a longitudinal center plane of the fixing part 15, preferably extend in a V-shape to one another in plan view.

[0071] The fastening of the tile profiles 4 on the substructure 3 formed by the profile parts 2 is achieved by the fixing parts 15. The fixing parts 15, which are held with their rear gripping plate 16 in the receiving pocket 14 of the profile parts 2, engage with their engagement sections 19 in the facing grooves 10 of the tile profiles 4 (see Figure 16 ). This results in a safeguard against the tile profiles 4 being lifted vertically upwards by the engagement sections 19 which overlap the groove base 39 and thus the base web 24 of the tile profiles 4.

[0072] The spring elements 20 of the fixing parts 15 in this fixing position are resiliently deflected against the facing end faces of the floor webs 24 of the tile profiles 4. Accordingly, the spring elements 20 determine the distance with respect to the longitudinal joint 7. The distance g resulting between the mutually facing end faces of the floor webs 24 of two adjacent tile profiles 4 fastened via the fixing part 15 can be a multiple of the cross-section according to Figure 16 above the groove 10 in the area of ​​the ceiling webs 23, for example, approximately two to four times the (visible) distance d. This results in an evasion direction r of the spring elements 20 transverse to the joint (cf. Figure 7 ).

[0073] Preferably, to even out the distance d of the longitudinal joints 7 visible in the area of ​​the surface 12 of the tile profiles 4, spacers 25 are placed further between the profile rows 6.

[0074] The Figures 8 to 13 show the spacer 25 of the first embodiment in individual views. This spacer 25 is used in particular when laying the floor profiles 1 in a substantially identical direction according to Figure 1 . Similar to the fixing part 15, the spacer 25 can also have a plate part 26 which forms opposite plate-shaped engagement parts 27 for engagement in the facing tile profile groove 10.

[0075] Ribs 28 and 29 are formed on the underside of the plate part 26, extending in a T-shape relative to one another, wherein the rib 29 forming a T-leg 30 is aligned substantially in the direction of extension of an engagement part 27. The rib 28 forming a T-beam 31 extending transversely to the T-leg 30 is formed approximately centrally on the underside of the plate part 26. Starting from this, the T-leg 30 or the rib 29 preferably extends vertically overlapping the associated edge of the engagement part 27 (cf. Figure 11 ).

[0076] In the arrangement position of such a spacer 25 according to the illustrations in the Figures 6 or 14These ribs 28 and 29 extend from the underside of the plate part 26 over the thickness, viewed in the vertical direction, of the bottom web 24 that delimits the groove 10 downwards. In this downwardly projecting area, lower gripping areas 32, 33 are formed on the T-beam 31. In the first embodiment of the spacer 25, the lower gripping areas 32, 33 are designed as lower gripping arms 32', 33', each with a length that can correspond to approximately 2 to 10 times the width viewed transversely thereto. These lower gripping arms 32, 33 extend, with reference to a bottom view, towards the spacer 25 as shown in Figure 13 essentially preferably in the direction of extension of the T leg 30 or the rib 29.

[0077] Thus, with reference to the bottom view, a lower gripping arm 32' is formed on the T-beam 31 substantially opposite the T-leg 30 or the rib 29, which preferably projects beyond the facing edge of the engagement part 27 with respect to its longitudinal extent and in the deflection direction r of a spring arm 34. In this regard, this projection dimension s can be approximately equal to the thickness of the lower gripping arm 32'.

[0078] Furthermore, lower gripping arms 33' can be formed on the T-beam 31 on both sides of the rib 29 or the T-leg 30 and correspondingly opposite to the lower gripping arm 32', which lower gripping arms 33' can in turn preferably project with a projection dimension s beyond the facing edge of the engagement part 27.

[0079] The lower gripping arms 32' and 33' are dimensioned such that, in the assigned position of the spacer 25, with the plate part 26 preferably resting on the groove base 22 of the tile profile groove 10, the respective lower gripping arm 32' or 33' engages under the tile profile 4 in the region of its base web 24 and thus enables sole support and retention of the spacer 25 on the tile profile 4. The spacer 25 surrounds the base web 24 in a quasi-clamp-like manner, which clamp-like enclosure can be reached on both sides of the T-beam 31.

[0080] In the previously described arrangement position, the rib 29 or the T-leg 30 engages in the transverse joint 8 between two tile profiles 4 arranged one behind the other in the direction of extension c. The narrow side walls 11 of the tile profiles 4, which are preferably of continuous flat design, can accordingly be supported on the rib 29 if necessary. The thickness k of the rib 29 is preferably dimensioned to be approximately 3 mm less than the usual distance e of approximately 4 mm between two profile ends. This contributes to the fact that a floor profile 1 can expand, for example due to the effect of temperature, without the adjacent floor profile 1 shifting. The rib 29 or the T-leg 30, which is provided with a thickness k viewed transversely to the longitudinal extent, can thus also be designed to maintain a minimum distance e. This distance e can, as is also preferred, correspond approximately to the visible distance d between two rows of profiles 6 in the area of ​​the ceiling webs 23.

[0081] The T-beam 31 (rib 28) which, in the arranged position, engages in the longitudinal joint 7 between two rows of profiles 6 is further preferably designed for elastically yielding engagement. For this purpose, as is also preferred, the T-beam 31 can be provided with two V-shaped, angled spring arms 34. These spring arms 34 can, for example, be formed on the T-beam 31 at each end of its longitudinal extension and extend outwardly therefrom and essentially in the direction of the lower gripping arm 32'. The spring arms 34 are part of the T-beam 31. This results in a corresponding thickness m of the T-beam 31 including the spring arms 34 (cf. Figure 13 ), which specifies the usual distance g between the base webs 24 of two profile rows 6.

[0082] While the T-beam 31 is supported with the transverse surface facing the T-leg 30 on the facing floor webs 24 of two tile profiles 4 spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction by the T-leg 30, the free ends of the spring arms 34, if necessary under elastic prestress, come into contact with the front side of the opposite floor web 24 of the tile profile 4 of the adjacent profile row 6 (cf. Figures 5 to 7 ).

[0083] For example, in the event of a possible change in length or width of the tile profiles 4, furthermore for example due to thermal reasons, compensation for the change can be achieved via the arrangement of the spacers 25 and the support via the spring arms 34, in such a way that, preferably, the same or at least approximately the same visible distances d are always achieved over the entire floor area 5, particularly with regard to the longitudinal joints 7. In this case, a minimum distance dimension predetermined at least by the thickness of the T-beam 31 is not undercut. This minimum distance dimension is preferably selected in the area of ​​the floor webs 24 such that, for example, in the event of a thermal change in length, closing of the longitudinal joint 7 is prevented, particularly in the area of ​​the ceiling webs 23.

[0084] In order to further secure tile profiles 4 laid at the edges of the floor surface 5, particularly against external mechanical stress via the surface 12, for example, when walking on the floor surface 5, additional fixing parts 35 can be provided. These preferably serve to further secure the tile profiles 4 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension L of the profile parts 2 of the substructure 3.

[0085] Figure 17 shows such a fixing part 35 in a perspective individual view. Starting from a plate part 36 which is essentially horizontally aligned in the usual state of use, a plug-in projection 37 which is preferably U-shaped in a vertical cross-section extends downwards, via which the fixing part 35 can preferably be plug-retained in the receiving pocket 14 of the profile part 2.

[0086] Away from the plug-in projection 37, ribs 38 are formed on the upper side of the plate part 36 in the longitudinal extension of the fixing part 35 and thus in the longitudinal extension of the plug-in projection 37, which ribs 38, with reference to a vertical cross section through the fixing part 35, are as shown in Figure 15 can be approximately triangular in shape with an upward-pointing triangular apex. In the illustrated embodiment, three such ribs 38 are provided.

[0087] Preferably, in particular, two such fixing parts 35 are assigned to each edge-side tile profile 4, which two fixing parts 35 of a tile profile 4 are further preferably plug-mounted in the receiving pocket 14 of the same profile part 2.

[0088] In addition to the arrangement of these fixing parts 35 in the area of ​​the edge-side tile profiles 4, further fixing parts 35 can also be provided in the floor surface 5, for example at a distance of 2 to 3 m from an edge of the floor surface 5, wherein more preferably only one profile part 2 per tile profile 4 is provided with such fixing parts 35.

[0089] In addition, with regard to edge-side tile profiles 4, the relevant fixing parts 35 can be arranged on both sides of the fixing part 15 holding these tile profiles 4 (compare Figures 4 and 16 ). With reference to a vertical projection, in this arrangement position the fixing parts 35 preferably engage under the area of ​​the engagement sections 19 of the fixing part 15 (compare Figure 16 ).

[0090] In the use position, the tile profiles 4 rest on the surface of the fixing part 35 formed with the ribs 38. Particularly in the case of mechanical stress, for example, when walking on the floor surface 5, the profiling results in an increased force-locking interaction and thus a mechanical anchoring of the tile profile 4 and the fixing part 35, so that the tile profile 4 is prevented from shifting relative to the substructure 3.

[0091] Figure 20 shows an alternative laying arrangement of floor profiles 1, which are also designed here as tile profiles 4, whereby these tile profiles 4 can also have a length a which can correspond to approximately 2 to 3 times the width b viewed transversely thereto.

[0092] In contrast to the strict row-wise arrangement of the tile profiles 4 according to Figure 1In this installation arrangement, various tile profiles 4 are arranged, preferably in pairs, along the longitudinal extension L of the profile parts 2 and transversely thereto. This can result in essentially continuous longitudinal joints 7 or transverse joints 8, but also, as shown, in longitudinal joints 7 or transverse joints 8 whose length is interrupted by transversely laid tile profiles 4.

[0093] The spacers 25 preferably provided here are further preferably designed for arrangement between two mutually parallel side edges of the floor profiles 1. In particular, an identical orientation of all spacers 25 is provided such that the deflection direction r of the spring arms 34, also provided here, points transversely to the longitudinal extension L of the profile parts 2.

[0094] In the case of a tile profile 4 which is aligned transversely to the longitudinal extension L of the profile parts 2 - with reference to the longitudinal orientation of the tile profile 4 - two spaced-apart spacers 25 can be provided in the region of the narrow side edge 11 and, in the case of a tile profile 4 aligned in the longitudinal extension L, four spacers 25 can be provided along the long side edge 9, for example.

[0095] As can be seen from the individual illustrations in the Figures 22 to 25 As can be seen, this spacer 25 of the second embodiment has, vertically downwardly spaced from the engagement parts 27, which are also plate-shaped here, under-grip areas 32 and 33, which further preferably extend in a plate-like manner over the width of the spacer 25 viewed transversely to the deflection direction r.

[0096] The vertical spacing is also achieved in this embodiment by a rib 28 running in the width direction, to which spring arms 34 according to the first embodiment described above are connected on both sides, projecting beyond the engagement parts 27 and the lower gripping areas 32, 33. List of reference symbols

[0097] 1 Soil profile 29 rib 2 Profile part 30 T-leg 3 Substructure 31 T-beam 4 Tile profile 32 Under-grip area 5 Floor area 32' Lower gripping arm 6 Profile series 33 Under-grip area 7 Longitudinal joint 33' Lower gripping arm 8 transverse joint 34 spring arm 9 Long side edge 35 Fixation part 10 Nut 36 Plate part 11 narrow side margin 37 Plug-in projection 12 surface 38 rib 13 Beam ceiling 39 Groove bottom 14 Recording pocket 15 Determination part a length 16 Rear gripping plate b Width 17 Base section c Extension 18 Plate part d Distance 19 Intervention section e Distance 20 spring element f Offset dimension 21 Grooved ceiling g Distance 22 Groove base k thickness 23 Ceiling web m thickness 24 floor bridge r Alternative direction 25 spacers s Projection dimension 26 Plate part t thickness 27 Intervention part L Longitudinal extension 28 rib α angle

Claims

1. Floor surface (5), in particular a terrace surface, preferably for outdoor use, wherein the floor surface (5) comprises profile parts (2) and floor profiles (1), wherein the floor profiles (1) are fastened to a substructure (3) formed by the profile parts (2), wherein the floor profiles (1) are designed as elongated rectangular or square tile profiles (4), having a length (a) that is significantly smaller than an extension of the formed floor surface (c), so that a tile-like pattern is obtained, wherein a spacer (25) is further provided, wherein the spacer (25) is supported only on the floor profiles (1), wherein, in the installed position of the spacer (25), the engagement portion extends at a distance above the undercut region (32, 33), so that a section of the tile profile is approximately U-shaped in cross-section between an engagement portion (27) engaging in a groove of the floor profile (1) and the undercut region, wherein the spacer (25) has two opposing plate-shaped engagement portions (27) for engagement in the facing tile profile groove (10), and wherein the undercut region (32, 33) is plate-shaped or formed by undercut arms and is designed to bear against the underside of the floor profile opposite the visible surface, characterized in that the spacer (25) forms two ribs (28, 29) extending perpendicular to one another, which simultaneously define the distance (d, e) between two mutually perpendicular separation surfaces of three floor profiles (1), that the ribs (28, 29) are arranged in a T-shape, with a T-leg (30) and a T-beam (31) extending transversely thereto, that the T-beam (31) is designed for resilient abutment with one or more spring arms (34) extending at an angle to the extension of the T-beam (31), that one or more undercut regions (32, 33) are formed on the T-beam (31) and / or the T-leg (30), that the spring arms (34) are provided for resilient abutment against one of the floor profiles (1), and that the floor profiles (1) are arranged, in the installed state, with a circumferential joint-like spacing relative to one another.

2. Floor surface according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance (d, e) is formed continuously in a vertical direction over the entire thickness (t) of the floor profile (1), aligned with a vertical plane.

3. Floor surface according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a second or further undercut arm (33') extends opposite a first undercut arm (32').

4. Floor surface according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the floor profiles (1) are fastened to the substructure (3) formed by the profile parts (2) by means of a retaining part (15).

5. Floor surface according to claim 4, characterized in that a fixing part (35) for the floor profile (1) is provided, which is supported on a profile part (2) of the substructure (3).

6. Floor surface according to claim 5, characterized in that the fixing part (35) is arranged, in alignment with the profile part (2) of the substructure (3), adjacent to the retaining part (15).

7. Floor surface according to claim 6, characterized in that fixing parts (35) are provided on both sides adjacent to the retaining part (15).

8. Floor surface according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the tile profile (4) cooperates with the fixing part (35) in a force-fitting manner.

9. Floor surface according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the profile parts (2) of the substructure (3) extend, with respect to the rectangular configuration of the floor profiles (1) as tile profiles (4), transversely to a longitudinal direction of the tile profiles (4).

10. Floor surface according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the undercut region (32, 33) protrudes further in a deflection direction (r) of the spring arm (34) than the engagement portion (27).

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