Outdoor flooring system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a flooring system for an outdoor floor comprising at least one elongate metal profile for making a coupling between a first and a second non-metal decking board. The metal profile comprises a first leg insertable in a first recess of the first non-metal decking board, a second leg insertable in a second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a third leg connecting the first leg with the second leg and wherein the third leg is configured for maintaining a spacing between the first and second non-metal decking board, and a fourth leg coupled to the third leg and configured for at least partly covering the spacing for forming a walking strip between the first and second non-metal decking board.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a flooring system, more specifically an outdoor flooring system for providing an outdoor floor, e.g. an outdoor path, an outdoor terrace or a bridge. The flooring system comprises non-metal decking boards for covering a floor area.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Non-metal decking boards, for example wooden decking boards, are commonly used and are a popular choice for outdoor flooring due to their natural aesthetics and versatility. Decking boards are suitable for various applications, including installations in public spaces, e.g. outdoor terraces, pathways and bridges.

[0003] However, a known issue when faced with wooden decking boards is their susceptibility to becoming slippery, especially in wet conditions. To mitigate this risk, various anti-slip measures are often employed to prevent persons from slipping over the decking boards.

[0004] For example, the front side, i.e. the walking side, of the decking boards may be provided with some structure or profile, involving for instances grooves milled in the wood. Hence these boards have not a flat surface.

[0005] In further known conventional methods, milling grooves in the front side of the decking boards combined with an epoxy are applied to create anti-slip strips.

[0006] However, these conventional methods are ineffective and unsustainable over time, leading to safety concerns and reduced durability. For example, the epoxy in the grooves may peel off and eventually disappear such that water and dirt may accumulate in the grooves.

[0007] In addition to the challenge of slippery decking boards, there exists also a safety concern regarding fire hazards when the non-metal decking boards are made of a combustible material such as for instance wood. Wooden boards, by their nature, pose a potential fire risk due to the combustible properties of wood. Further, the bottom structure of the floor systems are generally also made of wooden beams which increases the fire hazard. Moreover, the formation of gaps between the boards can facilitate the spread of flames. Hence, fire hazard is also a concern, particularly for environments where severe fire safety regulations apply.

[0008] A known solution for addressing the fire hazard of wood is to improve the fire reaction by impregnating the wooden boards or beams with fire-retardant salts. These fire-retardant salts ensure that wood can be exposed to a fire during a longer period before igniting itself. Impregnating wood, however, raises the cost price of the flooring system considerably. It is a relatively expensive, and not always an environmentally friendly treatment of the wood. Impregnating may also only be a temporary solution. Indeed wood that has been impregnated may leach, whereby the fire-retardant salts will have been extracted almost completely from the wood after a number of years. After this, the wood is as combustible again as before the impregnation process, with a disadvantageous fire reaction as a consequence.

[0009] Hence, there is room for improving flooring systems comprising non-metal boards such as decking boards made of wood or any other suitable material.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an environmental friendly, a durable and recyclable flooring system. A further objective is also to address potential fire hazards and improve the fire reaction of the flooring system.

[0011] The present disclosure is defined in the appended independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0012] According to an aspect of the invention, a flooring system for covering an outdoor floor is provided. The flooring system comprises at least a first and a second non-metal decking board, each non-metal decking board having a front side for walking on, a back side opposite the front side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side opposing the first longitudinal side, wherein each of the sides is elongating from a first end to a second end of the non-metal decking board, and wherein for each non-metal decking board, the first longitudinal side comprises an elongate first recess and the second longitudinal side comprises an elongate second recess. The flooring system further comprises at least one elongate metal profile for making a coupling between the first and second non-metal decking board. The metal profile comprises a first leg insertable in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board, a second leg insertable in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a third leg connecting the first leg with the second leg and wherein the third leg is configured for maintaining a spacing between the first and second non-metal decking board when the first leg is inserted in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second leg is inserted in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, and a fourth leg coupled to the third leg and configured for at least partly covering the spacing so as to form a walking strip between the first and second decking board.

[0013] Advantageously, the walking strip between the first and second decking board, as it is formed by a leg of the metal profile, is also made of metal. This allows for a robust floor system wherein the anti-slip strip is mounted separately from the non-metal decking boards. Future recycling of the flooring system is thereby also facilitated.

[0014] Advantageously, by providing a metal profile for coupling the decking boards and by providing the metal profile with an integrated anti-slip leg, there is no need to for instance milling grooves in the front surface of the decking boards, hence the front surfaces may remain flat.

[0015] Advantageously by providing an elongated metal profile as a coupling element between the non-metal decking boards, a more robust mounting is obtained over the entire length of the decking boards. The warping of the non-metal decking boards is thereby reduced.

[0016] Advantageously, by using elongated metal profiles for coupling the decking boards, the requirements with respect to the exact location of the ends of the decking boards with respect to the bottom structure, or more precisely with respect to the position of the beams or support points of the bottom structure, is less critical. As a consequence, losses of portions of decking board due to sawing, is strongly reduced.

[0017] Advantageously, as the fourth leg forming the anti-slip strip is a leg of the metal profile and as the first and second leg are inserted in the recesses of the non-metal decking boards, a rigid anti-slip strip with a strong basis if formed which can optimally absorb shocks.

[0018] Advantageously, with the flooring system comprising a metal profile that is clamping the decking boards over the entire length, the formation of a floor is not limited to a traditional parallel pattern wherein all decking boards are placed in parallel, but alternative patterns such as for example herringbone patterns are possible while maintaining the same type of bottom structure.

[0019] Advantageously, with a flooring system according to the invention, an improved fire reaction is obtained when the non-metal decking boards are for example wooden decking boards or decking boards made of another type of combustible material. Indeed the metal profiles having legs inserted in the longitudinal sides of the decking boards, are forming a fire barrier preventing flames from reaching the bottom structure of the flooring system.

[0020] Optionally, the fourth leg of the metal profile comprises a top surface. Advantageously, the top surface is forming a walking surface for the walking strip.

[0021] Optionally, the top surface of the fourth leg is provided with an anti-slip coating. Optionally, the anti-slip coating is a powder coating.

[0022] Advantageously, by providing a metal profile having a leg located in the space between two adjoining decking boards and wherein the leg comprises a coated top surface, an effective anti-slip strip is obtained between two adjacent decking boards. Hence, the anti-slip strips are not integrated on the surface of the non-metal decking boards, as is the case with prior systems, but instead are located in between the non-metal decking boards.

[0023] Optionally and / or additionally, the top surface of the fourth leg has a rounded shape. In this way, the anti-slip effect is enhanced and water can also run off the top surface.

[0024] Optionally, when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, the top surface is protruding above the surface of the front sides of the first and / or second decking board so as to enhance an anti-slip effect.

[0025] Optionally, the first leg, the second leg, the third leg and the fourth leg are elongating parallel with a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end of the metal profile.

[0026] Generally, when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, the first and second decking board are elongating parallel with the longitudinal axis.

[0027] Optionally, the third leg is plate-shaped and wherein the fourth leg is projecting transversally from the plate-shaped third leg, preferably projecting perpendicularly from the plate-shaped third leg.

[0028] Optionally, the first and second leg is plate-shaped, and wherein the first and second leg are parallel with the front sides of the first and second non-metal decking board when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board.

[0029] In embodiments, the metal profile has a length measured between a first end and a second end of the metal profile that is comprised between 50 cm and 500 cm, preferably between 100 cm and 400 cm, more preferably between 180 cm and 320 cm.

[0030] Generally, each of the first and second leg of the metal profile has a first side for facing towards the front side of the decking boards and a second side opposite the first side for facing towards the back side of the decking boards.

[0031] Optionally, the first leg and the second leg of the metal profile each comprises at least one projection configured such that the first leg and the second leg are clampingly receivable in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board.

[0032] In embodiments, the at least one projection of the first leg is located at the second side of the first leg and the at least one projection of the second leg is located on the second side of the second leg.

[0033] Optionally, the spacing between the first and second non-metal decking board is between 5 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 9 and 11 mm.

[0034] Optionally, the first and second leg comprise respectively a first hook-shaped portion and a second hook-shaped portion configured such that when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, the first hook-shaped portion forms within the first recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile and the first non-metal decking board and the second hook-shaped portion forms within the second recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile and the second non-metal decking board. In this way, a rigid seal is obtained to prevent flames from reaching the bottom structure of the flooring system.

[0035] In embodiments, the first hook-shaped portion and the second hook-shaped portion are elongating along the longitudinal axis from a first end of the metal profile to a second end of the metal profile, opposite the first end.

[0036] Optionally, a cross-section of each of the first and second hook-shaped portions in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y has a shape of a triangle, preferably a right-angled triangle.

[0037] In embodiments, the first and second hook-shaped portions are located on the first side of respectively the first and second leg.

[0038] Optionally, the fourth leg of the metal profile is configured such that when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a first and / or second longitudinal space for water infiltration is maintained between the fourth leg and respectively the first longitudinal side of the first decking board and the second longitudinal side of the second decking board. In this way, rainwater falling on an outdoor floor may be discharged through the spacings between the decking boards.

[0039] Advantageously, the metal profile may be configured for forming a gutter for discharging water, e.g. rainwater, having infiltrated between the first and second decking boards.

[0040] In embodiments, the metal profile comprises a gutter for discharging water having infiltrated between the first and second decking board, and wherein a bottom side of the gutter is formed by a surface portion or a combination of surface portions of any of the first leg, the second leg or the third leg of the metal profile. Advantageously, by providing a gutter, sustainability of the flooring system is hereby increased.

[0041] In embodiments, the first hook-shaped portion of the first leg is forming a first gutter side and the second hook-shaped portion of the second leg is forming a second gutter side.

[0042] Optionally, the first longitudinal space for water infiltration corresponds to a first gap between the first longitudinal side of the first non-metal decking board and the first longitudinal side of the fourth leg and the second space for water infiltration corresponds to a second gap between the second longitudinal side of the second non-metal decking board and the second longitudinal side of the fourth leg.

[0043] In embodiments, the third leg has a width measured along a lateral axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and wherein the spacing maintained between the first and second non-metal decking board when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, corresponds to the width of the third leg.

[0044] Optionally, the first and second recess of the first non-metal decking board are identical to respectively the first and second recess of the second non-metal decking board.

[0045] Optionally, the third leg is plate-shaped and the fourth leg comprises a first and a second longitudinal side projecting transversally from the plate-shaped third leg, preferably projecting perpendicularly from the plate-shaped third leg. Optionally and / or additionally, the first and the second longitudinal side of the fourth leg are facing respectively the first longitudinal side of the first non-metal decking board and the second longitudinal side of the second non-metal decking board when the first and second leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board.

[0046] Optionally, the metal profile further comprises a fifth leg spaced from the first leg so that between the first leg and the fifth leg a receiving cavity is formed in which a part of the first non-metal decking board is receivable. Advantageously, the fifth leg also allows to attach the metal profile to the bottom structure of the floor.

[0047] Optionally, the fifth leg and the first leg are plate-shaped and parallel with respect to each other.

[0048] Optionally, the metal profile further comprising a connecting leg connecting the fifth leg with the first leg, preferably the connecting leg is plate-shaped and oriented transversally with respect to the first and fifth leg.

[0049] Optionally, the fifth leg comprises a trough for recessed receiving one or more fasteners for attaching the metal profile to a bottom structure of the flooring system. The one or more fasteners are for examples screws.

[0050] Optionally, the fifth leg of the metal profile abuts against the back side of the first non-metal decking board.

[0051] Optionally, the fifth leg may be provided with one or more protrusions to enhance the clamping of the metal profile to the first non-metal decking board.

[0052] In embodiments, the second longitudinal side of the first and second decking board comprises an edge portion configured for attaching the non-metal decking boards to the flooring system with one or more further fasteners. More specifically, the edge portion allows for screwing the non-metal decking boards to a bottom structure of the flooring system. e.g. to support points or beams of the bottom structure of the flooring system.

[0053] Advantageously, by only attaching the non-metal decking board on one side to the bottom structure, the natural expansion and shrinking of for instance a wooden decking board will only happen on one side of the decking board.

[0054] In embodiments, the further fasteners for attaching the non-metal decking boards to the flooring system are for example screws.

[0055] Preferably, each of the non-metal decking boards is made of any material selected of: wood, bamboo, a modified wood, a composite material or any combination thereof.

[0056] In embodiments, the non-metal decking boards are made of a hardwood, preferably selected from any of: padoek, izombe, bilinga, jutai, afzelia doussie, massaranduba, okan, muiracatiara, afrormosia, tali, jatoba, or any combination thereof.

[0057] Optionally, for each of the non-metal decking boards, a first transition between the front side and the first longitudinal side and / or a second transition between the front side and the second longitudinal side is bevelled and / or rounded, preferably when rounded the rounding has a radius between 1 and 10 mm, preferably a radius between 2 and 5 mm, more preferably a radius of 3 mm.

[0058] Optionally, the metal profile is made of aluminium or stainless steel.

[0059] In embodiments, the metal profile is made of aluminium and produced by applying an extrusion manufacturing process.

[0060] In embodiments, a cross-section between the metal profile and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis remains the same over the entire length of the metal profile.

[0061] Optionally, the flooring system comprises a bottom structure for attaching the decking boards and the metal profile, preferably the bottom structure comprises beams and / or support points.

[0062] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure an outdoor floor is provided comprising a flooring system as discussed above and defined in the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0063] The invention will be further explained with reference to exemplary embodiments which are illustrated by a number of figures wherein: Fig.1 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a flooring system according to the present disclosure wherein a metal profile is coupling a first non-metal decking board with a second non-metal decking board, Fig.2 shows a cross-sectional view of two identical non-metal decking boards which may be coupled with a metal profile according to the present disclosure, Fig.3 shown a cross-sectional view of a metal profile according to the present disclosure for coupling two non-metal decking boards, Fig.4 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the third and fourth leg of a metal profile according to the present disclosure, Fig.5 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the first leg of a metal profile according to the present disclosure, Fig.6 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the second leg of a metal profile according to the present disclosure, Fig.7 shows a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a fifth leg together with a connection leg for coupling the fifth leg with the first leg according to the present disclosure, Fig.8 shows a top view of floor, schematically illustrating four decking boards coupled with three metal profiles according to the present disclosure.

[0064] It is noted that the figures are only schematic representations of exemplary embodiments of the invention. Like parts are indicated with like reference numerals.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0065] The present disclosure will be described in terms of specific embodiments, which are illustrative of the disclosure and not to be construed as limiting. It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited by what has been particularly shown and / or described and that alternatives or modified embodiments could be developed in the light of the overall teaching of this disclosure. The drawings described are only schematic and are non-limiting.

[0066] Use of the verb "to comprise", as well as the respective conjugations, does not exclude the presence of elements other than those stated. Use of the article "a", "an" or "the" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0067] Furthermore, the terms first, second and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking or in any other manner. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the disclosure described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein.

[0068] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in one or more embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0069] With reference to Fig.1, a flooring system 40 according to the present disclosure for covering an outdoor floor area is shown.

[0070] As shown on Fig.1, the flooring system 40 comprises at least a first 21 and a second 22 non-metal decking board. Each non-metal decking board has a front side 21a, 22a for walking on, a back side 21, 22b opposite the front side, a first longitudinal side 27a and a second longitudinal side 27b opposing the first longitudinal side, and wherein each of the sides is elongating from a first end to a second end of the non-metal decking board.

[0071] With reference to Fig.2, exemplary embodiments of a first 21 and a second 22 non-metal decking board are shown that may be used for forming a flooring system according to the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the two decking boards shown are identical decking boards.

[0072] Further, as illustrated on Fig.2, for each non-metal decking board 21, 22, the first longitudinal side 27a comprises an elongate first recess 26a and the second longitudinal side 27b comprises an elongate second recess 26b.

[0073] A decking board may also be named a decking plank.

[0074] In embodiments, the non-metal decking board may have a thickness between 15 mm and 30 mm, preferably between 20 mm and 25 mm.

[0075] In embodiments, the length of the non-metal decking board, measured between a first and second end of the non-metal decking board, may be between 100 cm and 400 cm, more preferably between 180 cm and 320 cm.

[0076] In embodiments, the width of the non-metal decking boards, or more specifically the width of the front sides of the non-metal decking boards, may be between 10 cm and 40 cm, preferably between 10 cm and 30 cm.

[0077] In embodiments, for example for making a path or a terrace, multiple non-metal decking boards are required and placed adjacently to each other for covering a floor area.

[0078] In embodiments, the non-metal decking boards may be wooden decking boards. For example, the decking boards may be made of a hardwood, preferably selected from any of: padoek, izombe, bilinga, jutai, afzelia doussie, massaranduba, okan, muiracatiara, afrormosia, tali, jatoba, or any combination thereof.

[0079] Advantageously, by using untreated wood for the decking boards, a more cost-effective decking may obtained and also a more favorable and environment-friendlier solution is obtained when compared to impregnated decking boards.

[0080] In further embodiments, the non-metal decking boards are made of any material selected of: wood, bamboo, a modified wood, a composite material or any combination thereof.

[0081] As further illustrated on Fig.1, the flooring system 40 further comprises at least one elongate metal profile 30 for making a coupling between the first 21 and second 22 non-metal decking board. In other words, for coupling two boards, at least one metal profile 30 is required.

[0082] In embodiments, the metal profile 30 is made of aluminium or stainless steel.

[0083] In embodiments, the metal profile 30 is made of aluminium and produced by applying an extrusion manufacturing process.

[0084] With reference to Fig.3, a cross-section in a plane Z-X, perpendicular to a longitudinal axis Y, of an exemplary embodiment of a metal profile 30 is shown. The metal profile 30 is extending in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis Y from a first end to a second of the metal profile. In embodiments, a cross-section between the metal profile 30 and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis Y remains the same over the entire length of the metal profile.

[0085] In Fig.1 and Fig.3, which is a cross-sectional view, the longitudinal axis Y is an axis perpendicular to the figure, i.e. perpendicular to the Z-X plane.

[0086] In embodiments, the metal profile 30 has a length measured between a first end and a second end of the metal profile that is comprised between 50 cm and 500 cm, preferably between 100 cm and 400 cm, more preferably between 180 cm and 320 cm. The exact length of the metal profiles are generally defined in accordance with the length of the non-metal decking boards. In embodiments, the length of the metal profiles may be equal to the length of the non-metal decking boards but the length of the metal profiles may also be different from the length of a decking board.

[0087] As illustrated on Fig.1, the metal profile 30 comprises a first leg 31 insertable in the first recess 26a of the first non-metal decking board 21, a second leg 32 insertable in the second recess 26b of the second non-metal decking board 22, and a third leg 33 connecting the first leg 31 with the second leg 32.

[0088] The third leg 33 of the metal profile being a connection leg connecting the first 31 and second 32 leg provides for a spacing S between the non-metal boards. Indeed, as illustrated on Fig.1, the third leg 33 is configured such that when the first leg 31 is inserted in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second leg 32 is inserted in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a spacing S is maintained between the first and second decking board. More specifically, the spacing S is a spacing formed between the front sides of the first and second non-metal boards. In other words when viewed from the front side of the non-metal boards, the first and second non-metal boards are not touching each other.

[0089] The first, second and third leg which are elongating parallel with the longitudinal axis Y generally may have an overall flat shape as schematically illustrated with the cross-sectional views shown on Fig.1, Fig.5 and Fig.6. The cross-sectional views shown in Fig.1, Fig.5 and Fig.6 are taken in an X-Z plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y.

[0090] In embodiments, the shape of the third and / or first and second leg may be plate-shaped.

[0091] As illustrated on Fig.3, the metal profile 30 further comprises a fourth leg 34 coupled to the third leg 33 and configured for at least partly covering the spacing S between the first and second decking board. By covering the spacing S between the two decking boards, a walking strip between the first and second decking board is formed. As further schematically illustrated on Fig.1 and Fig.4, the fourth leg 34 comprises a top surface 1 which is forming a walking surface.

[0092] In embodiments, the top surface 1 of the fourth leg 34 is provided with an anti-slip coating for preventing people from slipping over the non-metal boards.

[0093] The anti-slip coating may for example be a powder coating or any other suitable coating.

[0094] In embodiments, the top surface 1 forming the walking strip between two spaced decking boards 21,22 has a rounded shape. This enhances the anti-slip effect and water can also run off the top surface.

[0095] When a floor area is covered with the decking boards and the metal profiles, the decking boards are elongating parallel with the metal profiles. Indeed, the first 31, second 32, third 33 and fourth leg 34, are elongating parallel with the longitudinal axis Y of the metal profile from a first end to a second end of the metal profile, and the metal profile 30 is configured such that when the first 31 and second 32 leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, the first 21 and second 22 decking board are also elongating parallel with the longitudinal axis Y of the metal profile 30.

[0096] The spacing between two decking boards, are more specifically between the front sides of two decking boards, is indicated on Fig.1 with the letter S, and this spacing is between 5 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 9 and 11 mm.

[0097] In embodiments, the top surface 1 is protruding above the surface of the front sides of the first 21 and / or second 22 decking board so as to enhance an anti-slip effect.

[0098] With reference to Fig.4, a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the third 33 and fourth leg 34 of a metal profile 30 according to the present disclosure, is shown in more detail. As schematically illustrated on Fig.3 and Fig.4, the third leg 33 has a width W measured along a lateral axis X perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y. The spacing S maintained between the first and second non-metal decking board when the first 31 and second 32 leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board 21 and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board 22, corresponds to the width W of the third leg 33. In other words, the width W of the third leg 33 defines the spacing between the decking boards.

[0099] As illustrated on Fig.1, Fig;3, Fig.5 and Fig.6, the first 31 and second 32 leg have also a width measured along the lateral axis X, indicated with references P1 and P2, respectively. These widths P1 and P2 correspond to the penetration depth of respectively the first 31 and second 32 leg into the corresponding recesses 26a, 26b of the decking boards, as illustrated on Fig1.

[0100] In embodiments, as schematically illustrated in more detail on Fig.4, the third leg 33 is plate-shaped and the fourth leg 34 is projecting transversally from the plate-shaped third leg 33. In embodiments, the fourth leg 34 is projecting perpendicularly from the plate-shaped third leg 33.

[0101] In embodiments, as illustrated on Fig.4, the fourth leg 34 comprises a first 34a and a second 34b longitudinal side projecting transversally from the plate-shaped third leg 33, preferably projecting perpendicularly from the plate-shaped third leg.

[0102] In embodiments, the first 34a and the second 34b longitudinal side of the fourth leg 34 are facing to respectively the first longitudinal side of the first non-metal decking board 21 and the second longitudinal side of the second non-metal decking board 22 when the first and second leg are inserted in the corresponding recesses of the non-metal decking boards.

[0103] As illustrated on Fig.1, the fourth leg 34 is configured such that when the first 31 and second 32 leg are inserted in respectively the first recess 26a of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess 26b of the second non-metal decking board, a first 2a and / or second 2b longitudinal space for water infiltration is maintained between the fourth leg 34 and respectively the first longitudinal side 27a of the first decking board 21 and the second longitudinal side 27b of the second decking board 22. In this way, due to the longitudinal space maintained between the decking boards, when using wooden decking boards, the wood can naturally expand and shrink and at the same time a drainage of rainwater is provided through the spacing.

[0104] In embodiments, the first longitudinal space 2a for water infiltration corresponds to a first gap between the first longitudinal side 27a of the first non-metal decking board 21 and the first longitudinal side 34a of the fourth leg 34 of the metal profile and the second space for water infiltration 2b corresponds to a second gap between the second longitudinal side 27b of the second non-metal decking board 22 and the second longitudinal side 34b of the fourth leg 34 of the metal profile.

[0105] In embodiments, the metal profile 30 is sealingly coupled with the first 21 and second 22 non-metal decking boards.

[0106] For example, in embodiments as illustrated on Fig.1, Fig.3, Fig.5 and Fig.6, the first leg 31 comprises a first hook-shaped portion 4a and the second leg 32 comprises a second hook-shaped portion 4b.

[0107] The first hook-shaped portion 4a is configured such that when the first 31 leg is inserted in the first recess 26a of the first non-metal decking board, the first hook-shaped portion 4a penetrates within the first recess 26a and forms within the first recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile and the first non-metal decking board. Similarly, the second hook-shaped portion 4b is configured such that when the second leg 32 is inserted in the second recess 26b of the second non-metal decking board, the second hook-shaped portion 4b penetrates within the second recess 26b and forms within the second recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile and the second non-metal decking board.

[0108] In embodiments, the first hook-shaped portion 4a and the second hook-shaped portion 4b may be elongating along the longitudinal axis Y from a first end of the metal profile to a second end of the metal profile, opposite the first end. In this way, a seal is obtained over the entire length of the decking boards.

[0109] The hook-shaped portions may have any shape that is suitable for forming a sealed coupling.

[0110] In embodiments, as illustrated on Fig.1, Fig.5 and Fig.6, a cross-section of each of the first and second hook-shaped portions in a plane X-Z, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y, may have a shape of a triangle, preferably a right-angled triangle.

[0111] Generally, as schematically shown on Fig.5 and Fig.6, each of the first 31 and second leg 32 of the metal profile has two sides, a first side 31a, 32a for facing towards the front side of the decking boards and a second side 31b, 32b opposite the first side for facing towards the back side of the decking boards.

[0112] In embodiments wherein the first and second leg comprise hook-shaped portions 4a, 4b as discussed above, the first and second hook-shaped portion are located on the first side 31a, 32a of respectively the first and second leg.

[0113] The seal between the metal profile and the decking boards has two functions. A first function is that in case of fire, flames can during a longer period of time not reached out to the bottom structure of the flooring system. Hence, in this way, the overall fire resistance of the flooring system is enhanced.

[0114] A second function of the seal is that the seal may form a side of a gutter for discharging rainwater.

[0115] Indeed, in embodiments, the metal profile is configured for forming a gutter for discharging water, e.g. rainwater, having infiltrated between the first and second decking boards. As illustrated in Fig.1, water that infiltrates through the spacing between two decking boards will reach surface portions of the third leg 33 and further may also reach surface portion of the first 31 and second leg 32. Hence a bottom side of the gutter may be formed by a surface portion or a combination of surface portions of any of the first leg 31, the second leg 32 or the third leg 33.

[0116] As illustrated on Fig.1, Fig.3, Fig.5 and Fig.6, the hooks-shaped profiles 4a, 4b may be forming two gutter sides. As illustrated on Fig.1, the first hook-shaped portion 4a is configured for forming a first gutter side and the second hook-shaped portion 4b is configured for forming a second gutter side. When the hook-shaped portions have for example a triangular cross-sectional shape, a side of the triangle may form a side of the gutter. These gutter sides formed by the hook-shaped portions prohibit rainwater to infiltrate to the bottom structure of the flooring system.

[0117] Advantageously, by positioning the decking boards under an angle with respect to a horizontal plane, rainwater can be discharged in the longitudinal direction from one end of the decking board to the other end.

[0118] In embodiments, as illustrated on Fig.1, Fig.5 and Fig.6, the first leg 31 and the second leg 32 of the metal profile each comprises at least one projection 6a, 6b configured such that the first leg and the second leg are clampingly receivable in respectively the first recess 26a of the first non-metal decking board 21 and the second recess 26b of the second non-metal decking board 22.

[0119] In embodiments, as illustrated on Fig.5, the at least one projection of the first leg 31 is located at the second side 31b of the first leg, opposite the first side 31a of the first leg, and the at least one projection of the second leg 32 is located on the second side 32b of the second leg, opposite the first side 32a of the second leg. In this way, an optimum clamping of the non-metal decking boards is obtained.

[0120] Advantageously, due to the clamping of the first and second leg, no additional fixation means are necessary to couple the metal profile with the decking boards.

[0121] In embodiments, as shown on Fig.1 and illustrated in more detail on Fig.7, the metal profile 30 furthermore may comprise a fifth leg 35 spaced from the first leg 31 so that between the first leg 31 and the fifth leg 35 a receiving cavity is formed in which a part of the first non-metal decking board 21 may be received.

[0122] In embodiments, both the fifth leg 35 and the first leg 31 are plate-shaped and are parallel or at least approximately parallel with respect to each other.

[0123] Generally, as illustrated on Fig.7, for embodiments comprising a fifth leg 35, the metal profile 30 also comprises a connecting leg 36 connecting the fifth leg 35 with the first leg 31.

[0124] In embodiments, the connecting leg 36 may be plate-shaped and oriented transversally with respect to the first 31 and fifth 35 leg.

[0125] In embodiments, as illustrated on Fig.1, the fifth leg extends beyond the first leg.

[0126] In embodiments, the fifth leg 35 of the metal profile may abut against the back side of the non-metal decking board 21, more specifically wherein a first side 35a of the fifth leg 35 facing towards the front side of the non-metal decking board makes a contact with the back side of the non-metal decking board.

[0127] In embodiments, as schematically shown on Fig.1, the fifth leg 35 may also be provided with one or more protrusions 10 to enhance the clamping of the metal profile to the first non-metal decking board 21, more specifically a clamping in the first longitudinal side of the decking board.

[0128] Generally, the flooring system may comprise a bottom structure for attaching the decking boards and the metal profile. The bottom structure may for example comprises vertical support points and horizontal connecting beams. In embodiments, the bottom structure of the flooring may be a framework of wooden beams.

[0129] The fifth leg of the metal profile allows to attach the metal profile to the bottom structure of the flooring system. For example, in embodiments, the fifth leg 35 of the metal profile comprises a trough 15 for recessed receiving of one or more fasteners 12 for attachment of the metal profile 30 to the bottom structure of the flooring system. As illustrated on Fig.1, the fastener may be a screw. Generally a plurality of fasteners are used for rigidly attaching the metal profile 30 to the bottom structure of the flooring system.

[0130] In embodiments, the trough 15 is preferably provided at a free end of the fifth leg 35, as illustrated on Fig.1 and Fig.7.

[0131] The trough 15 is generally formed by a bottom side through which the fasteners or screws are to be inserted and two longitudinal beveled sides 16,17 for recessed receiving of the fasteners or screws. The bottom side and longitudinal sides of the trough are elongating along the longitudinal axis Y of the metal profile. The trough 15 forms a shielding for the screws, for instance for avoiding rainwater to reach the screws.

[0132] The beveled longitudinal side 16 of the trough 15 located at the extremity of the fifth leg may come in contact with the longitudinal side of the non-metal decking board and therefore some notches 18 may be provided in this beveled longitudinal side of the trough 15 to accommodate for expansion of the for instance wooden decking boards.

[0133] In embodiments according to the present disclosure, the non-metal decking boards can also be attached to the bottom structure of the flooring system. For example, in embodiments, the second longitudinal side of the first and second decking board comprises an edge portion 25 configured for attaching the decking boards to the flooring system with a plurality of fasteners. The fasteners 13 may for example be screws for screwing the decking boards to support points or beams of the bottom structure of the flooring system.

[0134] In embodiments, as schematically shown on Fig.1, the screws 13 for attaching the non-metal decking boards to a bottom structure may be put obliquely through the edge portion 25. To this end, for instance, a milled-out provision can be made in the edge portion for forming guides for guiding the screws 13 during insertion, so that a constant oblique position can be achieved for all the screws.

[0135] Advantageously, by only attaching the non-metal decking board on one side to the bottom structure, the natural expansion and shrinking of for instance a wooden decking board will only happen on one side of the decking board.

[0136] In embodiments, more than one metal profile may be used for coupling two decking boards.

[0137] In embodiments, one metal profile may be used to couple more than two non-metal decking boards. This is for example the case when the metal profile is longer than the non-metal decking board. Two non-metal decking boards may be coupled with the first leg of the metal profile and two other non-metal decking boards may be coupled with the second leg of the metal profile.

[0138] In embodiments, for each of the decking boards, a first transition 28a between the front side 21a and the first longitudinal side 27a and / or a second transition between the front side 21a and the second longitudinal side 27b is bevelled and / or rounded.

[0139] A non-metal decking board having a rounding and / or bevel has a considerably lower fire reaction. Due to the rounding and / or the bevel of the non-metal decking boards, the heat conduction of the hot air during any fire is improved. As a consequence, the heat accumulates less fast and so it takes longer before the non-metal decking board catches fire. A favorable fire reaction is thereby achieved.

[0140] The first 26a and second 26b recess in the longitudinal sides of the noon-metal decking boards are generally different, for example they may have a different depth. In this way, the recesses make it clear which side of the non-metal decking board is to be connected to what side of the metal profile.

[0141] The first 31 and second leg 32 of the metal profile may also have a different width P1, P2, wherein the width is measured along an axis X perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y, which result in different penetration depths of the legs in the decking boards. For example, the width P1 of the first leg may be longer than the width P2 of the second leg, as schematically illustrated on Fig.1. Generally, the widths P1, P2 of the first and second leg are defined for mating with the corresponding recesses 26a, 26b of the decking boards.

[0142] In embodiments, the first 26a and second 26b recess of the first non-metal decking board 21 are identical to respectively the first 26a and second 26b recess of the second non-metal decking board 22. In this ways, a plurality of decking boards may be used which may be coupled side by side by using a plurality of the metal profiles.

[0143] Generally, for covering a floor, the flooring system may comprise a plurality of non-metal decking boards and a plurality of metal profiles, wherein each longitudinal side of the non-metal decking board may be coupled to a metal profile.

[0144] According to a further aspect of the invention an outdoor floor is provided with a flooring system as described above.

[0145] An example of a floor 50, e.g. an outdoor floor, provided with the flooring system 40 according to the present disclosure is shown on Fig.8 wherein four decking boards 21 to 24, placed in parallel, are shown. In Fig.8, a top view is shown, and hence the front sides 21a, 22a, 23a, 24a of the four non-metal decking boards 21 to 24 are visible, and the four decking boards are illustrated to be coupled by three metal profiles 30a, 30b and 30c. The three metal profiles also provide for a spacing S between the decking boards, and for each metal profile, a leg of the metal profile is configured for at least partly covering the spacing S so as to form a walking strip between the decking boards, as discussed above. The leg that is filling the spacing S between two decking boards comprises a top surface 1, preferably provided with an anti-slip coating. As further discussed above, when the floor is placed at an angle with respect to a horizontal level, the gutter of the metal profile allows to discharge the rainwater in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis Y. At an extremity of the metal profiles 30a, 30b, 30c the rainwater can further be collected in a main gutter 45, elongating for example parallel with the lateral axis X, as schematically illustrated on Fig.8.CLAUSES

[0146] Here below, text is provided in the form of clauses. The clauses comprise characterizations indicating a variety of options, features, and feature combinations that can be used in accord with the teachings of the present disclosure. Alternate characterizations of the ones given, but consistent with the description above, are possible.

[0147] In summary, according to the present disclosure, the following clauses for instances could be claimed: 1. A flooring system (40) for covering an outdoor floor area, comprising: a) at least a first (21) and a second (22) non-metal decking board, each non-metal decking board having a front side (21a, 22a) for walking on, a back side (21, 22b) opposite the front side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side opposing the first longitudinal side, wherein each of said sides is elongating from a first end to a second end of the non-metal decking board, and wherein for each non-metal decking board, the first longitudinal side comprises an elongate first recess and the second longitudinal side comprises an elongate second recess, and b) at least one elongate metal profile (30) for making a coupling between the first (21) and second (22) non-metal decking board, the metal profile (30) comprising: a first leg (31) insertable in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board, a second leg (32) insertable in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a third leg (33) connecting the first leg (31) with the second leg (32) and wherein the third leg (33) is configured for maintaining a spacing (S) between the first (21) and second (22) non-metal decking board when said first leg (31) is inserted in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second leg (32) is inserted in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, and a fourth leg (34) coupled to the third leg (33) and configured for at least partly covering said spacing (S) so as to form a walking strip between the first and second decking board. 2. The flooring system according to clause 1 wherein said fourth leg comprises a top surface (1) provided with an anti-slip coating, preferably wherein said anti-slip coating is a powder coating. 3. The flooring system according clause 2 wherein said top surface (1) has a rounded shape, or the flooring system according to clause 1 wherein the fourth leg comprises a top surface (1) having a rounded shape. 4. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein when said first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, said top surface (1) is protruding above the surface of the front sides of the first and / or second decking board so as to enhance an anti-slip effect. 5. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein said fourth leg (34) is configured such that when said first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a first (2a) and / or second (2b) longitudinal space for water infiltration is maintained between the fourth leg (34) and respectively the first longitudinal side of the first decking board and the second longitudinal side of the second decking board. 6. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the first leg (31), the second leg (32), the third leg (33) and the fourth leg (34) are elongating parallel with a longitudinal axis (Y) from a first end to a second end of the metal profile. 7. The flooring system according to clause 6 wherein when said first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22), the first (21) and second (22) decking board are elongating parallel with said longitudinal axis (Y). 8. The flooring system according to clause 6 or clause 7 wherein said third leg (33) has a width (W) measured along a lateral axis (X) perpendicular to said longitudinal axis (Y), and wherein said spacing (S) maintained between the first and second non-metal decking board when the first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22), corresponds to said width (W). 9. The flooring system according any of previous clauses wherein said third leg (33) is plate-shaped and wherein said fourth leg (34) is projecting transversally from the plate-shaped third leg, preferably projecting perpendicularly from the plate-shaped third leg. 10. The flooring system according to any of clauses 1 to 8 wherein said third leg (33) is plate-shaped and said fourth leg (34) comprises a first (34a) and a second (34b) longitudinal side projecting transversally from the plate-shaped third leg (33), preferably projecting perpendicularly from the plate-shaped third leg. 11. The flooring system according to clause 10 wherein said first (34a) and said second (34b) longitudinal side of the fourth leg (34) are facing respectively the first longitudinal side of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second longitudinal side of the second non-metal decking board (22) when the first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board. 12. The flooring system according to clause 10 or 11, wherein when depending on clause 5, said first (2a) longitudinal space for water infiltration corresponds to a first gap between the first longitudinal side of the first non-metal decking board and the first longitudinal side (34a) of the fourth leg (34) and said second (2b) space for water infiltration corresponds to a second gap between the second longitudinal side of the second non-metal decking board and the second longitudinal side (34b) of the fourth leg (34). 13. The flooring system according any of previous clauses wherein said first (31) and second (32) leg is plate-shaped, and wherein the first and second leg are parallel with the front sides of the first and second non-metal decking board when the first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22). 14. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein each of the first (31) and second (32) leg of the metal profile has a first side (31a, 32a) for facing towards the front side of the decking boards and a second side (31b, 32b) opposite the first side for facing towards the back side of the decking boards. 15. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the first leg (31) comprises a first hook-shaped portion (4a) and the second leg (32) comprises a second hook-shaped portion (4b) and wherein said first and second hook-shaped portions are configured such that when the first (31) and second leg (32) are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22), the first hook-shaped portion (4a) forms within said first recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile (30) and the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second hook-shaped portion (4b) forms within said second recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile (30) and the second non-metal decking board (22). 16. The flooring system according to clause 15 wherein said first hook-shaped portion (4a) and said second hook-shaped portion (4b) are elongating along the longitudinal axis (Y) from a first end of the metal profile to a second end of the metal profile, opposite the first end. 17. The flooring system according to clause 16 wherein a cross-section of each of said first and second hook-shaped portions in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (Y) has a shape of a triangle, preferably a right-angled triangle. 18. The flooring system according to any of clauses 15 to 17 wherein when depending on clause 14, said first (4a) and second (4b) hook-shaped portions are located on the first side of respectively the first (31) and second (32) leg. 19. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the metal profile (30) comprises a gutter for discharging water having infiltrated between the first and second decking board, and wherein a bottom side of the gutter is formed by a surface portion or a combination of surface portions of any of the first leg (31), the second leg (32) or the third leg (33) of the metal profile. 20. The flooring system according to clause 19 wherein said surface portions forming the bottom side of the gutter are facing towards said front sides of the non-metal decking boards. 21. The flooring system according to clause 19 or clause 20 wherein, when depending on any of clauses 15 to 18, said first hook-shaped portion (4a) is forming a first gutter side and the second hook-shaped portion (4b) is forming a second gutter side. 22. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein said metal profile (30) has a length measured between a first end and a second end of the metal profile that is comprised between 50 cm and 500 cm, preferably between 100 cm and 400 cm, more preferably between 180 cm and 320 cm. 23. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the first leg and the second leg of the metal profile each comprises at least one projection (6a, 6b), configured such that the first leg and the second leg are clampingly receivable in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22). 24. The flooring system according to clause 23 wherein, when depending on clause 14, the at least one projection (6a, 6b) of the first leg is located at the second side of the first leg (31) and the at least one projection (6a, 6b) of the second leg is located on the second side of the second leg (32). 25. The flooring system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the metal profile (30) further comprises a fifth leg (35) spaced from the first leg (31) so that between the first leg (31) and the fifth leg (35) a receiving cavity is formed in which a part of the first non-metal decking board (21) can be received. 26. The flooring system according to clause 25 wherein the fifth leg (35) and the first leg (31) are plate-shaped and parallel with respect to each other. 27. The flooring system according to clause 25 or 26, wherein the metal profile (30) further comprising a connecting leg (36) connecting the fifth leg (35) with the first leg (31), preferably the connecting leg is plate-shaped and oriented transversally with respect to the first and fifth leg. 28. The flooring system according any of clauses 25 to 27 wherein the fifth leg (35) of the metal profile comprises a trough (15) for recessed receiving one or more fasteners (12) for attaching the metal profile (30) to a bottom structure of the flooring system, preferably the one or more fasteners are screws. 29. The flooring system according to any of clauses 25 to 28 wherein the fifth leg (35) of the metal profile (30) abuts against the back side of the first non-metal decking board. 30. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the second longitudinal side of the first and second decking board comprises an edge portion (25) configured for attaching the non-metal decking boards to the flooring system with one or more further fasteners (13), preferably for attaching the non-metal decking boards to a bottom structure of the flooring system with one or more further fasteners (13), more preferably wherein the further fasteners are screws. 31. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses comprising a bottom structure for attaching the decking boards and the metal profile, preferably said bottom structure comprises beams and / or support points. 32. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein each of said non-metal decking boards is a wooden decking board. 33. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the non-metal decking boards are made of a hardwood, preferably selected from any of: padoek, izombe, bilinga, jutai, afzelia doussie, massaranduba, okan, muiracatiara, afrormosia, tali, jatoba, or any combination thereof. 34. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein each of said non-metal decking boards is made of any material selected of: wood, bamboo, a modified wood, a composite material or any combination thereof. 35. The flooring system according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein for each of the non-metal decking boards, a first transition (28a) between the front side (21a) and the first longitudinal side (27a) and / or a second transition (28b) between the front side (21a) and the second longitudinal side (27b) is bevelled and / or rounded, preferably when rounded the rounding has a radius between 1 and 10 mm, preferably a radius between 2 and 5 mm, more preferably a radius of 3 mm. 36. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the metal profile (30) is made of aluminium or stainless steel. 37. The flooring system according to any of clauses 1 to 34 wherein the metal profile (30) is made of aluminium and produced by applying an extrusion manufacturing process. 38. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein a cross-section between the metal profile (30) and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis (Y) remains the same over the entire length of the metal profile. 39. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein said spacing (S) between the first and second decking board is between 5 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 9 and 11 mm. 40. The flooring system according to any of previous clauses wherein the first (26a) and second (26b) recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) are identical to respectively the first (26a) and second (26b) recess of the second non-metal decking board (22). 41. An outdoor floor (50) provided with a flooring system according to any of previous clauses.

Claims

1. A flooring system (40) for covering an outdoor floor area, comprising: a) at least a first (21) and a second (22) non-metal decking board, each non-metal decking board having a front side (21a, 22a) for walking on, a back side (21, 22b) opposite the front side, a first longitudinal side and a second longitudinal side opposing the first longitudinal side, wherein each of said sides is elongating from a first end to a second end of the non-metal decking board, and wherein for each non-metal decking board, the first longitudinal side comprises an elongate first recess and the second longitudinal side comprises an elongate second recess, and b) at least one elongate metal profile (30) for making a coupling between the first (21) and second (22) non-metal decking board, the metal profile (30) comprising: - a first leg (31) insertable in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board, - a second leg (32) insertable in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, - a third leg (33) connecting the first leg (31) with the second leg (32) and wherein the third leg (33) is configured for maintaining a spacing (S) between the first (21) and second (22) non-metal decking board when said first leg (31) is inserted in the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second leg (32) is inserted in the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, and - a fourth leg (34) coupled to the third leg (33) and configured for at least partly covering said spacing (S) so as to form a walking strip between the first and second non-metal decking board.

2. The flooring system according to claim 1 wherein said fourth leg comprises a top surface (1) provided with an anti-slip coating, preferably wherein said anti-slip coating is a powder coating.

3. The flooring system according to claim 1 wherein said fourth leg comprises a top surface (1) having a rounded shape or the flooring system according to claim 2 wherein said top surface (1) has a rounded shape.

4. The flooring system according to claim 2 or 3 wherein when said first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, said top surface (1) is protruding above the surface of the front sides of the first and / or second non-metal decking board so as to enhance an anti-slip effect.

5. The flooring system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the metal profile (30) further comprises a fifth leg (35) spaced from the first leg (31) so that between the first leg (31) and the fifth leg (35) a receiving cavity is formed in which a part of the first non-metal decking board (21) is receivable.

6. The flooring system according to claim 5 wherein the fifth leg (35) and the first leg (31) are plate-shaped and parallel with respect to each other.

7. The flooring system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the metal profile (30) further comprising a connecting leg (36) connecting the fifth leg (35) with the first leg (31), preferably the connecting leg is plate-shaped and oriented transversally with respect to the first and fifth leg.

8. The flooring system according any of claims 5 to 7 wherein the fifth leg (35) of the metal profile comprises a trough (15) for recessed receiving one or more fasteners (12) for attaching the metal profile (30) to a bottom structure of the flooring system, preferably the one or more fasteners are screws.

9. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein said fourth leg (34) is configured such that when said first (31) and second (32) leg are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board, a first (2a) and / or second (2b) longitudinal space for water infiltration is maintained between the fourth leg (34) and respectively the first longitudinal side of the first non-metal decking board and the second longitudinal side of the second non-metal decking board.

10. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein the first leg (31) comprises a first hook-shaped portion (4a) and the second leg (32) comprises a second hook-shaped portion (4b) and wherein said first and second hook-shaped portions are configured such that when the first (31) and second leg (32) are inserted in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22), the first hook-shaped portion (4a) forms within said first recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile (30) and the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second hook-shaped portion (4b) forms within said second recess a sealed coupling between the metal profile (30) and the second non-metal decking board (22), preferably wherein a cross-section of each of said first and second hook-shaped portions in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (Y) of the metal profile has a shape of a triangle, preferably a right-angled triangle.

11. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein the metal profile (30) comprises a gutter for discharging water having infiltrated between the first and second non-metal decking board, and wherein a bottom side of the gutter is formed by a surface portion or a combination of surface portions of any of the first leg (31), the second leg (32) or the third leg (33) of the metal profile, preferably wherein when depending on claims 10, said first hook-shaped portion (4a) is forming a first gutter side and the second hook-shaped portion (4b) is forming a second gutter side.

12. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein the first leg and the second leg of the metal profile each comprises at least one projection (6a, 6b) configured such that the first leg and the second leg are clampingly receivable in respectively the first recess of the first non-metal decking board (21) and the second recess of the second non-metal decking board (22).

13. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein the second longitudinal side of the first and second non-metal decking board comprises an edge portion (25) configured for attaching the non-metal decking boards to the flooring system with one or more further fasteners (13), preferably for attaching the non-metal decking boards to a bottom structure of the flooring system with one or more further fasteners (13), more preferably wherein the further fasteners are screws.

14. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein each of said non-metal decking boards is made of any material selected of: wood, bamboo, a modified wood, a composite material or any combination thereof, and / or wherein the metal profile (30) is made of aluminium or stainless steel.

15. The flooring system according to any of previous claims wherein said spacing (S) between the first and second non-metal decking board is between 5 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 8 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 9 and 11 mm.

Images