METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SECURING FRAMING MEMBERS IN A CONSTRUCTION FRAMEWORK

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to construction framing methods and systems, and, more particularly, relates to a method and system of securing framing members in a wood construction framework.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Framing in construction, particularly in constructing a wood construction framework, is the process of joining building materials together to create a structure's framework and give it shape and support. Framing is a critical part of the building process and includes the walls, floors, and roof systems. It is important to do framing correctly to ensure the building's structural integrity and longevity. Poorly framed buildings can be susceptible to structural failures, which can cause damage and endanger occupants. Framing materials are usually wood, engineered wood, or structural steel. Wood and engineered wood are particularly susceptible to buckling, warping, and other degradation effects after exposure to moisture, namely heavy moisture like rain and snow.

When constructing a building structure that includes construction framework with framing materials, there are often appreciable amounts of time when the framing materials are open or exposed to the ambient environment and weather conditions. Even after walls and roofing has been installed, the construction framework is still sometimes exposed to adverse environmental conditions that cause the framing materials to twist and bow, causing drywall cracks and nail pops. There are known methods of tying down framing members within a construction framework, but they are often costly, require an extensive amount of additional time to install, or are only temporary. There are also many methods and structures available to properly align framing members within a construction framework, e.g., for complying with construction codes, but these methods and structure are conducive to ensure proper securement of the framing materials. Those known methods and structures for securing framing members also often lead to misalignment of framing members as the framing members dry, causing structural issues and aesthetic imperfections in finished spaces.

Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the prior art as discussed above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework that overcomes the hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of the heretofore-known devices and methods of this general type and that minimizing warping and twisting of framing members by securing said framing members with a flexible securement tape that is installed after installation of the framing members utilized as studs, floor joists, ceiling joists, and trusses, which reduces the occurrence of nail pops and drywall cracks. Said another way, the present invention facilitates in regulating the wood drying processes during layup time while waiting for drywall installation or other sheeting materials, reducing the risk of warping and twisting that can lead to nail pops and drywall cracks. Therefore, some advantages of the present invention over the known art includes increasing construction efficiency by reducing time spent on re-aligning framing members installed in a construction framework, improving structural integrity by preventing misalignments and subsequent issues, enhancing aesthetic quality of finished interiors by reducing visible defects like nail pops and drywall cracks, and saving time and money by reducing the need for wood bridging.

With the foregoing and other objects in view, there is provided, in accordance with the invention, a method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework including the steps of providing a construction framework having a plurality of framing members coupled within the construction framework and with every two of the plurality of framing members defining a framing space between the two of the plurality of framing members, overlaying a securement tape to a surface of a first framing member of the plurality of framing members and securing the securement tape thereon with a fastener, wherein the securement tape is of a flexibly resilient material and a slender configuration, applying a tensile force on the securement tape until the securement tape is taut, spans over the framing space, and then overlaying the securement tape to a surface of a second framing member of the plurality of framing members and securing the securement tape thereon with a fastener, and then securing the securement tape on a surface of any intermediary framing members of the plurality of framing members with a fastener.

In accordance with another feature, an embodiment of the present invention includes fastening the securement tape to each of the plurality of framing members with at least one of a 1.5″ ring shank nail, a 0.4375″ flat head screw, a 0.5″ Phillips #8 self-drill screw, or a 0.4375″ flat head screw.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the plurality of framing members are of a wood or engineered wood material.

In accordance with yet another feature, an embodiment of the present invention also includes providing the construction framework having the plurality of framing members coupled within the construction framework and with every two of the plurality of framing members having the surface fastened to the securement tape with the fastener defining a plane spanning over the framing space.

In accordance with a further feature, an embodiment of the present invention also includes overlaying the securement tape in a linear configuration on each of the surfaces of the plurality of framing members within the construction framework, so the securement tape lies on a plane defined by the surfaces of the plurality of framing members.

In accordance with an exemplary feature, an embodiment of the present invention also includes overlaying the securement tape over every framing member disposed in a configuration to define the plane and securing the securement tape thereto with at least one fastener.

In accordance with yet another feature, an embodiment of the present invention also cutting the securement tape at opposing ends to define a tape length substantially spanning a length separating opposing ends of the construction framework.

In accordance with an additional feature of the present invention, the securement tape includes two opposing edges defining a tape width ranging from 2-5 cm, a front surface, a rear surface opposing the front surface, and defining a tape thickness ranging from 0.5-1.5 mm.

In accordance with an additional feature, an embodiment of the present invention also includes front surface includes a front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations and the method includes overlaying one of the front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations to the surface of the first framing member and another of the front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations to the surface of the second framing member, thereby enabling correct frame member alignment. The rear surface includes a rear plurality of frame member spacing demarcations defining a length separating the rear plurality of frame member spacing demarcations different than a length separating the front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations, thereby enabling different correct frame member alignments.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the securement tape is made with a polymeric material.

Also in accordance with the present invention, a method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework is disclosed that includes providing a construction framework having a plurality of framing members coupled within the construction framework in a parallel and spaced apart configuration with one another to define a plane, providing a roll of securement tape, unrolling a securement tape from the roll, and overlaying the securement tape to a surface of a first framing member of the plurality of framing members and securing the securement tape thereon with a fastener, wherein the securement tape is of a flexible material and a slender configuration, unrolling the securement tape from the roll, applying a tensile force on the securement tape until the securement tape is taut, and then overlaying the securement tape to a surface of a second framing member of the plurality of framing members and securing the securement tape thereon with a fastener, wherein the securement tape is co-planar with the plane, and securing the securement tape on a surface of any intermediary framing members of the plurality of framing members with a fastener.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a system and method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention.

Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale but, where applicable, may be utilized to support a particular structural configuration or geometric relationship between components utilized in the assembly.

Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description.

As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. In this document, the term “longitudinal” should be understood to mean in a direction corresponding to an elongated direction of the securement tape, or from two opposing ends of the securement tape.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1 is an elevational front view of a plurality of securement tapes utilized with the inventive process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of securement tape securing a plurality of framing members, namely ceiling trusses, in a construction framework;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of securement tape securing a plurality of framing members, namely straight studs, in a construction framework;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of securement tape securing a plurality of framing members, namely floor joists, in a construction framework;

FIG. 5-8 are perspective views of steps in securing the securement tape to a plurality of framing members, namely ceiling trusses, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of securement tape securing a plurality of framing members, namely straight studs, in a construction framework in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 10 is a process flow diagram exemplifying a method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms.

The present invention provides a novel and efficient system and method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework, thereby minimizing the likelihood of twisting or bowing of the framing members caused from moisture and other adverse environmental effects.

Referring to FIG. 1, embodiments of securement tape 100, 102, 104 utilized with the inventive process exemplified and described in FIG. 10 is depicted. FIGS. 2-9 depict utilization of the securement tape 100, 102, 104 on trusses (FIG. 2 and FIGS. 5-8), straight studs (FIG. 3 and FIG. 9), and joists (FIG. 4). More specifically, the securement tape 100, 102, 104 is made with a flexibly resilient material, e.g., a polymeric material, such as polypropylene or polyethylene, that may be capable of being rolled and unrolled and placed over a plurality of framing members in a construction framework for fastening thereto. In some embodiments, the securement tape 100, 102, 104 may be made with a metallic material, such as aluminum, or a composite material such as metalized polyester film. The securement tape 100, 102, 104 may also be considered malleable so it can fully contour a surface, preferably a side surface, on the plurality of framing members.

As seen in FIG. 1, the securement tape may be formed for different construction or frame member configurations. Specifically, the securement tape 100 is specially configured for utilization with trusses and preferably includes specially formed demarcations 108a-n on a front surface 106 and demarcations 112a-n on a rear surface 110, wherein “n” represents any number greater than one. The demarcations 108a-n, 112a-n may be raised or recessed lines or other indicia, e.g., ink or other printed matter, that are exact to the dimensions on a tape measure and provide spacing guidelines facilitating in accurate installation and alignment across trusses, thereby promoting uniformity and precision in construction of the trusses. Similarly, the securement tape 102 is specially configured for utilization with joists and the securement tape 104 is specially configured for utilization with straight studs. Exemplary, but preferred, dimensions are depicted in FIG. 1 that are conducive for construction and alignment, as discussed above. It should be understood that terms such as, “front,” “rear,” “side,” top,” “bottom,” and the like are indicated from the reference point of a viewer viewing the securement tape as oriented in the figures and is not to be construed as limiting any feature to be a particular orientation, as said orientation may be changed based on the user's perspective of the device.

Each of the securement tapes 100, 102, 104 includes two opposing edges, e.g., edges 114, 116, defining a tape width ranging from 2-5 cm, a front surface and a rear surface, e.g., front surface 106 and rear surface 108, wherein the rear surface 108 opposes the front surface 106, and defines a tape thickness ranging from 0.5-1.5 mm. In preferred embodiments, the width and thickness are uniform across the entire length or roll of the securement tape. The securement tape is also monolithic, i.e., it's base or substrate, is formed from a single piece of flexible material. As discussed further herein, the user will beneficially align the demarcations over each of the plurality of framing members (see, e.g., framing members 202a-n) in a construction framework (see, e.g., framework 200). Each of the securement tapes 100, 102, 104 are of a slender configuration, i.e., the width and thickness are less than the overall length, wherein as applied across a construction framework or in a roll. Each of the securement tapes 100, 102, 104 are resilient in that they are capable of receiving a fastener therethrough without failing or splitting and/or may have an ultimate tensile strength of at least approximately 25 MPa. Although the figures depict several advantageous features of the present invention, as will be described below, the invention can be provided in several shapes, sizes, combinations of features and components, and varying numbers and functions of the components.

FIGS. 2-9 will be described in conjunction with the process flow chart of FIG. 10. Although FIG. 10 shows a specific order of executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted in FIG. 10 for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all of the process steps included in FIG. 10 can be combined into a single process. The method for securing and aligning framing members 202a-n, 302a-n, 402a-n, 500a-n, 902a-n in a construction framework 200, 300, 400, 502, 900 may start at step 1000 and immediately proceed to step 1002 of providing a construction framework 200, 300, 400 having a plurality of framing members 202a-n, 302a-n, 402a-n, 500a-n coupled within the construction framework and with every two of the plurality of framing members defining a framing space (e.g., space 204, 504) between the two of the plurality of framing members 202a-n 500a-b. Said differently and using FIG. 5 as an example, step 1002 may include providing a construction framework 500 having a plurality of framing members 502a-n coupled within the construction framework 500 in a parallel and spaced apart configuration with one another to define a plane (best exemplified and depicted in FIG. 8 as numeral 804) across said plurality of framing members 502a-n, namely the outer side surfaces 508a-n defining said plane 804.

As discussed above, before drywall, roofs, and ceilings are installed in a building structure, most of the construction frameworks, namely sections of the building structure with rows of framing members coupled together to define the plane 808 (wherein some of the framing members may be offset from said plane), are movable and capable of being flexed. More importantly, these plurality of framing members, which are conventionally made of a wood or engineered wood material, absorb moisture and humidity during the weeks, if not months, the construction framework is open to the ambient environment. Even after the building structure is closed, frame members also sometimes continue to absorb moisture. Therefore, maintaining the alignment and security of the frame members in the construction framework can be critical to avoid defects associated with buckling, twisting, bowing, and other movements of the framing members.

Still referring to FIGS. 5-8 by way of example, step 1004 in the process includes overlaying the securement tape 102 to a surface of a first framing member 500a of the plurality of framing members 500a-n and securing the securement tape 102 thereon with a fastener 506. Preferably, this step may include fastening the first framing member 500a located at an end of the construction framework 502 and leaving a small length of the securement tape 102 freely remaining. The fastening of the securement tape 102 to each of the plurality of framing members 500a-n is preferably accomplished with at least one of a 1.5″ ring shank nail, a 0.4375″ flat head screw, a 0.5″ Phillips #8 self-drill screw, or a 0.4375″ flat head screw to minimize tearing or fracturing of the securement tape 102. FIG. 6 depicts the securement tape 102 fastened to the first framing member 500a. In some embodiments, the process includes providing a roll of securement tape and unrolling the securement tape from the roll before overlaying over the framing members 500a-n.

Next, step 1006 includes applying a tensile force, e.g., of at least 10 lbf, on the securement tape 102 until the securement tape is taut, spans over the framing space separating two adjacent framing members 500a-b, and then overlaying the securement tape 102 to a surface of a second framing member, e.g., framing member 500n of the plurality of framing members 500a-n and securing the securement tape 102 thereon with a fastener 700. Said differently, the securement tape 102 is pulled by the user and stretched or pulled tight, such that there is no visually perceivable slack, e.g., more than 2 cm relative to the fastener in which the securement tape 102 is attached, and is also linear. In preferred embodiments (as best depicted in FIG. 7), the next framing member 500n in which the securement tape 102 is attached is the furthest possible framing member in the construction framework 502 apart from the first framing member 500a and the user utilizes a demarcation on the securement tape 102 to align the tape 102 with the framing member 500n.

Thereafter, the next step 1008 in the process includes securing the securement tape 102 on a surface of any intermediary framing members (e.g., framing members 500b-e) of the plurality of framing members 500a-n with a fastener 800, 802, 804, 806. Said another way, the securement tape 102 is fastened on multiple rows of framing members 500a-n, keeping the framing members 500a-n strait and aligned when they may otherwise be bowed or twisted. FIG. 9 further exemplifies a construction framework 900 with the plurality of framing members 902a-b vertically oriented and spaced apart from one another, wherein the securement tape 104 spans linearly across the entire construction framework 900 and fastened at every framing member in the construction framework 900. To that end, the user may begin by fastening the securement tape 104 to the first framing member 902a and then fastening the securement tape to the opposing framing member 902n. As the securement tape 104 is taut, the fastening of the securement tape 104 at the intermediary frame members 902b-d further strains the securement tape 104, thereby providing a secure support structure for the construction framework 900 that reduces or prevents any twisting or bowing of the framing members 902a-n.

Utilizing FIG. 5 by way of example, the construction framework 502 includes the plurality of framing members 500a-n coupled within the construction framework 502 and includes every two of the plurality of framing members 500a-b having the surface fastened to the securement tape 102 with the fastener defining the plane 808 spanning over the framing space 504. The process may also include overlaying the securement tape 102 in a linear configuration on each of the surfaces of the plurality of framing members 500a-n within the construction framework so the securement tape 102 lies on the plane 808 defined by the surfaces of the plurality of framing members 500a-n. Said differently, the process may include overlaying the securement tape 102 over every framing member disposed in a configuration to define the plane 808 and securing the securement tape 102 thereto with at least one fastener, preferably centrally located on the securement tape 102. Said another way, the securement tape 102 is co-planar with the plane 808 defined with the plurality of framing members 500a-n, i.e., lying on the plane or within 2-4 cm of said plane.

The securement tape 102 is preferably contouring each of the surfaces 508a-n on the plurality of framing members 500a-n. Said another way, the surfaces 508a-n are defined by the thickness of each framing member and the securement tape 102 is overlaid on each framing member such that the securement tape 102 may completely cover the surfaces defined by the thickness. After the securement tape 102 is applied across the construction framework 502 as desired by the user, the process may include cutting the securement tape 102 at opposing ends 506, 700 to define a tape length substantially spanning, i.e., at or greater than 80%, a length separating opposing ends of the construction framework, e.g., from framing member 500a to framing member 500n.

Referring back to FIG. 1 in reference to FIGS. 5-8, the front surface 106 of a securement tape includes a front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations 108a-n and the process may include overlaying one of the front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations 108a to the surface of the first framing member 500a and another of the front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations 108n to the surface of the second framing member 500n, thereby enabling correct frame member alignment. As the securement tape 102 is intended for multiple applications in a construction framework, the rear surface 108 of the securement tape 102 includes a rear plurality of frame member spacing demarcations 110a-n defining a length separating the rear plurality of frame member spacing demarcations 110a-n different than a length separating the front plurality of frame member spacing demarcations 108a-n, thereby enabling different correct frame member alignments. Each of the frame member spacing demarcations 108a-n, 110a-n may include visually perceivable and marked numbers and different spacing guidelines to facilitate accurate installation across studs, joists, and trusses, promoting uniformity and precision in construction. The securement tapes may be made with different colors for different widths to easily identify proper installations on studs, joists and trusses. The frame member spacing demarcations 110a-n have specified measurements to ensure accurate spacing, alignment, and placement within a longitudinal length of securement tape, wherein a roll of securement tape may be approximately 500 inches long. Additionally, the material of the securement tape accommodates natural wood drying processes. The process may conclude at step 1010.

A method for securing and aligning framing members in a construction framework has been disclosed minimizing warping and twisting of framing members to which the securement tape is secured to, thereby reducing or preventing the occurrence of nail pops and drywall cracks. The present invention represents a significant advancement in the construction industry and prior known methods and systems by offering a practical, time saving, and inexpensive solution to longstanding challenges associated with wood framing. By maintaining alignment, supporting structural integrity, and reducing finishing issues, the flexible alignment and support material enhances overall construction quality and efficiency.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this disclosure also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the above-described features.