[0001] The present invention relates to methods of installing architectural finishing components
in a building, in particular components such as doors, door frames, trims and architrave.
The present invention also provides a bracket for an architectural finishing component
for use in such a method of building, a door frame assembly, a skirting board assembly,
double ended pins, a tie plate and a kit of components all of which can be used in
such methods.
[0002] This invention is related to the disclosures of, and may be used in conjunction with
the components and systems disclosed in
GB0203179.7,
GB0221814.7,
GB0221816.2 and
GB0224895, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by way of reference.
[0003] There is a constant drive in house building to reduce costs. A large part of the
cost of building a house is labour. Further, the more skilled the labourer, the more
expensive his or her time on site will be. Therefore, any way of reducing the time
that is spent onsite by skilled labourers or craftsmen is of interest to a site or
project manager.
[0004] Systemising house construction so that standard building components, i.e. components
of a standardised size (for example length, width, height and/or thickness), can be
factory built, delivered to the site and quickly installed by labourers with relatively
low skills, can make big savings to the overall cost of building, modifying, converting
or decorating a house or building. Traditional methods of building, however, do not
lend themselves to using such systems because tolerances cannot be kept close enough
for the doors, etc., to be fitted as received. Therefore, even doors and architrave
etc. of a standard size need to be adjusted or cut in order to be fitted in a building
using traditional building methods.
[0005] Traditional building methods involve three essential steps. The first two are performed
by relatively unskilled labourers. The first step is the construction of a structural
skeleton for the building, formed of various structural elements such as walls, floors
and ceilings. These structural elements are constructed of general-purpose building
materials such as bricks or concrete blocks in the case of walls or concrete that
is cast in situ in the case of floors. These building materials are general-purpose
in the sense that they are not designed for the construction of buildings of set dimensions;
they can be and are used to construct buildings to any design. The second step is
the application of general-purpose finishing materials to the structural elements,
for example to finish off the walls, the floors or the ceilings. Such general-purpose
building or finishing materials include plaster (for the walls and ceilings) and flooring
materials such as floor screed, floorboards or tiles, although these latter could
also be regarded as structural building materials, since they are designed to be load-bearing
in use. Finally, there is the third step: onto these "finished" walls, floors or ceilings,
standard building components are installed to give the room a "designed" look. This
currently has to be done by skilled craftsmen such as joiners or carpenters.
[0006] These standard building components include architectural finishing components such
as architectural mouldings. Architectural finishing components are those items of
a building that are position-critical, i.e. need to be installed in a building in
exactly the correct position, or to within very small tolerances, in order to achieve
their function or to look right. Such items include, but are not limited to, doors,
door frames, trims, skirting boards, architrave, and cornices. Masonry items, such
as stone fireplaces, can also be architectural finishing components for use with the
present invention.
[0007] A typical example of an architectural finishing component is a door and its surround,
e.g. the door frame and architrave. A typical door must be upright and positioned
correctly within the door frame, otherwise it will not open and close properly. Unfortunately,
however, as suggested above, it is often the case that such architectural finishing
components need to be cut or resized in order to fit correctly to the walls, floors
or ceilings when constructed using traditional building methods. Therefore, specialised
building techniques involving skilled craftsmen such as joiners or carpenters will
be required.
[0008] It would therefore be desirable to provide a means for assisting in the correct installation
of standard building components, such as prefabricated architectural finishing components,
so that they can be fitted as received on site by unskilled labourers where the principal
methods of the construction employed are traditional. It would also be desirable to
provide a new method for installing architectural finishing components that would
allow an unskilled labourer to fit the architectural finishing components easily.
[0009] According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method
of installing an architectural finishing component in a building comprising: a) installing
or providing a locating component (of a standard length) that is adapted to receive
the architectural finishing component for attachment at a predetermined relative position;
b) constructing or finishing a structural element of the building using the locating
component as a locating reference for (the application of) general-purpose building
or finishing materials; and then c) attaching the architectural finishing component
to the locating component at the said predetermined relative position. With this method,
the locating component can be installed in the building without cutting it to length,
i.e. without changing the length that it was manufactured to. Therefore the locating
component does not need to be cut before installation.
[0010] Preferably, an architectural finishing component is attached to the locating component
using a press-fit connection, e.g. using double-ended pins. Although the press-fit
connection is preferably achieved using separate components such as double-ended pins
that are installed into holes or slots in the building components, other forms of
press-fit engagement may be used.
[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method
of installing an architectural finishing component in a building comprising: a) installing
a locating component that is adapted to receive the architectural finishing component
for attachment at a predetermined relative position; b) constructing or finishing
a structural element of the building using the locating component as a locating reference
for the application of general-purpose building or finishing materials; and then c)
attaching the architectural finishing component to the locating component at the said
predetermined relative position using a double-ended fastener, one end of the fastener
extending into or through the locating component and the other end of the fastener
extending into or through the architectural finishing component.
[0012] These methods may comprise: i) installing the locating component; ii) constructing
the structural element of the building using the locating component as a locating
reference for general-purpose building materials; and then iii) attaching the architectural
finishing component to the locating component at the said predetermined relative position.
[0013] Alternatively, the methods may comprise: i) constructing the structural element of
the building; ii) installing the locating component on or in the structural element;
iii) finishing the structural element using the locating component as a locating reference
for the finishing materials; and then iv) attaching the architectural finishing component
to the locating component at the said predetermined relative position.
[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method
of installing an architectural finishing component in a building comprising: a) installing
a locating component that is adapted to receive the architectural finishing component
for attachment at a predetermined relative position; b) constructing a low portion
of a structural element of the building using the locating component as a locating
reference for the application of general-purpose building or finishing materials;
c) installing a tie component for the locating component in or on the top of the low
portion of the structural element; d) constructing a further portion of the structural
element on the lower portion, over the tie component, with further general purpose
building or finishing materials to tie the locating component to the structural element
of the building; and then e) attaching the architectural finishing component to the
locating component at the said predetermined relative position.
[0015] Building up the wall, floor and/or ceiling adjacent to or around the locating component,
perhaps with the tie component being sandwiched in mortar between, for example, building
blocks or bricks in the finished structural element of the building, secures the locating
component into or onto the wall, the floor or the ceiling.
[0016] The method may comprise: i) installing the locating component; ii) constructing the
structural element of the building using the locating component as a locating reference
for general-purpose building materials and the tie component for tying the locating
component to the structural element; and then iii) attaching the architectural finishing
component to the locating component at the said predetermined relative position.
[0017] Alternatively, the method may comprise: i) constructing the low level portion of
the structural element of the building; ii) installing the locating component with
the tie component on or in the top of the lower level portion of the structural element;
iii) finishing the structural element using the locating component as a locating reference
for the general-purpose building or finishing materials, the tie component thereby
tying the locating component to the structural element; and then iv) attaching the
architectural finishing component to the locating component at the said predetermined
relative position.
[0018] The locating component may have a generally C shaped section, the general-purpose
building components being built into the C-shaped section so that the inside of the
arms of the C shaped section provide the reference for the general-purpose building
components. However, this can be awkward for a builder. The C shaped section can therefore
be made shallower, e.g. such that the ratio of the arm lengths to the base length
is approximately 1:4, rather than approximately 1:2. The general-purpose building
materials, in particular the mortar fillet, can then be built up to the ends of the
arms instead of being between the arms. The shallower section for the C shaped section
allows the finished assembly to have a comparable rigidity to an assembly made with
the less shallow section.
[0019] Preferably the locating component defines a door sub-frame. The architectural finishing
component may then comprise three standard door liners and the method may comprise
attaching them to three inwardly facing surfaces of the door sub-frame to form a doorframe.
It is then possible to hang a standard door to one of the standard door liners.
[0020] The locating component may, however, be a door frame. The architectural finishing
component may then be a door, and the method may comprise attaching the door to an
inwardly facing surface of the door frame.
[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frame comprising
two frame uprights and a frame lintel, the frame uprights and frame lintel being of
a standardised length and requiring no cutting to length prior to or during installation,
wherein locating means are provided at both ends of the lintel and at one end of each
of the uprights such that the lintel and the uprights fit and locate together correctly
in horizontal, vertical and lateral directions to form a frame of a standardised height
and width that is suitable for an architectural finishing component, such as a door,
of a standardised height and width.
[0022] Perferably the lintel is joined to the uprights. Preferably this is by screwing the
lintel and uprights together. Screw holes may be predrilled in either or both of the
lintel and/or the uprights.
[0023] Preferably the locating means is a groove in a door facing surface of either or both
of the lintel and/or the uprights that is adapted to locate a door stop or door slammer
of the other of the lintel and the uprights. This allows the lintel and the uprights
to be correctly aligned in the plane of the door frame, thereby providing a flat or
smooth surface finish at the joint between the lintel and the uprights. The groove
or grooves preferably extend parallel to the sides of the lintel or the uprights,
more preferably along the full length of the lintel or the uprights.
[0024] Door stops or door slammers may be provided to fit into the groove or grooves. Adhesive
tape may be provided in the groove or grooves for fixing the door stops or door slammers
in the groove or grooves.
[0025] Preferably, the locating means comprises a groove at the ends of said lintel or at
the said one end of each upright for locating the end of the other of the lintel and
the uprights therein. This allows the lintel to be correctly aligned with the ends
of the uprights, thereby fixing the width and height of the door frame. The groove
or grooves preferably extend perpendicular to the sides of the lintel or the uprights,
more preferably acros the full width of the lintel or the uprights.
[0026] Both the grooves that are perpendicular to the sides of the lintel and/or the uprights
and the grooves that are parallel to the sides of the lintel and/or the uprights may
be provided.
[0027] Dovetail slots may be machined into the edges of wall facing surfaces of either or
both of the lintel and/or the uprights for receiving brackets for attaching the door
frame to a wall.
[0028] Preferably the uprights and/or the lintel are provided with door spacers on the door
facing surfaces thereof for assisting in the fitment of a door into the door frame.
The door spacers are preferably tapered such that they are thinner at the edges of
the door frame. The spacers may be made of a foam material. The spacers are preferably
removeably attached to the uprights and/or the lintel.
[0029] Preferably a groove runs down each side of the uprights and the lintel for receiving
a foot of an architrave therein.
[0030] Preferably the frame is supplied as a flat-pack product, i.e. for self assembly.
Indeed all the products of the present invention may be supplied in flat-pack form.
[0031] The present invention further provides a method of fitting a door frame into an opening
in a wall, the method comprising the steps of providing an assembled door frame, attaching
a first set of brackets along one edge of the door frame, fitting the door frame in
the opening such that the brackets engage a first side of the wall, and attaching
a second set of brackets along the second edge of the door frame, thereby sandwiching
the wall between the two sets of brackets.
[0032] By use of the term sandwiching, the present invention requires the sets of brackets
to engage the wall on both sides of the wall. This fixes the door frame in the opening
in the wall.
[0033] Preferably the door frame is as described above.
[0034] Preferably eight brackets are provided for each edge of each upright.
[0035] Brackets, for example three or four, may also be provided for the lintel.
[0036] Preferably the brackets are attached to the door frame using dovetail connections.
[0037] Preferably the method comprises step of fitting a door into the door frame. This
is simplified using the spacers described above. Once the door frame is in the opening,
secured in plane with the wall by the brackets, a door is positioned in the door frame
such that the edges of the door abut some or all of the door spacers and the door
stop or door slammer. Then, using wedges between the door frame and the sides of the
opening, the present invention comprises the steps of adjusting the door frame to
cause all the door spacers to hug the door around the door, and then attaching the
brackets to the wall to hold the door frame in that position.
[0038] Preferably the brackets are attached to the wall using nails or screws.
[0039] The door can then be pushed out of the doorframe and the spacers can be removed.
The doorframe will then be correctly sized to receive that door - the spacers will
have provided a uniform gap around the door between the door and the door frame.
[0040] The brackets are only attached to the wall once a door has been fitted in the door
frame; the attaching of the brackets to the wall completes the installation of the
door frame since that step secures the door frame relative to the wall.
[0041] Such methods of building allow architectural finishing components to be fitted in
or on a wall, a floor or a ceiling without adjustment of the architectural finishing
components, the locating components or the building or finishing materials.
[0042] The architectural finishing components will usually be joinery building components
or masonry building components.
[0043] Standard architrave may be fitted to sides of the door frame (or sub-frame), preferably
using double-ended fasteners. The brackets may be provided with slots for this purpose.
[0044] The locating component may alternatively define a skirting board sub-frame. The architectural
finishing component then comprises a standard skirting board; and the method comprises
the step of attaching the standard skirting board to the skirting board sub-frame.
[0045] Preferably, a cable channel extends along the length of the locating component or
the architectural finishing component between the locating component and the architectural
finishing component.
[0046] The present invention further provides a kit of building components comprising a
door frame as described above and a plurality of brackets for attaching the door frame
to a vent in a wall.
[0047] Instead of a door frame, the uprights and the lintel may form three components of
a window frame.
[0048] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a double-ended
fastener comprising first and second ends extending from a medial flange. The ends
may be co-axial pins. The fastener is generally for use in or with any of the above
methods.
[0049] In practice, it is almost impossible to get two rows of holes or slots in the locating
component, the brackets or the architectural finishing component (which may be made
of MDF), to line up exactly with each other. Therefore, in accordance with another
aspect of the present invention there is provided a double-ended fastener comprising
first and second ends extending from a medial flange wherein the axes of the two ends
are offset from one another. The axes are, however, substantially parallel. Preferably
the axes are offset by about 2mm. However, they may be offset by between 1mm and 5mm.
[0050] Preferably the flange is in the form of a cup that may contain an adhesive. The flange
may alternatively be a bar.
[0051] By medial, it is meant that the two ends extend away from the flange in opposite
directions, i.e. the flange is between the two ends.
[0052] The cup preferably comprises a planar rim for sealing against a flat surface. This
enables the fastener, when the cup is filled with adhesive, to provide a self-adjusting
joint between the fastener and a flat planar surface; evaporation of the adhesive
within the cup causes a suction to be generated within the cup since it is sealed
against the flat planar surface. The suction will cause the cup to be pulled towards
the flat planar surface. If the cup has a flexible or collapsible sidewall, the cup
base will be drawn towards the flat planar surface. A building component provided
on the fastener extending away from the cup will therefore be pulled towards the flat
planar surface. This feature can be used to draw a standard building component, such
as an architectural finishing component, into which the end of the pin facing away
from the cup bottom is pushed, to be drawn against the flat planar surface over time,
i.e. as the solvent of the adhesive evaporates. The flat planar surface can be a portion
of a locating component fitted to a wall, a floor or a ceiling.
[0053] It should be noted that the cup can be arranged to face the standard building component,
if necessary, especially if this will provide a better seal.
[0054] The cup is not essential, however, for achieving the suction effect. Evaporation
of glue on the flange may have a sufficient drawing-in effect.
[0055] The ends of the double-ended fastener are preferably proportioned to give a tight
fit in both the locating component or the bracket and the architectural finishing
component so that the architectural finishing component can be fastened to the locating
component or the bracket by the double-ended fastener potentially without adhesive.
However, this can make them difficult to orientate in the holes or the slots. Due
to the offset of the ends, it will generally be necessary to orientate the fastener
correctly in order to fit it into the slots or holes of both the locating component
and the architectural finishing component. Therefore, in order to assist in the turning
of the double-ended fastener once in a hole or a slot of the architectural finishing
component or the locating component, a web is provided for gripping with fingers,
the web running across the middle of the cup.
[0056] A problem with the cup shape for the flange has, however, been noted. When filled
with adhesive and assembled onto, for example, a metal locating component, the arrangement
acts like an airtight container; the adhesive in the cup therefore takes a very long
time to cure. One or more slots, holes, vents or apertures may therefore be provided
through the base (or side) of the cup so that the solvent (e.g. water or spirit) in
the adhesive can evaporate or be absorbed by the architectural finishing component,
which will generally be made of wood or MDF or some other such fibrous or absorbent
material, thereby greatly to speed up the cure time for the adhesive.
[0057] Preferably the double-ended fastener is made of metal for strength, or a plastics
material for frangibility, i.e. for allowing removal of an architectural finishing
component from a locating component without causing damage to either the architectural
finishing component or the locating component; the plastic double-ended fastener will
snap. The double ended fastener may also be made of wood, for example a moulding material
made from wood fibres.
[0058] Preferably the double-ended fastener extends from a hole in a first building component
and is engageable in slots in a second building component. Slots advantageously provide
a slight adjustability for the first building component relative to the second building
component to allow for, for example, movement or settlement of a floor or wall.
[0059] If the rim of the cup is to be engaged with the architectural finishing component,
a circular depression or cut-out, or other such corresponding shape for the rim of
the cup, can be provided in the back surface of the architectural finishing component.
This depression accommodates the rim of the cup to hold the double-ended fastener
more securely to the architectural finishing component. Further, instead of putting
the adhesive in the cup, the adhesive could be put into the depression or cut-out
by the installer prior to attaching the architectural finishing component to the locating
component.
[0060] As a variant for the double-ended fastener, the cup could be replaced with a bar.
The architectural finishing component could again be provided with a suitably shaped
depression or cut-out for receiving the bar therein with adhesive in the depression
securing the bar and inserted end of the fastener in the architectural finishing component.
The depression could be shaped to receive the bar in whichever orientation it is fitted.
for example, it could be round or it may have an elliptical shape to account for the
offset.
[0061] One or both ends of the double-ended fastener could be provided with a roughened
peripheral surface. This roughened surface could provide an improved grip for the
fastener in either or both of the slots or the holes of the locating component or
architectural finishing component. Further, the slots could be inwardly flanged and
ramped steps could be provided on one or both ends of the doubled-ended fastener.
The ramped steps could then grip or latch like a ratchet with the flange or flanges
of the slots in the locating component. Such ramped steps thereby provide gripping
serrations that grip tight upon trying to withdraw the fastener from the slot but
allow easy insertion of the fastener into the slots. This could be used to replace
the glue as a secure fastening means.
[0062] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of building
components comprising: 1) a locating component for locating an architectural finishing
component in a building, the locating component being a) adapted to receive the architectural
finishing component for attachment at a predetermined relative position, and b) so
shaped as to provide a locating reference for general-purpose building or finishing
materials used in the construction or finishing of a structural element of the building,
such that subsequent attachment of the architectural finishing component to the locating
component at the said predetermined position determines its position relative to the
structure or fabric of the said structural element of the building; and 2) double-ended
fasteners for joining architectural finishing components to the locating component.
[0063] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a tie component
for a locating component used in the construction of a part of a building, comprising
a plate and an attachment means for slidably attaching the tie component to the locating
component.
[0064] Preferably the attachment means can lock the tie component to the locating component.
[0065] Preferably the attachment means comprises a pair of straight flanges in plane with
the plate. More preferably the attachment means further includes a pair of bent flanges
in opposed sides of the plate, each bent flange being bent out of plane from the plate
and opposing one of the straight flanges.
[0066] Preferably a gap is formed in each of the opposed sides of the plate. Preferably
this gap is inwardly extending. More preferably the gap extends between the straight
flange and the bent flange for receiving opposed flanges of the locating component
that are preferably inwardly extending.
[0067] This aspect of the present invention allows the tie component to be slidably attached
to the locating component, the tie component and the locating component thereby co-operating
like a runner on a slide.
[0068] Preferably the tie component is made of metal.
[0069] Preferably the plate and the attachment means are unitarily formed from a single
sheet.
[0070] Preferably the bent flange is cut and stamped into the opposed sides of the plate.
[0071] According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit
of building components comprising: 1) at least one tie component and 2) a locating
component for locating an architectural finishing component in a building, the tie
component being adapted to attach slidably to the locating component at positions
along the locating component's length, the locating component being a) adapted to
receive an architectural finishing component for attachment at a predetermined relative
position, and b) so shaped as to provide a locating reference for the application
of general-purpose building or finishing materials used in the construction or finishing
of a structural element of the building, such that subsequent attachment of the architectural
finishing component to the locating component at the said predetermined position determines
its position relative to the structure or fabric of the said structural element of
the building; the tie component, in use, tying the locating component to the structural
element of the building.
[0072] The tie component is in preferably as previously described.
[0073] The kit or tie component can be used in conjunction with the other aspects of the
present invention.
[0074] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a locating
component for locating an architectural finishing component in a building, the locating
component being a) adapted to receive the architectural finishing component for attachment
at a predetermined relative position, and b) so shaped as to provide a locating reference
for (the application of) general-purpose building or finishing materials used in the
construction or finishing of a structural element of the building, such that subsequent
attachment of the architectural finishing component at the said predetermined position
determines its position relative to the structure or fabric of the said structural
element of the building.
[0075] Preferably, the locating component is adapted to form an integral part of the structure
or fabric of the structural element of the building.
[0076] Preferably the locating component has a substantially constant cross section along
its whole length.
[0077] According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit of building
components comprising: 1) an architectural finishing component and 2) a locating component
for locating the architectural finishing component in a building, the locating component
being a) adapted to receive the architectural finishing component for attachment at
a predetermined relative position, and b) so shaped as to provide a locating reference
for general-purpose building or finishing materials used in the construction or finishing
of a structural element of the building, such that subsequent attachment of the architectural
finishing component to the locating component at the said predetermined position determines
its position relative to the structure or fabric of the said structural element of
the building.
[0078] The present invention also provides a method of installing at least one architectural
finishing component in a building comprising: a) installing a first locating component
having a telescopically adjustable depth in an opening of a wall to form a locating
reference for an architectural finishing component, the first locating component having
had its depth adjusted to match substantially the thickness of the wall.
[0079] The method preferably comprises the step of: b) installing to the first locating
component a second locating component. Preferably, the first or the second locating
component is adapted to receive the at least one architectural finishing component.
Preferably the method finally comprises the step of c) attaching the at least one
architectural finishing component to the said first or second locating component.
[0080] Preferably, both the first and the second locating components are adapted to receive
at least one architectural finishing component. These may all be fitted in a final
step.
[0081] The method may comprise: i) installing the first locating component; and then ii)
attaching the second locating component to the first locating component.
[0082] Alternatively, the method may comprise: i) installing the second locating component
onto the first locating component and then ii) installing the first locating component
to the wall.
[0083] Preferably the first locating component defines at least part of a door frame. Preferably
the door frame has a standard upright height and a standard lintel width. The depth
of all three elements is preferably adjustable. Such a door frame can then be adjusted
for depth to match the thickness of the wall to fit neatly within an existing wall
opening, for example one from which an undesired door frame has been removed.
[0084] The architectural finishing component may be an architrave or a door or both. The
method may then comprise installing the standard size but adjustable depth door frame
in the wall opening, hanging a standard door having a height and width suitable for
fitting in the door frame to one of the upright sections of the standard door frame
and possibly then fitting architrave around the door frame.
[0085] Preferably, the at least one architectural finishing component is attached to the
first or second locating component using a press-fit connection, e.g. using double-ended
pins such as those defined herein. Although the press-fit connection is preferably
achieved using separate components such as double-ended pins that are installed into
holes or slots in the building components, other forms of press-fit engagement may
be used.
[0086] The present invention also provides a bracket for an architectural finishing component,
the architectural finishing component having a part of a press-fit connection thereon,
the bracket comprising a first portion suitable for securing the bracket to a wall
or a door frameand a second portion that in use extends parallel to the wall, the
second portion having another part of the press-fit connection thereon.
[0087] Preferably the first portion has an engagement means for engaging the bracket with
a bracket receiving means of a locating component for the architectural finishing
component, such as a door frame for a door.
[0088] Preferably the press-fit connection is a double-ended pin connection, the locating
component having a slot therein for receiving a first end of the double-ended pin,
the second end extending, in use, into the architectural finishing component. Preferably,
in use, the slot extends vertically.
[0089] Preferably, the bracket comprises a first arm and a second arm extending perpendicular
to the first arm, the slot being provided in the first arm. Preferably the second
arm has a trapezium shaped section along its length. Preferably, the second arm is
adapted to be driven into a wall or a door frame. The wall or door frame may have
a receiving means for the second arm, such as a trapezium or dovetail sectioned vent
or groove. Preferably the receiving means is in a back surface of a door frame that
is to be fitted onto or into the wall.
[0090] The first arm may also comprise a second hole for receiving a nail or screw therethrough.
The screw or nail will be to attach the bracket to a wall in fixed relation thereto.
With the second portion driven into a slot provided in the back of a locating component,
i.e. a door frame, the locating component will then be secured to the wall.
[0091] Preferably the bracket is L shaped.
[0092] Preferably the bracket is made of metal. However, it may also be made of a stiff
plastic material.
[0093] The slot may be provided with an associated resilient flange and possibly also grip
components for gripping the double ended pin, such as ribs or a rib.
[0094] The present invention also provides a door frame component comprising a first frame
portion and a second frame portion that are telescopically adjustable relative to
each other and a doorstop portion, the doorstop portion being fixable, in use, to
first, substantially co-planar faces of the two door frame portions to bridge any
gap therebetween.
[0095] The second, opposed faces of the door frame portions preferably each have means for
receiving a telescoping means between the two door frame portions so that the depth
of the door frame component can be adjusted telescopically. Preferably, the means
comprises a partially closed groove. Preferably, the groove generally has a trapezium
shaped section suitable for receiving a trapezium shaped section of a bracket in accordance
with the preferred embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention with a
friction fit. Preferably, the telescoping means comprises a slide bar. The slide bar
may have a generally trapezium shaped section for fitting in the generally trapezium
shaped groove in a sliding fit.
[0096] Securing means are provided on the slide bar for securing the slide bar within the
means for receiving the telescoping means. Preferably, the means for securing comprises
a screw adjustment for changing the profile, e.g. sectional shape, of the slide bar
such that it can be blocked from sliding in the groove. This may be achieved by having
a taper adjustment, for example comprising a screw for adjusting the width of a slot
in a side of the trapezium shaped slide bar. The screw may double as a fixation pin
for locking the component against a wall upon adhering the component to a wall with
a foam adhesive.
[0097] The present invention also provides a door frame assembly comprising two telescopically
adjustable door frame portions and a doorstop portion, each door frame portion comprising
two uprights and a lintel attached therebetween, the doorstop portion being adapted
to bridge any gap between the door frame portions. The lintel may also be telescopically
adjustable and may have a doorstop portion.
[0098] The depth of the doorframe assembly is telescopically adjustable.
[0099] Using the door frame assembly of the present invention, when refurbishing a part
of a building where an existing door was located, the old door and frame, if not all
removed, can be removed to leave an opening or vent in the wall. Into this opening
the door frame assembly of the present invention can be positioned and its depth adjusted
to match the thickness of the wall by adjusting the door frame portions telescopically.
Then, for example using an adhesive polyurethane foam or perhaps mortar, any gaps
between the door frame assembly and the wall surrounding the opening can be back-filled
to provide a generally-finished door vent of a standardised size for receiving a standard
size of door.
[0100] The door frame assembly may also comprise a foot plate to ensure that the base dimension
is correct as well.
[0101] Architraves may be used to cover the ends of the door frame portions to hide the
adhesive foam or mortar between the components of the door frame assembly and the
wall.
[0102] The present invention also provides a kit of building components for forming an architecturally
finished building component comprising: 1) a first locating component for attaching
to a wall, 2) a second locating component attachable to the first location component,
the two locating components together being adapted to receive at least one architectural
finishing component for attachment of the at least one architectural finishing component
to the wall, wherein once all the necessary architectural finishing components have
been attached to the first or second locating component, the first locating component
and the at least one architectural finishing component form at least partially visible
parts of the architecturally finished building component and the second locating component
forms an invisible part of the architecturally finished building component.
[0103] The architecturally finished building component is preferably a doorway with architrave
and a door.
[0104] Preferably, the architectural finishing component is at least one joinery item such
as a door or an architrave. Preferably, the first locating component is made at least
partially of a finished wood, medium density fibreboard (MDF), glass reinforced plastic
or a ceramic material, e.g. a plaster based material or a mortar based material, or
another commonly used building material so that the appearance of the component is
conventional in the finished building. The remaining parts, for example the telescoping
member, may be made of metal or a strong, stiff, plastics material, for example.
[0105] Preferably the first locating component has a surface finish on its finally visible
parts, thereby requiring no further decoration upon completing the installation.
[0106] These various aspects of the present invention enable the fitment and refitment of
standard building components, such as a standardised door, i.e. a door of a standard
height and width, or a standardised skirting board, i.e. a skirting board of a standard
length and height by an ordinarily skilled builder, rather than requiring a craftsman.
[0107] A skilled person will appreciate that certain standard components for fitting to
the surface of walls, for example skirting boards, may require mitre cuts on one or
both ends thereof, e.g. for providing neat corners wherever they meet. Butt joints
may alternatively be used, if preferred.
[0108] A further advantage of the present invention is that a house purchaser can easily
change the architectural finishing components to match his or her tastes or as and
when the architectural finishing components become shabby. To remove the architectural
finishing components, the pins can be pulled out of the slots, or they can be snapped
off. If snapped off, the ends left in the slots will easily push into the space behind
the locating component, to fall away from the slots under gravity.
[0109] The architectural finishing component in these various aspects of the invention preferably
is a joinery item such as a door, a door liner, a window, a window liner, a trim,
a skirting board, a cornice, a dado rail or an architrave. Preferably, the architectural
finishing component is made of wood, medium density fibreboard (MDF), glass reinforced
plastic or a ceramic material, e.g. a plaster based material or a mortar based material,
or another commonly used building material so that the appearance of the component
is conventional in the finished building.
[0110] Preferably the architectural finishing component has a surface finish, thereby requiring
no decoration upon installation.
[0111] The locating component of the present invention can be fitted using or in conjunction
with traditional construction methods, e.g. using nails. Use of these locating components
allows a large part of the architectural finishing components to be prepared off site.
They can therefore match one another. They can also be supplied as a set, complete
with matching handles, locks and hinges. They can also be installed or fitted right
at the end of the building process. This will not only save construction time by skilled
labourers and reduce the risk of damage to the architectural finishing components
but will also allow, for example, painters to spray finish walls and ceilings. Spray
finishing walls is faster than painting with a brush or a roller and usually gives
a better finish.
[0112] Further, sophisticated finishes, such as exotic wood grain effects, can also be provided
to the architectural finishing components without the risk of damage being caused
to them due to the need to adjust them in order to make them fit.
[0113] The various methods of building defined above allow architectural finishing components
to be fitted for example in or on a wall without adjustment of the architectural finishing
components, the building or finishing materials, for example when redecorating.
[0114] The components of the present invention can be fitted using or in conjunction with
traditional construction methods, e.g. using nails, mortar and adhesive. However,
preferably the first locating component is fixed to the wall using a foam adhesive
since this fills any gaps between the first locating component and the wall and gives
a strong result.
[0115] Preferred embodiments of the various aspects of the present invention will now be
described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in
which:
Figure 1 shows a front plan view of a locating component in the form of a skeletal
building component in accordance with the present invention for use as part of a door
sub-frame;
Figure 2 is a section II - II through the skeletal building component of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows an assembled door sub-frame;
Figure 4 shows a section through the skeletal building component of Figure 1 fitted
to a blockwall;
Figure 5 shows the skeletal building component of Figure 4 having a door liner and
architrave fitted thereto;
Figure 6 is a partial section of the architrave of Figure 5 fixed to the skeletal
building component;
Figure 7 shows details of a double-ended pin for use in the present invention;
Figure 8 is a section through an alternative application of the present invention:
a skirting board sub-frame;
Figure 9 shows a partial section of architrave fitted to the skeletal building component
of Figure 1 with a double-ended pin of the present invention;
Figure 10, 11 and 12 show a third angle projection of double-ended fasteners of the
present invention;
Figure 13 shows a variant of the double-ended fastener of Figure 12.
Figure 14 shows a sectional view of a door liner assembly in accordance with the present
invention;
Figure 15 is a partial, cut away section II - II through the door liner assembly of
Figure 1;
Figure 16 is a sectional view of a slide bar and an adjustment screw;
Figure 17 shows the detailing of a slide bar adjustment means;
Figure 18 is an exploded perspective of a door liner and second locating component
in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 19 is a plan view of the second locating component of Figure 18;
Figure 20 is an elevational view of the second locating component of Figure 18;
Figure 21 is plan view of a tie component fitted to a locating component in accordance
with the present invention;
Figure 22 is a side view of the tie component and locating component of Figure 21
in a sliding state; and
Figure 23 is a partial sectional view of the tie component fitted in the structural
element of a building;
Figure 24 shows a cutaway elevational view of a doorway fitted with a door subframe
in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 25 shows an exploded view of the details of a corner of the door subframe of
Figure 24;
Figure 26 shows a section I-I through the door subframe of Figure 27;
Figure 27 shows a plan view of the corner of the door subframe; and
Figures 28 to 28E show a bracket in accordance with the present invention.
[0116] Referring to Figures 1, 2 and 21, the locating components 1 (skeletal building components)
are metal sections 10 that are built into the fabric of the building at an early stage
of construction. The term "skeletal" is used to imply that an outer skin, such as
architectural finishing components can be supported by it. Thus, they form frameworks
for the assembly.
[0117] The metal sections 10 shown in Figures 1, 2 and 21 are for making a door sub-frame
100 - see Figure 3. Referring to Figure 3, the door sub-frame 100 is formed from two
upright sections 12, and two horizontal sections 14, 16. These sections are of a predetermined
size so that they fit together to form a fixed size, rectangular frame, the door sub-frame
100. The first horizontal section 14 may be designed to be capable of supporting a
load as a lintel. Alternatively, a load-bearing lintel may need to be fitted for the
doorway. The second horizontal section 16 is a floor section and may be a floorplate
or it may be adapted to receive a floorplate thereon.
[0118] To fit the door sub-frame, standard building techniques are used, all steps of which
can be done by unskilled labourers. First of all the door sub-frame 100 is braced
in an upright position on a floor. Then a blockwall structural element is built-up
around the sub-frame 100 to form a wall. As can be seen in Figure 21, a tie component
can also be incorporated into the structural element. Alternatively the wall may be
a stud wall or a partition wall, being structural in the sense that it defines the
shape of the room. Finally, general-purpose finishing materials are applied to the
wall up to the sub-frame 100 to finish the walls. If deemed necessary, nails 25 (see
Figure 6) can be used to fix the sub-frame 100 to the wall more securely. Once fitted,
the door sub-frame gives a precisely sized and shaped opening to accept a factory
built door set comprising a door and door liners. These components simply press fit
to the sub-frame, thereby being installable by unskilled labourers.
[0119] The metal sections 10 of Figures 1, 2 and 21 comprise lengths of galvanised steel,
preferably formed from a flat sheet of steel folded into the generally c-shaped section
shown in Figure 2. The steel is galvanised for longevity, i.e. to prevent corrosion.
The metal section 10 of Figure 1 has a number of slots 20, 24 provided along its length.
The sheet may instead be made of rigid plastics materials or may be thicker and then
may be made of wood or MDF.
[0120] Two end sets of slots 20, 24 are shown in Figure 1. More slots are provided, equally
spaced along the length of the metal section 10. Each slot is approximately 3mm wide
and 12mm long. The slots at the ends of metal section 10 are provided with their centres
about 25mm from the ends of the metal section 10. In total, 14 slots are provided
along the length of the metal section 10. The length of the metal section 10, and
the numbers of slots provided therealong, will, however, depend upon the application
to which the metal section 10 is to be used. For the door sub-frame of Figure 3, the
lengths may be about 2m for the uprights 12, and 1m for the horizontals 14, 16. The
thickness of the metal section 10 is approximately 1 mm.
[0121] The metal section 10 is provided with three inward channels 18. The channels 18 are
for receiving cables that may run along the length of the metal section 10 in the
finished building. Each channel 18 has an approximate depth of 8mm. One channel 18
is provided in each side 28 of the c-shape and one channel 18 is provided at the middle
of the back 29 of the c-shape. The channels 18 are not only for receiving cables,
but also, once installed in a wall, provide spacing means to provide gaps 19 behind
the metal sections 100, between the metal section 10 and the wall.
[0122] The slots 20, 24 include a first set of slots 24 provided at intervals along the
length of the section 10 at the midpoints of the channels 18. This first set of slots
24 is for allowing the metal section 10 to be fitted to a blockwall 27 in a traditional
way, i.e. using cut nails 25. The slots may instead be holes. Glue may alternatively
be used to fix the metal section 10 to the wall. A further alternative would be to
use a tie to fix the metal section 10 to the wall, such as a butterfly tie similar
to those used to tie an inner leave to an outer leave of a brickwork wall. Attachment
means for the ties may be stamped into the section 10, for ecample. However, it is
preferable for the door sub-frame 100 to be secured to the wall using cut nails 25
since this method has proved effective in prior art doorframes.
[0123] A second set of slots 20 are also provided intermittently along the length of the
metal section 10. The two sets of slots 20, 24 are located co-intermittently along
the metal section 10. The second set of slots 20, however, are mounting points for
attaching standard building components, i.e. the architectural finishing components
(a door liner 22 and architrave 32), to the metal section 10 using pins 38, as shown
in Figures 5, 6 and 9. The pins 38 extend through the slots 20 in the metal section
10 into the gaps 19 behind the metal section 10. If the pins 38 are ever snapped off,
the ends of the pins 38 can fall down the gaps 19 under gravity so that they do not
obscure the slots 20 in the event that replacement pins 38 are to be used in their
place.
[0124] Referring to Figure 6, the two sides 18 of the metal section 10 are arranged to be
parallel to each other for providing a finished wall having parallel sides.
[0125] The metal section 10 has edges 26. These edges 26 are co-planar with sides 28 of
the metal section 10. These edges 26 provide a means for ensuring the skeletal building
component can be built into the wall correctly, i.e. with plaster 30 applied to the
walls to a level that is level with the edge 26. By doing this, a wall surface defined
by the plaster 30, the edge 26, and the sidewalls 28 of the section 10 is flat. By
making the wall surface flat, architrave 32 can be attached to the metal section 10
such that the back 34 of the architrave 32 lies against the plaster 30. Onto the back
29 of the metal section 10, a door liner 22 is attached. The door liner 22 has a width
such that the architrave 32 has its back 34 resting also against edges 36 of the door
liner 22, as shown in Figure 6.
[0126] A double-ended pin 38 is used to join the door liner 22 and the architrave 32 to
the metal section 10. One end of the pin 38 is driven or pushed into a pre-drilled
or moulded hole (not shown) in the standard building component 22, 32. The other end
locates into one of the slots 20 in the metal section 10. This ensures accurate assembly
of standard building component 22, 32 to the skeletal building component, even when
fitted by an unskilled labourer.
[0127] The double-ended pin 38 is shown in detail in Figure 7. The pin 38 comprises a first
end 40, a second end 42 and a flange 44. Both ends 40, 42 are cylindrical fingers
having points thereon for assisting in the insertion of the pin 38 into holes or slots
in the building components. The two ends 40, 42 have different thicknesses to ensure
that the pin is used in the correct orientation. The flange 44 is provided to ensure
that the pin locates to a correct depth in both the slot 24 in the metal section 10
and the hole in the architectural finishing component. The flange 44 could, however,
be omitted.
[0128] Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, an alternative double-ended pin 138 is shown.
The pin 138 comprises a first end 140, a second end 142 and a flange 144. The flange
144 is in the form of a cup 146 having an adhesive mixture 148 provided therein. The
mixture 148 is preferably water or solvent based so that as the mixture dries, the
volume thereof in the cup reduces. If the mouth of the cup 146 is sealed against a
surface, the reduction in volume would suck the cup towards the surface. This will
result in a building component attached to the other end of the pin (the architrave
32 in Figure 9) being drawn closer to the surface (the metal section 10 in Figure
9) over time. This will prevent cracks from forming between the architrave 32 and
the plaster 30, or prevent the architrave 32 from loosening from the metal section
10.
[0129] Preferably the pin 38 is made of a plastics material or metal. Plastics materials
have the advantage of being easier to sheer away from the metal section 10 by levering
the architectural finishing component 22, 32 away from the metal section 10. This
can therefore be done without damaging the metal section 10 or the architectural finishing
component, thereby allowing the metal section 10 to be used for repetitive redecoration
without the need for replacement or repair of the metal section 10. The architectural
finishing component can also be reused if undamaged.
[0130] As can be seen from Figure 10, the flange 144 comprises a base section 150 and an
outer wall 152 defining a perimeter of an inverted cup. The shape of this cup 146
is oval to correspond with an elongated second pin 142. The outer wall is collapsible.
By the provision of a flat second pin 142, a more resilient grip can be achieved in
the slot 24 of the section 10 by the pin 142. It will also help form a seal with the
slot. The adhesive can also help to form the seal with the slot. A round first pin
140, however, is provided.
[0131] In accordance with the embodiment of the present invention as shown in Figures 21
to 23, a metal section 10 is fixed to the wall using one or more tie components 109.
These can be similar to those used to tie an inner leave to an outer leave of a brickwork
wall, i.e. butterfly ties. Attachment means (not shown) for such ties may, for example,
be stamped into the section 10. Preferably, however, the tie component 110 is slidably
mountable to the locating component 1, as shown in Figures 21 to 23.
[0132] Referring to Figure 21, the tie component 109 comprises a generally trapezium shaped
sheet of metal (the plate 111) having apertures 112 extending therethrough. The apertures
112 allow mortar 113, in use, to lock the tie component 109 into the structural element
11 of the building (see Figure 23). There are two generally parallel sides 114 in
the plate, squaring off the corners of the trapezium shaped plate. These two sides
114 oppose each other.
[0133] In each side 114, a bent flange 116 is provided (see Figure 22). To make each bent
flange 116, an L shaped cut is made in each side 114 of the plate. The feet 118 of
each L shaped cut are made perpendicular to the sides 114. The legs 120 of each L
shaped cut, perpendicular to the feet 118, are also cut into the plate. They extend
parallel to the sides 114. These cuts complete the L shaped cuts of the tie component
and form flanges. These flanges are then bent out of the plane of the plate along
bend lines 122 that are also perpendicular to the sides 114 of the tie component 109.
By bending the flanges out of plane, gaps 124 are formed in the sides of the tie component.
[0134] Still referring to Figure 8, two sides 28 of the metal section 10 of the locating
component 1 are arranged to be parallel to each other for providing a finished wall
having parallel sides. The sides 18, however, have inwardly facing opposed flanges
110. These inwardly facing opposed flanges 110 have a width suitable to fit snugly
within the gaps 124 in the tie component, as can be seen in Figure 23, when the tie
component is perpendicular to the locating component. However, when the tie component
is angled non-perpendicularly to the locating component 10 (upwardly in Figure 22),
the gaps allow the tie component to slide 126 relative to the locating component 1.
In this manner, the tie component 109 can be positioned at any point along the length
of the locating component and, when re-oriented perpendicularly to the locating component
1, as shown in Figure 23, the bent flanges 116 engage against the flanges 110 of the
locating component 1 to lock the tie component 109 in position relative to the locating
component 1. This allows the tie component 109 to be positioned on top of a first
building block 115, irrespective of the height of the block 115, or more specifically
in the mortar between two building blocks 115.
[0135] Referring now to Figure 8, another embodiment of locating component 1 in accordance
with the present invention is shown for use in a second application. In this second
embodiment, a metal section 200 is for use in mounting skirting boards 202 to a wall.
The metal section 200 is therefore a skirting board sub-fiame and it has a sectional
shape essentially of a "one-and-a-bit square wave". It has a first planar side defined
by two planar portions 204 suitable for resting against a brick wall, soft wall, i.e.
stud wall, or blockwall 27 and a second planar surface defined by a third planar wall
206 against which the skirting board 202 can be attached.
[0136] The metal section 200 further comprises a fourth planar wall 212 that is coplanar
with the third planar wall 206. The lip 210 of this fourth wall 212 defines a height
to which a floor screed 218 is applied so that the floor will end up flush with this
lip 210. The planar walls 204, 206, 212 extend perpendicular to the floor screed 218.
[0137] To fit this skirting board sub-frame, the metal section 200 is first of all fixed
to a pre-built blockwall 216 using, for example, nails or glue. Alternatively, or
in addition, tie components 109 similar to those described in Figures 21 to 23 may
be built into the wall, attached to the metal section 200 by stamping attached means
into them (not shown).
[0138] The metal section 200 is fixed either on or just above the floor. Then the wall 216
is plastered and painted down to the top of the third planar wall 206 and floor screed
218 is applied to the floor up to the lip 210 to provide a finished wall and a finished
floor. A standardised skirting board 202 can then be attached to the metal section
200 with double-ended pins by an unskilled labourer. It will automatically be at the
correct height relative to the floor, and level relative to the floor.
[0139] The metal section 200 may be wide enough to rest directly on concrete floor slabs
underneath the floor screed if required. Alternatively it may be positioned higher
on the wall using a level.
[0140] The wave shape of the metal section 200 defines a channel 222 for running cables
(not shown) along the length of the metal section 200 between the metal section 200
and the skirting board 202. The skirting board 202 is provided with a recess 214 to
increase the size of the channel 222. The wave shape also provides a gap 224, similar
to that described above in relation to the door sub-frame 100, between the wall 216
and the metal section 200. The shape of the metal section 200 also allows plaster
to be applied to the blockwall 216 with a flush finish against, or up to, the third
planar wall 206. This allows the skirting board 202 to be attached to the metal section
200 such that its back wall 208 is flush with the plaster 30. This means that there
will be no visible crack.
[0141] A paired set of slots 20 are provided in the first two planar portions 204 for fixing
the metal section 200 against the blockwall with nails (not shown). A third set of
slots 24 is provided in the third planar wall 206 to allow the skirting board 202
to be fixed to the metal section 200 with double-ended pins, as previously described
in relation to the first embodiment. The slots 20, 24 are intermittently spaced along
the length of the metal section 200.
[0142] If installed using laser levelling techniques (which are standard practice when installing
suspended ceilings and which could equally be used to get the skeletal building component
level) a very accurate guide for the floor screed 218 is provided by the skirting
board sub-frame, thereby ensuring that the floor is at the correct height for the
door sets, and to ensure that the floor, skirting boards and other items are flat
and level.
[0143] Of course other embodiments of locating components will be readily apparent to a
skilled person, for example for affixing dado rails or picture rails to walls, perhaps
using tie components attached to the locating components with clips and the like.
[0144] Referring now to Figure 11, a variant 244 of the double-ended fastener is shown.
Again, a cup shaped flange is provided. However, two arcuate slots 245 are provided
in the base of the cup to allow adhesive deposited in the cup to be absorbed by the
architectural finishing component, which is preferably made of wood, MDF or some other
absorbent building material. Round holes, vents or apertures, perhaps four equispaced
holes, may alternatively be provided. These holes, vents, apertures or slots allow
the adhesive to cure more quickly than would occur in a sealed cup. Additionally,
the double-ended fastener 244 has an offset 246 for the axes of the two ends 248,
249. This is so that the doubled-ended fastener 244 can be used in situations where
the slots 24 in the locating component I and the slots in the architectural finishing
component are not precisely parallel to each other or aligned; by rotating the double-ended
fastener 244 in one of the slots, an orientation for the fastener 244 can be found
that enables the ends 248, 249 to align with the holes or the slots in both the locating
component I and the architectural finishing component 22, 32, 202. For this to be
effective, however, at least one of the components will need to have slots 24 for
receiving the fasteners 244.
[0145] To assist in rotating the fastener 244 a web 250 is provided extending diametrically
across the centre of the cup 252. The web therefore extends effectively through both
ends 248, 249 of the fastener. The web 250 can be used as a grip for the thumb and
forefinger of the installer to enable the fastener 244 to be rotated more easily.
[0146] The ends 248, 249 of the fastener have chamfered or rounded points 254 to assist
further with the insertion of the ends into the slots. These chamfered or rounded
points 254 could be used on the other fastener designs as well. If the ends can rotate
in the slots, the fasteners could self orientate, the chamfering allowing the ends
initially to enter the slots despite potential lack of alignment. The act of pushing
the ends home by pushing the architectural finishing component against the locating
component will cause the fastener to self orientate.
[0147] Referring to Figure 12, a further variant of the fastener 256 is shown. In place
of the cup, a bar 258 is provided. This is easy to rotate and cheaper to manufacture.
[0148] A further variant is shown in Figure 13 wherein ramped steps 260 are provided on
one of the ends of a double-ended fastener 256. Such ramped steps 260 could be provided
on both of the ends. The ramped steps 260 form gripping serrations for the double-ended
fastener 256 for engaging against the sides of the slots 24 in the locating component
1. As shown in Figure 13, the slots 24 are additionally provided with inwardly bent
flanges 234 with points at the ends thereof for gripping the ramped steps to prevent
removal of the end of the double-ended fastener from the slots once inserted into
the slots. However, because of the ramps on the end and the slots, the end can easily
be inserted into the slot 24. The ramped step might not be needed, however. The flanges
may have knife edges that grip even smooth surfaced ends.
[0149] Referring now to Figure 14, a cutaway sectional view of another architecturally finished
building component in the form of a door frame 310 is shown. The section is through
either one of the uprights of a door frame or a lintel of a door frame 310.
[0150] The door frame 310 comprises two uprights 312 (one shown in Figure 18) and a lintel
(not shown) perpendicular to and connecting the two uprights 312 towards the tops
thereof. The bottoms 314 of the uprights 312 rest against the floor 218 (see Figure
18).
[0151] The arrangement comprises a door 318, a doorstop or door slammer 320, two door liners
322, 324, two architraves 32, a slide bar 328 and two adjustment screws 330.
[0152] The two door liners 322,324, are adhered to a wall 27 by a polyurethane foam adhesive
334. The wall 27 has plastered surfaces 30 on either side thereof against which the
architraves 32 rest.
[0153] Referring now to Figure 15, a section through line II-II is shown. The door liner
322 has a groove 338 cut in a wall facing side of it for receiving the slide bar 328.
Part of the slide bar 328 is contained in the groove 338, with the remaining part
of the slide bar 328 being located within the polyurethane foam adhesive 334. The
screw 330 is also partially in the polyurethane foam adhesive 334. The remaining part
of the screw 330 is screwed into the slide bar 328.
[0154] The two door liners 322, 324 are generally long lengths. Generally they will have
a length of approximately two metres. Along that length, a plurality of slide bars
328 may be provided. By way of example, it will be assumed that there are three slide
bars 328.
[0155] Referring to Figure 16, each slide bar 328 is a length of tubular steel. The length
of the steel will typically be 10 cm. The slide bar has a generally regular, substantially
trapezium shaped section. The section has a long base 340, two asymmetrical sides
342 and a slotted top 334. The slot 346 has inwardly depending flanges 348. The two
flanges 348 generally oppose each other and are substantially parallel to each other.
[0156] The asymmetrical sides 342 are able to flex resiliently to enable the slot 346 to
widen upon screwing the screw 330 into the slot 346. The screw engages against the
flanges 348. As shown in Figure 19, the screw is tapered to facilitate the expansion
of the slot. Alternatively, the flanges may be tapered relative to each other, i.e.
non parallel, such that the slot is narrower at its deepest point.
[0157] Preferably, as shown in Figure 17, screw receiving ports 350 are provided in the
slot 346 for defining a position for the screw 330 to be inserted into the slot 346.
Figure 17 only shows one such screw receiving port 350 since it only shows one end
of the slide bar 328. A similar screw receiving port 350 would be provided at the
other end of the slide bar 328 since two screws 330 are provided in the slide bar
328 as can clearly be seen in Figure 14. More screws can be used, however, if desired.
[0158] The slide bar 328 is adapted to fit into the grooves 338 provided in each of the
door liners 322, 324. Before the screws 330 are tightened into the slot 346 in the
screw receiving ports 350, the slide bar 328 will freely slide within the groove 338.
The fit can be a friction fit to prevent the door liners 322, 324 and the slide bars
328 (there are three of them, as described above) from falling apart too easily. However,
they can be loosely fitting. Once the screws have been tightened in the slots 346,
the asymmetric side walls 342 of the slide bar 328 will have been flexed outwardly
to open the slot 346. This will cause the sides 342 to bear against the sides of the
groove 338, which are tapered inwards to correspond substantially with the shape of
the unexpanded slide bar 328, thereby causing the slide bar 328 to grip firmly in
the groove 338. Once gripped, the slide bar 328 will no longer slide within the grooves
338 of the door liners 322, 324.
[0159] By having two screws 330, one end of the slide bar 328 can be locked in position
on one of the door liners 322, 324 before locking it in the groove 338 of the other
door liner 322, 324. Then, once the depth of the two door liners 322, 324 has been
adjusted to the required depth, i.e. the depth of the wall, the second screw 330 can
be tightened to the lock the depth of the door liner.
[0160] In order to fit the door liner to a opening in a wall 27, first of all, if the old
door or door frame are still present in the wall 27, these are removed. This leaves
a blank wall 27 with plaster 30 already applied. Into this opening, the door liner
of the present invention is fitted. To do this, first of all the depth of the door
liner is adjusted to correspond to the thickness of the wall 27 by using the slide
bar adjustment mechanism. Once both uprights, and if required, the lintel, have been
adjusted to the required depth, they are locked at that depth by using the telescopic
locking mechanism. They can then be offered to the opening for fitment thereto. Polyurethane
foam adhesive 323 is used to pack and fill any gap between the door liners 322, 324
and the wall 27. This polyurethane foam adhesive 323 will expand to engage with the
backside of the door liners 322, 324, the slide bars 328 and the screws 330 to lock
the door liner in place. Preferably, a spacer bar is placed at the bottoms of the
uprights to ensure that the width of the resultant door frame is correct not just
at the top, which size is governed by the length of the lintel, but also at the bottom.
Further guide bars can be used in the middle of the door frame during the setting
process to ensure that the uprights do not flex inwardly. Similarly, a ceiling brace
may be required to prevent the lintel from flexing downwardly.
[0161] Once the polyurethane foam adhesive is set, a door frame has been successfully fitted
to the opening in the wall 27. It will have a standard size, in terms of height and
width, to fit a standard sized door thereto.
[0162] In Figure 14, architraves 32 are fitted to the walls. These have been fitted by gluing
them to the sides of the walls. Alternatively they could be nailed to the walls.
[0163] Figure 14 also shows a door slammer 320. This has been glued to the door frame, in
particular to the two door liners, to bridge the gap 352 between the two door liners.
It may alternatively be screwed or nailed to the door frame.
[0164] Once the architraves 32 and the door slammer 320 have been fitted to the door frame,
the door frame is architecturally finished.
[0165] As can be seen in Figure 14, the first door liner 322 has a first depth. The second
door liner has a wider depth. These two depths can be important. If a door 318 is
to be fitted to the door frame, the thickness of the door should govern where the
door slammer 320 is fitted to the door frame. Therefore, the first door liner 322
should be of such a depth that the door slammer can be fitted thereto such that the
door 318 will have a flush front face 354 with the visible side of the first door
liner 322. The back face 356 of the door 318 should rest against the door slammer
320. The depth of the second door liner 324 is then chosen to ensure that for a given
wall thickness, the thickness of the wall will be covered by the door liner and yet
the door slammer 320 will still be able to bridge the gap 352.
[0166] The door slammer 320 may be prefixed to the first door liner 322. This is particularly
advantageous when doors 318 of a standard thickness are to be fitted to the door frame.
However, when doors of different thicknesses are likely to be fitted, the door slammer
should not be preattached to the first door liner 322.
[0167] Referring now to Figures 18, 19 and 20, an alternative means for fixing architrave
to the door frame is described. This involves a bracket 358. The bracket 358 comprises
a first arm 360 and a second arm 362. The two arms 360, 362 are arranged perpendicular
to each other to form an L-shape.
[0168] A slot 24 is provided at a distal end of the first arm 360. The length dimension
of the slot is perpendicular to both of the axes of the arms.
[0169] The second arm 362 has a trapezium shaped section of a size suitable to fit within
the groove 338 of the door liner 322. The groove 338 could, however, have been cut
into the uprights of a standard door frame.
[0170] The section of the second arm 362 of the bracket 358 is sized to be a drive fit into
the groove 338 so that it will not easily be removable therefrom. The joint resembles
a dovetail joint.
[0171] The slot 24 is for fixing architrave 32 to the wall 27 using, for example, double
ended pin connections as described above.
[0172] The first arm of the bracket 358 is also generally trapezium shaped. However, this
is in plan, rather than in section. This is to provide a large distal end for receiving
the slot 24. The other end is smaller to correspond with the size of the second arm
section. This reduces the amount of material required to manufacture the brackets.
[0173] The slot 24 is arranged substantially parallel to the top and bottom of the trapezium
shaped second arm 362 and also the top and bottom of the trapezium shape of the first
arm 60.
[0174] A cut out 366 may be provided in the wall 27 for receiving the first arm 60 of the
bracket 358. This cut out 364 need not be cut into the wall 27 accurately since it
will eventually be covered by the architrave 32. However, it will generally correspond
in depth to the thickness of the plaster 30. The cut out 364 will facilitate, however,
the mounting of the architrave 32 flat against the wall 27. Alternatively, a suitable
cut out could be provided in the architrave 32.
[0175] Referring now to Figures 24 to 28, there is shown a further embodiment of the present
invention. A door frame comprising two uprights 12 and a lintel 14 are shown fitted
within a vent in a wall 27. The wall 27 has plaster 30 already applied thereto.
[0176] The uprights 14 are attached to the wall by brackets 358, similar to those described
previously. However, the brackets 358 in this embodiment have additional features.
These features may, however, also be beneficial in the other embodiments.
[0177] As before, the brackets 358 have two arms 360, 362. See Figure 25. The second arm
forms a dovetail for fitting in a dovetail groove (not shown) provided in the backs
of the uprights 12. Similar grooves may also be provided in the lintel 14 for receiving
further brackets (not shown).
[0178] The two arms also form an L-shape.
[0179] The bracket is made from a stiff material, preferably a plastics material and may
be moulded. The two arms are substantially C-shaped in section to reduce the amount
of material required in the moulding. As can be seen in Figure 25, the first arm 360
has a hollow back 48, a resilient flange 50 therein, and a solid nose 52. The solid
nose has a bore 54 therein for receiving a nail 56. Alternatively, a screw may be
used.
[0180] In use, the first arm 360 of the bracket 358 fits in a cutout 366 in the plaster
30 of the wall 27. This cut out will usually reveal the wooden surround 68 of a vent
58 for a door. A nail 56 can firmly attach the bracket 358 to this wooden surround
68. The wooden surround 68 in modem buildings is usually made from a 2-by-4 plank
(dimensions of approximately 5cm by 10 cm or 2 inches by 4 inches). The nail 56 (or
screw) can simply be driven through the bore 54 into the wooden surround 68 to secure
the bracket 358 to the wall 27.
[0181] Between the flange 50 and the nose 52 there is provided a gap. This gap defines a
slot 24 for a double ended fastener, as previously described, for attaching architrave
32 to the door frame. Because the flange extends resiliently from the base of the
hollow back 48 of the bracket 358, the double ended pins can be securely retained
in the slot 24, but yet removed relatively easily. To assist in gripping the double
ended fastener, the two opposed walls of the flange 50 and the nose 52 may be provided
with gripping means (not shown) such as a rib or ribs.
[0182] Referring now to Figure 28A, the flange 50 can be seen to have a radiused base 66.
This prevents the flange 50 from snapping off the bracket as it is flexed by the insertion
of the double ended fastener into the slot 24.
[0183] Referring now to Figure 28B, the section of the dovetail of the second arm 362 can
be seen also to be hollow 62 to give it its C-shaped section. This further reduces
the amount of material required to make the brackets 358. It also allows the sides
of the dovetail to flex, thereby easing the insertion of the dovetail into the grooves
in the back of the uprights (and possibly also the lintel) of the door frame.
[0184] The sides 64 of the dovetail may be provided with gripping means, such as ribs or
serrations (not shown), to secure the dovetails in the grooves (not shown) provided
in the backs of the uprights 12 (and lintel) more securely. Preferably, however, the
brackets will be glued into the grooves.
[0185] Referring again to Figure 25, the upright 12 is screwed (not shown) to the lintel
at a right angle. The two pieces are provided with ends that have locating means to
ensure that they are joined together correctly, and accurately.
[0186] At the top of the uprights 12 (one shown in detail), a groove 70 is provided. The
groove is on the door facing surface 72 of each upright 12. The groove is perpendicular
to the sides 74 of the upright and has a width corresponding to the thickness T
L of the lintel 14 (see Figure 27). The groove 70 ensures that the lintel and the uprights
fit together accurately with respect to the x and y axes as marked on Figure 27.
[0187] More grooves 76, are provided in both the lintel 14 and the uprights 12, parallel
to the sides of the lintel 14 and the uprights 12. These grooves 76 match each other,
i.e. they are of the same size as each other and are spaced equally from the sides
of the respective lintel 14 or uprights 12. They are for receiving door stops 320,
which are also known as door slammers. In the base of these grooves 76 two strips
of double sided adhesive tape 80 are provided, which may be foam backed, or substituted
with some other adhesive. The tapes 80 are for gluing the door stops 320 into the
grooves 76. Alternatively the door stops 320 may be nailed or screwed into the grooves
76. However, then the finish of the door frame would need to be redone - the nails
or screws would be visible. The door stops, the lintel and the uprights are preferably
supplied in their finished condition, i.e. with all visible parts thereof, in the
assembled door frame, painted or otherwise decorated.
[0188] The groove 76 in the upright (or in the lintel 14 if the assembly was reversed) also
serves another purpose. As highlighted by the arrow 78 in Figure 27, and as depicted
in Figure 25, the door stop 320 in the groove 76 of the lintel extends for the full
length of the lintel 14 into the groove 76 of the upright 12. Therefore, the combination
of the groove 76 in the upright 12 and the door stop 320 in the groove 76 of the lintel
14 provides a locating means in the z axis of Figure 26, i.e. in and out of the page
of Figure 27.
[0189] It will therefore be appreciated that the two grooves provide x, y and z axis locating
means.
[0190] Screw holes (not shown) may also be predrilled into the lintel 14 and the uprights
12, and the parts supplied separately, for assisting in the assembly of the three
components by the user.
[0191] The door stops 320, lintel 14 and uprights are preferably made of a fibrous material,
such as wood or MDF.
[0192] Depending on the width of the wall, different widths of upright 12 and lintel 14
can be provided. However, to provide some adjustability, grooves 82 are provided down
the sides of the lintel and the uprights (see Figure 26). These grooves 82 receive
the feet 84 of the architrave 32. The architrave, when fitted against the plaster
30 of the wall 27, will provide finished sides to the door frame. However, because
of the side grooves 82, this can be achieved for a variety of widths of wall 27. The
grooves 82 will provide a useful adjustment A of about 6mm for each side of the door
frame, thereby giving a total variance capability of up to 12mm for the width of the
door frame.
[0193] Figure 26 also shows double ended fasteners 256 attaching the architraves 32 to the
brackets 358. This is as previously described.
[0194] To fit the door frame into a vent 58 in a wall 27, the method comprises the steps
of providing an assembled door frame, i.e. two uprights 12 and a lintel 14, attaching
a first set of brackets 358 along one edge of the door frame in the dovetail grooves
provided in the back thereof, fitting the door frame in the vent 58 such that the
brackets 358 engage a first side of the wall, and attaching a second set of brackets
along the second edge of the door frame, thereby sandwiching the wall 27 between the
two sets of brackets 358.
[0195] The brackets 358, as described above, fit in cutouts 366 in the plaster 30.
[0196] The brackets engage the wall 27 on both sides of the wall 27. This fixes the door
frame in the vent 58 in the wall 27 sufficiently to prevent it from falling out of
the vent 58. However, the door frame, by virtue of the brackets being merely resting
against the wooden surround 68 of the vent, rather than being attached thereto, at
this time can freely move in the plane of the wall 27.
[0197] As shown in Figure 24, eight brackets 358 are provided for each edge of each upright
12. This gives a total of thirty-two brackets for the uprights. Although not shown,
three or four brackets 358 may also be provided for each side of the lintel 14.
[0198] A temporary bottom member (not shown) may also be provided for the door frame, or
it may be permanent to act as a floor plate. It would assist in the fitting of the
frame since it would prevent the bottoms of the uprights from flexing towards or away
from each other.
[0199] As shown in Figures 24, 25 and 26, a plurality of spacers are provided around the
part of the door frame that will be retaining a door. These spacers are for assisting
in the final adjustment of the door frame. This is necessary for correctly fitting
a door of a standard size to the frame prior to securing the frame to the wall 27
to prevent further movement of the frame in plane with the wall 27.
[0200] The spacers 46 are made of a sticky backed, high density (i.e. low compressibility)
foam pad. The adhesive is sufficiently untacky to be peelable from the door frame
without leaving permanent marks on the surface finish of the door frame.
[0201] The spacers may be tapered (not shown) such that they are thinner near the sides
of the uprights and thicker nearer the door stop 320. This enables them effectively
wedge against the door when making the final adjustments and simplifies the removal
of the door thereafter. Preferably they are approximately 2mm thick at their thickest
point.
[0202] To make the final adjustments, i.e. once the door frame is in the vent 58, secured
in plane with the wall 27 by the brackets 358, a door is positioned in the door frame
such that the edges of the door abut some or all of the spacers 46, and also the door
stop 320. Then, using wedges (not shown) in the gaps G (see Figure 27) between the
door frame and the sides of the vent 58, the precise position of the door frame around
the vent can be altered to cause all the spacers to hug the door. This achieved will
mean that the door is correctly positioned in the door frame, with a gap (not shown)
of approximately 2mm all the way around the door between the door and the door frame.
At this point, the brackets 358 are attached to the wooden surround 68 of the vent
58 in the wall 27 with nails 56 to hold the door frame precisely in the correct place.
[0203] The door can then be pushed out of the doorframe, and the spacers can be removed.
The doorframe will then be correctly sized to receive that door - with nails 56 attaching
the brackets 358 to the wooden surround 68, the door frame will no longer move.
[0204] The present invention, therefore, provides methods and components for facilitating
in the fitment of architecturally finished building components in existing buildings
or in new builds.
[0205] The present invention has been described above purely by way of example. Modifications
in detail may be made to the invention as defined in the claims appended hereto.
1. A method of installing at least one architectural finishing component in a building
comprising: a) installing a first locating component having a telescopically adjustable
depth in an opening of a wall to form a locating reference for an architectural finishing
component, the first locating component having had its depth adjusted to match substantially
the thickness of the wall.
2. A door frame component comprising a first frame portion and a second frame portion
that are telescopically adjustable relative to each other and a doorstop portion,
the doorstop portion being fixable, in use, to first, substantially co-planar faces
of the two door frame portions to bridge any gap therebetween.
3. A door frame assembly comprising two telescopically adjustable door frame portions
and a doorstop portion, each door frame portion comprising two uprights and a lintel
attached therebetween, the doorstop portion being adapted to bridge any gap between
the door frame portions.
4. The door frame assembly of claim 3, wherein the lintel is telescopically adjustable.
5. The door frame assembly of claim 4, wherein the lintel has a doorstop portion.
6. A frame comprising two frame uprights and a frame lintel, the frame uprights and frame
lintel being of a standardised length and requiring no cutting to length prior to
or during installation, wherein locating means are provided at both ends of the lintel
and at one end of each of the uprights such that the lintel and the uprights fit and
locate together correctly in horizontal, vertical and lateral directions to form a
frame of a standardised height and width that is suitable for an architectural finishing
component of a standardised height and width.
7. The frame of any one of the preceding claims, wherein dovetail slots are machined
into the edges of wall facing surfaces of either or both of the lintel and/or the
uprights.
8. The frame of claim 6 or 7, wherein screw holes are predrilled in either or both of
the lintel and/or the uprights.
9. The frame of claim 6, claim 7 or claim 8, wherein architectural finishing component
is a door.
10. The frame of claim 9, wherein the locating means is a groove in a door facing surface
of either or both of the lintel and/or the uprights that extends parallel to the sides
of the lintel or the uprights.
11. The frame of claim 10, wherein the groove is adapted to locate a door stop or door
slammer of the other of the lintel and/or uprights.
12. The frame of any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the locating means comprises a groove
at the ends of said lintel or at the one end of each upright that extends perpendicular
to the sides of the lintel or the uprights.
13. The frame of any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the uprights and/or the lintel are
provided with spacers on the inward facing surfaces thereof that are removeably attached
to the uprights and/or the lintel.
14. The frame of claim 13, wherein the spacers are tapered.
15. The frame of any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein a groove runs down each side of the
uprights and the lintel for receiving a foot of an architrave therein.
16. A method of fitting a frame into an opening in a wall, the method comprising the steps
of providing an assembled frame, attaching a first set of brackets along one edge
of the frame, fitting the frame in the opening such that the brackets engage a first
side of the wall, and attaching a second set of brackets along the second edge of
the frame, thereby sandwiching the wall between the two sets of brackets.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the frame is a frame as defined in any one of claims
6 to 15.
18. The method of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the brackets are attached to the frame
using dovetail connections.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the brackets are attached to the wall using nails
or screws.
20. A method of fitting an architectural finishing component into a frame fitted in accordance
with any one of claims 16 to 18, the frame having spacers in accordance with claim
8, comprising the steps of, once the frame is in the opening, secured in plane with
the wall by the brackets, positioning the architectural finishing component in the
frame such that the edges of the architectural finishing component abut some or all
of the spacers and then, using wedges between the frame and the sides of the opening,
adjusting the frame relative to the wall and the architectural finishing component
to cause all the spacers to hug the architectural finishing component around the architectural
finishing component, and then attaching the brackets to the wall to hold the frame
in that position.
21. A kit of building components comprising a frame as defined in any one of claims 6
to 15 and a plurality of brackets for attaching the frame to a vent in a wall.
22. A bracket for an architectural finishing component, the architectural finishing component
having a part of a press-fit connection thereon, the bracket comprising a first portion
suitable for securing the bracket to a wall and a second portion that in use extends
parallel to the wall, the second portion having another part of the press-fit connection
thereon.
23. The bracket of claim 22, wherein the second portion is a slot for a double ended fastener.
24. The bracket of claim 23 comprising a first arm and a second arm extending perpendicular
to the first arm, the slot being provided in the first arm.
25. The bracket of claim 22, 23 or 24, wherein the second portion has a dovetail section
adapted to be driven into a dovetail groove of a second component.
26. The bracket of any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the first arm also comprises a
hole for receiving a nail or screw therethrough for attaching the arm to a wall.
27. A method of installing an architectural finishing component in a building comprising:
a) installing or providing a locating component of a standard length that is adapted
to receive the architectural finishing component for attachment at a predetermined
relative position; b) constructing or finishing a structural element of the building
using the locating component as a locating reference for the application of general-purpose
building or finishing materials; and then c) attaching the architectural finishing
component to the locating component at the said predetermined relative position.
28. A method of installing an architectural finishing component in a building comprising:
a) installing a locating component that is adapted to receive the architectural finishing
component for attachment at a predetermined relative position; b) constructing or
finishing a structural element of the building using the locating component as a locating
reference for the application of general-purpose building or finishing materials;
and then c) attaching the architectural finishing component to the locating component
at the said predetermined relative position using a double-ended fastener, one end
of the fastener extending into or through the locating component and the other end
of the fastener extending into or through the architectural finishing component.
29. A double-ended fastener comprising first and second ends extending from a medial flange.
30. The double ended fastener of claim 29, wherein the flange comprises a cup.
31. The double ended fastener of claim 29 or claim 30, wherein the axes of the two ends
are substantially parallel and offset from one another.
32. A kit of building components comprising: 1) a locating component for locating an architectural
finishing component in a building, the locating component being a) adapted to receive
the architectural finishing component for attachment at a predetermined relative position,
and b) so shaped as to provide a locating reference for general-purpose building or
finishing materials used in the construction or finishing of a structural element
of the building, such that subsequent attachment of the architectural finishing component
to the locating component at the said predetermined position determines its position
relative to the structure or fabric of the said structural element of the building;
and 2) double-ended fasteners for joining architectural finishing components to the
locating component.
33. A kit of building components comprising: 1) an architectural finishing component and
2) a locating component for locating the architectural finishing component in a building,
the locating component being a) adapted to receive the architectural finishing component
for attachment at a predetermined relative position, and b) so shaped as to provide
a locating reference for general-purpose building or finishing materials used in the
construction or finishing of a structural element of the building, such that subsequent
attachment of the architectural finishing component to the locating component at the
said predetermined position determines its position relative to the structure or fabric
of the said structural element of the building.
34. A kit of building components for forming an architecturally finished building component
comprising: 1) a first locating component for attaching to a wall, 2) a second locating
component attachable to the first location component, the two locating components
together being adapted to receive at least one architectural finishing component for
attachment of the at least one architectural finishing component to the wall, wherein
once all the necessary architectural finishing components have been attached to the
first or second locating component, the first locating component and the at least
one architectural finishing component form at least partially visible parts of the
architecturally finished building component and the second locating component forms
an invisible part of the architecturally finished building component.
35. A locating component for locating an architectural finishing component in a building,
the locating component being a) adapted to receive the architectural finishing component
for attachment at a predetermined relative position, and b) so shaped as to provide
a locating reference for (the application of) general-purpose building or finishing
materials used in the construction or finishing of a structural element of the building,
such that subsequent attachment of the architectural finishing component at the said
predetermined position determines its position relative to the structure or fabric
of the said structural element of the building.
36. A method of installing an architectural finishing component in a building comprising:
a) installing a locating component that is adapted to receive the architectural finishing
component for attachment at a predetermined relative position; b) constructing a low
portion of a structural element of the building using the locating component as a
locating reference for the application of general-purpose building or finishing materials;
c) installing a tie component for the locating component in or on the top of the low
portion of the structural element; d) constructing a further portion of the structural
element on the lower portion, over the tie component, with further general purpose
building or finishing materials to tie the locating component to the structural element
of the building; and then e) attaching the architectural finishing component to the
locating component at the said predetermined relative position.
37. A kit of building components comprising: 1) at least one tie component and 2) a locating
component for locating an architectural finishing component in a building, the tie
component being adapted to attach slidably to the locating component at positions
along the locating component's length, the locating component being a) adapted to
receive an architectural finishing component for attachment at a predetermined relative
position, and b) so shaped as to provide a locating reference for the application
of general-purpose building or finishing materials used in the construction or finishing
of a structural element of the building, such that subsequent attachment of the architectural
finishing component to the locating component at the said predetermined position determines
its position relative to the structure or fabric of the said structural element of
the building; the tie component, in use, tying the locating component to the structural
element of the building.
38. A tie component for a locating component used in the construction of a part of a building,
comprising a plate and an attachment means for slidably attaching the tie component
to the locating component, wherein the attachment means can lock the tie component
to the locating component, the attachment means comprising a pair of straight flanges
in plane with the plate, the attachment means further including a pair of bent flanges
in opposed sides of the plate, each bent flange being bent out of plane from the plate
and opposing one of the straight flanges.