GB2582839A

GB2582839A - A decking and paving assembly and decking and paving support assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2582839A
Application number: GB1910218.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: White Anton; White Caleb
Original assignee: Ryno Ltd
Current assignee: Ryno Ltd
Priority date: 2019-03-28
Filing date: 2019-07-17
Publication date: 2020-10-07
Also published as: GB2582618A; GB201910218D0; GB201904312D0; GB201909689D0; GB2582838A; GB2582618B

Abstract

A joist for decking and paving support comprises an elongate prismatic body having an external support surface for supporting a floor member, and an elongate upstanding abutment member extending normal to the support surface for abutting a side of a floor member supported on the support surface. A spacer may be provided extending perpendicular to the abutment member and received thereon. The joist may have a pair of opposed sidewalls and a support bracket comprising a base and two spaced-apart upright portions, wherein the joist is received between the upright portions and is vertically slideable therein to provide for height adjustment of the decking support.

Description

A decking and paving assembly and decking and paving support assembly Technical Field This invention relates to a decking assembly and support assembly for decking, paving, or other, primarily exterior, flooring.

More particularly, the invention relates to an aluminium substructure for exterior decking and paving.

Background of the Invention

Exterior ground surfaces, such as decking or paving, are popular in a variety of different settings. In general, a plurality of support joists, which may or may not be arranged in a lattice, are secured to pedestals, cradles, i-beams or other structures which directly contact the ground surface.

European fire classifications for building materials include Al and A2, which define non-combustible, plastic-free materials. Fire regulations for specific structures, such as prefabricated structures require that materials of these classes are used.

Decking and other exterior flooring systems for balconies and terraces are sometimes prefabricated for many reasons, e.g. cost, efficiency and speed of installation. However, there has been little development in the industry regarding such structures that adhere to the specific fire regulations mentioned above.

Known pedestals tend to be "clip-in" type, where the joist clips into a resilient plastic formation on a platform. Aside from the inherent unsuitability of plastics for fire resistant use, this type of system can be difficult to position accurately.

When implementing a metal decking system, it is desirable to try and eliminate any "rattling" in use.

Further, it is also desirable to prevent any loosening of fasteners.

Also, it is desirable to provide a system where individual deck and paving panels can be removed and replaced in case of e.g. damage.

Finally, vertical adjustability for any such decking and paving panels is desirable.

The present application aims to address some of the above-mentioned issues.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a joist for a decking and paving support assembly, the joist comprising an elongate, prismatic body having an external support surface for supporting at least one floor member, wherein the body comprises an elongate upstanding abutment member extending normal to the support surface to abut a side of a floor member supported on the support member.

Advantageously, the present invention allows for simple and direct placement of floor members such as paving slabs.

Preferably the joist comprises a spacer, the spacer having a female formation for receiving the elongate upstanding abutment member.

Preferably the spacer, when assembled with the elongate upstanding abutment member, projects perpendicular thereto.

Preferably the joist comprises two spaced-apart sidewalls, and wherein the external support surface extends between the sidewalls and beyond the sidewalls to define two opposed support flanges.

According to the invention the decking and paving support assembly comprises: a joist according to the first aspect, wherein the body has an opposed pair of sidewalls; a support bracket comprising a base portion and two spaced-apart upright portions; wherein the joist is received between the upright portions and is vertically slidable therein so as to be attachable to the support bracket across a range of vertical positions.

Preferably the upright portions each define at least one outwardly facing channel for receiving a fastener.

The channel may be oriented normal to the base portion.

The channel may also be oriented parallel to the base portion.

Preferably the support bracket comprises a brace extending at an angle between the base portion and one of the upright portions.

According to a second aspect there is provided a decking support assembly comprising: a joist having an opposed pair of sidewalls; a support bracket comprising a base portion and two spaced-apart upright portions; wherein the joist is received between the upright portions and is vertically slidable therein so as to be attachable to the support bracket across a range of vertical positions.

The "support bracket" may also be referred to in the art as a "cleat". Advantageously, the invention permits variable vertical positioning of the joist to suit the application. The invention further facilitates rapid installation of the joist. Prior art systems tend to require the joist being supported on a number of shim components, or a threaded pedestal. The former solution requires more parts and time to install the shims to the desired height. The latter solution requires each pedestal to be adjusted to the correct height. The present invention allows the joist to be placed in the desired position and simply screwed to the bracket.

In the event that a plurality of such supports is provided along a single joist, the joist can be supported at two spaced apart positions by screwing through two supports. Further intermediate supports can then be attached to the joist by screwing without having to support the joist.

Preferably the upright portions each define at least one channel for receiving a fastener.

Preferably the channel is oriented normal to the base portion.

Preferably the channel is oriented parallel to the base portion.

Preferably the assembly has: a plurality of spaced-apart support brackets; wherein the joist is received in each of the plurality of support brackets at a non-zero angle to an underlying surface.

Preferably the plurality of support brackets comprises at two support brackets, one support bracket having different height upright portions to the other support bracket.

Preferably there is provided a first fastener attaching one of the upright portions to one sidewall, and a second fastener attaching the other of the upright portions to the other sidewall.

Preferably there is provided: a spacer, the spacer positioned to support the support bracket on an underlying surface, wherein the spacer and support bracket are engaged in a mating relationship.

Preferably the spacer comprises a female formation receiving the support bracket.

Preferably the female formation comprises a concave curved surface receiving a convex curved portion of the support bracket.

Preferably the spacer is configured to support the support bracket at non-zero angle to the underlying surface.

Preferably the spacer is configured to support the support bracket at non-zero angle in a plane normal to the longitudinal direction of the joist.

Preferably a plurality of spacers is configured to be stacked to increase the distance between the joist and an underlying surface.

Preferably each spacer increases the angle.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a decking support system comprising: a joist; a support bracket comprising a base portion and two spaced-apart upright portions; an upright member comprising two opposed sidewalls; wherein the upright member is received between the upright portions and is vertically slidable therein so as to be attachable to the support bracket across a range of vertical positions; and, wherein the joist is supported on the upright member distal to the support bracket. Preferably the upright member comprises a face for attaching an end fascia.

Preferably the upright member is a section of joist.

According to a fourth aspect there is provided a decking assembly comprising: a first decking panel having a first decking panel profile in cross-section, the first decking panel profile having a foot and an overhanging portion; an edge profile component comprising a foot and a fixing portion; wherein the overhanging portion of the first decking panel profile is assembled with the fixing portion of the edge profile component such that vertical loads on the overhanging portion are reacted through the edge profile component to the foot thereof.

The fourth aspect is configured for use with the second and / or third aspects.

Preferably the fixing portion of the edge profile component comprises a formation receiving the overhanging portion of the first decking panel profile.

Preferably the edge profile component comprises a wall, wherein the foot and the fixing portion extend from the wall, and wherein the foot extends further from the wall than the fixing portion to facilitate fixing of the foot to an underlying structure.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a decking support assembly comprising: a joist having a cross-section profile, the cross-section profile defining a retention member receiving channel; a retention member received within the retention member receiving channel, the retention member defining a threaded bore for receiving a threaded support shaft, the threaded bore defining a support axis; in which the retention member is slideable in the channel along the length of the joist, and in which movement of the retention member is constrained in a rotational degree of freedom about the support axis.

Advantageously, this arrangement permits both horizontal (along the joist) and vertical adjustment of an associated pedestal or other support structure having a shaft. It is also particularly well-suited to construction from a metal material such as aluminium, which provides advantages in terms of fire and heat resistance.

Preferably the retention member is a nut.

Preferably wherein the retention member receiving channel has a width greater than the width across flats of the nut, but less than the width across corners of the nut. Thus the nut can slide, but cannot rotate in the channel.

Preferably the cross-section profile of the joist defines a pair of opposed walls extending from the retention member receiving channel, the pair of opposed walls defining a shaft-receiving channel.

Preferably wherein the cross-section profile defines an interior wall at the end of the shaft-receiving channel opposite the retention member receiving channel.

Preferably wherein the cross-section profile defines a fastener-receiving channel on an opposite side of the interior wall to the retention member receiving channel.

The invention also provides a decking support assembly according to the fifth aspect, comprising: a pedestal comprising a support foot and a threaded support shaft; wherein the threaded support shaft is engaged with the threaded bore of the retention 10 member.

Preferably a portion of the support shaft is receivable in the shaft-receiving channel.

Preferably the shaft-receiving channel is smaller in width than the retention member receiving channel so as to provide lateral support for the threaded shaft.

Preferably the shaft-receiving channel is between 1mm and 5mm wider than the threaded shaft outer diameter.

Preferably there is provided: a locking member having a threaded bore; wherein the locking member is engaged with the threaded shaft exterior to the joist such that it can be tightened against an outer surface of the joist in use.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a decking assembly comprising: a first decking panel having a first decking panel profile in cross-section; a second decking panel having a second decking panel profile in cross-section; a spacer positioned between the first and second decking panels, the spacer providing a predetermined gap between the decking panels when both decking panels abut the spacer, wherein the spacer defines an opening to receiving a fastener to secure the decking panels to an underlying structure.

Advantageously, the spacer provides a dual function of both spacing the panels apart, and also clamping them to the underlying structure.

Preferably the first and second decking panel profiles are identical.

Preferably wherein the first and second decking panel profiles each define a shoulder on which the spacer rests in use.

Preferably a downwardly depending toe is provided on each shoulder, the toe configured to contact an underlying surface to react a securing force of the fastener.

Preferably the toe is configured to contact underlying surface directly vertically below the fastener in use.

Preferably each decking panel comprises a deck portion, and wherein the predetermined gap between the deck portions is vertically above the opening in use so as to admit access of a tool to adjust the fastener.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 is an end view of a first support apparatus according to the present invention; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the support apparatus of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first decking subassembly in accordance with the present invention; Figure 4 is an end view of part of the subassembly of Figure 3; Figure 5 is a detail view of a part of the subassembly of Figure 3; Figure 6 is a detail end view of a part of the subassembly of Figure 3; Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second support apparatus in accordance with the invention in a first configuration; Figure 8 is a perspective view of the support apparatus of Figure 7 in a second configuration; Figure 9 is a perspective end view of a part of the support apparatus of Figure 1, having an end profile in accordance with the invention; Figure 10 is an end view of the assembly of Figure 9; Figure 11 is a perspective view of a third support apparatus in accordance with the invention; Figures 12 to 15 are detail views of a part of the apparatus of Figure 11; Figure 16 is a perspective view of a fourth support apparatus in accordance with the invention; Figure 17 is a perspective view of a fourth support apparatus in accordance with the invention; Figures 18 and 19 are perspective views of a fifth support apparatus in accordance with the invention; Figure 20 is an end view of the fifth support apparatus of Figures 18 & 19; Figure 21 is a perspective view of a sixth support apparatus in accordance with the invention; Figure 22 is a detail perspective view of a part of the apparatus of Figure 21; and, Figure 23 is an alternative detail perspective view of a part of the apparatus of Figure 21. Detailed description First support assembly Referring to Figure la, a decking support apparatus 100 comprises a pedestal 102 and a joist 104.

The pedestal 102 comprises a foot 106 and a shaft 108 extending therefrom. The foot is a flat, platelike component having a generally shape about a primary, vertical support axis Z. The shaft 108 extends from the geometric centre of the foot 106 along the axis Z to a free end 110. The shaft 108 is threaded along its length in this embodiment (although it will be understood that a partially threaded shaft is also possible). The shaft 108 is welded to the foot 106 in this embodiment, although in another embodiment there may be a mechanical attachment such as a boss with a female thread on the foot 106 which is engaged by a male threaded formation on the end of the shaft 108.

The joist 104 is an elongate, prismatic component which is shown from the end in Figure 1 (its longitudinal direction extends into the page). The longitudinal axis of the joist 104 is identified as X in Figure 2. The joist 104 has a constant cross-sectional profile visible in Figure 1. The profile comprises a generally rectangular outer surface defined by two parallel sidewalls 112, 114, a top wall 116 and a bottom wall 118 parallel to the top wall.

The joist 104 defines two interior walls 120, 122, parallel to the sidewalls 112, 114 and extending between the top and bottom walls 116, 118. The interior walls 120, 122 define a channel 124 therebetween, extending along the joist 104.

An interior sub-wall 126 is provided being parallel to the top and bottom walls 116, 118 and extending between the interior walls 120, 122 proximate the top wall 116. The interior sub-wall 126 splits the channel 124 into a shaft receiving portion 128 and a fastener receiving portion 130.

Both interior walls 120, 122 define opposing recesses 121, 123 therein adjacent the bottom wall 118. The recesses provide a retaining member receiving channel portion 125 which is wider than the shaft receiving channel portion 128.

The top wall 116 defines a longitudinally extending recess 132 at its centre, which extends between the interior walls 120, 122.

The bottom wall 118 defines an elongate slot 134 in communication with the channel 124, and more specifically the retaining member receiving channel portion 125. The slot 134 runs in the longitudinal direction of the joist 104 and is the same width as the shaft receiving portion 128 (i.e. narrower than the retaining member receiving channel portion 125).

A first retaining member 136 is provided disposed within the retaining member receiving channel portion 125. In this embodiment, the retaining member 136 is an M12 nut having a plurality of flats 138 and an internal threaded bore 140 as is known in the art. The retaining member 136 is rotationally captured in the channel portion 125. This is achieved by selection of the distance between the opposing recesses 121, 123 to be slightly greater than the width across flats on the nut 136, but less than the width across corners. This prevents rotation of the nut 136 but permits sliding movement along the length of the joist 104. It will be further noted that the height of the channel portion is approximately the same as (or slightly greater than) the height / thickness of the nut preventing movement in a vertical sense (i.e. along the axis of Figure 1). In summary, the retaining member is constrained from movement in all degrees of freedom with the exception of the longitudinal direction of the joist 104.

The external thread of the pedestal shaft 108 is engaged with the internal thread of the retaining member 136 such that it can be rotated to adjust the distance D1 between the base of the foot 106 and the top of the joist 104. Once rotated into position, the pedestal 102 can transfer vertical loads to a surface 10.

Referring to Figure 2, a second retaining member 142 is provided. The second retaining member 142 is also an M12 nut in this embodiment and is engaged with the thread of the pedestal shaft 108. To prevent any rotation and associated axial movement of the pedestal 102 relative to the joist 104 due to movement or vibration, the second retaining member 142 is tightened to clamp the bottom wall 118 of the joist 104 between it and the first retaining member 136. The friction created by tightening resists rotational movement of the pedestal 102 relative to the joist 104. It also inhibits further linear movement along the joist 104.

In use, the pedestal 102 can be engaged with the joist 104 via the retaining member 136. It can be positioned by sliding the pedestal along the length of the joist 104 and rotating the pedestal 102 to select the appropriate distance Dl. Once the position and height are determined, the second retaining member 142 (which is pre-threaded onto the pedestal-note that this is not shown in Figure 1) is tightened against the underside of the joist 104 to secure the pedestal in place.

It will be noted that the second retaining member 142 is optional.

Referring to Figure 2, a decking panel 144 is installed on the joist 104. The decking panel 144 may be according to either of the decking subassemblies described below or may be conventional decking panel.

First decking subassembly Referring to Figures 3 to 6 a decking subassembly 200 according to the invention is shown. The subassembly may be used with either of the support assemblies described herein.

The decking subassembly 200 comprises a plurality of decking panels 202. Two such panels are identified as 202a and 202b in Figures 3 and 4. The panels are supported on the joist 104 per the first support subassembly 100. The panels 202 run perpendicular to the joist 104.

Each panel 202 is constructed from extruded aluminium and is prismatic in shape having a longitudinal axis Y. The cross-sectional profile of the panel 202 is shown in Figure 4. Each panel has a flat, substantially planar deck 204. The deck 204 has a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 206 defined therein to enhance grip and drainage.

The panel profile defines four legs 208, 210, 212, 214 extending downwardly from the deck 204. Legs 208, 214 are defines at either end of the profile. Legs 210, 212 are defined between the legs 208, 214.

The legs 208, 214 are mirror images of each other, and at the free end (opposite the deck 204) define an inwardly projecting first foot portion 216, 218 respectively. Each foot portion 216, 218 is a flange extending from the free end of the respective leg. Extending outwardly from each leg 208, 214, partway up the leg, there is provided a respective flange 220, 222 forming a shoulder, which terminates in a downwardly depending respective toe portion 224,226.

Each of the middle legs 210, 212 define a first respective foot portion 228, 230 and second respective foot portion 232, 234 forming T-shaped legs.

At each end of the deck, a downwardly depending end flange 236, 238 is provided. The end flanges 236, 238 are aligned with (i.e. vertically above) the toe portions 224, 226.

The decking subassembly 200 further comprises a spacer 240 shown in Figure 4. The spacer 240 is substantially flat comprising a peripheral edge 242 and a through-bore 244. In this embodiment, the spacer 240 is annular in shape, having a circular peripheral edge and concentric through bore. The spacer has an edge-to-edge width (i.e. diameter) W. In use, the panels 202a, 202b are positioned on top of the joist 104 and perpendicular thereto. Between the panels 202a, 202b a plurality of spacers 240 are provided, which rest on the shoulders formed by the flanges 220, 222. The panels 202a, 202b can be moved together such that each panel leg 208, 214 abuts the spacer 240. The spacer is dimensioned such that W is more than twice the horizontal width of the flanges 220, 222. As such, an inter-panel gap 246 of width G is provided.

This allows a fastener in the form of a self-tapping screw 248 to be inserted from above the panels 202a, 202b through the gap 246, through the bore 244 and into the top surface of the joist 104. A tool 250 can be inserted through the gap 246. If the joist 104 is used, the fastener engages the top wall 116 and penetrates therethrough into the fastener receiving portion 130. Further tightening provides a downward clamping force on the spacer 240 which in turn secures the panels 202a, 202b to the joist 104.

This arrangement provides consistent spacing between adjacent panels 202 which adds to the aesthetic appeal of the decking system. Further, the predetermined gaps between the panels provide access for tools to be inserted meaning that individual panels can easily be replaced if required.

This arrangement provides consistent spacing between adjacent panels 302 which adds to the aesthetic appeal of the decking system. Further, the predetermined gaps between the panels provide access for tools to be inserted meaning that individual panels can easily be replaced if required.

Second support assembly Referring to Figures 7 and 8, a support assembly 400 according to the present invention is shown. The support assembly 400 comprises a support bracket 402 and a joist 404. The support bracket 402 is attached to an I-beam 12 or similar structural element.

The support bracket 402 is constructed from extruded aluminium and comprises a base portion 406 which is flat and generally rectangular. The base portion 406 defines to end regions 408, 410 and a central region 412. The end regions 408, 410 each have a respective opening 414, 416 defined therein.

The support bracket further comprises two upright portions 418, 420 each of which project normal to the base portion 406. The upright portions 418, 420 are spaced apart and parallel, each being generally flat and rectangular. The support bracket 402 therefore defines an inverted n (pi) shape. Each upright portion defines two linear channels 422, 444 (upright portion 418) 446, 448 (upright portion 420) on its outwardly facing surface extending from the base portion to the respective free end. The upright portions 418, 420 are a distance B apart.

The joist 404 is constructed from extruded aluminium and is an elongate, prismatic component. The longitudinal axis of the joist 404 is identified as X in Figure 8. The joist 404 has a constant cross-sectional profile. The profile comprises a generally rectangular outer surface defined by two parallel sidewalls 450, 452, a top wall 454 and a bottom wall 456 parallel to the top wall.

The joist 404 defines two interior walls 458, 460, each angled at C degrees to the closest sidewall and thus forming an inverted "V" shape extending between the top and bottom walls 454, 456.

The top wall 454 defines a longitudinally extending channel or recess 462 at its centre, on the exterior of the profile, and parallel to the axis X. In use, the support bracket 402 is secured to the I-beam 12 using mechanical fasteners (e.g. a nut and bolt arrangement). Once installed, the joist 404 can be lowered between the upright portions 418, 420. It will be noted that the width of the joist 404 is only slightly less than the dimension B. When the desired vertical position of the joist 404 is reached, fasteners in the form of screws 464 are used to screw through the uprights 418, 420 at the channels 422, 444, 446, 448 in order to penetrate the side walls 450, 452.

It will be noted that the joist can be secured in any vertical position in which the uprights 418, 420 and side walls 450, 452 overlap.

The second support assembly can be used with either of the decking subassemblies defined herein. End profile Referring to Figures 9 and 10, the decking support apparatus 100 is shown again, with the pedestal 102 and joist 104. The first decking subassembly 200 is mounted onto the joist 104. A panel 202c at the end of the decking subassembly is shown mounted to the joist 104.

The end panel 202c is constructed from extruded aluminium per the panels 202a, b. The cross-sectional profile of the panel 202 is shown in Figure 10. The panel has a flat, substantially planar deck 204. The deck 204 has a plurality of longitudinally extending grooves 206 defined therein to enhance grip and drainage.

The panel profile defines a leg 252 extending downwardly from the deck 204. The leg 252 is at the outermost edge of the panel 202c and the decking structure. The leg is positioned inboard of the edge of the deck 204, and defines a first respective foot portion 254 and second respective foot portion 256 forming an inverted T-shape.

Evidently a downward force F on the edge of the deck 204 would result a high bending stress where the deck edge is cantilevered from the leg 252. To alleviate this problem, an end profile component 258 is provided. The end profile component 258 is generally elongate and prismatic, comprising a wall 260 with a mounting portion 262 in the form of a flange disposed at a first, lower end, and a fixing portion 264 provide at a second, upper end. The fixing portion 264 comprises an upper flange 266 and a lower flange 268 defining a deck receiving channel 270 therebetween.

The mounting portion 262 and fixing portion 264 extend in the same direction from the wall 260, making the end profile component 258 U-shaped.

The mounting portion 262 extends further from the wall 260 than the fixing portion 264 such that a fastener 272 can be used to secure the end profile component 258 to the joist 104. The end panel 202c can be positioned on top of the joist 104 such that the end of the deck 204 can be inserted into the deck receiving channel 270 of the fixing portion 264. The panel 202c is then fixed in the manner described above.

Not only does this provide horizontal stability preventing the panel 202c from moving off the joist), the force F can be reacted vertically through the wall 260 into the joist 104, reducing or eliminating the aforementioned bending stress and reducing potential damage to the deck 204.

Third support assembly Referring to Figures 11 to 15, a support assembly 500 according to the present invention is shown. The support assembly 500 comprises a joist 502 and a plurality of support brackets 504, 506, 508, 510, 512. 514, 516. The support brackets are supported on to a waterproofed roof 518 or other surface. It will be noted that the surface 518 is tilted or angled at angle 520 to the horizontal in the X direction (in this embodiment, or it may be flat).

The support brackets are of a similar construction, and as such the brackets 506, 510 will be described in detail.

With reference to Figures 12 and 13, the support bracket 506 is constructed from extruded aluminium and comprises a base portion 522 which is flat and generally rectangular. The base portion 522 defines two end regions 524, 526 and a central region 528. The end regions 524, 526 each have a respective fastener opening defined therein (not shown).

The support bracket further comprises two upright portions 530, 532 each of which project normal to the base portion 522. The upright portions 530, 532 are spaced apart and parallel, each being generally flat and rectangular. The support bracket 504 therefore defines an inverted n (pi) shape. Each upright portion defines a horizontal linear channel 534 (upright portion 530) 536 (upright portion 532) on its outwardly facing. The upright portions 530, 532 are a distance C apart (Figure 13).

Each upright portion 530, 532 is supported by a respective stay 538, 540. The stays 538, 540 are angled and extend from a respective end region 524, 526 towards a position on the respective upright portion 530, 532 just below the channels 534, 536 (leaving a small flange region 542, 544).

With reference to Figures 14 and 15, the support bracket 510 is almost identical to the bracket 506, and like features are numbered the same with a prime ('). The only difference is that the upright portions 530', 532' extend from the base portion 522' by a shorter distance, and as such the stays 538', 540' are at a greater angle.

The joist 502 is constructed from extruded aluminium, is an elongate, prismatic component and is identical to joist 404. As such, it will not be described in detail.

In use, the support brackets 504 -516 are secured to the surface 518 using mechanical fasteners (e.g. a nut and bolt arrangement). Once installed, the joist 502 can be lowered between the upright portions of each bracket. It will be noted that the width of the joist 502 is only slightly less than the dimension C. Referring to Figure 11, it can clearly be seen that there are three sets of brackets: 504, 506; 508, 510; and 512, 514, 516. Each set comprises a plurality of identical brackets which offer a specific height range. The brackets 512, 514, 516 are shorter than the other sets, and have no braces, but are otherwise similar. The brackets 504, 506 allow the joist 502 to be supported at a distance further from the surface 518 than the brackets 508, 510, which in turn allow support at a greater distance than brackets 512, 514, 516. This arrangement therefore permits the joist 502 to be installed on a sloping / tilted surface 518 whilst maintaining a horizontal orientation (i.e. parallel to a global horizontal axis X).

When the joist 502 is in position, fasteners in the form of screws 546 (shown in Figures 13 and 15 only) are used to screw through the uprights 530, 532 at the channels 534, 536 in order to penetrate the side walls of the joist 502 and secure the brackets thereto.

It will be noted that the mass of the joist (and other supported components) is entirely supported by the screws, and would otherwise fall to the bottom of the bracket.

The third support assembly can be used with either of the decking subassemblies defined herein. Fourth support assembly Referring to Figure 16, a support assembly 600 according to the present invention is shown. The support assembly 600 comprises a joist 602 a bracket 604 and an upright 606. The support bracket is supported on a waterproofed roof 608 or other surface.

The support bracket 604 is constructed from extruded aluminium and comprises a base portion 610 which is flat and generally rectangular. The base portion 610 defines two end regions 612, 614 and a central region 616. The end regions 612, 614 each have a respective fastener opening defined therein (not shown).

The support bracket further comprises two upright portions 618, 620 each of which project normal to the base portion 610. The upright portions 618, 620 are spaced apart and parallel, each being generally flat and rectangular. The support bracket 604 therefore defines an inverted n (pi) shape. Each upright portion defines a horizontal linear channel 622 (upright portion 618) 624 (upright portion 620) on its outwardly facing. The upright portions 618, 620 are a distance D apart.

The joist 602 is constructed from extruded aluminium, is an elongate, prismatic component and is identical to joist 404. As such, it will not be described in detail.

The upright 606 is a prismatic body whose main axis is vertical (parallel to Z). In this embodiment, the upright is a short section of joist 602. This allows a piece of decking to be attached to the (now vertical ZY) surface of the upright 606 to close off the end of the deck. This is advantageous compared to known pedestals.

The upright 606 is positioned between the upright portions 618, 620 and fastened in position with fasteners 626. The joist 602 is then positioned on the free end of the upright 606 such that it is supported. The joist 602 is attached to the upright 606 via an attachment plate 628 with fasteners through each of the upright 606 and joist 602.

The fourth support assembly can be used with either of the decking subassemblies defined herein.

Fifth support assembly Referring to Figure 17, a support assembly 700 according to the present invention is shown. The support assembly 700 comprises a joist 702 a bracket 704 and an upright 706. The support bracket is supported on a waterproofed roof 708 or other surface.

The support bracket 704 is constructed from extruded aluminium and comprises a base portion 710 which is flat and generally rectangular. The base portion 710 defines two end regions 712, 714 and a central region 716. The end regions 712, 714 each have a respective fastener opening defined therein (not shown).

The support bracket further comprises two upright portions 718, 720 each of which project normal to the base portion 710. The upright portions 718, 720 are spaced apart and parallel, each being generally flat and rectangular. The support bracket 704 therefore defines an inverted n (pi) shape. Each upright portion defines a horizontal linear channel 772 (upright portion 718) 724 (upright portion 720) on its outwardly facing. The upright portions 718, 720 are a distance E apart.

Each upright portion 718, 720 is supported by a respective stay 719, 721. The stays 719, 721 are angled and extend from a respective end region 712, 714 towards a position on the respective upright portion 718, 720 just below the channels 722, 724 (leaving a small flange region).

The joist 702 is constructed from extruded aluminium, is an elongate, prismatic component and is identical to joist 404. As such, it will not be described in detail.

The upright 706 is a prismatic body whose main axis is vertical (parallel to Z). The upright 706 can be cut approximately to the desired length. With the present invention, the bracket 704 permits fine vertical placement of the upright 706. The upright 706 does not need to be supported on the base portion of the bracket. The vertical load from the bracket can be supported entirely by the screws through the sides of the bracket, allowing fine adjustment in the Z direction.

The upright 706 is positioned between the upright portions 718, 720 and fastened in position with fasteners. The joist 702 is then positioned on the free end of the upright 706 such that it is supported. The joist 702 is attached to the upright 706 via an attachment plate 728 with fasteners through each of the upright 706 and joist 702.

The fifth support assembly can be used with either of the decking subassemblies defined herein.

Sixth support assembly Referring to Figures 18 to 20, a support assembly 800 according to the present invention is shown. The support assembly 800 comprises a joist 802, a bracket 804 and an angled spacer 806. The support bracket is supported on a waterproofed roof 808 or other surface.

The support bracket 804 is constructed from extruded aluminium and comprises a base portion 810 which is flat and generally rectangular. The base portion 810 defines two end regions 812, 814 and a central region 816. It will be noted with reference to Figure 20 that the lateral edges 813, 815 of the end regions 812, 814 are filleted in a downward direction such that the surface at the edges curves upwardly.

The support bracket further comprises two upright portions 818, 820 each of which project normal to the base portion 810. The upright portions 818, 820 are spaced apart and parallel, each being generally flat and rectangular. The support bracket 804 therefore defines an inverted n (pi) shape. Each upright portion defines a horizontal linear channel 872 (upright portion 818) 824 (upright portion 820) on its outwardly facing face.

Each upright portion 818, 820 is supported by a respective stay 819, 821. The stays 819, 821 are angled and extend from a respective end region 812, 814 towards a position on the respective upright portion 818, 820 just below the channels 822, 824 (leaving a small flange region).

The joist 802 is constructed from extruded aluminium, is an elongate, prismatic component and is identical to joist 404. As such, it will not be described in detail.

The joist 802 and bracket 804 are attached as described above.

The angled spacer 806 comprises a base portion 830 which is flat, planar and generally rectangular. Two elongate inner support ribs 832, 834 project upwardly from the base portion 830. The inner support rib 832 is taller than (i.e. extends further from the base portion 830) compared to the inner support rib 834.

Two outer supports 836, 838 are provided on the base portion 830. The outer supports 836, 838 are disposed at opposite lateral edges of the base portion 830. Each support 836, 838 comprises a flange portion 840, 842 respectively projecting from the base portion 830. At the free end of each flange portion 840, 842 there is provided a concave receiving portion 844, 846.

It will be noted that the support 836, support ribs 832, 834 and support 838 are sized to as to progressively increase the distance from the base portion 830. In other words they are configured to act as an angle support. As such, when the support bracket 804 is positioned on the spacer 806 as shown in Figure 1, it is held at an angle of Z degrees to the base portion. In use, the spacer can be used to keep the joist 802 supported by the bracket 804 in a horizontal position (i.e. laterally in the direction).

It will be noted that the filleted edges of the bracket 804 engage the concave / female portions of the receiving portion 844, 846 and nest therein to keep the bracket stable. It will also be noted that due to the fillet radii on the outer edges of the base portion 830 of the spacer 806, multiple spacers 806 can be stacked to increase the lateral tilt angle of the joist relative to the roof line. Essentially, the spacers 806 are modular and stackable.

When positioned, mechanical fasteners can penetrate the upper surface of the bracket 804 and the stacked spacers 806 to engage the roof surface.

The sixth support assembly can be used with either of the decking subassemblies defined herein. Seventh support assembly Referring to Figures 21 to 23, a support assembly 900 according to the present invention is shown.

The support assembly 900 comprises a joist 902 and a plurality of support brackets 904. The support brackets are supported on to a waterproofed roof 906 or other surface. The support assembly 900 supports a plurality of paving slabs 908.

With reference to Figure 22, the support bracket 904 comprises a base portion 910 which is flat and generally rectangular. The base portion 910 defines two end regions 912, 914 and a central region 916.

The support bracket further comprises two upright portions 918, 920 each of which project normal to the base portion 910. The upright portions 918, 920 are spaced apart and parallel, each being generally flat and rectangular. The support bracket 904 therefore defines an inverted n (pi) shape. Each upright portion defines a horizontal linear channel 922 (upright portion 918) 924 (upright portion 920) on its outwardly facing surface. The upright portions 918, 920 are a distance F apart (Figure 22).

Each upright portion 918, 920 is supported by a respective stay 926, 928. The stays 926, 928 are angled and extend from a respective end region 912, 914 towards a position on the respective upright portion 918, 920 just below the channels 922, 924 (leaving a small flange region 930, 932).

The joist 904 is an elongate, prismatic component constructed from extruded aluminium. The longitudinal axis of the joist 904 is identified as X in Figure 22. The joist 904 has a constant cross-sectional profile. The profile comprises a generally rectangular outer surface defined by two parallel sidewalls 934, 936, a top wall 938 and a bottom wall 940 parallel to the top wall. The top wall 938 defines an external support surface 939.

The top wall 938 extends outwards from the sidewalls 934, 936 to define two opposing support flanges 942, 944. The joist is therefore in the shape of an inverted, closed top-hat section. An upright portion in the form of a rib 946 runs axially along the outer surface of the top wall 938.

Several spacers 948 are provided with the joist 904 (Figure 23). Each spacer 948 is generally rectangular, constructed from aluminium and comprises a rectangular slot 950 extending from the mid-point of one of one of its long edges. The slot 950 is dimensioned so as to form a tight fit (press fit) with the rib 946 such that it can be engaged therewith, and normal thereto as shown in Figure 23.

In use, the joist 902 can be lowered between the upright portions 934, 936. It will be noted that the width of the joist 902 is only slightly less than the dimension F. When the desired vertical position of the joist 902 is reached, fasteners in the form of screws (not shown) are used to screw through the uprights 934, 936 at the channels 922, 924 in order to penetrate the side walls 934, 936.

Once the joist 902 is in position (and at least one further joist 902 parallel thereto per Figure 23) the paving slabs 908 can be lowered into position with a respective rib 946 either side thereof, and in abutment therewith. Spacers 948 are then slotted over each rib 946 to abut the end of the paving slab, and further slabs are added with spacers 948 therebetween until the desired surface has been constructed.

Claims

Claims 1. A joist for a decking and paving support assembly, the joist comprising an elongate, prismatic body having an external support surface for supporting at least one floor member, wherein the body comprises an elongate upstanding abutment member extending normal to the support surface to abut a side of a floor member supported on the support member.
2. A joist for a decking and paving support assembly according to claim 1, comprising a spacer, the spacer having a female formation for receiving the elongate upstanding abutment member.
3. A joist for a decking and paving support assembly according to claim 2, wherein the spacer, when assembled with the elongate upstanding abutment member, projects perpendicular thereto.
4. A joist for a decking and paving support assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the joist comprises two spaced-apart sidewalls, and wherein the external support surface extends between the sidewalls and beyond the sidewalls to define two opposed support flanges.
5. A decking and paving support assembly comprising: a joist according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the body has an opposed pair of sidewalls; a support bracket comprising a base portion and two spaced-apart upright portions; wherein the joist is received between the upright portions and is vertically slidable therein so as to be attachable to the support bracket across a range of vertical positions.
6. A decking and paving support assembly according to claim 5, wherein the upright portions each define at least one outwardly facing channel for receiving a fastener.
7. A decking and paving support assembly according to claim 6, wherein the channel is oriented normal to the base portion.
8. A decking and paving support assembly according to claim 7, wherein the channel is oriented parallel to the base portion.
9. A decking and paving support assembly according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein the support bracket comprises a brace extending at an angle between the base portion and one of the upright portions.
10. A decking and paving support assembly according to any of claims 5 to 9, comprising: two joists according to any of claims 1 to 4, the two joists positioned in a parallel and spaced-apart relationship; and, a floor member supported by the two joists.
11. A decking support assembly comprising: a joist having an opposed pair of sidewalls; a support bracket comprising a base portion and two spaced-apart upright portions; wherein the joist is received between the upright portions and is vertically slidable therein so as to be attachable to the support bracket across a range of vertical positions.
12. A decking support assembly according to claim 11, wherein the upright portions each define at least one outwardly facing channel for receiving a fastener.
13. A decking support assembly according to claim 12, wherein the channel is oriented normal to the base portion.
14. A decking support assembly according to claim 12, wherein the channel is oriented parallel to the base portion.
15. A decking support assembly according to any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the support bracket comprises a brace extending at an angle between the base portion and one of the upright portions.
16. A decking support assembly according to any of claims 11 to 15, comprising: a plurality of spaced-apart support brackets; wherein the joist is received in each of the plurality of support brackets at a non-zero angle to an underlying surface.
17. A decking support assembly according to claim 16, wherein the plurality of support brackets comprises at two support brackets, one support bracket having different height upright portions to the other support bracket.
18. A decking support assembly according to any of claims 11 to 17, comprising a first fastener attaching one of the upright portions to one sidewall, and a second fastener attaching the other of the upright portions to the other sidewall.
19. A decking support system according to any of claims 11 to 18, comprising: a spacer, the spacer positioned to support the support bracket on an underlying surface, wherein the spacer and support bracket are engaged in a mating relationship.
20. A decking support system according to claim 19, wherein the spacer comprises a female formation receiving the support bracket.
21. A decking support system according to claim 20, wherein the female formation comprises a concave curved surface receiving a convex curved portion of the support bracket.
22. A decking support system according to claim 12, wherein the spacer is configured to support the support bracket at non-zero angle to the underlying surface.
23. A decking support system according to claim 22, wherein the spacer is configured to support the support bracket at non-zero angle in a plane normal to the longitudinal direction of the joist.
24. A decking support system according to any of claims 19 to 23, comprising a plurality of spacers configured to be stacked to increase the distance between the joist and an underlying surface.
25. A decking support system according to claim 25 dependent on claim 22 or 23, wherein each spacer increases the angle.