COVERING SYSTEM FOR AN EXPANSION JOINT

Abstract

A covering system for an exterior expansion joint may be integrated as a panel in a larger system, such as a roofing or siding system. The system generally includes a flexible membrane having a panel connected along each longitudinal edge and extending away therefrom. The system further includes at least one attachment strip having a cleat configured to slideably connect with a linking region on each of the panels. When the at least one attachment strip is installed parallel with and adjacent to an expansion joint, engagement of the panels with the attachment strip positions the flexible membrane substantially over the expansion joint so that the system may expand and contract with the expansion and contraction of the expansion joint.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates generally to panels useful to cover an expansion joint, such as an expansion joint in a roof.

BACKGROUND

In many construction projects involving materials such as concrete and steel, gaps are left between adjacent structural elements to allow for thermal expansion and contraction, wind sway, settlement, live load deflection, and/or seismic movements of the structural elements. By permitting expansion and contraction, the gaps prevent the structural materials and/or building cladding elements from cracking or buckling. These gaps are referred to as expansion joints or movement joints and are typically sealed to prevent them from allowing the passage of water, dirt, debris, or snow, etc. into the structure and/or between portions of the structure.

Current systems for covering and/or sealing exterior expansion joints in the roofs of structures typically consist of a length of flexible material or membrane that spans the dimensions of the joint between adjacent elements and is attached to each side of the joint, such as by anchor bars that are screwed or bolted to the substrate. The membrane, usually a sheet of rubber or the like, is wider than the joint itself to seal the joint and to allow for movement of the membrane with the structural materials defining the joint. Certain configurations even include additional covers to protect the membrane and/or provide a more uniform and appealing presentation.

For example, FIG. 1 illustrates a prior art example of a roof expansion joint seal 20 that includes a metal cover 24 over a membrane 22. As shown, the roof expansion joint seal 20 is affixed about the joint J by fasteners 26 through a lip or flange 28 of the roof expansion joint seal 20. Such prior art systems often experience problems when the fasteners and seals, which are exposed to weather conditions, fail due to deterioration, and thus no longer effectively anchor the membrane 22 and/or cover 24 about the joint J or protect the underlying substrate from moisture damage.

Moreover, these prior art expansion joint sealing systems are generally designed as standalone components that are installed separately from the roofing panels, e.g., include separate attachment components, and often look different than the remainder of the roofing system. For example, in metal roofing systems, the roofing panels are generally terminated on either side of an expansion joint, and a bellows is installed over the expansion joint. This creates a small wall running along either side of the expansion joint that detracts from the visual appearance of a smooth roof. Thus, in additional to added labor, the prior art systems may reduce the overall aesthetic of the finished surface, e.g., roof.

Accordingly, there exists a need in the art for an expansion joint cover that is simple to install and reliable in operation, such as installed as part of a larger siding or roofing system. Additionally, there exists a need in the art for expansion joint sealing components and systems that may provide a water-tight seal on a building substrate while affording thermal expansion and contraction in multiple dimensions.

SUMMARY

The presently disclosed invention overcomes many of the shortcomings of the prior art by providing covering systems for an expansion joint that are easily installed as part of a larger system, such as a roofing or siding system, and which provide a seamless appearance within the larger system.

Accordingly, the system comprises at least one attachment strip having a top side comprising a cleat along one longitudinal edge, wherein the at least one attachment strip is connectable to a substrate adjacent to and parallel with the expansion joint via connectors; and a flexible membrane having a first panel connected along a first longitudinal edge and extending away from the first longitudinal edge and a second panel connected along a second longitudinal edge opposite the first longitudinal edge and extending away from the second longitudinal edge. At least one of the first and second panels comprises a linking region configured to provide slidable connection with the cleat of the at least one attachment strip such that when the cleat is installed adjacent an expansion joint, the flexible membrane becomes positioned over the expansion joint.

The cleat of the at least one attachment strip may comprise a U-shaped clip that projects upward and curves inward, such as toward the center of the attachment strip, on the top side thereof.

The linking region of each of the first and second panels is parallel with and proximal to the first and second longitudinal edges, respectively, of the flexible membrane. Moreover, the linking region may comprise an S-shaped curve configured to slidably engage the cleat of the at least one attachment strip.

The cleat and the S-shaped curve of the linking region may be sized and configured to allow lateral movement of the first and second panels when connected to the attachment strips.

The flexible membrane may be connected to each of the first and second panels via a U-shaped clip on each roofing panel, wherein opposing edges of the flexible membrane (i.e., first and second longitudinal edges) are inserted within the U-shaped clip of the first or second panel, respectively, and the U-shaped clip is closed over the flexible membrane, sealed with the flexible membrane via a sealant, glued to the flexible membrane via an adhesive, or a combination thereof. The flexible membrane may be connected to each of the first and second panels via a connection element comprising first and second 90-degree turns inward in the form of a spiral, and the flexible membrane may be inserted within the spiral.

The covering system may comprise two attachment strips, wherein each attachment strip is secured to the roofing substrate adjacent to and parallel with the expansion joint on opposite sides thereof.

The covering system may comprise connection elements that provide connection to additional panels of a roofing or siding system. As such, each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel may include a connection element of a standing seam, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane, and wherein the connection elements provide connection between the covering system and additional panels of a roofing or siding.

The distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel may include a male or female element of a standing seam, wherein the male or female elements provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of additional panels of a roofing or siding.

The covering system may comprise a clip connectable to the substrate and releasably attachable with distal longitudinal edges of the first and second panels, wherein the distal longitudinal edges are opposite an edge of the first and second panels that is connected to the flexible membrane. The distal longitudinal edge of the first panel may comprise either a hook configured to snap over the clip or a raised lip configured to fit within the clip, and the distal longitudinal edge of the second panel may comprise the other of the hook configured to snap over the clip or the raised lip configured to fit within the clip. For example, the distal longitudinal edge of the first panel may comprise a hook configured to snap over the clip while the distal longitudinal edge of the second panel may comprise a raised lip configured to fit within the clip. In general, the clip provides connection between the covering system and additional panels, wherein the additional panels would comprise either of the hook or the raised lip not provided by the first or second panels of the covering system.

Components of the covering system, exclusive of the flexible membrane may be formed of any malleable metal. For example, the at least one attachment strip, the clip, and the first and second panels may be composed of coated or uncoated sheet metal. Moreover, each of the connectors that provide attachment of the attachment strip(s) to a substrate or the clip to the substrate such as a roofing or wall may comprise staples, nails, screws, or a combination thereof. Such connectors may or may not be provided as part of the system.

According to certain aspect, the covering system may further yet comprise a bolster or backer rod positionable within the expansion joint beneath the flexible membrane.

The present invention further relates to a method for installing a covering system for an expansion joint. The method generally comprises positioning a first attachment strip comprising a cleat on a substrate adjacent to and parallel with a first side of an expansion joint and attaching it thereto using connectors; positioning a second attachment strip comprising a cleat on the substrate adjacent to and parallel with a second side of an expansion joint opposite from the first side, and attaching it thereto using connectors; and releasably attaching an expansion joint cover to the substrate by sliding a linking region of each of a first and second panel of the expansion joint cover over the cleat of each of the first and second attachment strips so that a flexible membrane attached therebetween is positionable over the expansion joint. The first panel of the expansion joint cover is attached to the flexible membrane along a first longitudinal edge and extends away therefrom, and the second panel of the expansion joint cover is attached to the flexible membrane along a second longitudinal edge opposite the first longitudinal edge and extends away therefrom.

The method may further include before releasably attaching the expansion joint cover to the substrate, positioning a backer rod at the expansion joint so that it lies beneath the flexible membrane.

The method may further yet include attaching distal longitudinal edges of the expansion joint cover to panels of a roofing or siding, wherein each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panels of the expansion joint include a male or female element of a standing seam, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane, and wherein the male and female elements provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of the roofing or siding.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects, features, benefits and advantages of the embodiments herein will be apparent with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. In the following figures, like numerals represent like features in the various views. It is to be noted that features and components in these drawings, illustrating the views of embodiments of the present invention, unless stated to be otherwise, are not necessarily drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 illustrates a prior art expansion joint covering system.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an expansion joint covering system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of another expansion joint covering system according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the expansion joint covering system shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 illustrates a close-up view of section A of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 illustrates a close-up view of section B of FIG. 4.

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate various connection elements for the expansion joint covering system of the present disclosure with panels of a roofing or siding system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, the present invention is set forth in the context of various alternative embodiments and implementations involving panels for an expansion joint, such as a covering system for an expansion joint on a building substrate. Exemplary building substrates may be exterior or interior surfaces, such as a roof or wall.

Various aspects of the covering system for an expansion joint may be illustrated with reference to one or more exemplary implementations or embodiments. As used herein, the term “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other variations of the devices, systems, or methods disclosed herein. “Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not. In addition, the word “comprising” as used herein means “including, but not limited to”.

Various aspects of the covering system for an expansion joint may be illustrated by describing components that are coupled, attached, and/or joined together. As used herein, the terms “coupled”, “attached”, and/or “joined” are interchangeably used to indicate either a direct connection between two components or, where appropriate, an indirect connection to one another through intervening or intermediate components. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being “directly coupled”, “directly attached”, and/or “directly joined” to another component, there are no intervening elements shown in said examples.

Relative terms such as “lower” or “bottom” and “upper” or “top” may be used herein to describe one element's relationship to another element illustrated in the drawings. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of aspects of the covering system for an expansion joint in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. By way of example, if aspects of the covering systems shown in the drawings are turned over, elements described as being on the “bottom” side of the other elements would then be oriented on the “top” side of the other elements as shown in the relevant drawing. The term “bottom” can therefore encompass both an orientation of “bottom” and “top” depending on the particular orientation of the drawing.

It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a “connector” is a reference to one or more connectors and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Words such as “then,” “next,” etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps; these words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the methods.

Referring now to the drawings, systems according to the present disclosure are shown in FIGS. 2-6. The systems, generally designated by the reference numeral 10, include panels and flexible membranes for covering and/or sealing an expansion joint on a building substrate, such as a roof or wall. Exemplary building substrates include any known in the art, such as wood, concrete, metal, synthetic materials (e.g., polymers, composites, etc.), and the like.

With specific reference to FIG. 2, a covering system 10 according to aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated, wherein the system 10 is shown to be covering building substrates 11a and 11b on either side of an expansion joint J.

The covering system 10 includes first and second panels (12a, 12b) and a flexible membrane M. The covering system 10 is generally configured so that when installed on a building substrate (11a, 11b), the flexible membrane M is alignable with and spans the width W of the expansion joint J (i.e., spanned region). The spanned region may comprise substantially the full width W of the expansion J, such as shown in FIG. 2, or may be comprise more or less than the full width W of the expansion joint J. Importantly, as installed, the flexible membrane M will have a diameter L that is greater than the width of the spanned region so that the membrane may expand or contract as the expansion joint expands or contracts.

The flexible membrane M may be formed of any malleable natural or synthetic material that is weather resistant or weatherproof (e.g., waterproof, heat resistant, UV resistant). Exemplary materials include natural and synthetic polymers, such as natural and synthetics rubbers, e.g., ethylene propylene diene monomer, silicone, and the like.

The flexible membrane M may be connected to the first and second panels (12a, 12b) via a connector (16a, 16b, respectively). As shown in FIG. 2, the connector may be a U-shaped clip that allows insertion of respective longitudinal edges of the flexible membrane, wherein the U-shaped clip may be closed over and optionally compressed to securely capture the flexible membrane therein. Additionally, or alternatively, the flexible membrane may be glued via an adhesive, sealed with a sealant, stapled, screwed, or otherwise permanently affixed within the connector.

The covering system 10 may be designed and configured to be integrated within a larger covering system, such as a roofing or siding system. The roofing or siding may be part of any standard roofing or siding system, such as a hidden fastener system as shown in FIGS. 2-5, or an exposed fastener system. As such, ends of the first and second panels (12a, 12b) distal from the flexible membrane M may include attachment elements that may allow connection between the panels of the covering system and panels of the roofing or siding system. For example, the distal longitudinal edge of the first panel 12a is shown to include a female connection element of a standing seam, wherein the panel of the roofing or siding system is shown to include a male connection element of the standing seam 14. As such, distal ends of the first and second panels (12a, 12b) each comprise a male or female element of a standing seam that may provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of additional panels of a roofing or siding.

When installed on a building substrate over an expansion joint, the presently disclosed covering system may expand and contract as the expansion joint expands and contracts. Moreover, during installation of the covering system 10 on a building substrate (11a, 11b), no specific means for attachment of the first and/or second panels (12a, 12b), such as bonding agents, glue, sealants, or the like, may be needed or used. When installed as such, environmental changes, e.g., changes in the temperature or humidity, that may cause the panels to expand or contract may be accommodated by the covering system (i.e., small amounts of movement may be allowed to occur). This reduces the wear and stress on the panels and improves the weather-tightness of the covering system of the presently disclosed invention.

Another covering system of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG. 3, wherein the system 100 is shown to be covering building substrates 11a and 11b on either side of an expansion joint J.

The covering system 100 includes first and second panels (112a, 112b) and a flexible membrane M. The first panel 112a is connected along and extends away from a first longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane M while the second panel 112b is connected along and extends away from a second longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane that is opposite the first longitudinal edge. Such connections may be achieved by a connector 116, such as a U-shaped clip on each of the first or second panels. The first and second longitudinal edges of the flexible membrane M may be inserted within the U-shaped clip on the first or second panel (112a, 112b), respectively, and the U-shaped clip may be compressed or closed over the flexible membrane, glued to the flexible membrane via an adhesive, sealed with the flexible membrane via a sealant, or a combination thereof, to securely capture the flexible membrane therein.

According to certain aspects, the connector 116 may comprise a spiral shaped connector on the first and second panels (112a, 112b), i.e., the connection element comprises first and second 90-degree turns inward in the form of a spiral as shown in FIG. 6 (see distal end 134b of the second panel 112b curved inward in a spiral). In such an arrangement, the first or second longitudinal edge (M-b of FIG. 6) of the flexible membrane M is inserted within the connection element on the first or second panel, respectively, and the connection element is closed over the flexible membrane, e.g., compressed, glued to the flexible membrane, sealed with the flexible membrane, or a combination thereof, to securely capture the flexible membrane therein.

As shown in FIG. 3, the covering system 100 may further include one or more attachment strips (120a, 120b) that are attachable to the building substrate (11a, 11b, respectively), such as adjacent to and parallel with the expansion joint, by connectors (122a, 122b). Exemplary connectors include and one or more nails, screws, staples, and the like, or any combinations thereof. The attachment strips (120a, 120b) provide a means to attach the flexible membrane M and attached panels (112a, 112b) to the building substrate so that it is secured thereon, such as secured against uplift due to wind and other weather conditions. Moreover, when the flexible membrane M and attached panels (112a, 112b) are slideably connected with the attachment strips (120a, 120b), all fasteners are hidden, thus avoiding the issues noted hereinabove with exposure of visible fasteners to moisture and possible deterioration.

With continued reference to FIG. 3, the attachment strips (120a, 120b) include a cleat 136a along one longitudinal edge while the first and/or second panels (112a, 112b) comprise a linking region (118a, 118b, respectively). The linking region is configured to provide slidable connection with the cleat. Accordingly, when the at least one attachment strip is connected to the building substrate (11a, 11b) parallel with and adjacent to the expansion joint J, the linking region (118a, 118b) of the first and/or second panel (112a, 112b, respectively) may be connected with the cleat 136a of the attachment strip (120a, 120b) so that the flexible membrane M is alignable with and spans the width W of the expansion joint J (i.e., spanned region). The spanned region may comprise substantially the full width W of the expansion J, such as shown in FIG. 3, or may be comprise more or less than the full width W of the expansion joint J. Importantly, as installed, the flexible membrane M will have a diameter L that is greater than the width of the spanned region so that the membrane may expand or contract as the expansion joint expands or contracts.

A cross-sectional view of the covering system 100 is shown in FIG. 4, and a close-up of the linking region of the second panel 112b and the cleat 136b of one attachment strip 120b is shown in FIG. 6 (region B of FIG. 4). As illustrated, the attachment strip 120b is attachable to a building substrate 11b via connectors 122b. While screws are shown, other connectors are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, each attachment strip may include holes or slots that provide passage of the connectors. The holes or slots may be provided in a variety of positions, such as spaced at standard distances known in the art. The holes may be sized to accommodate various dimensions of connectors. Further, the holes may allow for movement (expansion/contraction) of the building substrate in the course of environmental changes once installed thereof. That is, the holes may be shaped as slots so that movement may occur in at least one direction or may be larger than the size of the connectors so that movement may occur in multiple directions. In the latter case, if the hole is sized larger than the head of the connector, such as the head of the screw or nail, a washer may be used to secure the connector on the attachment strip. Such variation in connectors would be known by one having ordinary skill in the art. In certain embodiments, washers may be included to provide additional moisture protection. For example, washers may be metal washers, control seal washers, self-sealing washers, rubber or neoprene washers, and the like. Washers may be used in combination with any of the indicated fasteners, such as with nails or screws.

With continued reference to FIG. 6, the cleat 136b of the attachment strip 120b is shown as a U-shaped clip that projects upward and curves inward, e.g., toward a middle of the attachment strip, on the top side of the attachment strip. The linking region 118b of the second panel 112b is shown to comprise an S-shaped curve 135b configured to slidably engage the cleat, i.e., U-shaped clip of the at least one attachment strip 112b. Moreover, the linking region and cleat may be designed and configured to so that engagement therebetween may allow for movement (expansion/contraction) of the building substrate resulting from environmental changes while maintaining connection, i.e., allow for lateral movement of the panel within the attachment strip while maintaining connection thereto.

The covering system (10, 100) may be configured to be integrated with a larger system, such as a panel that may be attached to panels of a roofing or siding system. As such, each of the first and second panels may include connection elements that allow distal ends thereof (i.e., ends opposite connection with the flexible membrane) to be connected to existing roofing or siding panels. Panels of the roofing or siding systems may be connected to each other and/or the building substrate via any visible fastening system, e.g., face fastened panels, etc., or hidden fastening system, e.g., standing seams and the like. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the covering system may be integrated with a standing seam 14 roofing or siding system. As such, each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel may include a connection element of a standing seam.

With specific reference to FIG. 3, the distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel may include a male or female element of a standing seam, wherein the male or female elements provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of additional panels of a roofing or siding panel or system.

According to certain aspects, the covering system may integrate with a roofing or siding system via a clip. As shown in FIG. 4, the standing seam connection system includes a clip 140 attachable to the building substrate (11a, 11b) via connection elements 130, such as nails, screws, staples, or the like. In such construction, the end of one panel may include a hook or raised lip that fits within the clip 140 while the end of an adjacent panel may snap over the clip 140 and remain secured thereon, such as via a lip at an end of the hook. In this way, the two panels remained secured to the clip over the building substrate, i.e., roof or wall.

With specific reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the distal longitudinal edge of the first panel 112a of the covering system 100 is shown to comprise a hook (see 117a of FIG. 5) configured to snap over a catch 141 on the clip 140. The distal longitudinal edge of a second panel 112b of the covering system 100 is shown to comprise a raised lip or inner hook (see 119b of FIG. 5) configured to fit within the catch 141 of the clip 140 (in use, the panel 112a would likely be a panel of the roofing or siding system, i.e., 112a′). Accordingly, the presently disclosed covering system (10, 100) may be easily integrated into a larger roofing or siding system, such as those comprising a standing seam connection. For example, once the raised lip 119b of a second panel 112b is positioned within the catch 141 of the clip 140, snapping the end 117a of a roofing or siding panel of the larger system (i.e., 112a′) over the catch 141 of the clip 140 acts to securely connect the two panels together (i.e., indent ‘a’ at the end 117a of panel 112a′ will secure the panel over the catch 141 of the clip 140). Likewise, once the end of a roofing or siding panel of the larger system (i.e., 112b′) is positioned within the catch 141 of the clip 140, snapping the hook 117a at the end of the first panel 112a over the catch 141 of the clip 140 acts to securely connect the two panels together.

While shown and described as having a raised lip 119b at a distal edge of the second panel 112b and a hook 117a at a distal edge of the first panel 112a, an opposite arrangement is possible. Moreover, while the distal ends of the panels 112a and 112b are indicated to include a specific type and arrangement of connection means in FIGS. 2-5, others are possible and within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the covering system (10, 100) may be integrated with a snap-lock systems such as shown in FIGS. 4 and 7A. With specific reference to FIG. 7A, a first panel 212a includes a male element while a second panel 212b includes a female element. The male element of the second panel 212b is positioned against a hook 240, and the female element of the first panel is snapped over the hook 240/male element. The hook 240 is attached to a building substrate via any of the connectors 230 described herein. In this design, the male element includes a catch ‘a’ that secures the end of the first panel of the end of the second panel.

Alternatively, the covering system (10, 100) may be integrated with a nailed/fastened flange system, such as shown in FIG. 7B, wherein a first panel 212a includes a male element at an end that has an extended flange region configured to lie flat on a building substrate 211b. The flange may be attached to the building substrate 211b via any of the connectors 230 described herein. The second panel 212b includes a female element at an edge that snaps over the male element to secure the two panels together and to the building substrate. In a further example, the covering system (10, 100) may be integrated with a mechanically seemed roofing system, wherein each of the first 212a and second 212b panels are abutted on opposite sides of a hook 240, and a mechanical seem roller is used to fold the ends of the panels one or more times (e.g., single lock and double lock systems). The hook 240 is attached to a building substrate via any of the connectors 230 described herein.

While certain connection systems have been described herein, others are possible and within the scope of the present invention. For example, the connection between panels may be via a tee panel system that includes a cap that locks two panels together, or systems that are attached directly to the building substrate via connection elements positioned through the panels (i.e., exposed fastener systems).

The covering system (10, 100) may further include a bolster or backer rod 123 positionable within the expansion joint J and supported by structural elements 124 therein. The bolster or backer rod 123 may maintain the flexible membrane M in a somewhat extended position so that it doesn't collapse inward.

The covering system (10, 100) may be positioned over a moisture barrier material, insulation, or underlayment that is attached directly over the building substrate (see 90 in FIG. 7B). For example, the covering system (10, 100) may be positioned over asphalt saturated-felt, i.e., felt paper, rubberized asphalt, or non-bitumen synthetic underlayment, such that the backer rod 123 is positioned between the underlayment and the flexible membrane M. When the building substrate is a vertical side of the building, the underlayment may be a foam insulation, moisture barrier such as TYVEK, and the like.

The covering system (10, 100) disclosed herein may have panels (12a, 12b, 112a, 112b), attachment strips (120a, 120b), and clips 140 formed of any malleable metal, such as sheet metal construction. For example, the sheet metal may be stainless steel, aluminum, copper, zinc, titanium, or any alloy or combination thereof (e.g., aluminum-zinc alloy coated sheet steel). Other metals such as, for example, galvanized steel or brass, or any synthetic resin material are also within the scope of the present invention.

The panels (12a, 12b, 112a, 112b) and attachment strips (120a, 120b) are preferably of generally rectangular shape; however, the ends or sides nearest an end or edge of a building surface may be tapered to various other shapes such as, for example, a trapezoidal shape, for special architectural applications. The panels may be roll formed in any length as required for the project. In preferred embodiments, the various panels, strips, and clips are of unitary construction, although spot welding of components may be employed. According to certain aspects, the panels may be roll formed on site.

While discussed herein as a covering system for an exterior surface such as a roof or siding, the presently disclosed components and systems may be useful for covering any surface having an expansion joint. The surface may comprise a substrate 11 such as plywood, sheetrock, or any other material to which the covering system 10 may be attached. Alternatively, the building substrate 11 may be a series of exposed beams, studs, or trusses to which the covering system 10 may be attached.

The covering system (10, 100) may be provided as components that are assembled on site, such as supplied as a kit comprising a flexible membrane, and first and second panels. The kit may optionally include at least one attachment strip, a backer rod, at least one clip, a plurality of connectors, or any combination thereof.

Alternatively, the covering system (10, 100) may be provided pre-assembled wherein the first and second panels are securely attached to the flexible membrane as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In this latter case, the covering system may comprise a panel (i.e., panel composed of a flexible membrane and first and second panels), and optionally one or more attachment strips. According to certain aspects, the covering system (10, 100) may optionally also include at least one clip, a backer rod, a plurality of connectors, or any combination thereof.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a method of installing the covering system 100 will be described. If provided as a kit wherein various portions, i.e., the flexible membrane and first and second panels, are not assembled, an early step in the method would include securely attaching each of the first and second panels to the flexible membrane as described herein. The method generally comprises preparing the building substrate (11a/11b) according to standard practice. For example, when the building substrate is a roof, the building substrate may be covered with a water resistant or waterproof barrier or membrane. An attachment strip (120a and/or 120b) may be positioned on the building substrate on either or both sides of an expansion joint J parallel with and adjacent thereto. The attachment strip (120a and/or 120b) may be secured to the building substrate (11a, 11b) by connectors (122a, 122b). The clip 140 may be secured to the building substrate parallel with and distanced from the attachment strip(s) and/or the expansion joint J. The linking region (118a, 118b) of the first and/or second panel may be slideably engaged with the cleat 136a of the attachment strip(s).

Before, after, or simultaneously with slideable engagement of the linking region with the cleat, the raised lip (e.g., 119b) of the first or second panel may be inserted under the catch 141 of a first clip (140). As described, it is assumed that this step occurs before an adjacent panel from the roofing or siding system is engaged with the clip (i.e., hook of the roofing or siding panel is already positioned over the catch of the clip).

Finally, the hook (e.g., 117a) of the other of the first or second panel may be pushed over the catch 141 of a second clip 140. As described, it is assumed that this step occurs after an adjacent panel from the roofing or siding system is engaged with the clip (i.e., a raised lip of the roofing or siding panel is already positioned within the catch of the clip).

Moreover, while specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alternations and applications could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements, systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A covering system for an expansion joint, the system comprising: first and second attachment strips each having a top side comprising a cleat along one longitudinal edge, wherein each of the first and second attachment strips are connectable to a substrate via connectors positioned through an opposite longitudinal edge; anda flexible membrane having a first panel connected along a first longitudinal edge and extending away from the first longitudinal edge and a second panel connected along a second longitudinal edge opposite the first longitudinal edge and extending away from the second longitudinal edge,wherein each of the first and second panels comprise a linking region parallel with and proximate to the first and second longitudinal edges of the flexible membrane, respectively, wherein the linking regions provide slidable connection with the cleat of the first and second attachment strips such that when the first and second attachment strips are connected to the substrate adjacent to and parallel with the expansion joint, the flexible membrane is positionable over the expansion joint.

2. The covering system of claim 1, wherein the flexible membrane is connected to each of the first and second panels via a connection element, wherein the connection element comprises first and second 90-degree turns inward in the form of a spiral and each of the first or second longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane is inserted within the connection element on the first or second panel, respectively, and wherein the connection element is closed over the flexible membrane, glued to the flexible membrane, or a combination thereof.

3. The covering system of claim 1, wherein the cleat of the at least one attachment strip comprises a U-shaped clip that projects upward and curves inward on the top side of the attachment strip, and wherein the linking region comprises an S-shaped curve configured to slidably engage the U-shaped clip of the at least one attachment strip.

4. The covering system of claim 3, wherein the U-shaped clip of the first and second attachment strips and the S-shaped curve of the linking region are sized and configured to allow lateral movement of the first and second panels when connected to the first and second attachment strips.

5. The covering system of claim 1, wherein the connectors are staples, nails, screws, or a combination thereof.

6. The covering system of claim 1, wherein the at least one attachment strip and the first and second panels are composed of sheet metal.

7. The covering system of claim 1, further comprising: a clip connectable to the substrate and releasably attachable with distal longitudinal edges of the first and second panels, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane.

8. The covering system of claim 7, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of the first panel comprises either a hook configured to snap over a catch of the clip or a raised lip configured to fit within the catch of the clip, and the distal longitudinal edge of the second panel comprises the other of the hook configured to snap over the catch of the clip or the raised lip configured to fit within the catch of the clip.

9. The covering system of claim 1, wherein each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel includes a connection element of a standing seam, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane, and wherein the connection elements provide connection between the covering system and additional panels of a roofing or siding.

10. The covering system of claim 1, wherein each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel includes a male or female element of a standing seam, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane, and wherein the male or female elements provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of additional panels of a roofing or siding.

11. The covering system of claim 1, further comprising a backer rod positionable beneath the flexible membrane.

12. A covering system for an expansion joint, the system comprising: attachment strips each having a flat bottom and a top surface comprising a U-shaped cleat that curves inward along one longitudinal edge, each attachment strip connectable to a substrate via connectors positioned through an opposite longitudinal edge;a flexible membrane having opposed first and second longitudinal edges;a first panel connected along the first longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane and extending away therefrom; anda second panel connected along the second longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane and extending away therefrom;wherein each of the first and second panels comprise an S-shaped linking region configured to provide slidable connection with the U-shaped cleat of the attachment strips, wherein the linking region is parallel with and proximate to the first or second longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane, andwherein each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panel includes a male or female element of a standing seam, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane, and wherein the male or female elements provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of additional panels of a roofing or siding.

13. The covering system of claim 12, wherein the flexible membrane is connected to each of the first and second panels via a connection element, wherein the connection element comprises first and second 90-degree turns inward in the form of a spiral and each of the first or second longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane is inserted within the connection element on the first or second panel, respectively, and the connection element is closed over the flexible membrane, glued to the flexible membrane, or a combination thereof.

14. The covering system of claim 11, comprising: a clip connectable to the substrate and releasably attachable to the distal longitudinal edges of the first and second panels.

15. The covering system of claim 14, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of the first panel comprises a hook configured to snap over a catch of the clip and the distal edge of the second panel comprises a raised lip configured to fit within the catch of the clip.

16. The covering system of claim 11, further comprising a backer rod positionable beneath the flexible membrane.

17. A method for installing a covering system for an expansion joint, the method comprising: positioning a first attachment strip comprising a cleat on a substrate adjacent to and parallel with a first side of an expansion joint and attaching it thereto using connectors;positioning a second attachment strip comprising a cleat on the substrate adjacent to and parallel with a second side of an expansion joint opposite from the first side, and attaching it thereto using connectors;releasably attaching an expansion joint cover to the substrate by sliding a linking region of each of a first and second panel of the expansion joint cover over the cleat of each of the first and second attachment strips so that a flexible membrane attached therebetween is positionable over the expansion joint,wherein the first panel of the expansion joint cover is attached to the flexible membrane along a first longitudinal edge and extends away therefrom, and the second panel of the expansion joint cover is attached to the flexible membrane along a second longitudinal edge opposite the first longitudinal edge and extends away therefrom.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the linking region of each of the first and second panels comprises an S-shaped region configured to provide slidable connection with the U-shaped cleat of the attachment strips, wherein the linking region is parallel with and proximate to the first or second longitudinal edge of the flexible membrane.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: before releasably attaching the expansion joint cover to the substrate, positioning a backer rod at the expansion joint so that it lies beneath the flexible membrane.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: attaching distal longitudinal edges of the expansion joint cover to panels of a roofing or siding,wherein each distal longitudinal edge of the first and second panels of the expansion joint include a male or female element of a standing seam, wherein the distal longitudinal edge of each of the first and second panels is opposite an edge that is connected to the flexible membrane, and wherein the male and female elements provide connection between the covering system and complementary male or female elements of the roofing or siding.