Mark J Kucirka

US Patent:

59376082, Aug 17, 1999

Filed:

Jul 13, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/502276

Inventors:

Mark J. Kucirka - Northampton PA

International Classification:

E04C 302
E04G 2300

US Classification:

52695

Abstract:

Bridging is provided for use in joining joists or like construction elements so as to increase the strength and stability of those elements. The present invention utilizes flexible strapping to create the bridging structure, wherein a first flexible strap is attached to a first joist and a second flexible strap is attached to a second joist. The bridging structure is created by aligning the straps between the joists and joining the straps together. The various flexible straps can be directly attached to the joists, however when applied to wooden joists, stiffened supports are preferably positioned between the joists and the flexible strapping. The stiffened supports spread the force of the flexible strapping and prevent the strapping from deforming the material of the joist. To add to the integrity of the bridging structure, the stiffened supports can be mechanically or adhesively joined to the joists and the flexible strapping can be mechanically or adhesively joined to the stiffened supports and joists.