Patent ID: 7594370
Filing Date: 2009-09-29
Classification: E04B,E04C,F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A butt-joint connection structure for joining two logs end-to-end in a log wall, comprising: a) a first log having a first end face and a second log having a second end face for abutting the first end face and forming a seam therebetween, each log having a log height extending between top and bottom surfaces of each of the first and second logs; b) a spline slot extending horizontally across the seam between a first closed edge in the first log and a second closed edge in the second log, the spline slot extending vertically through the log height of the first and second logs, the spline slot having generally planar, spaced apart inner and outer slot faces extending between the first and second closed edges; c) a spline in the spline slot, the spline having a width spanning the seam and a first spline face in generally flush engagement with a respective one of the inner and outer slot faces, the first spline face having at least two elongate recesses therein extending vertically of the spline and spaced apart on either side of the seam, each recess having a width and depth defining a recess cross-sectional area; and d) at least one fastener inserted in each recess, each respective fastener having a fastener cross-sectional area that is greater than the recess cross-sectional area, the fastener exerting a transverse locking force against the respective slot face and the recess when inserted therein; and e) at least one seal slot extending across the seam and generally parallel to the spline slot, and a seal assembly provided in the seal slot, the seal assembly comprising a sealing element of resiliently compressible weather proofing material, and at least one stiffening portion of non-buckling material secured to the sealing element, wherein the seal assembly is movable between an expanded state and a compressed state, the seal assembly being biased towards the expanded state and requiring manipulation into the compressed state for insertion into the seal slot.