Patent Publication Number: US-2022220730-A1

Title: Universal z-z channel for mounting wall panels to existing wall

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application is a Continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/203,283, filed on Mar. 16, 2021 to the same inventor herein and entitled UNIVERSAL Z-Z CHANNEL FOR MOUNTING WALL PANELS TO EXISTING WALL, which is a Continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/180,859, filed on Feb. 21, 2021 to the same inventor herein and entitled UNIVERSAL Z-Z CHANNEL FOR MOUNTING WALL PANELS TO EXISTING WALL, which is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/091,255 filed on Nov. 6, 2020 to the same inventor herein and entitled UNIVERSAL Z-Z CHANNEL FOR MOUNTING WALL PANELS TO EXISTING WALL, the entire contents and disclosure of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a wall system, and more particularly, to a system for easily mounting wall panels over an existing wall while concealing exterior insulation. 
     Exterior decorative works of an existing wall are exposed to elements, in particular, to moisture. Although caulking and other gap remediation techniques abound and are well known, moisture may still penetrate. Despite moisture penetration, good airflow will wick away water before mold and other destructive consequences set in. For this reason, sound construction practices, and in some instances, building code, require that exterior panels are separated from insulation by a gap of approximately 2.5 centimeters. 
     This gap is also highly desirable to promote conservation of energy inside building structures. Due to the principal of conduction, even insulation will transfer hot or cold onto a surface it is insulating and thus eventually loose some of its effectiveness. To overcome the loss of insulating efficiency caused by conduction, sound construction practices recommend creating an air gap between an exterior layer of exterior insulation and the layer of exterior wall paneling. This air gap creates a reflective barrier, where the hot or cold air radiating from the exterior wall panel is reflected by the insulation layer due to the presence of the air gap. 
     Enforcement of the air gap between the insulation layer and the exterior wall paneling is a known practice that is often dictated by the building code. However, there is presently no standard and failsafe compliance method. Instead, contractors attempt to comply by inserting a separate strip of material between the exterior paneling and the insulation. Existing methods have several serious shortcomings. The first one is higher cost and length of installation. The cost is increased due to the requirement of purchasing, stocking and components required in ensuring that a gap is present. Secondly, installation requires a separate step involving a non-standard component. Third, it is often difficult to keep the thickness of the air gap uniform when utilizing non-standard and disparate components. Finally, the presence of an additional structural component adds to the complexity of a project and increases the risk of mistake or accident occurring due to the additional level of complexity. 
     Furthermore, just the presence of a gap may not be sufficient in some situations. For example, certain facades will permit a small amount of water to trickle through and behind wall cladding. This moisture needs to have a drainage outlet and must be completely ventilated to discourage accumulation of damaging moisture, mold, or mildew. Existing solutions do not adequately address the problems identified above. 
     Practically, the technological disclosures of this application are mounted onto exterior facades of buildings and represent an external or first line of installation that is installed outside of waterproof later of wall sheeting. It is therefore important to ensure that installation of insulation used at this level does not undermine the waterproofing qualities of water membranes used. Under the existing methodologies, insulation paneling is often stapled of fastened to the wall sheeting to keep it in place, which inevitably perforates the waterproof membrane. An optimal deployment would require that that both rigid, semi-rigid and flexible insulation solutions at this level can be fixed into place without having to be bolted to the wall. The solution is an attachment to the same girts that are used to attach exterior wall panels. 
     It is therefore desirable to provide a system that creates a single structural component which form a frame for attaching exterior insulation to an existing wall, which also serves as a point of attachment of exterior paneling, and which enforces a uniform air gap between the exterior paneling and the layer of insulation. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     It is an object of the present invention to provide for a simple and uniform means of ensuring that an air gap exists between an exterior or cladding covering and a layer of exterior insulation. 
     It is another object of the present invention to provide a sustainable and adequate airflow between cladding panels and insulation, which among other benefits, prevents unchecked moisture buildup. 
     It is still another object of the present invention to provide a first moisture gap that is enforceable by the shape of the Z-girt or Z-shaped component holding the insulation panels and exterior wall panels 
     It is still another object of the present invention to provide a wide first moisture gap above the insulation panels and below the cladding panels, and a second moisture gap between the insulation panels and an existing wall of the structure. 
     It is still another object of the present invention to provide way of retaining insulation panels between two neighboring Z-shaped components by use of a rod spanning the two Z-shaped components. 
     It is still another object of the present invention to enable the use of insulation panels of varying thickness, where the panels are nonetheless securely retained between the Z-shaped components through use of rods of various thicknesses or diameters. 
     It is still another object of the present invention to enable the use of insulation panels of varying thicknesses where a plurality of holding pegs fitted within retention slots securely retain insulation panels of varying thickness between Z-shaped components irrespective of whether moisture draining openings are also present. 
     Therefore, in accordance with the present invention, a system for ensuring that exterior insulation is installed at a desired distance from shell or cladding panels, includes a plurality of Z-shaped components. The plurality of Z-shaped components attaching in a parallel and spaced apart association with each other along the exterior of an existing wall. Each Z-shaped component is made of a first wall, a second wall and a J-shaped third wall. The first wall having a first end and a second end is. The first wall being preferably parallel to an existing wall and is mounted either vertically, horizontally, or diagonally thereon. 
     The second wall extends forwardly at an angle, preferably a right angle, from the first wall. The free end of the second wall contains the J-shaped wall. The J-shaped wall is made of two portions. The first portions is parallel to the first wall but extends in the opposite direction from the first wall. The second portion extends rearwardly from the free end of the first portion, with a free end of the second portion being located at a distance above the first wall. The first portion of the J-shaped wall is configured to accept an exterior or cladding paneling bolted thereto. 
     The J-shaped wall extends for the entire length of the Z-shaped component and forms a hollow channel that is open on one side, namely between the free end of the second portion and the second wall. In an alternative embodiment an insert is configured to serve as a strength element and to receive the mounting bolts. The strength element is inserted into the hollow channel formed by the J-shaped portion. Additional durability cladding may in the form of a protective bracket placed on the surface of the first wall and which may include a front lip to further shield the first wall. The protective bracket configured to receiving the fastening bolt. 
     In another embodiment, the second wall of the Z-shaped component also comprises an upper lip. The protruding upper lip extending obliquely and at an angle, preferably a right angle, to the first side of the second wall. The upper lip is set off from the free end of the first side and is co-planar to the free end of the second portion. In an embodiment in which the second wall is not oriented perpendicularly to the first wall, the upper lip will preferably be disposed parallel to the first wall, which would translate to an acute or obtuse angle with respect to the second wall. 
     In another embodiment the second wall of the Z-shaped component contains a flared section along its height. The concave section may exist throughout the length of the second wall and appear on both or one of the first and second sides of the second wall. The flared section is intended to burrow into the first end of an insulation panel adjacent to the second side and the second end of the next insulation panel that is adjacent to the first side, to induce a greater moisture seal between the adjacent components. The next insulation panel&#39;s first end will similarly be encased against a flared protrusion of the second side of the next Z-shaped component. 
     An edge component is disclosed. The edge component being in a spaced apart parallel relation to at least one Z-shaped component in the plurality of Z-shaped components deployed in parallel to each other along an existing wall. The edge component terminating a section of insulating panels. An edge component is comprised of a first wall, a second wall extending forwardly at an angle, preferably a right angle, from the first wall, and a J-shaped wall on the free end of the second wall extending in the same direction as the first wall in a parallel and spaced apart configuration with the first wall. The J-shaped wall of the edge component formed from first portion and second portion. The first portion being parallel to the first wall and configured to accept an external or cladding panel bolted to the exterior surface of the first portion. The second portion extending rearwardly from the free end of the first portion and having a free end that terminates at a distance above the first wall. The free end of the second portion on the edge component being co-planar with the free end of the second portion of a contiguous Z-shaped component. Meaning that the free ends of the second portion being at the same distance relative to the first wall of their respective first walls. The free end of either the Z-shaped component or the edge component forming and enforcing the desired air gap between the exterior surface of an insulation panel and the bottom surface of an exterior panel. 
     The J-shaped wall of the edge component forms a hollow channel that is open on one side, namely the side between the free end of the second component and the second wall. An insert forming a strength element is disclosed for the hollow channel of the edge component. This insert being interchangeable with the insert for any of the other Z-shaped components. The insert may be placed into the hollow channel by inserting it into the opening on the either side of the hollow channel or by wedging the insert into the open side of the hollow channel. 
     In another embodiment of the disclosed system of supporting wall cladding presents Z-shaped components having a plurality of openings to allow air to move freely between Z-shaped components. Preferably this means that each second wall further comprises a plurality of elongated air gaps and the second portion of the J-shaped wall also comprises air openings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the Z-shaped component. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a side elevational view of a Z-shaped component. 
         FIG. 3A-3H  demonstrating various different shapes of the second portion of the J-shaped wall of either the Z-shaped component or the Edge component. 
         FIG. 4  is another sideview of the Z-shaped component showing insulation panels installed adjacently to first and second sides of the second wall. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of the Z-shaped component shown in  FIG. 4 , which also shows the concave section along the height of the second wall. 
         FIG. 6  is the perspective view showing the second side of the Z-shaped component shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a sideways view of the Z-shaped component showing concave section and an external panel bolted to the outer surface of the first portion of the J-shaped wall. 
         FIGS. 8 and 9  demonstrated the concave section along the height of the second wall. 
         FIGS. 10 and 10A  are perspective views of the edge component, with  FIG. 10  having the flared section along the second wall. 
         FIG. 11  showing the sideways views of the Z-shaped component and Edge component. 
         FIG. 12  is a view of a plurality of Z-shaped components with insulation panels installed therebetween. 
         FIG. 13  demonstrates an alternative embodiment of Z-shaped components with an insulation panel installed therebetween and secured with intersecting rods. 
         FIG. 14  is a closer view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15  demonstrates an alternative embodiment of Z-shaped components with an insulation panel installed therebetween and secured with intersecting rods. 
         FIG. 16  is a closer view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a perpendicular view of the alternative embodiment of the Z-shaped component shown in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 18  is another perpendicular view of the alternative embodiment of the Z-shaped component shown in  FIG. 13 , shown from another angle. 
         FIGS. 19 and 20  is an embodiment of a rod for retaining insulation panels between two adjacent Z-shaped components. 
         FIGS. 20A and 21  are detailed diagrams of an alternative embodiment of the edge component having a plurality of air slots and air openings. 
         FIG. 22  is another diagram of a rod for retaining insulation panels between two adjacent Z-shaped components. 
         FIG. 23  demonstrates a combination of the Z-shaped component together with an edge component as shown in  FIG. 13 . 
         FIGS. 24 and 25  demonstrate the method of insulating and placing wall cladding on an existing wall utilizing the Z-shaped components and the edge components shown in present invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a contextual perspective of an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of the Z-shaped member showing air openings and retention openings containing a holding peg. 
         FIG. 28  shows the opposing side of the Z-shaped member shown in  FIG. 27 . 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-sectional figure of the Z-shaped member. 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective of another alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of the holding peg in context of preferred usage. 
         FIG. 32  is a contextual perspective of another alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of the device shown in  FIG. 32 . 
         FIG. 33  is a cross sectional view of the Z-shaped member shown in  FIG. 32 . 
         FIGS. 34 and 35  are views of the holding peg. 
         FIG. 36  diagrams the process of deploying clips or a rod into retaining slots that are between Z-shaped components, to secure insulation paneling. 
         FIG. 37  is a diagram of deployed clips and rods, that secure insulation paneling. 
         FIGS. 38-40  demonstrate various embodiments of the Z-shaped component having retaining slots, with the retaining slots having different shapes. 
         FIG. 41  is detailed contextual representation of usage of Z-shaped components as a method of securing insulation and as mount points for the attachment of wall paneling. 
         FIGS. 42 and 43  are contextual detailed diagram of the clip device. 
         FIGS. 44 and 45  are contextual detailed diagram of a rod device. 
         FIGS. 46 and 47  are detailed diagrams of the clip devices. 
         FIGS. 48 and 49  are detailed diagrams of the rod device. 
         FIGS. 50 and 51  is an additional contextual representation of the Z-shaped components and structures used therewith. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Identical elements in the various figures are identified with the same reference numerals. 
     Reference will now be made in detail to embodiment of the present invention. Such embodiments are provided by way of explanation of the present invention, which is not intended to be limited thereto. In fact, those of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate upon reading the present specification and viewing the present drawings that various modifications and variations can be made thereto. 
     Turning now descriptively to the drawings, shown in  FIG. 1  is one embodiment of the Z-shaped component  10 , having a first wall  20 , the second wall  30  and the J-shaped wall  34 . The first wall  20 , having the first end  22  and the second end  24 . The second wall  30  extends forwardly, at an angle, preferably a right angle, from the second end  24 , or slightly offset from the second end  24 , of the first wall  20 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the second wall  20  is set off from the second end  24 , and this set off creating a lower lip  28  that is coplanar with the rest of the first wall  20 . The set off creating the lower lip  28  is preferably uniform for the entire length  48 . 
     The free end  41  contains the J-shaped wall  34 . The J-shaped wall  34  is further comprised of the first portion  36 , which is substantially plane and in parallel orientation with the lower lip  28  of the first wall  20  but extends in the direction opposite to the first wall  20 . The first portion  36  contains an outer surface  40 , which as will be demonstrated in figures below, is configured to accept exterior wall panels  90 . The second portion  38  extends rearwardly from the free end  38   b  of the first portion  36 . Approximately halfway down along the height of the second portion  38 , the second portion  38  bends towards the fir side  33 , with the free end  39  terminating at a distance from the second side. The structure of the J-shaped wall  34  creates a hollow channel  42 , which may admit an insert  55 . 
     While only one Z-shaped component  10  is shown in  FIG. 1 , preferably a plurality of Z-shaped components  10  are fastened to the exterior surface of an existing wall, in a parallel spaced apart orientation to each other, with an insulation panel  72  ( FIG. 5 ) fitting between each two parallel Z-shaped components. The length  48  of the Z-shaped component  10  is variable and commensurate to the wall of the building or with a deployment plan of insulating panels or exterior panel. The height  53  of each Z-shaped component  10 , and in particular, the second wall  30 , in the plurality of such Z-shaped components, may be uniform or variable from one component to the next to support an uneven surface design of exterior wall panels, or wall panels of varied thickness. 
       FIG. 2  demonstrates a perspective top view of the Z-shaped component  10 . Shown in figure is the first wall  20 , the second wall  30 , the J-shaped wall  34 . The upper lip  26  juts out laterally from the first side  32 , at an angle, preferably a right angle, to the second wall  30 . The lip  24  is set off from free end  41  creating a gap  25 . The height of the gap  25  may be equal to or different from the depth of the hollow channel  42 . 
     A protective bracket  46  may be used to cover the surface of the first wall  20 . The protective bracket  46  may additionally contain a flange  48  extending rearwardly. The flange  48  being adjacent to the first end  22 . The protective bracket  46  accepts a fastener pierced therethrough and offers a stronger anchor location than the first wall  20 . The first wall  20 , as well as the overall Z-shaped component, are made from a polymeric composition which may be fibrous for strength. 
     Visible in  FIG. 2  is the removable insert  50 . The removable insert  50  is comprised of a first wall  50   a . The first wall  50   a  is adjacent to the second wall  30 . Extending laterally from the first wall  50   a  is a second wall  50   b . The second wall  50   b  being adjacent to the first portion  36  of the J-shaped wall  34 . Extending rearwardly from the second wall  50   b  is the third wall  50   c . The third wall  50   c  being adjacent to the second portion  38  and having a shape conforming to the shape of the second portion  38 . The corner  50   e  between the first and second walls  50   a  and  50   b  is adjacent to the angle formed by the second wall  30  and the J-shaped wall  34 . The corner  50   d  is adjacent to the corner formed by the first portion  36  and second portion  38 . The insert  50  may be introduced into the hollow channel  42  through the side openings  52  or through the gap between the free end  39  and the second side  33 . 
     It should be appreciated that the insert  50  need not be shaped in the fashion demonstrated in  FIG. 2  but can be shaped as a solid rod or cuboid. The insert  50  is intended additional strength to J-shaped wall  34  and serve as an anchor point for a fastener that carries the exterior wall paneling. The insert  50  need not be the same length as the hollow channel  42 . 
     The J-wall  34  enforces the first moisture gap between an insulation panel and exterior decorative panel. It should be appreciated however, that the J-wall wall  34  need assume the shape of a “J” but may be executed in a plurality of other shapes.  FIGS. 3A-3H  demonstrate some of the alternative designs for the J-wall  34 . The first portion  36  may be at a right angle with the second portion  38 , with the second portion  38  not bending laterally towards the first side  33  but remaining substantially straight until the free end  39 , as shown in  FIG. 3A , or the free end may bend laterally for form a wall  38   b  that is coplanar with the lip  24  ( FIG. 3 d   ). Alternatively, the first portion  36  may meet the second portion  38  at an acute angle  38   c  ( FIG. 3B ) or an obtuse angle ( FIG. 3 e   ). The J-shaped wall  34  may assume a substantially trapezoidal shape ( FIG. 3C ), with the first wall  35  bending slightly laterally, and meeting the first portion  36  at an obtuse angle, with the first portion  36  connecting to the second portion at an obtuse angle and to wall  38   b  at an acute angle, with the wall  38   b  being co-planar with the upper lip  26 . The second portion  38  may be extend rearwardly from the free end of the first portion  36  but set off at a distance from the free end, creating an overhanging extension  38   f  ( FIG. 3F ). 
     As shown in  FIG. 3G , the second portion  38  may be replaced by the removable insert  50 . The third wall  50   c  of the insert  50  fulfilling the function of the second portion  38 . The free end  39 , of the insert  50  now enforcing the thickness of the first moisture gap  79  ( FIG. 11 ). The second wall  30  may be at an angle  25   a  to the first wall  20 , that is more of an obtuse angle. The same obtuse angle  25   b  would then preferably be present at free end  41  of the second wall  30  if it is desirable that the first portion  36  remain parallel to the plane of the first wall  20 . The upper lip  26  would preferably remain parallel to the plane of the first wall  20 , creating an acute angle  26   a.    
       FIG. 4  demonstrates the Z-shaped component  10  mounted onto an existing wall  60  with a fastener  64 . The fastener  64  is shown perforating the protective bracket  46  and the first wall  20 . In this respect the protective bracket  46  functions as a washer and anchor point to ensure that the first wall  20  does not fracture under the strain of the fastener  64 . The insert  50  and the protective bracket  46  permit the Z-shaped component to be manufactured out of polymers or other composite materials to minimize cost of manufacturing or weight of the overall construction, with insert  50  and the protective bracket  46  adding strength to the arrangement. 
     The first end  74  of each insulation panel  70  is adjacent to the second side  33  of the second wall  30  and the first end  76  is adjacent to the second side  32 . Each insulation panel  70  is secured in place along its top surface  72  by the lip  25  of one Z-shaped component  10  and the free end  39  of the next Z-shaped component  10 . The space  79  then represents the first moisture gap. 
     The bottom surface  78  of each insulation panel  70  rests on the lip  24  of the first wall  20  of one Z-shaped component  10  and the first wall  20  of an adjacent Z-shaped component  10 . The thickness of the first wall  20  creates the second moisture gap  62  between an existing wall  60  and each insulation panel  70 . 
       FIG. 5  demonstrates the general deployment of Z-shaped component  10  that is shown between two insulation panels  70 . The insulation panels  70  are shown contained between the upper lip  26  and J-wall  34  and the lower lip  28  and first wall  20 .  FIGS. 5 and 6  demonstrate and embodiment featuring a concave section  80  along the height of the second wall  30 . The concave section  80  may contain a flared section on at least one side of the second wall  30  and is intended to immobilize and seal the point of contact between the second wall  30  and the first and second ends  76  and  74  of the insulating panels  70 . 
       FIG. 7  demonstrates the full deployment of one of a plurality of Z-shaped components  10 . The first wall  20  is shown attached to the existing wall  60  with a fastener  64 . Extending forwardly at an angle, preferably a right angle, from the first wall  20  is the second wall  30 . The second wall  30  is in joined communication with first and second ends  76  and  74  of the insulating panels  70 , which are further immobilized by the flared section  80 . An upper lip  26  captures the top surface  72  of one of the insulation panels. The set off  25  of the upper lip  26  from the free end  41  of the second wall enforces along the first side  32  the required first moisture gap  79 , otherwise known as thermal gap. The wall panel  90  representing an external or cladding paneling  90  is fastened to the outer surface  40  of the J-wall  34 . The free end  39  of the J-wall  34  enforces the air or moisture gap  79  along the second side  33  of the Z-shaped component  10 . The insert  50 , if deployed within the hollow channel  42  and is also used as the anchor point for the fastener  92 . The preferred thickness of the moisture gap  79  may be preferably between 1.5 and 2.5 centimeters. 
       FIGS. 8 and 9  further demonstrate the flared section  80  shown here to be disposed along the entire length of the second wall  30  and on both sides thereof. Alternatively, the flared section  80  may be placed in one or several locations along the length  48  or on only one of the two sides of the second wall  30 . There may be a flared section  80   a  and  80   b  on either side of the second wall  80  or just on one of the sides. 
       FIG. 10  demonstrates an edge component  110 . Shown is the first wall  120 , having a first end  122  and a second end  124 . The first wall  120  being parallel with an existing wall  60  ( FIG. 11 ) and being fastened thereon. Extending forwardly at an angle, preferably a right angle, from the free end, otherwise known as the second end  124 , is the second wall  130 . Extending from the free end  141  of the second wall  130  is the J-wall  134 . The first portion of the J-wall  136  extends in the same direction, and in a parallel orientation as the first wall  120 . The second portion  138  extends downward from the free end of the first portion  136 , with the free end  139  bending toward the second wall  130  and stopping at a distance therefrom, thus creating a gap  143 . The curvature of the J-wall  134  forming a hollow channel  142 . 
     The insert  150  is preferably present and is removably inserted into the hollow channel  142  either through the side opening  132  or through the gap  143 . The insert  150  having the first wall  150   a , shown substantially as a stub wall adjacent to the second wall  130 . Extending laterally at an angle, preferably a right angle, from the first wall  150   a , is the second wall  150   b  that is adjacent with and parallel to the first portion  136 . Extending downwardly from the free end of the second wall  150   b  is the third wall  150   c , which in this embodiment is adopted to mirror the curvature of the second portion  138 . It should be appreciated that the walls  150   a - 150   c  may be shaped differently and not be completely or actually adjacent to the outer walls forming the hollow channel  142 . It should alto be appreciated that the insert  150  may be a solid rod or cuboid or extending part of the way within the length of the hollow channel  142 . It should further be appreciated that  FIGS. 3A-3E  depicting various shapes of the J-wall  134  of the Z-shaped component  10  may be implemented with the Edge component  100  with equal effectiveness. The embodiment shown in  FIG. 10  demonstrates the protective bracket  146 , further having the flange  148 . 
       FIG. 11  demonstrates the implementation of the edge component  110  along with the Z-component  10 . The edge component  100  is deployed along an existing wall  60  in a parallel, spaced apart configuration with one of a plurality of the Z-shaped components  10 . An insulation board is retained between the edge component  100  and the adjacent Z-shaped component  10 . Where the first end  76  is adjacent to the second wall  30  and the second end  74  is adjacent to the second wall  130 . The embodiment shown further comprises flared section  80  on the second wall and the flared section  180  on the second wall  130 . However, as shown in  FIG. 10A , the second wall  130  need not include the flared section  180 . Either or both the Z-shaped component  10  or the edge component  100  may be deployed with the second wall thereof not featuring a flared section. 
     It is preferred that the free end  39  of the Z-shaped component  10 , the free end  139  of the Z-shaped component  100  and the upper lip of the Z-shaped component  10  are coplanar, to enforce a uniform, or minimum, moisture or thermal gap  79  between the top surface of the insulation panel and the exterior or cladding paneling  90 . The exterior panel  90  is fastened to the J-wall  34  and the J-wall  134 . The second moisture gap  62  is enforced by the first wall  20  and the first wall  120  of the Z-shaped component  10  and the edge component  100 , respectively. 
       FIG. 12  demonstrates the plurality Z-shaped components  10 , deployed in a parallel and spaced apart configuration along an existing wall  60 . The plurality of insulation panels  70 , with each panel retained within the space between two adjacent Z-shaped components  10 , or adjacent Z-shaped component and an Edge component. A plurality of exterior wall panels  90  fastened to the J-walls  34  of the Z-shaped components  10  or/and the edge components. The J-wall  34  is shown creating the first moisture gap  79 , and the first wall  20  is shown creating the second moisture gap  62 . 
       FIG. 13  demonstrates an alternative embodiment of the system of securing insulation panels using the Z-shaped component  10 . Each Z-shaped component  10  shown contains a plurality of elongated air slots  160 . The elongated slots  160  are in a parallel and spaced apart relation to each other. At least one intersecting slot  162  intersects each of the elongated slots  160 . The intersecting slot  160  is configured to admit the base wall  182  of the rod  180  inserted therethrough. The rod  180  spans the distance between two adjacent Z-shaped components  10  and is used to lock the insulation panel in place with respect to the wall  60  and the first moisture gap  79 . One rod  180  may intersect two or more adjacent Z-shaped components in a series of adjacently placed Z-shaped components  10  or a separate rod  180  may span each distance between any two Z-shaped components  10 . 
     The embodiment shown in  FIG. 13  is demonstrated in  FIG. 14  in greater detail. Shown is a Z-shaped component  10 , having a first wall  20 , a second wall  30  and a rearwardly extending wall  40   a . The rearwardly extending wall  40   a  has been previously referred to as the J-shaped wall. The shape and structure of the rearwardly extending wall  40   a  may vary, as provided in previous drawings. Also shown in  FIG. 14  is a plurality of elongated air gaps  160  disposed at intervals throughout the third wall  30 . The elongated air gaps  160  are shown to be perpendicular to the axis of the first wall  20  but may be offset at an angle thereto. Each elongated air gap  160  having an A end  164  oriented proximally or near to the free end  38   a  of the second wall  30 , and a B end  166 , oriented proximally, or near, to the first wall  20 . An intersecting slot  162  intersecting the elongated air gap  160  at a distance from the A end. As shown in  FIG. 14 , it is preferred that all intersecting slots  162  are located at the same level and parallel with each other. Additional intersecting slots may be made along the length of the elongated air gap  160  (not shown) to accommodate thinner insulation panels  70 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 14 , shown is the rod  180 . The rod  180  preferably has at least one second wall  184  extending at angle, preferably a right angle, from the base wall  182 . The first end  186  of the base wall  182  is inserted into one of the intersecting slots  162  and the second end  187  is inserted beneath the free end  41  of an adjacent Z-shaped component or continues through to the intersecting slot  162   a  of the adjacent Z-shaped component. The second wall  184  abuts the second wall  30  of one Z-shaped component  10  and the second portion  38  of the rearwardly extending wall  40   a  of the adjacent Z-shaped component  10  to maintain a certain degree of insertion of first and second points  186  and  187 , respectively, with respect to the slots  162  and  162   a . Appreciably there may be a separate rod inserted into each intersecting slot  160  and a corresponding slot  162   a . Or there may be fewer rods  180  than the number of elongated slots  160 . 
       FIGS. 15 and 16  demonstrate how the width of the gap  79  can be regulated using the rod  180 . In  FIG. 14 , the second wall  184  was shown pointing away from the top surface  72 , therefore, the first air gap  79  was the distance between the free end  41  and the wall panel  90  ( FIG. 11 ). In  FIGS. 15 and 16 , the second wall  184  is pointing toward the top surface  72  of the insulation panel  70 . Thus, the first air gap  79  has increased to account for the width of the wall  184 . 
       FIGS. 17 and 18  demonstrate the alternative embodiments of the Z-shaped component  10  featuring a plurality of parallel elongated air gaps  160 . The function of the air  160  is to permit a constant flow of air flowing through the Z-shaped components. This air flow provides the necessary ventilation to keep insulation panels  70  dry and free of mold and other harmful buildup that would otherwise result from ever-present moisture. Working together and in concert with the elongated air gaps  160  is a plurality of air openings  190  made through the second portion  38  of the J-shaped wall  40 . The air openings  190  are designed to let air through even though the rest of the length of the second wall  30  may be blocked due to the presence of the insulation panel  70 . The air openings  190  are preferably co-axial to or being in line and parallel with the elongated air gaps  160  but may be offset in other embodiments. 
       FIGS. 19 and 20  demonstrate the rod  180 . Shown is the base wall  182 , at least one second wall  184 , a first end  186  and a second end  187 . The width  185  of the second wall  184  may vary based on preference, the thickness of the insulation panel used or the air gap desired, with the greater width  185  resulting in a greater air gap if the second wall  184  is pointed toward the top surface  72  of a panel  70 . The shape of the second wall  184  may be rounded. The second walls  184  is shown to extend perpendicularly from free sides of the base wall  182 . Alternatively, the angle of the second wall  184  with respect to the base wall  182  may be different and the second wall  184  may be disposed towards the middle of the base wall  182 , or not be presented as a solid wall, but a series of protrusions. 
       FIG. 20  demonstrates the edge component having a slightly different embodiment than shown in prior figures. Shown is the edge component  110  having a first wall  120 , a second wall  130  and a forwardly extending wall  140   a . The forwardly extending wall  140   a  is comprised of a first portion  136 , which originates from at an angle, preferably a right angle, from a free end  141  of the second wall  130 . The first portion is parallel to and spaced apart from the first wall  120 . The second portion  138  extends downward and toward the first wall  120  and is in a parallel spaced apart arrangement with the second wall  130 . The free end  139  is the most distal end of the second portion  138  and preferably is coaxial (or on the same level) as a free end  39  of a Z-shaped component  10  that is mounted adjacently to the edge component  110 . 
     There is a plurality of elongated air gaps  160  shown running across the second wall  130 , with the A end  164  being adjacently located to the forwardly extending wall  140   a  and the B end being adjacently located to the first wall  120 . At least one intersecting slot  162  intersects each one of the elongated air gaps  160  preferably perpendicularly. There may be additional intersecting slots  162  on each of the air gaps  160 .  FIG. 21  shows a plurality of air openings  190  along the second portion  138  above the free end  139 . 
       FIGS. 22 and 23  demonstrate how the edge component  110  works in concert with a Z-shaped component  10 . The edge component  110  is deployed along an edge of an existing wall  60  or at an end of a section of wall cladding, where one section of a wall cladding  90  ( FIG. 12 ) must be interrupted. 
     As shown in  FIG. 22 . The first end  186  of the rod  180  is mounted within one of the intersecting slots  162  of the edge component  110  and the second  187  is mounted in the intersecting slot  162  of the nearest adjacent Z-shaped component  10 . The width  189  and the orientation of the second wall  184  of the rod  180  determines the width of the air gap  79 . Thus in  FIG. 22 , the second wall is pointing towards and abuts against the top surface  72  of the insulation panel  70 . This configuration is required to widen the air gap  79 , or when using a thinner insulation panel  70 . If the rod  180  is used to secure a section of the insulation panel  70  a configuration shown in  FIG. 23  is utilized. Here the second wall  184  of the rod  180  points away from the top surface  180  and the thickness of the air gap  79  is counted from the free end  39  or  139  of the Z-shaped component  10  or the edge component  110 , respectively, or from the desired level of intersecting slots  162 . While the air gaps  160  are shown to be elongated, these may be formed in any shape, such as plurality of round openings, or more elliptical openings, or gaps that run across the second wall  30  or  130 , and in parallel with the second wall  20  or  120 . 
       FIGS. 24 and 25  demonstrates the method of installing wall cladding over an existing wall. The method is preferably utilized along an exterior façade of a building but may be utilized for the interior as well. Shown in  FIGS. 24 and 25  are steps of mounting insulation panels unto an existing wall comprising the step of installing at least two Z-shaped components onto an existing wall  310 . Followed by the step of inserting at least one insulation panel between the Z-shaped components  320 . Steps  310  and  320 , result locking the mounted insulation panel into place between a second walls of adjacent Z-shaped components, whether two components or a series of Z-shaped components. Steps  310  and  320  work in concert with the step  330  of configuring air circulation by having air gaps within Z-shaped components, and the step  350  of installing wall panels onto the Z-shaped components. 
     The disclosed method further augmented with the step  340  of placing at least one rod through an intersecting slot in one of Z-shaped components, where the rod spans the distance between the two adjacent Z-shaped components or a series of adjacently placed Z-shaped components, and further comprised of the step of utilizing the Z-shape components in combination with clips and/or rods to maintain an air gap between insulation paneling and exterior wall panels  347 . 
       FIG. 26  discloses an additional alternative embodiment demonstrating an alternative to the rod  180 . Shown is a holding peg  240  that is configured to keep a section of an insulation panel  70 . At least one holding peg is inserted into retaining slots  220 . Retaining slots  220   a  are all on the same level and are preferably just above the top surface  72  of the insulation panel  70 , such that when a plurality of holding pegs are placed within the plurality of retaining slots  220 , in a one to one relationship, the holding peg  240  will adjacent to the top surface  72  and retaining the section of the insulation panel  70  securely in place. Just above the coaxial retaining slots  220   a  is a plurality of second air openings  202  which are located substantially near the free end  31  of the second wall  30 . The plurality of second air openings  202  are shown disposed across the entire width in a single row. Alternatively, or as required, the second air openings  202  may be disposed sporadically cross some portions of the second wall  30  or in multiple rows. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 26  is a rearwardly extending wall  40   a , which in  FIG. 26  is shown substantially assuming a “J” shape, comprising the first portion  36  and the second portion  38 , with the free end  39  enforcing the first air gap  79 . The second moisture gap  62  is an air gap that is enforced by the first wall  20  and lower lip  28  which support ends of sections of insulating panels  70 . 
       FIGS. 27 and 28  demonstrate the embodiment of the Z-shaped component  10  shown in  FIG. 26 . Shown disposed substantially across the width of the second wall is a plurality of second air openings  202 . At least an additional plurality of air openings may be disposed at another area of the second wall  30 . In  FIG. 27 , the additional plurality of air openings is the plurality of the third air openings  206  which are disposed in proximity to the first wall  20 , or on the other side, in proximity to the lower lip  28 . The plurality of third openings  206  is shown to be comprised of openings that are substantially larger then and more sparsely positioned than the plurality of second air openings  202 . Alternatively, the second and third pluralities of air openings may be of equal or variably size, shape, and concentration. 
     Clearly demonstrated along fits.  27  and  28  are a plurality of retaining slots  220 , which are grouped into stratified groups of coaxial retaining slots  220   a ,  220   b ,  220   c  and further levels, as necessary. Each strata of retailing slots  220  retains below it an insulating panel  70  of a particular thickness. 
     As shown in  FIG. 28 , the second or third plurality of air openings  202  or  206 , respectively of the second wall  20  work in concert with air openings  190  disposed as plurality across the second portion  38  of the rearwardly extending wall  40   a.    
       FIGS. 27 and 28  demonstrates the operational function of the holding peg  240 . The first portion  246  is inserted into and through one of the retaining slots  220 , until it juts out substantially on the other side of the second wall  30 . The second portion  242  remains jutting out on the first side of the second wall  30  and is prevented from being inserted further by the lip  244 . It is preferable that the first portion  246  fits snugly within an opening  220  and is not easily dislodged therefrom. Appreciably, when no holding peg  240  encumbers an opening  220 , the free opening(s)  220  serve as another set of moisture wicking and ventilating openings. 
     The Z-shaped components shown in  FIGS. 27 and 28  are intended to be used together with similarly airflow enabled components positioned adjacently, parallelly and in a spaced apart configuration from each other in a group featuring a plurality of parallel Z-shaped components. However, it is possible that ventilated Z-shaped components  10  may be used with non-ventilated Z-shaped components, or components ventilated in a differing configuration. Further, it should be appreciated that the second portion  242  retains an end of one insulating panel  70 , while the first portion  246  retains an end of another insulating panel  70 . 
     Shown in  FIG. 29  is a cross sectional view of the Z-shaped component  10  showing the first wall  20 , the lower lip  28 , the second wall  30  and the rearwardly extending wall  40 , comprised of the first portion  36  and the second portion  38  and having the free end  39 . 
       FIG. 30  demonstrates yet another variation of the Z-shaped component  10  featuring a plurality of air openings.  FIG. 30  demonstrates the use of multiple adjacent rows or groupings of first plurality of second openings  202  disposed in the area  30   c . At the same time, the area  30   d  is shown not having any air openings, with heavier concentration of air openings in another area, namely, the area  30   c , intended to compensate for lack of air openings in another area. 
       FIG. 31  contextually demonstrates yet another embodiment of the present invention. Shown is the holding peg  240  that is placed within openings  220  that are located adjacently to, but just below the rearwardly extending wall  40   a . The rearwardly extending wall  40   a  shown in this embodiment features no second portion  38  as in other figures, with the first air gap  79  being provided by the thickness of the holding peg  240 . While openings  220  are shown to be adjacent to the rearwardly extending wall  40 , the embodiment shown may utilize thinner insulation panels  70 , with retaining openings  220  positioned accordingly just above such panels  70 . 
       FIG. 32  demonstrates that the embodiment shown in  FIG. 31  has no other ventilating gaps than the retaining gaps  220 . Alternatively, additional gaps may be disposed on the surface of the second wall  30 . Shown on the first wall  20  are openings  23 , that may be used for fastening means for attaching the Z-shaped component to a wall, or for additional ventilation capability. 
       FIG. 33  is a cross-sectional drawing of the embodiment of the Z-shaped component  10  shown in  FIG. 32 . Shown is the first wall  20 , the lower lip  28  co-planar with the first wall  20 . A second wall extending upwardly from the first wall  20  at an angle, preferably a right angle, to the first wall  20 . A rearwardly extending wall  40   a , connecting at an angle, preferably a right angle, at the free end  31 . The rearwardly extending wall  40   a  comprised of the first section  39  and terminating in a free end  39 . 
       FIGS. 34 and 35  illustrate the features of the holding peg  240 . Shown are the first portion  246 , the second portion  242 . The first and second portions co-extensive or unitary with each other and interrupted with a lip  244 . A tapered portion  248  assists with the placement of the holding peg  240  within a retaining gap  220 . The bottom surface  249  is shown to be uniform. Alternatively, the bottom surface  249  may instead have the lip  244  or contain a lip in addition to the lip  244 . Appreciably, the retaining slots  220  are configured to retain distal ends of a rod  180  and intersecting slots  162  may accommodate the holding pegs  240 . 
     The height  53  of the second wall  30  ( FIG. 37 ) is made in accordance with the intended insulation paneling  70  and is preferably slightly longer than the thickness  53   a  of an insulation panel  70 , to enforce the presence of the first air gap  79 . The adjacent Z-shaped members  10   a  and  10   b  shown in  FIG. 36  are in a parallel and spaced apart configuration with each other, capable of having one of a plurality of insulation panels installed in the space between the parallel Z-shaped members  10   a  and  10   b . Additional of the plurality of the insulation panels  70  are mounted in spaces  30   a  and  30   b , and span the distance to additional adjacent Z-shaped members (not shown) or edge components (see  110  in  FIG. 10 ). 
     Also shown in  FIGS. 36 and 37  is a plurality of retaining slots  220 . The retaining slots  220  are preferably coaxial and arranged in rows, such as a coaxial first row  220   a  and coaxial second row  220   b . Each of the retaining slots  220  is configured to accept and hold, in a removable, but substantially snug association, the first portion  246  of a holding peg  240  ( FIG. 35 ), or as disclosed in  FIGS. 36 and 37 , the first end  410  of the clip  400  or the first or second ends  460  or  470 , respectively, of the rod  450 . Each of the insulation panels  70  rests on the lower lip  24  of one adjacent Z-shaped member  10   a  and the first wall  20  of the opposing adjacent Z-member  10   b , thus preserving the second air gap  62 , and beneath the pegs  240 , clips  400 , rods  180  ( FIG. 13 ) or rods  450  (alternative embodiment). 
       FIG. 38  is a detailed diagram of the Z-component embodiment shown in  FIG. 36 . The Z-component  10  having a first wall  20  that is mounted against an existing wall  60 , which may be a waterproof membrane or exterior sheeting. A second wall  30  extending outwardly at an angle from the second end, preferably a right angle, said second wall having first side  32  and a second side  33 . A lower lip  24  extending from the second end of the first wall  20  and is coplanar with the first wall  20 . A rearwardly extending wall  40   a  extending from the free end  31 . The rearwardly extending wall  40   a  extending in a co-axial but opposite direction from the first wall  20 . The rearwardly extending wall  40   a  may be parallel to the first wall  20  or at an acute or at obtuse angle thereto. The end of the rearwardly extending wall  40   a  forming a free end  39 . The height  53  of the second wall  30  may vary depending on the desired thickness of insulation  70 . The plurality of retaining slots  220  may be placed anywhere in the area of the second wall  30 , but preferably placed in rows of retaining slots such as first row  220   a  and second row  220   b  and so forth. 
     The retaining slots  220  may be in any shape. For example, elongated and elliptical  220   e  ( FIG. 38 ), these may also be rectangular or parallelogrammical. Retaining slots  220  may be circular  220   f  ( FIG. 39 ) or triangular  220   g  ( FIG. 40 ), or any combination of shapes. It should be noted that any retaining slot  220  that is unobstructed by an insulation panel  70  or not holding a peg  240 , clip  400  or rod  180  or  450 , functions as an opening for air and moisture circulation, which promotes drying in the event of moisture penetration and thus resists buildup of mold and mildew. 
       FIG. 41  demonstrates a contextual assembly that utilizes the Z-shaped components  10  to house exterior insulation, promote air gaps and as mount points for exterior wall paneling. Shown is the existing wall  60 , which may be concrete, brick or composite wood or synthetic wall sheeting. A plurality of parallel and spaced apart studs  60   b  are mounted onto the wall sheeting  60 . An additional layer of paneling  60   c  is then attached to the studs  60   b , after the spaces  60   a  are filled with soft or sprayed insulation. A waterproof membrane  60   d  is spread on the exterior of the additional paneling  60   c . The Z-shaped components  10  are then fastened onto the waterproof paneling  40 . The Z-shaped components  10  are preferably molded of thermally exclusionary and insulating materials and thereby complement the waterproofing of the membrane  60   d . Furthermore, the completely flush and snug coupling between the membrane surface  60   d  and the first wall  20  of the Z-shaped components  10  forms a watertight seal that compensates for the perforation of the membrane surface  60   d  during installation of the Z-shaped components  10 . The plurality of clips  400  and/or plurality of rods  450  secure rigid, soft or semi-rigid insulation paneling  70  that is then installed between each of the adjacent Z-shaped components  10  (or in some cases, between the Z-shaped components  10  and adjacent edge components  110 ). The protruding wall  430  of the clips  400  or the protruding wall  480  of the rods  450  enforces the first air gap  79  between the top surface  72  of the panels  70  and the wall paneling  90  ( FIG. 7 ), which are mounted onto the rearwardly extending walls  40   a . It should be noted that the layout of components diagramed in  FIG. 41  may represent the Z-shaped components  10  that are on the exterior of a wall, or alternatively, on the interior of a wall, with rearwardly extending wall  40  a mounting interior wall panels, such as plywood or composite panels or sheetrock. 
     The clip  400  shown in  FIG. 42  is comprised of the first portion  410  and a second portion  420 . The second portion  420 . The first portion  410  configured to be lodged into a retaining slot  220 . The second portion is comprised of a protruding wall  430  extending from the first side  422  of the second portion  420 . The extension of the protruding wall  430  is preferably equal to the minimum width of the first air gap  79 . While one protruding wall  430  is shown disposed substantially lengthwise along the middle of the second portion  420 , additional protruding walls  430  may be used, and may further be disposed closer to the edges of the second portion  420 . The proximal end  430   a  abuts the first side  32  of the second wall  30  and prevents the clip  400  from sinking further then the optimal level of insertion, as shown in  FIG. 43 . The first portion  410  may contain a tapered section  415  and is configured to be in a substantially snug association with the retaining slots  220 . Just like the peg  240  ( FIG. 35 ), the clip  400  may be used to look rigid insulation panels  70  in to place. 
       FIGS. 44 and 45  demonstrate a rod  450  having a second portion  482  that spans the distance between two parallel and adjacent Z-shaped members  10 . Each rod is comprised of a second portion  482  and at least one first portion  460  configured on each of the distal ends of the rod  450 . The protruding wall  480  extends from the first side  452  of the rod  450 . The protruding wall preferably runs throughout the length of the second portion  482  or may instead run-in segments with gaps in between each segment. The protruding wall  480  is shown to be substantially extending from the middle of the first side  452  but may also be disposed closer to the edges as shown in  FIG. 20 . The proximal end  430   a  terminates the protruding wall  480  and marks the optimal insertion point of the first end  460 . The proximal end  430   a  abuts the first side  32 . The rod  450  is optimally suited to secure semi-rigid or flexible insulation paneling  70 , and may be used in conjunction with or as a replacement for the clips  400  or the holding pegs  240 .  FIGS. 46 and 47  demonstrates the detailed features of the clip  400 . The clip  400  is comprised of a first portion  410 , the second portion  420 , the first side  422  and the second side  433 . At least one protruding wall  430  extends from the proximal end  430   a  until the distal end  430   b . The first portion  410  may further comprise a tapered section  415 , with the slope of the taper originating from the second side  433 , which is the side that is adjacent to the top surface  72  of insulation paneling  70 . The tapered section enables an installer to introduce the clip  400  at a slight angle away from the surface of insulation paneling  70 , so as to permit a more comfortable and secure grip of the device, and then work the clip  400  into the retaining slot  220 . Both the clip  400  and the rod  450  are preferably made from composite and/or thermally insulating materials. 
       FIGS. 48 and 49  demonstrate the rod  450 , which is an alternative embodiment to the rod  180  shown in  FIG. 20 . The rod  450  is comprised of an elongated section portion  482  and preferably two first portion  460  and  470  on each end of the elongated second portion  482 . The first surface  452  along the second portion  482  further comprises at least one protruding wall  480  that is shown to be disposed along the length of the second portion  482 . The protruding wall terminates at points  450   a  and  450   b , which mark the optimal insertion points of the first portions  460  and  470 . At least one of the first portions  460  may further comprise a tapered surface  465 , where the slope of the taper begins on the second side  453  to enable an angled introduction of the rod  450  during installation into a retaining slot  200 . 
       FIGS. 50 and 51  are contextual diagrams demonstrating the deployment of the Z-shaped component  10  along the wall paneling  60   c . As shown, the Z-shaped components  10  may be deployed coaxially with the wall studs  60   b  or at an angle thereto, such as at a right angle, as shown in  FIG. 50 . The insulation panels may be retained between adjacent and parallel Z-shaped components  10  or between the Z-shaped component  10  and an adjacent edge component  110 . 
     The Z-shaped component  10  and the edge component  110  are fastened to the wall sheeting  60   c  with fasteners  64 . However, no further perforations of the waterproofing membrane  60   d  is required to secure the paneling  70  as these can be secured using holding pegs  240  inserted into the retaining slots  220 . 
     Although this invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of illustration and that numerous changes in the details of construction and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention.