Patent Abstract:
A system for installing lap siding includes a stationary installation tool used in conjunction with a moveable installation tool to enable a single worker to efficiently and consistently achieve a high quality installation with parallel planks and a uniform exposure. The stationary installation tool features a planar face, a first stationary edge support, a second stationary edge support and an attachment component such as an aperture for receiving a nail or screw. The first stationary edge support and second stationary edge support define a determined overlap or exposure. The moveable installation tool has a planar face, a first moveable edge support and a second moveable edge support. The first moveable edge support and second moveable edge support are configured to define a determined overlap or exposure consistent with that defined by the first stationary edge support and second stationary edge support.

Full Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    This invention generally relates to exterior siding, and, more particularly, to a system comprised of a pair of tools to facilitate installation of lap siding, particularly fiber cement siding. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Nothing impacts the appearance of a home more dramatically than exterior siding. Siding options include wood clapboard comprised of solid wood, usually cedar, pine, spruce, redwood, cypress, or douglas fir; fiber cement best known by the brand names HardiPlank® and HardiPanel®; engineered wood or composite wood made with wood products and other materials, steel, aluminum and vinyl. 
         [0003]    Fiber cement siding is typically made from Portland cement mixed with ground sand, cellulose fiber, and other additives. It can resemble stucco, wood clapboards, or cedar shingles, depending on how the panels are textured. It is more durable than wood or stucco, and is also fire resistant. Although more expensive than vinyl, fiber cement siding is considerably less expensive than wood. It has become popular because it requires little maintenance and can have a natural, wood-like appearance. It is well known by the brand names HardiPlank® and HardiPanel® for fiber cement siding manufactured by James Hardie Building Products. 
         [0004]    Fiber cement siding, such as Hardiplank® siding, is typically about 5/16″ thick and 12′ long, and comes in heights ranging from about 5¼″ to 12″, and weighing about 2.3 lbs/sq.ft, i.e., about 12 to 28 pounds per plank. During installation each row (i.e., course) of lap siding overlaps the row below it by about 1¼″. A starter row called a lath strip is used below the first course of siding to ensure a consistent plank angle. The distance between the bottoms of adjacent planks is called the exposure or reveal. A high quality installation features parallel planks and a consistent exposure all over the house. Corrosion resistant screws or nails (galvanized or stainless steel) are typically used to secure the siding to the side of the house. 
         [0005]    Despite the many advantages of siding, such as fiber cement siding, it has drawbacks. Installation is laborious and susceptible to error. Typically, at least two workers are required to properly install fiber cement siding because the planks are long, heavy and must be properly located and aligned. A sole worker cannot hold a plank in a correct position while measuring and/or fastening it to a house. Even with two workers attending to installation, slight yet noticeable deviations from the desired exposure or parallel are common. 
         [0006]    As a consequence of the foregoing, there exists a longstanding need for a new and improved system and method for installing siding. The system should be easy to apply to and remove from siding. It should work with flexible (e.g., vinyl) and rigid (e.g., fiber cement), lightweight and heavy siding. It should facilitate high quality installation by a single worker. 
         [0007]    The invention is directed to overcoming one or more of the problems and fulfilling one or more of the needs as set forth above. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    To overcome one or more of the problems and fulfill one or more of the needs as set forth above, in one aspect of an exemplary embodiment of the invention a system for installing lap siding is provided. The system includes a stationary installation tool used in conjunction with a moveable installation tool to enable a single worker to efficiently and consistently achieve a high quality installation with parallel planks and a uniform exposure. The stationary installation tool features a planar face, a first stationary edge support, a second stationary edge support and an attachment component such as an aperture for receiving a nail or screw. The first stationary edge support and second stationary edge support define a determined overlap or exposure. The moveable installation tool has a planar face, a first moveable edge support and a second moveable edge support. The first moveable edge support and second moveable edge support are configured to define a determined overlap or exposure consistent with that defined by the first stationary edge support and second stationary edge support. 
         [0009]    In one aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, a system for installing siding is provided. The system includes a stationary installation tool and a moveable installation tool. The stationary installation tool includes a planar face having a front surface and a back surface, a first stationary edge support, a second stationary edge support and an attachment means. The first stationary edge support and said second stationary edge support define a determined overlap or exposure. The moveable installation tool includes a planar face, a first moveable edge support, and a second moveable edge support. The first moveable edge support and second moveable edge support are configured to define a determined overlap or exposure. 
         [0010]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the first stationary edge support is adapted to support a portion of a bottom edge of a plank of siding to be installed, while the second stationary edge support is adapted to abut a portion of a top edge of a plank of siding that has been installed. 
         [0011]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the first stationary edge support and said second stationary edge support are parallel. 
         [0012]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the attachment means is an aperture configured for receiving a mechanical attachment, such as a nail, screw or staple, to secure the stationary installation tool to a wall on which siding is being installed. 
         [0013]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the distance from the aperture to the first stationary edge support is greater than the height of a plank of siding to be installed. 
         [0014]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the distance from the first stationary edge support to the second stationary edge support is less than the height of a plank of siding to be installed. 
         [0015]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the first stationary edge support protrudes from the front surface of the planar face of the stationary installation tool, while the second stationary edge support protrudes from the back surface of the planar face of the stationary installation tool. 
         [0016]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the first moveable edge support is adapted to support a portion of a bottom edge of a plank of siding to be installed while the second moveable edge support is adapted to abut a portion of a top edge of a plank of siding that has been installed. 
         [0017]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the first moveable edge support and said second moveable edge support are parallel. 
         [0018]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the distance from said first moveable edge support to said second moveable edge support is less than the height of a plank of siding to be installed. 
         [0019]    In another aspect of an exemplary implementation of the invention, the first moveable edge support protrudes from the front surface of the planar face of the moveable installation tool, while the second moveable edge support protrudes from the front surface of the planar face of the moveable installation tool. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0020]    The foregoing and other aspects, objects, features and advantages of the invention will become better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings, where: 
           [0021]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary stationary installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0022]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of an exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0023]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of another exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0024]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of yet another exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0025]      FIG. 5  is a side section view of an exemplary stationary installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0026]      FIG. 6  is a side section view of an exemplary moveable installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0027]      FIG. 7  is a side section view of another exemplary moveable installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0028]      FIG. 8  is a side section view of another exemplary moveable installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0029]      FIG. 9  is a side section view of another exemplary moveable installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0030]      FIG. 10  is a side section view of another exemplary moveable installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0031]      FIG. 11  is a side section view of another exemplary moveable installation tool and planks being installed according to principles of the invention; 
           [0032]      FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of a preferred exemplary stationary installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0033]      FIG. 13  is a back perspective view of a preferred exemplary stationary installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0034]      FIGS. 14A ,  14 B and  14 C are a dimensioned front side and back plan views of a preferred exemplary stationary installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0035]      FIGS. 15A through 15E  are a dimensioned section views of a preferred exemplary stationary installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0036]      FIG. 16  is a front perspective view of a preferred exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0037]      FIG. 17  is a back perspective view of a preferred exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0038]      FIGS. 18A ,  18 B and  18 C are a dimensioned top, front and side plan views of a preferred exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention; 
           [0039]      FIGS. 19A through 19F  are a dimensioned section views of a preferred exemplary moveable installation tool according to principles of the invention. 
       
    
    
       [0040]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the figures are not intended to be limited to the shapes, sizes and/or proportions shown in the figures. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0041]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , a perspective view of an exemplary stationary installation tool  100  according to principles of the invention is shown. In general, the exemplary stationary installation tool  100  is comprised of a planar face  105 , a top edge support  115  and a bottom edge support  110 . The top edge support  115  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  105  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  100  and projects from the top edge of the planar face  105 . The bottom edge support  110  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  105  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  100  and is parallel to the top edge support  115 . An aperture  120  is provided for receiving a nail or screw to secure the tool  100  to a plank, or (as described below) to a wall. 
         [0042]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an exemplary stationary installation tool  100  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 1 , is sized to function with planks. The bottom side of the top edge support  115  is adapted to rest on the top edge of an installed plank, while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank rests on the top side of the bottom edge support  110 . Thus, the distance h between the bottom side of the top edge support  115  and the top side of the bottom edge support  110  defines the overlap. Illustratively, if each course of siding overlaps the row below it by about 1¼″, h is approximately 1¼″. 
         [0043]    The depths d 1  and d 2  of the bottom edge support  110  and top edge support  115  are sufficient to engage the siding. Fiber cement siding, such as Hardiplank® siding, is typically about 5/16″ thick. Therefore, to engage the siding while enabling the back side of the planar face  105  to rest flush against an installed plank, the depth d 2  of the top edge support  115  should be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″) or less. A right angle between the planar face  105  and the top edge support  115  also helps ensure that the back side of the planar face  105  rests flush against an installed plank. The depth d 1  of the bottom edge support  110  should be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″) or greater. A right angle between the planar face  105  and the bottom edge support  110  helps ensure that the back side of the planar face  105  rests flush against an installed plank. 
         [0044]    The width w of the tool  100  should be sufficient to provide a stable surface to rest against a plank without being cumbersome to handle. A broad range of widths w may be utilized within the scope of the invention. By way of example and not limitation, the width may be about ¾″ to several (e.g., 6) inches. A width much less than ¾″ risks instability, such as by wobbling. A width much greater than 6 inches may make the tool  100  difficult to manipulate. 
         [0045]    An exemplary stationary installation tool  100  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 1 , may be comprised of any material that provides adequate structural properties to support planks in a desired position. By way of example and not limitation, the installation tool  100  can be made of metal, plastic, wood and composite materials. The planar face  105  and the top edge support  115  of the tool  100  may be comprised of one piece of material with a bend. The tool  100  may be formed by casting or molding or any other suitable process now known or later developed. The bottom edge support  110  may be an integrally formed part of the tool  100  or a separate part that is attached to the tool by any suitable chemical, thermal and/or mechanical attachments. 
         [0046]    Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a perspective view of an exemplary moveable installation tool  200  according to principles of the invention is shown. In general, the exemplary moveable installation tool  200  is comprised of a planar face  205 , a top edge support  215  and a bottom edge support  210 . The top edge support  215  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  205  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  200  and projects from the top edge of the planar face  205 . The bottom edge support  210  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  205  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  200  and is parallel to the top edge support  215 . The bottom edge support  210  may also serve as a handle to facilitate manipulation of the tool  200 . Optionally, an ergonomic grip may be attached to the free end of the bottom edge support  210 . 
         [0047]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an exemplary moveable installation tool  200  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 2 , is sized to function with planks. The bottom side of the top edge support  215  is adapted to rest on the top edge of an installed plank, while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank rests on the top side of the bottom edge support  210 . Thus, the distance h between the bottom side of the top edge support  215  and the top side of the bottom edge support  210  defines the overlap. Illustratively, if each course of siding overlaps the row below it by about 1¼″, h is approximately 1¼″. 
         [0048]    The depths d 1  and d 2  of the bottom edge support  210  and top edge support  215  are sufficient to engage the siding. Assuming use with siding of about 5/16″ thick, to engage the siding while enabling the back side of the planar face  205  to rest flush against an installed plank, the depth d 2  of the top edge support  215  should be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″) or less. A right angle between the planar face  205  and the top edge support  215  also helps ensure that the back side of the planar face  205  rests flush against an installed plank. The depth d 1  of the bottom edge support  210  should be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″) or greater. A right angle between the planar face  205  and the bottom edge support  210  helps ensure that the back side of the planar face  205  rests flush against an installed plank. 
         [0049]    The width w of the tool  200  should be sufficient to provide a stable surface to rest against a plank without being cumbersome to handle. A broad range of widths w may be utilized within the scope of the invention. By way of example and not limitation, the width may be about ¾″ to several (e.g., 6) inches. A width much less than ¾″ risks instability, such as by wobbling. A width much greater than 6 inches may make the tool  200  difficult to manipulate. 
         [0050]    An exemplary moveable installation tool  200  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 2 , may be comprised of any material that provides adequate structural properties to support planks in a desired position. By way of example and not limitation, the installation tool  200  can be made of metal, plastic, wood and composite materials. The planar face  205  and the top edge support  215  of the tool  200  may be comprised of one piece of material with a bend. The tool  200  may be formed by casting or molding or any other suitable process now known or later developed. The bottom edge support  210  may be an integrally formed part of the tool  200  or a separate part that is attached to the tool by any suitable chemical, thermal and/or mechanical attachments. 
         [0051]    Referring now to  FIG. 3 , a perspective view of an alternative exemplary moveable installation tool  300  according to principles of the invention is shown. In general, the alternative exemplary moveable installation tool  300  is comprised of a planar face  305 , a lower bottom edge support  320 , an upper bottom edge support  325  and a handle  310 . The lower bottom edge support  320  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  305  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  300 . The upper bottom edge support  325  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  305  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  300  and is parallel to the lower bottom edge support  320 . The handle  310  facilitates manipulation of the tool  300 . Optionally, an ergonomic grip may be attached to the free end of the handle  310 . 
         [0052]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an exemplary moveable installation tool  300  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 2 , is sized to function with planks. The top side of the lower bottom edge support  320  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of an installed plank, while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank being installed rests on the top side of the upper bottom edge support  325 . Thus, the distance h 1  between the top side of the lower bottom edge support  320  and the top side of the upper bottom edge support  325  defines the exposure. Illustratively, if each course of siding has an exposure of about 6¾″, h 1  is approximately 6¼″. 
         [0053]    The depths d 2  and d 3  of the upper bottom edge support  325  and lower bottom edge support  320  are sufficient to engage the siding. Assuming use with siding of about 5/16″ thick, to engage the siding the depth d 2  of the lower bottom edge support  320  should be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″). The depth d 3  of the upper bottom edge support  325  should also be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″). 
         [0054]    The width w of the tool  300  should be sufficient to provide a stable surface to rest against a plank without being cumbersome to handle. A broad range of widths w may be utilized within the scope of the invention. By way of example and not limitation, the width may be about ¾″ to several (e.g., 6) inches. A width much less than ¾″ risks instability, such as by wobbling. A width much greater than 6 inches may make the tool  300  difficult to manipulate and cumbersome to transport. 
         [0055]    An exemplary moveable installation tool  300  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 3 , may be comprised of any material that provides adequate structural properties to support planks in a desired position. By way of example and not limitation, the installation tool  300  can be made of metal, plastic, wood and composite materials. The planar face  305  and the lower bottom edge support  320  of the tool  300  may be comprised of one piece of material with a bend. The tool  300  may be formed by casting or molding or any other suitable process now known or later developed. The upper bottom edge support  325  may be an integrally formed part of the tool  300  or a separate part that is attached to the tool by any suitable chemical, thermal and/or mechanical attachments. 
         [0056]    A handle  310  is provided to facilitate manipulation of the tool  300 . Various handle configurations may be utilized with the tool  300  and are intended to come within the scope of the invention. Optionally, an ergonomic grip may be attached to the free end of the handle  310 . 
         [0057]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a perspective view of another alternative exemplary moveable installation tool  400  according to principles of the invention is shown. In general, this alternative exemplary moveable installation tool  400  is comprised of a planar face  405 , a lower bottom edge support  420 , an upper bottom edge support  415  and a handle  410 . The lower bottom edge support  420  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  405  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  400 . The upper bottom edge support  425  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  405  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  400  and is parallel to the lower bottom edge support  420 . The handle  410  facilitates manipulation of the tool  400 . Optionally, an ergonomic grip may be attached to the free end of the handle  410 . 
         [0058]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an exemplary moveable installation tool  400  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 4 , is sized to function with planks. The top side of the lower bottom edge support  420  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of an installed plank, while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank being installed rests on the top side of the upper bottom edge support  415 . Thus, the distance h 1  between the top side of the lower bottom edge support  420  and the top side of the upper bottom edge support  415  defines the exposure. Illustratively, if each course of siding has an exposure of about 6¾″, h 1  is approximately 6¼″. 
         [0059]    The depths d 1  and d 2  of the upper bottom edge support  415  and lower bottom edge support  420  are sufficient to engage the siding. Assuming use with siding of about 5/16″ thick, to engage the siding the depth d 2  of the lower bottom edge support  420  should be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″). The depth d 1  of the upper bottom edge support  415  should also be about the thickness of the siding (e.g., 5/16″) or greater. 
         [0060]    The width w of the tool  400  should be sufficient to provide a stable surface to rest against a plank without being cumbersome to handle. A broad range of widths w may be utilized within the scope of the invention. By way of example and not limitation, the width may be about ¾″ to several (e.g., 6) inches. A width much less than ¾″ risks instability, such as by wobbling. A width much greater than 6 inches may make the tool  400  difficult to manipulate and cumbersome to transport. 
         [0061]    An exemplary moveable installation tool  400  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 4 , may be comprised of any material that provides adequate structural properties to support planks in a desired position. By way of example and not limitation, the installation tool  400  can be made of metal, plastic, wood and composite materials. The planar face  405  and the lower bottom edge support  420 , and upper bottom edge support  415  of the tool  400  may be comprised of one piece of material with bends. The tool  400  may be formed by casting or molding or any other suitable process now known or later developed. The handle  410  may be an integrally formed part of the tool  400  or a separate part that is attached to the tool by any suitable chemical, thermal and/or mechanical attachments. 
         [0062]    The handle  410  is provided to facilitate manipulation of the tool  400 . Various handle configurations may be utilized with the tool  400  and are intended to come within the scope of the invention. Optionally, an ergonomic grip may be attached to the free end of the handle  410 . 
         [0063]    Referring now to  FIG. 5 , a side section view of an exemplary stationary installation tool  100  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  505 - 515  are secured to a wall  500  using a plurality of nails or screws  520 , 530  and  535 . A nail or screw  525  secures the stationary installation tool  100  into an installation position. In general, the exemplary stationary installation tool  100  is comprised of a planar face  105 , a top edge support  115  and a bottom edge support  110 . The top edge support  115  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  105  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  100  and projects from the top edge of the planar face  105 . The bottom edge support  110  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  105  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  100  and is parallel to the top edge support  115 . An aperture  120  is provided for receiving a nail or screw  525  to secure the tool  100  to a plank. The bottom side of the top edge support  115  is adapted to rest on the top edge of an installed plank  510 , while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank  515  rests on the top side of the bottom edge support  110 . 
         [0064]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a side section view of an exemplary moveable installation tool  200  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  605 - 615  are secured to a wall  600  using a plurality of nails or screws  620 - 635 . The moveable tool may be slid along the length of the planks  605 - 615 . In general, the exemplary installation tool  200  is comprised of a planar face  205 , a top edge support  215  and a bottom edge support  220 . The top edge support  215  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  205  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  200  and projects from the top edge of the planar face  205 . The bottom edge support  220  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  205  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  200  and is parallel to the top edge support  215 . The bottom side of the top edge support  215  is adapted to rest on the top edge of an installed plank  620 , while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank  615  rests on the top side of the bottom edge support  220 . The bottom edge support  220  also serves as a handle. 
         [0065]    Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a side section view of yet another exemplary moveable installation tool  780  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  705 - 715  are secured to a wall  700  using a plurality of nails or screws  720 - 735 . The moveable tool  780  may be slid along the length of the planks  705 - 715 . In general, the exemplary installation tool  780  is comprised of a planar face  740 , an upper bottom edge support  755  and a lower bottom edge support  745 . The upper bottom edge support  750  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  740  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  780 . The lower bottom edge support  745  is also generally perpendicular to the planar face  740  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  780 , and is therefore parallel to the upper bottom edge support  750 . The top surface of the upper bottom edge support  750  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of a plank  715  to be installed, while the bottom edge of an adjacent installed plank  710  rests against the top surface of the lower bottom edge support  745 . The tool  780  also includes a handle  760  to facilitate maneuvering. 
         [0066]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a side section view of a further exemplary moveable installation tool  840  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  805 - 815  are secured to a wall  800  using a plurality of nails or screws  820 - 835 . The moveable tool  840  may be slid along the length of the planks  805 - 815 . In general, the exemplary installation tool  840  is comprised of a planar face  845 , an upper bottom edge support  880  and a lower bottom edge support  850 . The upper bottom edge support  880  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  845  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  840 . The lower bottom edge support  850  is also generally perpendicular to the planar face  845  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  840 , and is therefore parallel to the upper bottom edge support  880 . The top surface of the upper bottom edge support  880  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of a plank  815  to be installed, while the bottom edge of an adjacent installed plank  810  rests against the top surface of the lower bottom edge support  850 . The tool  840  also includes a handle  855  to facilitate maneuvering. 
         [0067]    Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a side section view of yet a further exemplary moveable installation tool  940  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  905 - 915  are secured to a wall  900  using a plurality of nails or screws  920 - 935 . The moveable tool  940  may be slid along the length of the planks  905 - 915 . In general, the exemplary installation tool  940  is comprised of a planar face  945 , an upper bottom edge support  960  and a lower bottom edge support  950 . The upper bottom edge support  960  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  945  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  940 . The lower bottom edge support  950  is also generally perpendicular to the planar face  945  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  940 , and is therefore parallel to the upper bottom edge support  960 . The top surface of the upper bottom edge support  960  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of a plank  915  to be installed, while the bottom edge of an adjacent installed plank  910  rests against the top surface of the lower bottom edge support  950 . The tool  940  also includes a handle  955  to facilitate maneuvering. 
         [0068]    Referring now to  FIG. 10 , a side section view of yet a further exemplary moveable installation tool  1040  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  1005 - 1015  are secured to a wall  1000  using a plurality of nails or screws  1020 - 1035 . The moveable tool  1040  may be slid along the length of the planks  1005 - 1015 . In general, the exemplary installation tool  1040  is comprised of a planar face  1045 , an upper bottom edge support  1060  and a lower bottom edge support  1050 . The upper bottom edge support  1060  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  1045  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  1040 , and includes a vertical flange  1065  configured to prevent the plank  1015  being installed from slipping off the support  1060 . The lower bottom edge support  1050  is also generally perpendicular to the planar face  1045  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  1040 , and is therefore parallel to the upper bottom edge support  1060 . The top surface of the upper bottom edge support  1060  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of a plank  1015  to be installed, while the bottom edge of an adjacent installed plank  1010  rests against the top surface of the lower bottom edge support  1050 . The tool  1040  also includes a handle  1055  to facilitate maneuvering. 
         [0069]    Referring now to  FIG. 11 , a side section view of yet a further exemplary moveable installation tool  1140  and planks being installed according to principles of the invention are shown. A plurality of overlapping planks  1105 - 1115  are secured to a wall  1000  using a plurality of nails or screws  1120 - 1135 . The moveable tool  1140  may be slid along the length of the planks  1105 - 1115 . In general, the exemplary installation tool  1140  is comprised of a planar face  1145 , an upper bottom edge support  1160  and a lower bottom edge support  1150 . The upper bottom edge support  1160  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  1145  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  1140 , and includes a vertical flange  1165  configured to prevent the plank  1115  being installed from slipping off the support  1160 . The lower bottom edge support  1150  is also generally perpendicular to the planar face  1145  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  1140 , and is therefore parallel to the upper bottom edge support  1160 . The top surface of the upper bottom edge support  1160  is adapted to rest against the bottom edge of a plank  1115  to be installed, while the bottom edge of an adjacent installed plank  1110  rests against the top surface of the lower bottom edge support  1150 . The tool  1140  also includes a handle  1155  to facilitate maneuvering. 
         [0070]    Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , front and back perspective views of a preferred exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  according to principles of the invention are shown. In general, the exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  is comprised of a planar face  1205 , a bottom edge support  1210  and a top edge support  1215 . The top edge support  1215  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  1205  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  and projects from the back surface of the planar face  1205 . The bottom edge support  1210  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  1205  of the exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  and is parallel to the top edge support  1215 . A bottom flange  1225  extends upwardly from the bottom edge support. The flange  1225  along with the bottom edge support  1210  and planar face  1205 , define a unshaped support means. An aperture  1220  is provided for receiving a nail or screw to secure the tool  1200  to a wall above the location of the top edge of a plank being installed. Thus the top edge of the plank being installed is below the aperture  1220 , when the bottom edge of said plank is against the bottom edge support.  FIGS. 14A through 14C  provide dimensions in inches of a preferred exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  according to principles of the invention. 
         [0071]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 12 , is sized to function with planks. The bottom side of the top edge support  1215  is adapted to rest on the top edge of an installed plank, while the bottom edge of an adjacent plank being installed rests on the bottom edge support  1210 . Thus, the distance between the bottom side of the top edge support  1215  and the top side of the bottom edge support  1210  defines the overlap. Illustratively, if each course of siding overlaps the row below it by about 1¼″, the distance is approximately 1¼″. Additionally, the top edge of the plank being installed is below the aperture  1220 , when the bottom edge of said plank is against the bottom edge support.  FIGS. 15A through 15E  provide dimensions in inches of sections of the preferred exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  according to principles of the invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is not limited to the depicted dimensions, shapes or proportions, and other dimensions, shapes and proportions may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present invention. 
         [0072]    An exemplary stationary installation tool  1200  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIG. 12 , may be comprised of any material that provides adequate structural properties to support planks in a desired position. By way of example and not limitation, the installation tool  1200  can be made of metal, plastic, wood and composite materials. The tool  100  may be formed by casting or molding or any other suitable process now known or later developed. The bottom and top edge supports  1210  and  1215  may be an integrally formed part of the tools  1200  or separate parts that are attached to the tool  1200  by any suitable chemical, thermal and/or mechanical attachments. 
         [0073]    Referring now to  FIGS. 16 and 17 , front and back perspective views of an exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  according to principles of the invention is shown. In general, the exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  is comprised of a planar face  1605 , a top edge support  1615  and a bottom edge support  1610 . The top edge support  1615  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  1605  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  and projects from the top edge of the back side of the planar face  1605 . The bottom edge support  1610  is generally perpendicular to the planar face  1605  of the exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  and is parallel to the top edge support  1615 . The bottom edge support  1610  also serves as a handle to facilitate manipulation of the tool  1600 . Optionally, an ergonomic grip may be attached to the free end or some other portion of the bottom edge support  1610 . 
         [0074]    Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIGS. 16 through 19F , is sized to function with planks.  FIGS. 18A through 18C  provide dimensions in inches of top, front and side plan views of the preferred exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  according to principles of the invention.  FIGS. 19A through 19F  provide dimensions in inches of sections of the preferred exemplary stationary installation tool  1600  according to principles of the invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is not limited to the depicted dimensions, shapes or proportions, and other dimensions, shapes and proportions may be utilized within the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
         [0075]    An exemplary moveable installation tool  1600  according to principles of the invention, as shown in  FIGS. 16 through 19F , may be comprised of any material that provides adequate structural properties to support planks in a desired position. By way of example and not limitation, the installation tool  1600  can be made of metal, plastic, wood and composite materials. The tool  1600  may be formed by casting or molding or any other suitable process now known or later developed. The bottom and top edge supports  1610  and  1615  may be integrally formed parts of the tool  1600  or separate parts that are attached to the tool by any suitable chemical, thermal and/or mechanical attachments. 
         [0076]    Those skilled in the art that the various embodiments of moveable installation tools described above may be configured as stationary installation tools by providing means for temporarily securing the installation tool in a desired position, such as an aperture for receiving a screw or nail. Such stationary installation tools are intended to come within the scope of the invention. 
         [0077]    To install siding using an exemplary system and method according to principles of the invention, an installer may first create a line (e.g., a chalk line) at a height where a starter row such as a lath strip will be located. The lath strip may be used below the first course of siding to ensure a consistent plank angle. The first plank is then positioned and fastened using installation tools according to the principles of the invention. An exemplary stationary installation tool, as shown in  FIG. 12 , may be utilized to facilitate positioning the first plank. The bottom side of the top edge support  1215  of the tool  1200  may be placed on the top edge of the installed lath strip, while the bottom edge of the first plank may rest on the top side of the bottom edge support  1210 . Thus, the distance between the bottom side of the top edge support  1215  and the top side of the bottom edge support  1210  defines the overlap. Illustratively, if this distance is approximately 1¼″, then each course of siding will overlap the row below it by about 1¼″. Once the stationary tool  1200  is properly positioned it may be temporarily secured in place with a nail or screw through the aperture  1220  into the wall. The tool  1200  may be secured in place near the right or left end of the plank. 
         [0078]    After the stationary tool  1200  is properly positioned and temporarily secured in place, a moveable tool may be used to align the plank to be installed. Illustratively, an exemplary moveable installation tool, as shown in  FIG. 16 , may be utilized to facilitate positioning the plank to be installed. The bottom side of the top edge support  1615  of the tool  1600  may be placed on the top edge of the installed lath strip, while the bottom edge of the first plank may rest on the top side of the bottom edge support  1610 . Thus, the distance between the bottom side of the top edge support  1615  and the top side of the bottom edge support  1610  ensures a consistent overlap. Illustratively, if the distance is approximately 1¼″, then proper use of the tool ensures that the siding being installed will overlap the row below it by about 1¼″ at each location of the tool along the length of the plank. The moveable tool  1600  may be used at the end opposite the stationary tool, and moved in increments towards the stationary tool as the plank is secured in place with nails or screws nearby each location of the tool. 
         [0079]    To install the next course of siding, the installer removes the stationary tool by removing the screw or nail and sliding the tool to past the end of the plank. Likewise, the installer removes the movable tool from the installed siding. Then, the installer may fasten the end of the siding. Next, the installer may secure the stationary tool  1200  in position. The bottom side of the top edge support  1215  of the tool  1200  may be placed on the top edge of the previously installed adjacent plank, while the bottom edge of the next plank may rest on the top side of the bottom edge support  1210 . Once the stationary tool  1200  is properly positioned it may be temporarily secured in place with a nail or screw through the aperture  1220  into the wall. The tool  1200  may be secured in place near the right or left end of the plank. 
         [0080]    After the stationary tool  1200  is properly positioned and temporarily secured in place, the moveable tool may be used to align the plank to be installed. The bottom side of the top edge support  1615  of the moveable tool  1600  may be placed on the top edge of the installed adjacent plank, while the bottom edge of the next plank may rest on the top side of the bottom edge support  1610 . The moveable tool  1600  may be used at the end opposite the stationary tool, and moved in increments towards the stationary tool as the plank is secured in place with nails or screws nearby each location of the tool. 
         [0081]    The installer proceeds by repeating the above procedure for each course of siding to be installed. Therefore, as this discussion demonstrates, the invention enables a single worker to efficiently and consistently achieve a high quality installation with parallel planks and a uniform exposure. 
         [0082]    While the invention has been described in terms of various embodiments, implementations and examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims including equivalents thereof. The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Variations and modifications may be affected within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Technology Classification (CPC): 4