WO2021074669A1

WO2021074669A1 - A clip for fastening first and second deck or siding structural members to a supporting structure and a related method

Info

Publication number: WO2021074669A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/058759
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marius LIUTKUS; Olga LIUTKIENE
Original assignee: Liutkus Marius
Priority date: 2019-10-15
Filing date: 2019-10-15
Publication date: 2021-04-22

Abstract

A clip for joining and fastening parallel adjacent first and second structural member, typically decking and siding boards, to a supporting structure and related method. The clip allows first and second structural members installation without penetrating them with fasteners from top, bottom or sides. A cylinder portion(s) (108) of the clip entering a cylindrical groove on a side and a hook(s) (106) having a slope entering a sloped bottom groove on a bottom permanently 'locks' the first structural member into the clip and fastens it to the supporting structure preventing expansion or shrinkage movement. A flange(s) (109) of the clip entering a side groove of the adjacent second structural member joins, aligns and fastens the side of the second structural member allowing it for expansion and contraction movement parallel the supporting structure. The clip configurations allow fastening structural members overlaid the supporting structure or spaced apart from the supporting structure for air circulation.

Description

A CLIP FOR FASTENING FIRST AND SECOND DECK OR SIDING STRUCTURAL MEMBERS TO A SUPPORTING STRUCTURE AND A RELATED METHOD

DESCRIPTION

Field of Invention

The invention relates to deck and siding fastening clip and method of installation.

Background

There are many inventions of brackets, clips, devices and systems for fastening deck and siding boards without protruding screws from a top of the boards to create more valuable appearance of decking and siding without visible fasteners on a face of boards. However, most fastening methods, systems and fasteners do not fulfil all the requirements for a fast, robust and reliable fastening of the deck and siding boards to the supporting structure suitable for all types and materials of decking and siding boards.

Timber deck and siding boards have a natural feature to change dimensions and shapes in the following ways: to expand, shrink, warp, cup, crook and twist after or before installation. For that reason a fastener should ensure that boards can be straightened during installation and expansion gaps should be also left to allow boards expansion.

Another common issue with currently known hidden deck fasteners is to ensure a permanent appearance and aesthetical look of deck and siding boards not only at the time of installation but also in the future when the timber deck and siding boards are effected by variations of board dimensions related to the natural change of timber moisture due to external weather conditions. The dimensions of timber boards may expand or shrink from wet to dry up to 10%. This means that boards can expand or contract up to 15mm if taking in consideration a board width of 150 mm. It is impossible to predict which side the boards would move when expanding or shrinking. After several cycles of expansion and shrinkage, the boards will not always return to theirs original position causing different spacing gaps between boards and board end to end alignment. This creates a non-aesthetical appearance. Some hidden fasteners are designed so that a screw at an angle passes through the side of the board into a supporting structure. This can cause the split of that side of the board damaging the board and loosing robust fastening. Summary of the Invention

A plurality of clip configurations for joining and fastening parallel adjacent first and second structural member, typically decking and siding boards, to a supporting structure and a related method. The clip of a single piece allows approach of structural members installation without penetrating them with fasteners from top, bottom or sides. The clip configurations allow fastening structural members overlaid the supporting structure or spaced apart from the supporting structure for the air circulation between the supporting structure and decking or siding structural members. The current invention allows one side of the structural member to be secured into the clip permanently. Once the clip is attached to the supporting structure with a fastener through the hole in the clip, it prevents one side of the structural member from expansion or shrinkage movement due to the moisture change. Another side of the structural member is allowed to move parallel to the supporting structure when expanding or shrinking. The clip also allows straightening crooked structural members keeping equal spacing gaps between the structural members during the installation and use not compromising on expansion gaps. Also, the clip ensures equal holding and pressure force for both sides of the structural member from a top against the supporting structure.

The clip related to this invention has at least one base which is generally flat, having a top, bottom and a first and second opposed ends lengthwise. In some clip configurations, the base(s) is configured to overlay the supporting structure.

The clip has at least one middle portion extending upwards from the top of the base(s) at least at the second end. The middle portion(s) extending upwards generally perpendicular to the base(s) or at angles. Middle portions extend at different angles to each other or at the same angle when the clip is configured to have more than one middle portion(s).

At least one hook is extending upwards from the top of the base(s) between the first end inclusive and the middle portion(s). The hook(s) has a slope between 89 degrees and 160 degrees towards the second end of the base(s). The hook(s) has a flat slope or a rounded slope, or a flat slope turning into a rounded slope.

The clip has at least one cylinder portion extending from the middle portion(s) or from at least one of several middle portions. The cylinder portion(s) has a circle arc of at least 25 degrees facing at least the top of the base(s). The cylinder portion can comprise a spacing, configured to space the circle arc from the middle portion(s).

The clip also has at least one flange extending from the middle portion(s) or from at least one of several middle portions. The flange(s) extends outwardly to opposite side of the first end of the base(s). The flange(s) and the cylinder portion(s) extend from the same or from different middle portion(s). In some clip configurations, the flange(s) extending not from the middle portion(s) but from the cylinder portion(s). The flange(s) extending generally between 45 degrees upwards and 45 degrees downwards relating to parallel of the base(s).

In some configurations, the clip has a front extension extending outwards from the bottom surface of the middle portion or from the second end of the base. The front extension is generally flat and aligned with the base.

In some configurations, the clip has at least one support leg extending downwards from the bottom of the base or from a bottom of the front extension or from both of them. The bottom of the support leg(s) is connected with a top of the support portion. The support portion is generally flat and spaced generally parallel from the base and front extension. The support portion is configured to overlay the supporting structure.

The boards related to this invention have a plurality of shapes and configurations. Each board has at least a side groove lengthwise the first side, a cylindrical groove lengthwise the second side and a bottom groove lengthwise the bottom. The side groove forms a top and bottom edges of the first side. A cylindrical groove forms a top and bottom edges of the second side of which at least the bottom edge is exposed having a circle arc on a top surface. The bottom groove has a slope towards the second side. In addition, in some configurations, the structural member has a space groove lengthwise the bottom, which is generally flat and extends from the bottom groove to a distal end of the bottom edge of the second side.

The clip(s) attached to the supporting structure joins first and second structural members when the cylinder portion(s) is inserted into the cylindrical groove, the hook(s) is inserted into the bottom groove of the first structural member and the flange(s) is inserted into the side groove of the second structural member.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will be more readily understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of Drawings

FIG. l is a perspective view of the clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 1A is a cross sectional view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 3A is a top view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 3.

FIG. 3B is a front view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 3. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a starter clip obtained from the clip embodiment of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a starter clip obtained from the clip embodiment of FIG. 8. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a starter clip.

FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIGS. 1-lA at a stage of installation.

FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 2 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 14 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 3 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 4 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 5 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 6 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 18 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 7 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 8 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 6A at a stage of installation.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 21 A is a front view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 21.

FIG. 21B is a bottom view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 21.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 22A is a front view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 22.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another clip embodiment according to this invention.

FIG. 23A is a top view of the clip embodiment of FIG. 23. FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 21 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 22 at a stage of installation.

FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of boards and the clip embodiment of FIG. 23 at a stage of installation.

List of Reference Numerals Used in the Drawings

10 - Fastener

11 - Supporting structure

12 - Ventilation gap (between supporting structure and boards)

13 - Board side

14 - Board side (opposite to the board side 13)

15 - Cylindrical groove or slot (lengthwise the board side 13)

16 - Bottom groove (of the board)

17 - Bottom edge (of the board side 13)

18 - Top edge (of the board side 13)

19 - Bottom edge (of the board side 14)

20 - Top edge (of the board side 14)

21 - Thickness (of the bottom edge 17)

22 - Thickness (of the top edge 18)

23 - Slope angle (of the bottom groove 16)

25 - Bottom corner (of the bottom groove 16)

26 - Sloped surface (of the hook 106 of the clip)

27 - Depth (of the bottom groove 16 of the board)

28 - Width (of the bottom groove 16 of the board)

29 - Back side (of the bottom groove 16 of the board)

30 - Sloped surface (of the bottom groove 16 of the board)

31 - Space groove (on the bottom of the board between the bottom groove and the distal end of the bottom edge 17)

32 - Thickness (of the space groove 31 on the bottom of the board)

33 - Side groove (lengthwise the board side 14)

34 - Fastener

35 - Height (of the side groove 33) 36 - Depth (of the side groove 33)

37 - Expansion gap (between the flange 109 of the clip and deepest part of the side groove 33) 37A - Expansion gap (between the middle portion 105 of the clip and bottom edge 19 of the board side 14)

38 - Spacing gap (between the board side 13 and board side 14)

39 - Thickness (of the bottom edge 19)

40 - Dust gap (between the bottom edge 17 and middle portion 105 of the clip)

41 - Expansion gap (between the bottom edge 19 and front extension 302 of the clip)

42 - Corner (bottom corner of the bottom edge 19)

44 - Distal end (of the bottom edge 17)

45 - Thickness (of the top edge 20)

46 - Bottom edge extension (of the bottom edge 17)

47 - Thickness (of the bottom edge extension 46)

48 - Gap (between the bottom edge extension 46 of the board side 13 and top edge 20 of the board side 14)

49 - Plug (to hide fastener installing finishing board)

50 - Space (formed on the bottom of the starter board configured to allow the base 51 of the starter 1101 to penetrate into it)

51 - Base (of the starter clip 1101)

52 - Gap (in the cylindrical groove 15 between the flange 109 and the top edge 18)

53 - Part (cut out of the cylinder portion)

54 - Length (of spacing gap 38 between boards)

55 - Separated part (from the base of the clip used to space finishing board from the supporting structure)

56 - Spacing device (used to space finishing board from the supporting structure)

100 - Board

101 - Embodiment 101 (of the clip)

102 - Base (of the clip)

103 - First end (of the base 102)

104 - Second end (of the base 102)

105 - Middle portion (of the clip)

105 A - Middle portion (of the clip)

106 - Hook (of the clip)

107 - Slope angle (of the hook 106 slope) 108 - Cylinder portion (of the clip)

109 - Flange (of the clip)

110 - Fastener receiving hole

111 - Partial thickness (of the middle portion 105 configured to allow forming fastener receiving hole 110)

112 - Flat top surface (of the clip)

113 - Rounded bottom edge (of flange)

114 - Length (of the clip)

115 - Width (of the clip)

116 - Height (of the clip)

117 - Length (of flange)

118 - Height (of hook 106)

119 - Radius (of the circle arc 125 of the cylinder portion)

120 - Distance (between the cylinder portion 108 and hook 106)

121 - Width (of the hook 106)

122 - Height (from the bottom of the clip embodiment to flange 109)

125 - Circle arc (of the cylinder portion 108)

201 - Embodiment 201 (of the clip)

202 - Spacing (of cylinder portion 108 configured to space the circle arc 125 from the middle portion 105)

203 - Distal end (of the hook 106)

211 - Opening (in the middle portion and base portion)

301 - Embodiment 31 (of the clip)

302 - Front extension (of the clip)

303 - Bottom surface (of the middle portion 105)

304 - Notches

305 - Top side (of the middle portion 105)

306 - Rounded (flanges at distal end)

307 - Distance (between parallel spaced flanges)

310 - A rounded distal end (of hook 106)

401 - Embodiment 401 (of the clip)

402 - Downward indentations (of the flanges 109)

403 - Spikes (on the base 102)

501 - Embodiment 501 (of the clip) 502 - Flange connector (connecting spaced flanges)

503 - Hook connector (connecting spaced hooks)

504 - Protrusions (of the base 102)

601 - Embodiment 601 (of the clip)

601 A - Embodiment 601 A (of the clip)

602 - Cylinder connector (connecting spaced cylinder portions)

604 - Length (of the front extension 302)

702 - Distal end (of the front extension 302)

703 - Distal end (of the flange 109)

704 - Deepened surface (on the top of the front extension 302)

705 - Top (of the front extension 302)

706 - Gap (between the front extension and flange)

707 - First end (of the cylinder portion)

708 - Bottom (of the base)

709 - Cutting groove (crosswise the base)

710 - Ventilation grooves (on the top of base, front extension and on the bottom of flange)

711 - Ventilation grooves (on the bottom of the base and on the bottom of the support portion)

712 - ‘Anti-slip’ hole (in the base between middle portion and hook)

801 - Embodiment 801 (of the clip)

802 - Support leg (of the clip)

803 - Support portion (of the clip)

804 - Top (of the support portion 803)

805 - Guiding groove

813 - Height (between the base and the top of the clip)

901 - Starter clip 901 (formed from the clip embodiment 701)

1001 - Starter clip 1001 (formed from the clip embodiment 801)

1101 - Starter clip

Detailed Description

A modern decking and cladding installation method and a related plurality of clip embodiments of the current disclosure allows an approach to first and second deck or siding boards installation to a supporting structure with the clip without penetrating boards from a top, a bottom or a side with fasteners such as screws, nails, staples or other alternatives. The clip embodiments might vary depending on a desired application. Because of the plurality of the clip embodiments and installation method, related to the current disclosure, boards can be installed and fastened to the supporting structure with or without a ventilation gap between the supporting structure and boards.

FIGS. 1 - 8 and 21 - 23A illustrate various examples of the clip configurations in accordance with some embodiments disclosed herein. The clip can have a base(s) 102 which can have a generally flat top and bottom and can be configured to overlay a supporting structure. The base(s) has a first end 103 and a second end 104 lengthwise opposed to each other. The clip can have a middle portion(s) 105 and 105A which can extend upwards from a top of the base(s) 102. The middle portion(s) can extend upwards generally perpendicular to the base or at angles. The clip can have a hook(s) 106 which can extend upwards from the top of the base(s) 102. The hook(s) can extend from the top of the base(s) at the first end 103 or between the first end and the middle portion(s). The hook(s) can have a sloped surface 26 towards the second end 104 of the base(s). The sloped surface of the hook(s) can be a flat slope, a rounded slope or a flat slope turning into a rounded slope. The clip can have a cylinder portion(s) 108 which can extend from the middle portion(s). The cylinder portion(s) can be spaced from the base(s) 102. Also, the clip can have a flange(s) 109 which can extend from the middle portion(s) or from the cylinder portion(s). The flange(s) can extend outwardly to an opposite side of the first end of the base(s). Furthermore, the clip can have a front extension 302, which can extend from the second end 104 of the base(s) or from a bottom surface 303 of the middle portion. The front extension can be aligned with the base and can be configured to overlay the supporting structure together with the base(s). Also, the clip can have a support leg(s) 802, which can extend downwards perpendicularly or at an angle from the bottom of the base or from a bottom of the front extension, or from both of them. A bottom of the support leg(s) can be connected with a top of a support portion 803. The support portion can be spaced generally parallel from the base and the front extension. The support portion can be configured to overlay the supporting structure. In addition, the clip can have a fastener receiving hole(s) 110 which can be adapted to allow a fastener to pass therethrough into the supporting structure. The clip embodiments according to the current disclosure allow joining a first and a second board and fastening them with a fastener through the fastener receiving hole formed in the clip.

The clip embodiments and other clip features of the present disclosure are discussed below in more details.

A board 100 of the present disclosure, shown in FIG. 12, should have at least a cylindrical groove or slot 15, a side groove or slot 33 and a bottom groove or slot 16. The cylindrical groove or slot 15 (further called cylindrical groove) is formed lengthwise the board side 13 and is configured to receive the cylinder portion of the clip. The side groove or slot 33 (further called side grove) is formed on an opposite board side lengthwise the board side 14 and is configured to receive the flange of the clip. The bottom groove or slot 16 (further called bottom groove) is formed lengthwise the bottom of the board and has a slope towards the board side 13. The bottom groove is configured to receive the hook of the clip. The board can also have other features and different configurations which are also discussed below in more details.

FIGS. 1 - 1A illustrate perspective and side views of the clip embodiment 101 in accordance to the present disclosure. The embodiment 101 has a base 102 which is generally flat and is configured to overlay a supporting structure. The embodiment 101 also has the middle portion 105 which extends upwards from the top of the base at the second end 104 of the base. The middle portion extends generally perpendicularly to the base. A partial thickness 111 of the middle portion is of a sufficient size to allow the fastener receiving hole 110 to be formed in it. For example, the partial thickness 111 can be 8mm and the fastener receiving hole can have a diameter of 6mm and can be configured to receive the fastener having a diameter of 5mm. The fastener receiving hole formed in the middle portion allows fastening the embodiment 101 to the supporting structure penetrating the fastener through the hole into the supporting structure. The embodiment 101 also has a countersink to allow the fastener head to penetrate into the middle portion. Fastener types and configurations of the fastener receiving hole(s) 110 are described below in more details. The partial thickness 111 of the middle portion has an equal height all over the top and forms a flat top surface 112 of the clip from the cylinder portion to a distal end of the flange 109. The hook 106 extends upwards from the top of the base at the first end 103 and extends crosswise the base. The embodiment 101 has the cylinder portion 108 extending from the middle portion 105 above the base. The cylinder portion has a circle arch 125 of 270 degrees. The flange extends outwardly from the middle portion generally parallel relating to the base. The flange is generally flat and has a rounded bottom edge 113 at a distal end to assist a smooth flange entering into a receiving groove without snagging or otherwise bumping into the board.

Now referring to FIG. 2, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 201 is shown. The embodiment 201 is generally the same as the embodiment 101, shown in FIG. 1. However, the cylinder portion 108 of the embodiment 201 has the circle arc of generally 135 degrees. Also, the cylinder portion has a spacing 202 which spaces the circle arc of the cylinder portion from the middle portion 105. A length 54 of the spacing can be generally 0.5-5mm and the spacing 202 is formed to space a bottom edge of the first board from the middle portion 105, briefly described below. In case if the bottom edge has roughness or there are dusts, the middle portion cannot rest tightly against the bottom edge without the spacing 202. The spacing can have a different length from the described above, depending on configuration.

Now referring to FIG. 7, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 701 is shown. The embodiment 701 includes similar features of the embodiment 101, shown in FIGS. 1 - 1A, but the hook 106 of the embodiment 701 extends upwards not at the first end 103 of the base but between the first end 103 and the middle portion 105. The longer base 102 can provide an extra support to the bottom of the board, especially when wider boards are used. Also, the embodiment 701 further includes the front extension 302 and the fastener receiving hole 110 is formed not in the middle portion but in the front extension. The front extension extends outwards from the second end of the base 102 aligned with the base. The front extension forms generally flat entire bottom of the embodiment 701 from the first end 103 of the base to a distal end 702 of the front extension. A width and thickness of the front extension is generally the same as a width and thickness of the base. The front extension is spaced generally parallel from the flange 109 and is configured to receive the bottom edge of the second board in between. Also, as described below, the front extension together with the base, depending on the board configuration, spaces boards from the supporting structure forming a space for ventilation. The front extension 302 extends outwards further than a distal end 703 of the flange and on a top of the front extension is formed a deepened surface 704. The deepened surface is formed further outwards than the distal end of the flange and has the fastener receiving hole 110 formed in it. Once the fastener is fastened to the supporting structure through the fastener receiving hole, the deepened surface 704 allows a head of the fastener to sit lower than the top 705 of the front extension. The fastener head being below the top 705 of the front extension eliminates the board bumping in to the fastener head when the bottom edge of the second board enters a gap 706 between the flange and the front extension. The top of the front extension can also be flat all the way from the middle portion to a distal end 702 without a deepened surface 704 and can have a countersink to allow the fastener head to penetrate into the front extension. Also, the deepened surface 704 and (or) the fastener receiving hole can be formed on the front extension just below the flange if the embodiment 701 is configured to have two flanges spaced in between such that flanges are spaced sufficiently to allow the fastener to pass in between of them.

The cylinder portion 108 has the circle arc of 90 degrees. The embodiment 701 has the flat top surface 112, from a first end 707 of the cylinder portion to the distal end 703 of the flange. The flat top surface 112 is generally parallel to the bottom 708 of the base. Now referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 801 is shown. The embodiment 801 includes similar features of the embodiment 701, shown in FIG. 7. However, instead of thickening the bottom portion and front extension of the embodiment 701 to achieve a desired spacing for the ventilation between the supporting structure and boards, the embodiment 801 has two support legs 802 and the support portion 803. Support legs extend downwards toward the supporting structure, of which one extends from the bottom of the base 102 and another from the bottom of the front extension 302. Support legs can extend at any angle between 0 degrees to 180 degrees to space the base and the front extension from the support portion. However, the embodiment 701 can have only one or more than two support legs depending on configuration and the quantity of support legs 802 is not limited within the current disclosure. Also, the support leg(s) can extend only from the base or only from the front extension. The bottom ends of the support legs are connected with a top 804 of the support portion. The support portion is configured to overlay the supporting structure and is spaced generally parallel from the base and front extension.

Adding support legs and the support portion is more cost effective way in manufacturing rather than thickening the bottom portion 102 and front extension 302 as less material is required in the production of the embodiment 801. Also, fasteners can be used of a shorter length when fastening it to the supporting structure. The configuration of the embodiment 801 eliminates the need of attaching additional, for example, wall battens to form ventilation between the boards and supporting structure.

The embodiment 801 has two fastener receiving holes 110 formed in the area of the support portion where the support portion extends outwards further than the distal end 702 of the front extension. The front extension extends slightly further than the distal end 703 of the flange to facilitate the engagement of the bottom edge of the second board. The front extension can extend generally equally to the distal 703 end of the flange. Furthermore, the length of the front extension can be shorter and not reaching the distal end of the flange till the gap 706 between the flange and the front extension is sufficient to receive the bottom edge of the second board.

Ventilation grooves 710 can be formed crosswise the top of the base, front extension, and crosswise a bottom of the flange, shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. Ventilation grooves can be formed generally of 0.5 mm depth and 1 mm width and can be spaced in between at approximately 1 mm. The bottom of the base, front extension and support portion can also have ventilation grooves 711, of generally 1 mm in depth and 3 mm in width, spaced in between at approximately 3 mm. The size of the ventilation grooves and the spacing can vary depending on configuration and can be of a different size than described above. Ventilation grooves allow an air circulation between the clip and the supporting structure and between the clip and installed boards. It reduces a moisture concentration and in such way protects the boards and supporting structure from rotting and increases the lifetime of a material.

Referring to FIGS. 7 - 8, the clip in embodiments 701 and 801 of the present disclosure has a cutting grove 709 formed crosswise the base. The cutting groove works as an indication line for a user where a part of the base optionally can be separated from the base. The cutting groove can be formed generally of a similar depth but slightly wider than ventilation grooves 710 in such way that the cutting groove stands out from the ventilation grooves. The cutting groove can be located just below the cylinder portion 108 or slightly towards the hook. A grinder, hand saw, knife or any other tool can be used as a cutting tool depending on the material the clip is made of. Once separating a part of the base the remaining clip forms a starter clip 901 (shown in FIG. 9) and 1001 (shown in FIG. 10). Starter clips 901 and 1001 can be used to install a starter board shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. The starter clip 901 and 1001 fastens to the supporting structure through the same fastener receiving hole and in the same way as embodiments 701 and 801. A starter board installs into the starter clips 901 and 1001 also in the same way as it would install into the embodiments 701 and 801.

Now referring to FIGS. 3 - 3B, perspective, front and top views of another clip embodiment 301 are shown. The embodiment 301 includes similar features of the embodiment 701, shown in FIG. 7. However, the embodiment 301 has some design changes adapted for manufacturing it in a die-stamping stainless steel and has two flanges 109, bases 102, cylinder portions 108 and hooks 106. The embodiment 301 comprises two notches 304 and the fastener receiving hole 110 is formed in a different location. Bases 102 have a rectangular shape and are spaced lengthwise generally parallel between themselves and are connected with a bottom surface 303 of the middle portion 105. Notches 304 are formed in the bottom side of the middle portion between each base and front extension 302. Notches have no impact to the embodiment 301 functionality and installation but they assist in the formation process in a die-stamping to prevent a possible rupture in a stamping process. Notches can be, for example, of 2 mm thickness and 4 mm height, however the size can vary and is not limited by the current disclosure. Because of notches the front extension 302 technically is connected not with the second end 104 of the base, but with the bottom surface of the middle portion as already mentioned. The top side 305 of the middle portion has an irregular shape with steps of a different height over the top. That gives an advantage for the flanges to extend from the middle portion at a higher level than cylinder portions. However, the top side of the middle portion can have different shapes and flanges can extend at the same or lower level in relation to the cylinder portions depending on configuration. Each flange extends generally parallel the base and front extension. However, flanges, can extend at any angle from generally parallel the base to 45 degrees angle directed downwards depending on configuration. This enables flanges to provide an additional ‘flex’ pressure force against the bottom edge of the second board. Flanges are spaced generally parallel between themselves at a distance 307, such that it should be sufficient to allow the fastener to pass between of them. For example, a width of the fastener head can be 7 mm what means that the distance 307 should be not less than 7 mm. At distal ends, the flanges are rounded 306 and directed upwards for easier entering the side groove of the second board. The cylinder portions are formed of a hollow ‘C’ shape and extend from the middle portion at a lower height than the flanges and have 45 degrees of the circle arc. The embodiment 301 has the fastener receiving hole 110 formed in an internal corner of the middle portion and front extension. The fastener receiving hole can be formed of a non regular circle shape, for example oval shape, that gives the flexibility for the user to drive the fastener through the hole into the supporting structure at different angles. The advantage is that a user can choose a sharper angle to drive the fastener through the fastener receiving hole into the supporting structure where a depth of the supporting structure is limited. Also, the hook has a rounded distal end 310 to facilitate easy entering of the hook into the bottom groove of the board. Depending on configuration, the hook can be formed without the rounded distal end.

Continuing to FIGS. 3 - 3B, the embodiment 301 can have no notches. In this case the embodiment 301 can have only one base of an irregular shape such as ‘U’ shape where the middle portion extends from the top of the base at the second end 104 and overlays the base crosswise. Accordingly, the front extension extends not from a bottom surface of the middle portion but from the second end of the base and the base has two hooks formed on single base. The clip of the current disclosure can have the base of any other irregular shapes some of which are described below.

The clip of the current disclosure might have one ore more notches formed in any portions of the clip depending on configuration. For example, the embodiment, shown in FIGS. 3 - 3B, has notches 304 formed in the bottom side of the middle portion as mentioned above. However, notch(es) can be formed in any place of the clip to prevent a rupture or to achieve a higher bending quality when manufacturing the clip in a die-stamping.

Now referring to FIGS. 4, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 401 is shown. The embodiment 401 includes similar features of the embodiment 301, shown in FIGS. 3 - 3B. However, the embodiment 401 has single cylinder portion 108 and the middle portion 105 has a different irregular shape on the top side. The flanges have downward indentations 402 which are configured to interact with the bottom edge of the second board. The cylinder portion has 90 degrees of the circle arc. The fastener receiving hole 110 is configured to allow the fastener to pass therethrough into the supporting structure at generally 35 degrees to 55 degrees angle relate to the front extension.

Now referring to FIG. 5, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 501 is shown. The embodiment 501 has similar features of the embodiment 401, shown in FIG. 4, and is also designed to be manufactured in a die-stamping stainless steel. The embodiment 501 is configured to install boards without the ventilation gap between the boards and supporting structure similar to the embodiments, shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The embodiment 501 does not have the front extension and has three middle portions, a flange connector 502, a hook connector 503 and the fastener receiving hole 110 formed in a different location. The base 102 has an irregular ‘IT shape with protrusions 504 on a front side meaning that the second end

104 of the base are distal ends of the protrusions. Two middle portions 105 extend from the top of the base at the second end and one middle portion 105A extends upwards from the top of the base between the hooks 106 and middle portions 105. The base 102 is separated and spaced lengthwise from the first end 103 to the middle portion 105A. The middle portion 105A is formed across the base generally between the spaced parts of the base. The middle portion 105A is spaced from the middle portions 105 at a sufficient distance to allow the fastener receiving hole 110 to be formed in the base in between. The advantage that the embodiment 501 has the middle portion 105A spaced from middle portions 105 and the fastener receiving hole 110 formed in between is that the embodiment 501 does not require to have a thick middle portion with the fastener receiving hole formed in it (as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). This design makes it easier to manufacture the clip in a die-stamping stainless steel. The fastener receiving hole can be of a regular or non regular circle shape and can be configured to allow the fastener to penetrate the supporting structure therethrough at an angle between 90 degrees and 135 degrees relating to the base. Each flange 109 extends outwardly from the middle portions 105 and the cylinder portion 108 extends backwards from the middle portion 105A. The flanges

105 are connected between themselves at the distal ends by the flange connector 502 and the hooks 106 are connected between themselves by the hook connector 503. The middle portion 105A and the middle portions 105 extend from the base at generally 90 degrees angle relating to the base. However, all middle portions can extend from the base at an angle between 45 degrees and 135 degrees depending on configuration. For example, the middle portion 105A and (or) middle portions 105 can extend at 45 degrees towards the first board. Also, middle portion 105A and (or) middle portions 105 can extend at 135 degrees towards the second board. In case where the middle portion 105A extends at an angle from 90 degrees to 135 degrees towards the second board, the cylinder portion 108 can have a spacing 202 (as shown in FIG. 2) to space the circle arc of the cylinder portion sufficiently from the middle portion 105A such that the circle arc could enter the cylindrical groove of the first board.

Now referring to FIG. 6, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 601 is shown. The embodiment 601 has similar features of the embodiment 501, shown in FIG. 5. However, the base 102 of the embodiment 601 has an irregular shape, with protrusions on sides forming a ‘T’ shape of the base. Middle portions 105A and 105 extend upwards from the protrusions of the base at an angle. The middle portions 105A extend at 45 degrees angle and middle portions 105 extend at 135 degrees angle relating to the base. The embodiment 601 also has a cylinder connector 602 that connects two cylinder portions spaced between themselves. Depending on configuration, the middle portions 105A can extend at an angle from 45 degrees to 90 degrees and the middle portions 105 can extend at an angle from 90 degrees to 135 degrees. For example, the embodiment 601 can be configured not to have the cylinder connector 602 and the fastener receiving hole 110 can be moved sufficiently aside on the front extension such that the bottom edge of the first board does not bump into the fasteners head. The embodiment 601 has the front extension 302 extending from the second end of the base. However the front extension, in this particular case, is not configured to rest under the bottom of the second board. A distance 603 between middle portions 105A and 105 is smaller than a diameter of the fastener head and for that reason is formed a short front extension 302 to provide a sufficient space for the fastener head to sit. The fastener receiving hole is formed partially on the base and partially on the front extension. A length 604 of the front extension should be sufficient to allow the fastener head to sit. Also, the front extension can extend further forward towards the second board in length not reaching distal ends of the flanges and can be configured to provide a spacing between the first and the second boards, especially if boards are manufactured of the material with a low or zero expansion or extraction rate. For example, the front extension can be configured at the distal end 702 to touch the bottom edge of the second board and in such way to provide a desired spacing without the use of spacers.

Referring to FIG. 6A, a perspective view of another clip embodiment 601A is shown. The embodiment 601A has similar features to the embodiment 601, shown in FIG. 6. However, the middle portions 105A of the embodiment 601 A extend generally at an angle of 135 degrees relating to the base and the flanges extend from the middle portions 105A. The middle portions 105 extend from the top of the base at the second end 104 of the base. Thus, the second end 104 of the base is distal ends of the protrusions 504. The middle portions 105 extend from the base at an angle of generally 45 degrees and the cylinder portions 108 extend from middle portions 105. The middle portions 105A and 105 can also extend at different angles depending on configuration. For example, the middle portions 105 can extend at any angle between 0 degrees and 90 degrees. For example, if the middle portions 105 extend at 90 degrees, the cylinder portions can have spacers 202 (as shown in FIG. 2) to space circle arc of the cylinder portion from the middle portion 105 so that the circle arc would be positioned further backward than the middle portions 105A. The middle portions 105A can extend at an angle from 90 degrees to almost 180 degrees depending on configuration. However, it should extend in such way that the flanges would be at the sufficient height to enter the side groove of the second board. The fastener receiving hole 110 is formed in the base between the middle portions 105A and middle portions 105.

The clip of the present disclosure can be configured so that the flange(s) extends not from the middle portion(s) but from the cylinder portion(s). Embodiments, shown in FIGS. 21 - 23 A, have such configurations and can have implemented features and its combinations of the clip embodiments, shown in FIGS. 1 - 8.

Referring to FIGS. 21 - 21B, perspective, front and bottom views of another clip embodiment 1 are shown. The embodiment 1 is generally similar to the embodiment 101, shown in FIG. 1. However, the middle portion 105 of the embodiment 1 extends from the top of the base 102 not perpendicularly but generally at 30 degrees angle relating to the base. Also, the flange 109 extends not from the middle portion but from the cylinder portion 108. The fastener receiving hole 110 is formed in the flange 109 and openings 211 are formed in the middle portion and base. Openings 211 are positioned in a row under the fastener receiving hole generally perpendicularly the base, such that the fastener could pass into the supporting structure through the fastener receiving hole and openings. A diameter of the openings can be the same as a diameter of the fastener receiving hole or can vary. However a diameter of the openings should have an appropriate size to allow the fastener to pass through the holes. Also, openings formed in the middle portion and base can have any shape till it forms an opening of sufficient size for the fastener to pass therethrough. The flange 109, particularly in this case, extends generally parallel to the base. However, the flange can be directed upwards up to 45 degrees or can be directed downwards up to 45 degrees. The middle portion 105 may also extend at different angles from 0 degrees to 90 degrees relating to the base. For example, the middle portion can extend at 90 degrees angle and in such case the clip can have only a fastener receiving hole formed in the flange, so that the fastener could pass through the fastener receiving hole directly into the supporting structure not passing through the openings in the middle portion and base. Referring to FIGS. 22 - 22A, perspective and front views of another clip embodiment 2 are shown. The embodiment 2 is generally similar to the embodiment 1, shown in FIG. 21. However, the embodiment 2 has the fastener receiving hole 110 formed in the middle portion 105 which extends from the base 102 at 45 degrees angle. Two flanges 109 extend from the cylinder portion 108. The fastener receiving hole is configured to allow the fastener to pass therethrough into the supporting structure also at 45 degrees. A part 53 of the cylinder portion is cut out above the fastener receiving hole so that the fastener could pass into the fastener receiving hole without bumping into the cylinder portion. Also, the embodiment 2 has a front extension 302 configured to rest under the bottom of the second board.

Referring to FIGS. 23 and 23 A, perspective and front views of another clip embodiment 3 are shown. The embodiment 3 is generally similar to the embodiment 2, shown in FIG. 22. However, the fastener receiving hole 110 of the embodiment 3 is formed in the front extension 302. Two middle portions 105 extend generally perpendicularly from the base 102. The embodiment 3 has two cylinder portions 108 and two flanges each extending from the cylinder portions. Also, flanges are connected by the flange connector.

As in the description of the clip embodiments above according to the present disclosure, the cylinder portion can have different shapes and different degrees of the circle arc. Depending on configuration, the cylinder portion can be formed as a solid, a hollow, having ‘C’ or Ό’ shape, or of any other irregular shapes till it has the circle arc of at least 25 degrees which faces at least the top of base. Also, the cylinder portion can have any circle arc between 25 and 359 degrees. The circle arc of the cylinder portion can be configured to interact with the bottom edge and at least a part of the top edge (shown in FIG. 12), with the bottom edge only (shown in FIG. 18), or at least with a part of the bottom edge (shown in FIG. 14). Also, in some configurations, only a part of a circle arc can enter the cylindrical groove, shown in FIG. 19 and described below.

The clip in some embodiments, for example, shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 7 and 8, can be fashioned as an aluminium 6061 T6 grade extrusion cut to desired lengths. A formation of some other embodiments, for example shown in FIGS. 3 - 6A and 21 -23A, can include die-stamping of stainless steel AISI 304 of preferred 1.5 mm thickness that is sufficient to achieve a reliable installation of boards. However, the thickness of material can be different depending on configuration and is not limited by the current disclosure. Also, the clip of the current disclosure is not limited to the formation in aluminium extrusion or die-stamping only and can be fashioned in different ways, for example, in die-casting, plastic injection or in any other way. In some cases the clip can be manufactured of another aluminium grade, steel, metal or alloy thereof. The clip disclosed herein is not limited to a metal construction only. For example, the clip can comprise a plastic or other non-metal material. Moreover, some portions of the clip might comprise a metal material while other portions might comprise a non metal material. For example, the middle portion of the clip can be made of a metal material while other portions of the clip can be made of a plastic material. Furthermore, a single portion of the clip or the entire clip can be made out of two or more different materials. For example, the clip can be made of a metal material and covered by a plastic material on top of a metal material over the entire clip or a single portion or the entire clip can be made of plastic and flanges can have integrated metal plates. Also, the clip can be coated to achieve a desired colour or specific corrosion resistance. The material or combination of materials used to make the clip is not limited by the current disclosure.

The overall size of the clip embodiments can vary as following: a length 114 from 20 mm to 100 mm, a width 115 from 10 mm to 100 mm and a height 116 from 8 mm to 100 mm, shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A, depending on configuration. The given dimensions do not reflect the proportions ratio of the overall size of the clip. For example, depending on configuration a length of 50 mm and a width of 20 mm can be sufficient for one embodiment and specific application and a length of 40 mm and a width of 50 mm can be sufficient for the other embodiment and application. Also, the clip of the current disclosure can have other dimensions and the present disclosure is not limiting.

Continuing with FIG. 1A, a length 117 of the flange can be from 5 mm to 20 mm and a height 118 of the hook can be from 2 mm to 20 mm depending on configuration. A distance 120 from the cylinder portion to the hook can be from 5 mm to 50 mm. The cylinder portion can have the circle arc radius 119 from 3 mm to 20 mm, also depending on configuration. For example, the cylinder portion of the embodiment 301, shown in FIG. 3, has the circle arc of 45 degrees and the cylinder portion of the embodiment 101, shown in FIGS. 1 - 1A, has the circle arc of 270 degrees. The difference of the circle arc size affects the size of the radius even when the clip is used with the boards of the same thickness. A thickness of the clip portions can also vary depending on configuration and is not limited. For example, portions of the clip embodiments, shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, can have 3.5 mm thickness that is sufficient for a standard siding board installation if embodiments are fashioned in aluminium 6061 T6 grade and a thickness of 1.5 mm is sufficient if the clip is formed of AISI 304 stainless steel as, for example, the embodiment shown in FIG. 3. The thickness of the clip portions can vary in the same clip. For example, the base 102 of the embodiment, shown in FIG. 1 can be configured to rest between the board and supporting structure and has to provide a sufficient tensile strength only, which can be sufficient if the thickness of a base is 1.5-2 mm when manufactured of aluminium 6061 T6 grade and the thickness of the middle portion 105 can be, for example 10 mm. In some cases, depending on configuration and boards material, the sufficient installation force can be achieved where the portions of the clip are thinner than described above. Besides, the thickness might vary even in one portion of the clip as, for example, the front extension 302 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 can have an overall thickness of 6 mm and the deepened surface 704 can have a thickness of 3 mm when a height of a fastener head is not more than 3 mm. Sizes of the clip portions can be different from provided above and are not limited by the current disclosure.

As described above, the clip of the present disclosure can have the fastener receiving hole 110 formed in the clip to fasten the clip to the supporting structure when a fastener 10 penetrates through the hole into the supporting structure 11 fastening the clip to the supporting structure, shown in FIGS. 12 - 20 and 24 - 26. The clip in some embodiments also can have at least one countersink configured to allow the fastener heat to penetrate into the clip. For example, embodiments, shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 21 are configured to have countersink. The fastener receiving hole can comprise a diameter of 0.6 mm to allow fastener insertion, for example, corrosion free AISI 304 T15 stainless steel screw-type fastener with a diameter of 0.5 mm and of 60 mm length. The fastener can be countersunk r of any other type. The diameter of the fastener receiving hole can be of a different size than provided above. For example, if the clip is used to install boards such as siding boards on the supporting structure made out of ply sheet, the shorter but thicker fastener, which can require a larger diameter of the fastener receiving hole, can be used to achieve a sufficient installation. However, it is preferable that the fastener penetrates the supporting structure of about 50 mm when installing most common deck or siding boards. Fastener type, material, width and length are not within the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific examples provided herein are not intended to be limited too.

The clip of the present disclosure is not limited to have only one fastener receiving hole. For example, the embodiment, shown in FIG. 1, has one fastener receiving hole. However, the clip can have more fastener receiving holes formed in a row, depending on configuration. Also, the clip might not have a predrilled fastener receiving hole. This provides flexibility for the user to drill out a desired diameter or quantity of the fastener receiving holes. For example, deck or siding boards might be used of several types and might have a significant difference in weight and size in one building project. The clip without predrilled holes in advance gives the flexibility to a user to drill out as many holes (while the width of the clip allows) as is necessary to achieve a desired fastening force when fastening the clip to the supporting structure in accordance that a relevant quantity of fasteners are used. For this purpose the clip can have a guiding groove 805 formed crosswise the front extension of the clip, shown in FIG. 8. A guiding groove can be formed on any clip portions where the fastener receiving hole is intended to be. A guiding groove guides a user to a correct drilling location. A guiding groove can be formed of a similar size as ventilation grooves 711 described above.

The clip embodiments of the present disclosure have an advantage to allow installing boards on a horizontally and vertically positioned supporting structure. For example, on a vertically positioned supporting structure (i.e. wall), boards such as siding boards can be positioned and installed horizontally or vertically. When boards are positioned vertically, a tight ‘lock’ of the board into the clip prevents the board from slipping down. However, the clip in some embodiments can have an optional ‘anti-slip’ hole 712 formed in the base between the middle portion and the hook, shown in FIG. 7. It optionally allows securing the clip to the board penetrating the fastener 34 through the ‘anti-slip’ hole into the bottom of the board, shown in FIG. 18, before fastening the clip to the supporting structure. The ‘anti-slip’ hole can comprise a diameter of 5 mm to allow insertion of, for example, corrosion free AISI 304 stainless steel screw-type fastener with a diameter of 4 mm. The length of the fastener 34 can be equal to the depth of the ‘anti-slip’ hole + 3mm of the fastener to penetrate the board. The main purpose of the fastener 34 is optionally to ‘bit’ into the bottom of the board to prevent the board from slipping down. The ‘anti-slip’ hole diameter, the same as the fastener 34 type, size and material can be different and are not intended to be limited. The ‘anti-slip’ hole can also have countersink to allow penetration of the fastener head into the base of the clip. The fastener 34 head penetrating into the base allows the base to rest against the supporting structure when the base is configured to do so. The base of the clip can include a single or several ‘anti-slip’ holes depending on configuration. Also, the top of the base can comprise barbs, spikes or other such raised features to ‘bit’ into the bottom of boards. For example, spikes 403, shown in FIG. 4, can provide a suitable sharpness to penetrate into the bottom of the board, thus acting like a nail. A height of spikes 403 can be 0.5 - 1 mm to create roughness. However spikes can be of other size. The base of the clip may include spikes-like features over the entire length of the base or can include them at limited numbers and locations. The advantage that the boards can be positioned and installed vertically using the clip of a single piece eliminates the need in additional corners, channels, clips or other devices to be installed along the bottom of the wall to prevent the boards from slipping down.

As mentioned above, the clip and installation method can be used installing boards such as deck boards on a horizontal supporting structure. The supporting structure can be joists made of timber, aluminium, plastic, composite and other materials. The installation of boards, such as siding boards can be achieved on a vertical supporting structure such as a wall and on a horizontal supporting structure such as ceiling. A vertical supporting structure can be a wall structure of a conventional frame building covered of sheeting material such as plywood or chipboard and protected by a wind and moisture membrane or other alternative. Embodiments of the clip, shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, can install boards directly on such structure providing sufficient ventilation gap 12 between the boards and supporting structure. Embodiments of the clip, shown in FIGS. 12 - 17, 20 and 24 - 26, can be also installed directly on a vertical supporting structure such as a wall when no increased ventilation is required or is not required at all. Alternatively, wall battens or other alternatives can be attached to the supporting structure to create a desired spacing for the ventilation and the clip embodiments can be fastened to the battens. Wall battens can have, for example, 20 mm thickness and 50 mm width. The supporting structure can also be of a different type and material such as bricks and concrete. The type of the supporting structure is not within the scope of the present disclosure.

In accordance with the current disclosure, FIGS. 12 - 20 and 24 - 26 illustrate various examples of boards 100, such as deck and siding boards installation with the clip embodiments of the current disclosure. The cylindrical groove 15 can have different shapes and can have a circle arc between 25 degrees and 359 degrees inclusive. For example, the cylindrical groove, shown in FIG. 12, has 180 degrees circle arc and the cylindrical groove, shown in FIG. 14, can have a T shape with the circle arc between 45 degrees and 90 degrees. The cylindrical groove should be formed to allow an insertion of the cylinder portion 108 of the clip at least from the board side 13, shown in FIG. 12. This ensures a quick installation of the clip into the board side 13 and eliminates the need to slide the clip from the end of the board to a desired location as it would be necessary if the cylindrical groove would have the circle arc of more than 180 degrees and would be partially ‘closed’ for an access from the board side. In some cases, shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the cylinder portion can be inserted from the board side and from the top of the board. A radius of the circle arc formed in the cylindrical groove should generally match the radius of the circle arc formed in the cylinder portion. However, the radius of the circle arc of the cylindrical groove can be insignificantly larger considering a possible roughness caused in a groove formation. For example, if the cylindrical groove is formed by a moulder in a timber board.

The cylindrical groove can form a bottom edge 17 and a top edge 18 on the board side 13 of the board 100, shown in FIGS. 12 - 20 and 24 - 26. The top edge and the bottom edge can have equal or different length and thickness depending on configuration. However, the top edge 18 may not be exposed and furthermore, the top edge can be deepened further into the board, shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, so that the bottom edge extension 46 is formed. The board side 13, having a deepened top edge 18, keeps the cylindrical groove open from a top of the board. Thus, it prevents the moisture guttering in the cylindrical groove when boards are positioned and installed horizontally on a vertical supporting structure. The top edge 18, its length or presence, does not have a direct impact to the reliability of the installation process. As shown in FIG. 19, a thickness 47 of the bottom edge extension 46 can be generally equal or insignificantly smaller than a height 813 (shown in FIG. 8) between the base and the top of the clip. Also, the thickness of the bottom edge extension 46, can be smaller, for example, from 1 mm to 5 mm or more, than a height between the base and the top of the clip, shown in FIG. 18. In such a way, a gap 48 can be formed between the bottom edge extension and overlapped top edge of the second board. The gap 48 allows air circulation between the boards.

Referring to FIG. 12, a thickness 21 in a thickest place of the bottom edge 17 can be from 3 mm to 50 mm and a thickness 22 in a thickest place of the top edge 18 can be from 3 mm to 50 mm depending on configuration. For example, installing decking board of 21 mm thickness with the embodiment 101, the thickness 21 of the bottom edge can be 9 mm and the thickness 22 of the top edge can be 10 mm when the cylinder portion has 5 mm radius of the circle arc and a thickness of the base is 2 mm. However, the thickness can be larger or smaller and is not limited by the present disclosure.

The present disclosure allows installing boards of fixed or variable widths from 4 cm to 20 cm or even more where a material, the board is made of, allows two sides fastening. The current disclosure generally relates to a solid wood deck or siding boards. However, boards made out of other materials such as plastic, wood composite, aluminium or other rigid material are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Boards can have a thickness from 8 mm to 100 mm and a length from 0.3 m to 10 m. However, boards can have different sizes and the size of boards is not limited. Clips can be positioned on the supporting structure along the board side in a row each 30-60 cm. Depending on configuration, clips can be spaced more or less between each other than mentioned above.

The hook of the clip can have a slope of different types. The sloped surface 26 of the hook can be a flat slope, shown in FIG. 1, and the slope angle 107 of the hook can be from 89 degrees to 160 degrees. Also, the sloped surface 26 can be a rounded slope from a distal end 203 of the hook to the base, shown in FIG. 2. Furthermore, the sloped surface of the hook can be partially flat slope and a partially rounded slope, i.e. the sloped surface of the hook can have be a flat slope on an upper side of the hook turning in to a rounded slope on a lower side, shown in FIG. 8. The advantage of the hook having the slope and the bottom groove of the board matching that slope is that the hook does not require having a ‘flex’ effect to be inserted into the bottom groove what allows the hook to have an increased strength.

Referring to FIG. 12, a slope angle 23 of the bottom groove 16 should generally match the slope angle 107 of the hook if the sloped surface of the hook has a flat slope. The slope angle 23 of 135 degrees and bigger is sufficient to receive the hook 106 with a matching slope angle 107 without the sloped surface 26 of the hook bumping into a bottom corner 25 of the bottom groove. However, the bottom corner 25 can be rounded (shown in FIG. 17). This allows forming a steeper slope angle 23 of the bottom groove to match a steeper slope angle of the hook. Depending on how much the bottom corner 25 is rounded, the slope angle 23 can be steepened accordingly up to 89 degrees, until it forms a slope and matches the slope angle of the hook. In all the cases the bottom groove should be configured that the sloped surface 26 of the hook at least partially interacts with the sloped surface 30 of the bottom groove. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 12, a depth 27 of the bottom groove can be equal or deeper than a height 118 of the hook to allow the hook fully enter into the bottom groove. A width 28 of the bottom groove should be slightly bigger than a width 121 of a hook so that the hook would not bump into a back side 29 of the bottom groove when entering. A location of the bottom groove should be configured to match a location of the hook on the clip so that the sloped surface 30 of the bottom groove would be at least partially in a tight contact with the sloped surface 26 of the hook once the clip is installed into the board. The clip can be installed in the first board in a sequence: inserting the cylinder portion 108 into the cylindrical groove 15; a radius of the cylindrical groove generally matching a radius of the circle arc of the cylinder portion allows turning the clip clockwise or anticlockwise and in such way the hook is directed and inserted into the bottom groove effecting a ‘lock’ of the board side 13 into a clip.

Referring to FIGS. 12, 13, 16, 17, 20 and 24, the boards can rest against the supporting structure 11 without the ventilation gap left between the boards and supporting structure depending on the clip configuration. For that reason, the bottom of the board can have a space groove 31, shown more detailed in FIG. 12, formed lengthwise the bottom of the board from a distal end 44 of the bottom edge 17 to the bottom groove. A thickness 32 of the space groove 31 can be generally the same as a thickness of the base, so that the bottom of the base is generally flush with the bottom of the board once the clip is installed.

The clip embodiments , shown in FIGS. 14, 15, 18, 19, 25 and 26 can install boards elevated from the supporting structure 11 so that ventilation gap 12 is formed. A distance from the supporting structure to the bottom of boards can be from 1 mm to 90 mm depending on the clip configuration. However, the ventilation gap can be bigger or smaller.

Returning to FIG. 12, the side groove 33 is formed lengthwise the board side 14 of the board 100. The side groove can have a rectangular, square, a tapered or other shape till it is configured to receive at least partially the flange of the clip. The side groove forms a top edge 20 and a bottom edge 19. A height 35 of the side groove can be from 2 mm to 10 mm and a depth 36 of the side groove can be from 5 mm to 20 mm depending on configuration. However, the height and the depth of the side groove are not limited to these sizes only. A thickness 39 of the bottom edge can be from 3 mm to 50 mm for a sufficient installation and a thickness 45 of the top edge can be also from 3 mm to 50 mm. For example, installing a deck board of 21 mm thickness, the bottom edge 19 thickness from 5 mm to 10 mm is sufficient for the installation. However, the bottom edge 19 and top edge 20 can be thicker or thinner and are not limited by the present disclosure. The top edge 20 and the bottom edge 19 can vary in lengths between themselves and in this way a size of expansion gaps 37 and 37a can be adjusted depending on configuration. For example, a spacing gap 38, formed between the board side 13 of the first board and the board side 14 of the second board can be 8 mm and expansion gaps can be 3mm. Forming the top edge 20 of a longer length, expansion gaps can be increased even when the spacing gap 38 is left of the previous size. Furthermore, the top edge 20 of the board side 14 can be significantly longer than the bottom edge 19, shown FIGS. 18 and 19, such that it can overlap the clip and at least partially overlap the bottom edge extension 46 of the board side 13. That affects a visual design if boards are installed as siding boards and gaps in between of boards are ‘closed’ to protect from the precipitation access to the supporting structure. The top edge of the second board can overlap the bottom edge extension of the first board from 1mm to 20mm depending on configuration. However, it can overlap less or more than mentioned.

Note that generally referred herein the installation method and related clip embodiments generally refers to the installation of first and second deck or siding boards.

Continuing with FIG. 12, is shown an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 101. Depending on a thickness 39 of the bottom edge 19 of the second board, the embodiment 101 can be used for the installation of deck or cladding boards. For example, the bottom edge 19 can be thinner of say 0.5 mm, than a height 122 from the bottom of the embodiment 101 to the flange. That allows installation of boards such as siding boards in an ordinary way so the flange 109 can serve as a tongue. The bottom edge 19 being of equal thickness or insignificantly thicker than the height 122, allows tight installation of boards, such as deck boards, against the supporting structure. Particularly in this case, FIG. 12 illustrates installation of deck boards above the horizontally positioned supporting structure 11 such as joists when the boards 100 are laid transversely joists. The embodiment 101 can be installed into the board side 13 of the first board next to the joist when the board is positioned on it and then the embodiment 101 can be offset to a desired location on a top of the supporting structure or, alternatively, the embodiment 101 can be installed slightly lifting up the board side 13 from the supporting structure. Once the board side 13 of the first board is ‘locked’ into the embodiment 101, the embodiment 101 can be partially fastened to the supporting structure with the fastener 10 through the fastener receiving hole, so that the first board is not allowed to change its position on the supporting structure but there can be left some looseness for the side groove 33 of the second board to engage the flange. The advantage that the board side 13 is ‘locked’ into the embodiment 101 allows straightening crooked boards fastening embodiments 101 at least partially to the supporting structure in a row one by one lengthwise the board side 13. Following a partial installation of the first board, the board side 14 of the second board can be positioned against the embodiment 101 so that the flange at least partially enters a side groove 33. Once a desired spacing gap 38 between the first board and the second board, and accordingly, desired expansion gaps 37 and 37a are set up using spacers, the board side 13 of the second board can be partially fastened in the same manner as described above. Following that, the embodiment 101 between the first board and the second board can be fully fastened driving the fastener tightly into the supporting structure, in this way, a force pressure of the flange against the bottom edge tightly secures the board side 14 to the supporting structure, meaning a complete installation of the first board. Subsequent boards can be installed in the same manner. The fastener receiving hole being countersink allows a head of the fastener to penetrate into the embodiment 101 what prevents the top edge 20 from bumping into it when the board expands. The spacing gap 38 should have appropriate size to allow the fastener 10 to pass between the boards. Alternatively, if the thickness 39 of the bottom edge 19 is generally equal to the height 122, the board side 13 of the first board can be fully fastened to the supporting structure and the second board can engage the flange 109 using a force, for example, punching the second board from an opposite side.

The advantage of the clip and installation method is that the board side 13 is always in the same position and only the board side 14 is allowed to move parallel supporting structure when the board shrinks and expands due to a moisture variation. The clip and related installation method allows to achieve the same result installing boards of any hardness and the board permanently stays in the same position during the board expansion or shrinkage. This eliminates a stress from the board which would be caused if both sides of the board would be permanently fastened to the supporting structure. One side of the board being always in the same position against the supporting structure guarantees that spacing gaps between boards stay of equal size even after unlimited cycles of shrinkage and expansions. Also, boards will always match each other end to end. Furthermore, crooked boards can be straightened without the need to install boards compressed to the clips from both sides. This allows keeping spacing and expansion gaps of a desired size. The installation of boards is fast using the clip of a single piece allowing boards fastening without fasteners penetrating the board. The flange and the cylinder portion spreads a holding and (or) a pressure force equally to bottom edges of the first and second boards from a top against the supporting structure.

Continuing with FIG. 12, as mentioned above, depending on the thickness of the bottom edge 19, the embodiment 101 can be used for boards, such as siding boards, installation on a vertical supporting structure such as a wall or a wall with battens attached to it if ventilation between the boards and supporting structure is required. Battens should be attached to the wall vertically when installing boards in a horizontal or in diagonal positions. If boards are intended to be installed in a vertical position, additional horizontal battens can be attached horizontally on top of the vertically attached battens. This ensures an air circulation and moisture condensate running down between vertically attached battens. However, the supporting structure might be of a different type and as already mentioned, the supporting structure is not within the scope of the present disclosure. The installation of boards such as siding boards with the embodiment 101 is generally the same as the installation of deck boards. However, the embodiment 101 can be fastened to the supporting structure when installing the first board. The bottom edge 19 being thinner than the height 122 allows the side groove 33 of the second board to engage the flange without using a force. When installing boards such as siding boards, especially, positioned horizontally on a vertical supporting structure, the embodiment 101 can be configured to have a flat top surface 112 (as shown in FIG. 7) and the board side 13 can be configured to have a deepened top edge 18 (as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19).

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 201. The installation with the embodiment 201 is generally the same as shown in FIG. 12 and described above. However, the cylinder portion has the spacing 202 which forms a dust gap 40 between the bottom edge 17 and the middle portion when the embodiment 201 is installed into the board. The dust gap leaves a space for dust, splinters or any other imperfections of the bottom edge 17. In this particular case, the sloped surface 30 of the bottom groove 16 is rounded and generally matches the rounded slope of the hook 106. The sloped surfaces of the bottom groove and hook tightly interact. The advantage of the rounded slope is that the sloped surface of the hook has an increased area of contact with the sloped surface 30 of the bottom groove. It is useful when a depth of the sloped grove is limited or a steeper slope angle is needed for the installation.

FIG. 16 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 501. The installation with the embodiment 501 is generally similar to the installation shown in FIG. 12. However, regardless if the boards are installed as deck boards or as siding boards, the embodiment 501 can be completely fastened to the supporting structure with the fastener 10 through the fastener receiving hole during the installation of the first board regardless of the thickness of the bottom edge 19. A ‘flex’ effect of the flange 109 allows entering the side groove 33 of the second board even when the bottom edge 19 is insignificantly thicker than a height between the bottom of the embodiment 501 and the flange. The fastener 10 penetrates the supporting structure through the fastener receiving hole generally perpendicularly, but the fastener can penetrate the supporting structure at an angle from 90 degrees to 45 degrees depending on configuration. Also, the spacing gap 38 between the board side 13 and board side 14 can be configured to be of any size not depending on the fastener size.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 601. The installation with the embodiment 601 is generally similar to the installation shown in FIG. 16. However, the middle portions 105A extending at an angle form the dust gap 40. The bottom edge 19 can have an irregular shape and an additional expansion gap 41 between the front extension 302 and bottom edge. The bottom edge 19 can also be configured of such length that it touches the distal end of the front extension. Thus, the front extension can serve as a spacer between the board side 13 of the first board and board side 14 of the second board.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 601A, which is generally the same as the installation shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 24 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 1. The installation with the embodiment 1 is generally similar to the installation shown in FIG. 12. However, even installing boards such as deck boards, the bottom edge 19 of the board side 14 can be thinner than a height between the bottom of the embodiment 1 and flange. For example, as mentioned above, the flange can be not parallel to the base but can be directed upwards. In such case, the fastener head pulls the flange downward providing a pressure force against the bottom edge 19 when fastening the fastener 10 into the supporting structure through the fastener receiving hole. The cylindrical groove is formed of such height that there is a gap 52 left between the flange and top edge 18 of the board side 13. The gap 52 should be of sufficient height to allow turning the embodiment 1 clockwise or anticlockwise when installing it into the board.

FIG. 15 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 401. The installation with the embodiment 401 is similar to the installation shown in FIG. 16. However, the front extension 302 of the embodiment 401 is configured to rest under the bottom of the second board, and the base 102 under the bottom of the first board spacing boards from the supporting structure and forming the ventilation gap 12. For that reason, the board does not have a space groove 31 (shown in FIG. 12) on the bottom of the board. As the bottom of the second board lays on the front extension, the thickness of the bottom edge 19 is adjusted accordingly to the height between the front extension and the downward indentations 402 of the flanges. In this particular case, only the downward indentations interact with the bottom edge 19. A corner 41 of the bottom edge 19 can be rounded in order not to limit a function of the expansion gap. The embodiment 401 should be fully fastened to the supporting structure when installing the board side 13 of the first board and only after that the board side 14 of the second board can be installed into the embodiment 401. The fastener 10 penetrates into the supporting structure through the fastener receiving hole at 45 degrees angle. However, the fastener can penetrate into the supporting structure at a variable angle from 35 degrees to 55 degrees depending on configuration.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 301. The installation with the embodiment 301 is similar to the installation shown in FIG. 15. However, the flanges, but not the downward indentations, interact with the bottom edge 19 and the thickness of the bottom edge 19 should be adjusted accordingly to the height between the front extension and flanges.

FIG. 25 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 2. The installation of embodiments 2 is generally similar to the installation, shown in FIG. 14. However, the middle portion extending from the base at an angle of 45 degrees allows forming the dust gap 40 and the fastener 10 can pass through the fastener receiving hole and the dust gap into the supporting structure.

FIG. 26 illustrates an example of boards 100 installation with the clip embodiment 3. The installation of the embodiments 3 is generally similar to the installation, shown in FIG. 25.

FIG. 19 illustrates an example of boards 100, such as siding boards, installation with the clip embodiment 801 on a vertical supporting structure, such as wall of a conventional frame building covered of sheeting material such as plywood or chipboard and protected by a wind and moisture membrane or other alternative. However, as mentioned above, the supporting structure can be of other types. The installation of boards with the embodiment 801 is generally similar to the installation, shown in FIG. 14. However, the bottom edge 17 of the board is configured to be shorter forming the dust gap 40. For instance, once the cylinder portion is firmly installed into the cylindrical groove the distal end of the bottom edge 17 does not touch the middle portion. Also, because of a shortened bottom edge, only a part but not the full circle arc of the cylinder portion enters the cylindrical groove 15. Embodiment 801 is fashioned in a solid material, as described above, which does not provide a ‘flex’ effect to the flanges For that reason, the bottom edge 19 is formed thinner, for example 0.5 mm, than a gap 706 (shown in FIG. 8) between the front extension and the flange to allow the bottom edge 19 smoothly entering into the gap 706. The height 35 of the side groove can be bigger, for example, 0.5 mm than the thickness of the flange. Depending on configuration, the thickness and the height ratio of the board portions against the clip portions might vary. The embodiment 801 is configured to form 20 mm ventilation gap 12. However, the ventilation gap can be formed bigger or smaller depending on configuration. For example, the embodiment 801 can have longer or shorter support legs 802 that affect a size of the ventilation gap. Also, the sloped surface of the bottom groove is formed to match the sloped surface of the hook which has a flat slope on the upper side turning into a rounded slope on a lower side. Fasteners 10 pass into the supporting structure generally perpendicularly through the fastener receiving holes formed in the support portion. However, the angle might have some variations and is not limited to be perpendicular to the supporting structure. When boards are configured to be installed as siding boards horizontally on a vertical supporting structure, the board side 13 should face upwards.

FIG. 18 illustrates an example of boards installation with the clip embodiment 701. The installation is generally the same as shown in FIG. 19, except that the fastener passes through the fastener receiving hole formed in the deepened surface of the front extension.

A starter board can be installed in several ways, depending on the clip configuration and a desired application. An ordinary starter clip 1101 manufactured in die-stamping stainless steel, shown in FIG. 11, can be used to install a starter board. Starter clips 1101 can be fastened to the supporting structure with a countersunk fastener 10 through the countersink fastener receiving hole 110. Starter clips 1101 can be fastened to the supporting structure in a row along the board side 14 of the starting board, shown in FIG. 14, and can be spaced between themselves in the same interval as the clip embodiments 301. A size, thickness, and a height of the starter clip 1101 should be configured in accordance with the clip, in this particular case in accordance with the clip embodiment 301, so that the board side 14 of the starter board could be installed into the starter clip as it would install into the clip embodiment 301. In some cases a board side 14 of the starter board, for example, shown in FIG. 16, can have a space 50 of sufficient size formed on the bottom of the starter board so that a base 51 of the starter clip 1101 could penetrate into it. Also, a starter board can be fastened using starter clips formed from the clip embodiments. As shown in FIG. 18, the starter board can be installed using a starter clip 901 and, as shown in FIG. 19, the starter board can be installed using a starter clip 1001

A last finishing board can be also installed in several ways depending on configuration. For example, the finishing board can have a predrilled countersink hole from a top of the finishing board to allow the fastener 10 of a sufficient size to pass through the hole into the supporting structure, so that the fastener head penetrates into the board and a plug 49 can be installed into the hole to cover the fastener, shown in FIG. 16. The hole can be positioned, for example, 20 30 mm from the board side 13. In some cases, for example, shown in FIG. 14, a separated part 55 from the base of the embodiment 301 can be used to keep the finishing board equally spaced from the supporting structure and the finishing board can be fastened with the fastener 10 through the countersink hole in the same manner as described above. When boards, such as deck boards, are installed on an elevated supporting structure, a facia board can be installed to cover the cylindrical grove. Also, in some cases, a spacing device 56, having a sufficient thickness to space the finishing board equally from the supporting structure, can be used as shown in FIG. 19. For example, the embodiment 801 is configured to space boards 20 mm from the supporting structure. The spacing device 56 of 20 mm thickness can be attached along the supporting structure with a fastener penetrating the spacing device and supporting structure. In this way, the board side 13 of the finishing board should overlap the spacing device and the finishing board can be fastened to the spacing device with the fastener 10 through a predrilled hole in the finishing board. The spacing device can be such as a timber, perforated aluminium profile to provide ventilation or any other type. The spacing device is not within the scope of the present disclosure. Also, depending on the clip configuration and intended use, an insect mesh or its alternatives can be installed on the supporting structure along the starter and (or) finishing boards to prevent insects access in the ventilation gap between boards and supporting structure.

It is noted that fastening the starter and finishing board can be achieved in other ways since a deck or siding installer may choose to substitute some other way.

FIGS. 1 - 26 illustrate only some of the possible configurations of the clip and installation options. Other configurations are possible and are also within the scope of this disclosure. Combinations of features may also be implemented within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the specific embodiments and their proportions shown in FIGS. 1 - 26, provided by the way of illustrations, are not intended to be limiting.

The terms and expressions which have been employed in the disclosure herein are used as terms of description and are not of limitation, and there is no intention if the use of such terms and expressions, of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described (or portions thereof) and it is recognized that various modifications are possible.

Claims

1. A clip for fastening first and second deck or siding structural members to a supporting structure comprising: a. at least one base generally flat, having a top, bottom and a first and second opposed ends lengthwise; b. at least one middle portion extending upwards from the top of the at least one base at least at the second end; c. at least one hook extending upwards from the top of the at least one base between the first end inclusive and the at least one middle portion, wherein the at least one hook has a slope towards the second end; d. at least one cylinder portion extending from at least one of the at least one middle portion, wherein the at least one cylinder portion has a circle arc of at least 25 degrees facing at least the top of the at least one base; e. at least one flange extending from at least one of the at least one middle portion or from the at least one cylinder portion outwardly to opposite side of the first end of the at least one base.

2. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one hook has a flat slope or a rounded slope, or a flat slope turning in to a rounded slope.

3. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one flange extending from the at least one of the at least one middle portion or from the at least one cylinder portion at an angle generally between 45 degrees upwards and 45 degrees downwards relating to parallel of the at least one base.

4. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one base has generally a rectangular shape.

5. The clip of claim 1, wherein the base has an irregular shape with protrusions on a front side of the base denoting that the second end of the base are distal ends of the protrusions.

6. The clip of claim 1, wherein the base has an irregular shape with protrusions on sides of the base.

7. The clip of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one middle portion extending between the at least one hook and the second end of the base.

8. The clip of claim 1, wherein at least two of the at least one middle portion extending at different angles to each other.

9. The clip of claim 1, wherein at least two of the at least one middle portion extend at the same angle.

10. The clip of claim 1, wherein two of the at least one middle portion with the flange extending from each of them are in line generally across the base.

11. The clip of claim 1, wherein two of the at least one middle portion with the cylinder portion extending from each of them are in line across the base.

12. The clip of claim 1, wherein more than one of the at least one hook extending from the at least one base generally in line across the at least one base.

13. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one cylinder portion extending from the middle portion other than the at least one flange.

14. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one cylinder portion and the at least one flange extending from the same middle portion.

15. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one flange has downward indentation.

16. The clip of claim 1, wherein a distal end of the at least one flange is rounded and directed upwards.

17. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one flange has a rounded bottom edge at a distal end.

18. The clip of claim 1, wherein the base from the first end to the at least one middle portion is separated lengthwise into separate parts which are spaced generally parallel between themselves.

19. The clip of claim 1, wherein the slope of the at least one hook is generally between 89 degrees and 160 degrees.

20. The clip of claim 1, wherein the circle arc of the at least one cylinder portion is generally between 25 degrees and 359 degrees.

21. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a hole in the at least one base between the at least one hook and the at least one middle portion, wherein the hole is configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough into a bottom of the structural member.

22. The clip of claim 1, wherein the at least one cylinder portion further comprising a spacing, configured to space the circle arc from the middle portion.

23. The clip of claim 1, further comprising at least one spike extending upwards from the top of the at least one base.

24. The clip of claim 1, further comprising an opening in the at least one base and the at least one middle portion, wherein the opening is configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough into the supporting structure.

25. The clip of claim 1, further comprising at least one notch.

26. The clip of claim 1, further comprising at least one groove crosswise the at least one base on the top or on the bottom, or on the top and the bottom.

27. The clip of claim 1, further comprising at least one groove crosswise a bottom of the at least one flange.

28. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a hook connector.

29. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a flange connector.

30. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a cylinder connector.

31. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a front extension generally flat extending outwards from a bottom surface of the middle portion, aligned with the at least one base.

32. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a front extension generally flat extending outwards from the second end of the base, aligned with the base.

33. The clip of claim 1, further comprising a front extension generally flat extending outwards from the second end of the base, aligned with the base, wherein the front extension has a deepened surface on a top.

34. The clip of claim 1, further comprising: a. a front extension generally flat extending outwards from the second end of the base, aligned with the base; b. at least one support leg extending downwards from the bottom of the base or from a bottom of the front extension or from both of them; c. a support portion generally flat, on a top connected with a bottom end of the at least one support leg, spaced generally parallel from the base and the front extension, wherein the support portion extending at a distance further than a distal end of the front extension.

35. The clip as in any one of claims 1 and 31 - 34 inclusive, further comprising at least one fastener receiving hole or the at least one fastener receiving hole and at least one countersink.

36. The clip of claim 35, wherein the fastener receiving hole is configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough into the supporting structure.

37. The clip of any one of claims 21, 24 and 36, wherein the fastener means is a screw, nail or bolt.

38. A method for joining and fastening parallel adjacent first and second structural members to a supporting structure, method comprising: providing the supporting structure under the structural members; providing the first and second structural members having a top, bottom, length, first side and second side, wherein each of the structural member has: a side groove lengthwise the first side defining a top and bottom edges of the first side; a cylindrical groove lengthwise the second side defining a top and bottom edges of the second side, wherein at least the bottom edge is exposed having a circle arc on a top surface; a bottom groove or the bottom groove and a space groove lengthwise the bottom, wherein the bottom groove has a slope towards the second side and the space groove is generally flat from the bottom groove to a distal end of the bottom edge of the second side; providing fastening devices of claim 1; providing steps: affixing the fastening devices of claim 1 in a row to the supporting structure; inserting the fastening devices of claim 1 into the second side of the first structural member; inserting the first side of the first structural member into the affixed fastening devices of claim 1; affixing the fastening devises of claim 1 to the supporting structure on the second side of the first structural member; sequentially repeating the steps by fastening the second structural member.

39. A method for joining and fastening parallel adjacent first and second structural members to a supporting structure, method comprising: providing the supporting structure under the structural members; providing the first and second structural members having a top, bottom, length, first side and second side, wherein each the structural member has: a side groove lengthwise the first side defining a top edge and bottom edge of the first side; a cylindrical groove lengthwise the second side defining a top and bottom edges of the second side, wherein at least the bottom edge is exposed having a circle arc on a top surface; a bottom groove or the bottom groove and a space groove lengthwise the bottom, wherein the bottom groove has a slope towards the second side and the space groove is generally flat from the bottom groove to a distal end of the bottom edge of the second side; providing fastening devices of claim 1; providing steps: partially affixing the fastening devices of claim 1 to the supporting structure in a row; inserting the fastening devices of claim 1 into the second side of the first structural member; inserting the first side of the first structural member into the partially affixed fastening devices of claim 1; partially affixing the inserted fastening devices of claim 1 to the supporting structure on the second side of the first structural member; permanently affixing the partially affixed fastening devices of claim 1 on the first side of the first structural member; sequentially repeating the steps for fastening the second structural member.