Above-joist, integrated deck-gutter system

Abstract

A deck with an integrated gutter system includes at least two separated joists and a plurality of planks. Each plank includes longitudinal grooves, is disposed above and supported by the joists, has an undersurface which is juxtaposed with the joists, and is secured to the joists. The deck also includes a plurality of unitary channels. Each channel includes a pair of flanges which mate with longitudinal grooves of immediately adjacent planks. The mating of the flanges of the channel with the grooves of the planks provides the deck with an impervious gutter that extends between and along the two planks, and is located above the joists to which the planks are secured.

1 - 9 . (canceled)  
   
   
       10 . A plank adapted for use in conjunction with a channel and at least one joist in assembling a deck, the channel including 
 a central section which provides a gutter, and which includes both:    a. a base that is adapted to be juxtaposed with and rest upon the at least one joist; and    b. at least two flanges that project upward along opposite edges of the base when the base rests on at least one joist;    the plank also being disposable above and securable to the at least one joist and comprising undersurface which:    a. is juxtaposable with the joists; and    b. has at least one longitudinal slice formed therein which is adapted to receive a flange of a channel when both the channel and the plank rest upon the at least one joist;    whereby when longitudinal grooves of adjacent planks are mated and engaged with flanges of a channel, and planks and the channel are disposed above and supported by the at least one joist and are secured thereto, the undersurface of the plank becomes juxtaposed with the at least one joist, and gutters provided by channels are disposed for receiving runoff water draining from upper surfaces of adjacent planks.    
   
   
       11 . (canceled)  
   
   
       12 . (canceled)  
   
   
       13 . The plank of  claim 10  wherein the plank is formed from a material that is selected from a group that consists of PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene including recycled polyethylene, HDPE, vinyl acetate copolymers, VCM, and ABS.  
   
   
       14 - 44 . (canceled)