Edge closure for roof systems

Abstract

An edge closure for installation on a roof structure is fabricated as an integral unit from a non-corrosive, durable material. The edge closure includes an anchoring flange for attachment to the roof structure, an upper flange with an upper longitudinal edge zone, and intermediate panel spanning between the anchoring flange and the upper flange, and a fascia portion integral with the anchoring flange and extending downwardly to a lower longitudinal edge zone. The anchoring flange and upper flange are spaced apart for receiving a thickness of insulative lightweight concrete therebetween. The upper and lower longitudinal edge zones are angled to provide added rigidity and strength to the edge closure.

Description

[0001]This non-provisional patent application is based on provisional patent application Ser. No. 60 / 802,240 filed on May 17, 2006.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to blocking for use in roof systems and, more particularly, to an edge closure formed as one piece from a non-corrosive, durable material, such as steel, galvanized steel, aluminum or plastic.[0004]2. Discussion of the Related Art[0005]Generally, roof systems used on most building structures, and particularly commercial buildings, require some type of blocking to provide a base for the attachment of roofing components such as, but not limited to, gravel stops, eaves, drips, fascia, gutters, vent stacks, roof top equipment, expansion joints, roof curbs, copings and cant strips. Traditionally, wood is used for roof blocking and typically consists of one or more stacked wood boards (e.g. 2 inch by 4 inch or 2 inch by 6 inch boards) that are nailed to the roof struc...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]With the foregoing in mind, the present invention has the following objects and advantages over the conventional wood blocking structure presently used in most roof systems.

[0009]In particular, a primary object of the present invention is to provide a blocking assembly for roof systems comprising a preformed integral unit manufactured from galvanized steel, steel, aluminum, plastic or other corrosion-resistant materials to thereby provide resistance to deterioration from moisture, insects, warping, and the like.

[0010]It is a further object of the present invention to provide a non-corrosive blocking component that is formed and / or molded in accordance with desired size and configuration specifications for use as an edge closure about the sides of a roof structure.

Problems solved by technology

Despite its widespread use in roof systems, there are significant drawbacks and shortcomings associated with the use of conventional wood blocking.

In particular, wood is susceptible to damage and deterioration from moisture, termites, ants, and other natural enemies.

Further, because wood is a solid material, it does not provide for venting capabilities to permit escape of moisture and gasses from within the roof.

The lack of adequate venting is a contributing factor of premature roof failure.

Additionally, wood has limited pull-out characteristics for holding nails and other fasteners, thereby requiring a considerable amount of hardware to attach roofing components.

Wood, being a natural product, is also prone to irregularities such as areas of reduced dimension, warping, and splintering.

This makes it difficult, if not impossible, to achieve a straight, uniform blocking configuration.

Furthermore, the dimensions of wood are limited to lumber industry standards which often does not correspond to the dimensions of roofing components, such as roof insulation or lightweight concrete thickness, expansion joint heights and equipment sizes.

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