Abstract: A system for covering the edges of slates or the like at the verge of a pitched roof, comprises a plurality of verge members (1, 2) joined by a union (3). Each verge member has a pair of flanges (5, 7) and a pair of channels (9, 10) defining two spaces (17, 18) for receiving the edges of the slates. The channels (9, 10) are disposed symmetrically between the flanges (5, 7) but one of the flanges has a portion (6) which results in the space (17) being narrower than the space (18), so that the verge member can be used with slates of different thicknesses. The union (3) joins together the verge members (1, 2) in such a way that the channels (9) being used are connected in a waterproof manner. The union (3) thus comprises an upstream portion (30) which underlies the channel (9) of the verge member (2) up the roof, and a downstream portion (31) which overlies the channel (9) of the verge member (1) down the roof, the portions (30, 31) being joined by a wall (32) extending between the ends of the two channels (9).

Abstract: A tile making machine in which tiles are formed on pallets conveyed in succession through the machine has laterally spaced, longitudinally extending tracks for supporting the pallets. The pallets can be supported at different heights by the provision of a fixed track to provide a relatively low track level and another track removably supported by the fixed track to provide a higher track level. The higher track level enables pallets for tiles of flatter profile to be conveyed without requiring the pallet to have an excessive depth.

Abstract: Apparatus for propelling a succession of pallets in a longitudinal direction has a plurality of pawls for pushing the pallets and spaced apart on a pair of endless drive chains each having a portion extending parallel to a pallet guide means. Each pawl is arranged to move in such a way that in use it engages one of the pallets to push it along the guide means and disengages from the pallet further down the guide means, the movement of each pawl being controlled by an associated cam follower wheel cooperating with one of a pair of longitudinally extending cam tracks. The cam follower wheel can be laterally moved on a shaft to select the appropriate cam track for the type of pallets to be conveyed, so that the apparatus can be easily adapted to e.g. different length pallets.

Abstract: A capping system for a roof ridge comprised capping members, e.g., ridge tiles, connected to a reentrant portion arranged to overly ends of tiles adjacent the ridge. Filler members are disposed between the tiles and reentrant portion. Ridge interior is ventilated by circulation of air passing over the filler member and through the reentrant portion.

Abstract: A roofing system includes a filler member (12) engaging the under sides of the tiles (3) at the eaves of the roof. The filler member (12) is carried by a strip (13) which is pivotable on a spacer member (4), having ventilation apertures (6), the spacer member (4) being secured to the top of an underlying fascia board (1). The strip (13), which is also effective to support the roofing felt (14), extends inwardly from the spacer member (4) and engages the rafters (2), whereby to locate the filler member (12) at a desired inclination relative to the tiles (3).

Abstract: Apparatus for attaching rigid, conventional ridge tiles to a roofing structure is disclosed wherein elongated members extend along either side of the roof ridge so as to support the lateral edges of the conventional ridge tiles. The ridge tiles are supported on both elongated members such that the tiles extend over the ridge of the roof. Since the tiles merely rest against the elongated members, a plurality of locating and retaining straps are utilized to retain the ridge tiles on the elongated members. Each locating and retaining strap passes over a portion of the conventional ridge tile and engages a portion of the elongated members to form the sole means for retaining the ridge tiles in position. The elongated members have upwardly extending retaining portions so as to retain the nibs of conventional roofing tiles adjacent the roof ridge. Also, end pieces are provided which may be fastened to the elongated members to cap the ends at the roof ridge.

Abstract: The invention provides articles made of polymer-modified cement mortars and concretes and processes for the production thereof. The processes comprise curing compositions which contain hydraulic cement and aqueous dispersions of polymers or copolymers of methacrylic or acrylic acid esters by means of a two stage curing process the first stage of which is carried out at an elevated temperature under conditions of high humidity and the second stage of which is carried out under drying conditions, preferably at elevated temperatures. The cement mortar and concrete articles according to the invention have relatively high Modulus of Rupture (MOR) values and preferably are roof tiles or shingles or other articles of relatively thin cross-section.

Abstract: A verge member (1) for a pitched roof comprises a tapered planar portion (2) and a pair of flanges (5) and (6) defining a channel (7) for capping the edge of a tile. Also provided is a third flange (8). To assist in interlocking of members, and to improve appearance, along the upper edge of the member is provided a longitudinally extending protruding element (14). Element (14) is provided with a tongue (15) at one end, and the other end of the member is provided with a cut-out (21) to assist in interlocking with the tongue. In a roofing system incorporating the verge members, the members are telescopically engaged and cap the complete verge of the roof.

Abstract: A verge or soaker system for a pitched roof having a number of overlapping tiles or other individual roofing units. The system comprises a plurality of overlapping, individual members. Each member has a channel adapted to cap the upper and lower faces of a tile, adjacent the tiles free edge. Each member advantageously has a longitudinally extending planar portion tapering in height from one end of the member to the other, and a pair of longitudinal, parallel, spaced flanges normal to said portion, and defining the channel.

Abstract: This invention provides a process for the production of surface covering materials having a textured effect which comprises (a) applying a layer of a first foamable resinous composition on to a substrate; (b) applying a second foamable resinous composition on to selected areas of the surface of the said first foamable resinous composition; (c) applying at least one essentially non-foaming layer over the said first and second foamable resinous compositions; and (d) heating to effect foaming of the first and second foamable resinous compositions whereby a surface covering material having a textured effect is produced; the said first and second foamable resinous compositions being selected whereby upon heating substantial foaming of the said second foamable resinous compositions occurs before any substantial foaming of the said first foamable resinous composition.