ELASTOMERIC FLASHING ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR SAME

Abstract

An elastomeric flashing assembly includes an elastomeric film having a rough opening panel and a wall flange. A liner is removably coupled along an elastomeric film adhesive side. A panel support substrate is coupled along the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film. The rough opening panel has a first elastomeric deformation characteristic based on the panel support substrate. The wall flange has a second elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic. In an installed configuration, the rough opening panel extends over the rough opening frame and the wall flange is folded at a wall flange joint and stretched around at least one rough opening frame corner along a wall panel of the rough opening frame in a planar configuration. The wall flange with the second elastomeric deformation characteristic is deformable into a planar configuration while coupled along the wall panel in the installed configuration.

Description

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/085,008, entitled “ELASTOMERIC FLASHING ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR SAME”, filed on Nov. 26, 2014, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. The following notice applies to the software and data as described below and in the drawings that form a part of this document: Copyright Marvin Lumber and Cedar Company, d/b/a Marvin Windows and Doors; Warroad, Minn.. All Rights Reserved.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to flashing and moisture diversion for fenestration units.

BACKGROUND

Fenestration units are installed within rough openings (provided by rough opening frames) in buildings. The interface between the fenestration unit (e.g., a window assembly, door assembly or the like) and the rough opening frame provides location for the ingress of moisture to the building. Flashing is used in rough frame openings to resist the ingress of moisture.

In some example, flashing includes one or more rigid members that are cut or formed to fit a rough opening. The rigid members are assembled together and installed in the rough opening. The fenestration unit is installed in the rough opening with the assembled rigid members interposed between the rough opening frame and the frame of the fenestration unit. The one or more rigid members are assembled together at one or more seams. For instance, a lineal central member is coupled at its ends with left and right hand corner components. The assembled rigid members are then installed within the rough opening, for instance along the sill and first and second uprights of the rough opening frame.

In other examples, flexible wrap is coupled along the rough opening frame along the sill and first and second uprights. The flexible wrap includes a pleated surface (e.g., a pleated membrane) that correspondingly provides for a rough discontinuous (broken) surface when installed in the rough opening. The flexible wrap is stretched during installation to fit within the rough opening and along a wall panel surrounding the rough opening (e.g., the exterior wall around the rough opening).

OVERVIEW

The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved includes removing seams, wrinkles, pleats or the like from a flashing assembly to minimize the ingress of moisture around a fenestration unit or a rough opening. In an example, the present subject matter provides a solution to this problem, such as by providing a flashing assembly including an elastomeric film having a rough opening panel and a wall flange coupled with the rough opening panel. A panel support substrate is coupled along the rough opening panel. The panel support substrate provides a continuous planar surface to the rough opening panel.

In an installed configuration the rough opening panel is coupled along the rough opening frame and the wall flange is coupled along the wall panel surrounding the rough opening. The continuous planar surface of the rough opening panel (e.g., of the panel support substrate) within the rough opening facilitates the diversion of moisture from beneath and around the fenestration unit toward the wall flange of the elastomeric film along the wall panel. The panel support substrate (e.g., a polymer or the like) provides the continuous planar surface from end to end of the assembly and edge to edge (interior to exterior) without any seams. Further, wrinkles, pleats and the like are similarly absent (entirely absent or significantly minimized) from the continuous planar surface to facilitate diversion of moisture toward the wall flange and away from the rough opening. Accordingly, moisture is consistently and reliably diverted toward the wall panel and the exterior without pooling along and between wrinkles and pleats and without ingress through seams.

The present inventors have further recognized that another problem to be solved includes removing wrinkles, pleats or the like from a flashing assembly that arise during manipulation of pliable flashing or are intentionally incorporated into the flashing to promote flexibility. Surface features such as wrinkles, pleats or the like provide discontinuities in the surface that allow for the pooling and retention of moisture between the flashing and the fenestration unit. Additionally, wrinkles and pleats are more pronounced (bunched) at rough opening frame corners and along the wall panel adjacent to the corners. Wrinkles and pleats fill the rough opening and accordingly decrease its dimensions. In some examples, the installation of a fenestration unit within the decreased rough opening requires significant labor to mechanically fit the unit within the opening. Further, installation within the decreased opening may tear the flashing and frustrate the diversion of moisture intended with the flashing.

In another example, the present subject matter provides a solution to this problem, such as by providing a flashing assembly including an elastomeric film having a rough opening panel and a wall flange. A panel support substrate is coupled along the rough opening panel to provide a continuous planar surface for water diversion as described herein. Additionally, the panel support substrate ensures the rough opening panel has an elastomeric characteristic greater than that of the wall flange portion of the elastomeric film. The panel support substrate still maintains the elastomeric film in a pliable form, but allows the rough opening panel to lay in the planar configuration within the rough opening without wrinkling or pleating. In contrast, the wall flange with the lower elastomeric characteristic (without the panel support substrate) is more pliable and readily stretches around the wall panel at the corners of the rough opening frame. The wall flange lays substantially flat along the wall panel (it is stretched and not bunched) and accordingly provides a good interface for building wrap, decorative wall coverings (stucco, siding or the like).

This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the invention. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary building including a rough opening, an elastomeric flashing assembly, and a fenestration unit.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an elastomeric flashing assembly, according to an example.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the elastomeric flashing assembly of FIG. 2 in a folded configuration, according to an example.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the exemplary elastomeric flashing assembly of FIG. 2 installed within a rough opening.

FIG. 5 is a cross section of an elastomeric flashing assembly in an installed configuration interposed between a fenestration unit and a rough opening frame, according to an example.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary method of coupling an elastomeric flashing assembly along a rough opening frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are various configurations of devices and methods of a flashing assembly, such as an elastomeric flashing assembly. The following examples and drawings illustrate the subject matter to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter described in the following detailed description. Portions and features of some examples may be included in, or substituted for, those of other examples.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a building 100, an elastomeric flashing assembly 102, and a fenestration unit 104. The exemplary building 100 includes a wall panel 106 on the exterior (or optionally the interior) of the building 100. In one example, the wall panel 106 includes a vapor barrier installed on the building 100. A rough opening 108 is included in the wall panel 106, for instance, the rough opening 108 includes, but is not limited to, a rough opening 108 cut into the wall panel 106.

The rough opening 108 includes a rough opening frame 110 surrounding the rough opening 108. The rough opening frame 110, for example, extends substantially perpendicular of the wall panel 106 toward the interior of the building 100 (or exterior depending on the desired installation direction) and provides a support surface for installation of a fenestration unit 104 within the rough opening 108. For instance, the rough opening frame 110 includes a frame sill 112 (located along the bottom of the rough opening 108), a left upright 114, a right upright 116, and a header 118 (located along the top of the rough opening frame 110). A frame corner 120 is located at each junction between the frame sill 112, the left upright 114, the right upright 116, and the head 118. Optionally, the frame sill 112 includes a downward slope from the interior side to the exterior side of the building 100. For instance the slope includes an angle of 1 to 10 degrees to direct moisture toward the exterior of the building 100. The fenestration unit 104 is installed within the rough opening frame 110, and in at least some instances, fastened to the rough opening frame 110 to retain the fenestration unit 104 on the building 100.

The fenestration unit 104 includes a fenestration unit frame 122 having a jamb 124. In one example, the fenestration unit 104 includes one or more window panes 126. The window panes 126 are optionally supported within window sashes 128 coupled to the fenestration unit frame 122. The window sash 128 is fixedly or moveably attached to the fenestration unit frame 122. In one example, the fenestration unit 104 includes a door assembly. The door assembly includes a door jamb, a header, a sill, and a door. The door can optionally include a window pane 126. Accordingly, the elastomeric flashing assembly is applicable for use with various items installed within the rough opening 108 including, but not limited to, fenestration units 104, door assemblies, or the like.

The example elastomeric flashing assembly 102 shown in FIG. 1 is configured for installation within the rough opening 108. As shown in FIG. 1, the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 is coupled along the frame sill 112. For instance, a rough opening panel 130 of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 is coupled along the frame sill 112, and a wall flange 132 of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 is coupled along the wall panel 106. The rough opening panel 130 includes a panel support substrate (shown in FIG. 2 and described herein) having a substantially planar surface along the rough opening frame 110 (e.g., frame sill 112, left upright 114, and right upright 116). The substantially planar surface facilitates the diversion of moisture from beneath and around the fenestration unit 104 toward the wall flange 132 along the wall panel 106. The elastomeric flashing assembly provides a contiguous (continuous) water proof barrier for preparation of at least the frame sill 112 of the rough opening 108 for the installation of the fenestration unit 104 or a door.

FIG. 2 is an exploded representation of an exemplary elastomeric flashing assembly 102. The elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes a corresponding length and width to fit a desired particular rough opening 108. For instance, the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 is provided as a lineal component cut to a desired length or is pre-fabricated to one or more lengths. FIG. 2 shows a length of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 for illustration purposes.

The elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes an elastomeric film 200 having a front edge 201 and a back edge 203. The elastomeric film 200 is continuous from the first end to the second end. The elastomeric film 200 includes the wall flange 132 and the rough opening panel 130 coupled together (as separate or integral components). In one example, the wall flange 132 of the elastomeric film 200 is coupled to the rough opening panel 130 by a wall flange joint 208. As shown in FIG. 2, a panel support substrate 204 is laminated along the upper surface of the rough opening panel 130.

In one example, the elastomeric film 200 includes an optional sill dam 202 (shown in broken lines) extended from the rough opening panel 130. The sill dam 202 is coupled to the rough opening panel 130 by a sill dam joint 210 (as separate or integral components). In another example, a sill dam substrate 206 is laminated to the lower surface of the sill dam 202.

The support substrates for the respective rough opening panel 130 and the sill dam 202 are resistant to deformation, such as stretching, as described herein. For instance, the panel support substrate 204 anchors the rough opening panel 130 of the elastomeric film 200 against deformation relative to the wall flange 132 of the elastomeric film 200 (i.e., the wall flange remains relatively deformable compared to the rough opening panel). Similarly, the sill dam substrate 206 anchors the sill dam 202 from deformation in a corresponding manner to the rough opening panel 130 with the panel support substrate 204. For instance, the rough opening panel 130 includes a first elastomeric deformation characteristic. The wall panel 132 includes a second elastomeric deformation characteristic that is lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic. The panel support substrate 204 includes a third elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, but greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic. Accordingly, the wall flange 132 is more pliable than the rough opening panel 130 (at least with regard to stretching) because of the lamination of the panel support substrate 204 to the elastomeric film 200 along the rough opening panel 130. As described herein, the wall flange 132 stretches over the wall panel 106 as the rough opening panel 130 is fit along the rough opening frame 110 (e.g., the wall flange 132 stretches to lay over the wall panel 106 at least at the frame corners 120 where the rough opening panel 130 is creased or folded).

The elastomeric deformation characteristic (discussed further herein) includes, but is not limited to, Young's modulus (or the inverse of it), compliance (inverse of stiffness) such as the ratio of strain to stress, durometer, industry or governing standards for pliability or deformation or the like. Where a characteristic of pliability (as opposed to stiffness or Young's modulus) is the elastomeric deformation characteristic the labeled characteristics herein (e.g., first, second and third elastomeric deformation characteristic) are inversed relative to each other.

The elastomeric film 200 is sized and shaped to fit the rough opening 108. For instance, the rough opening panel 130 has a width of 1 to 12 inches, for instance 4.25 inches. The wall flange 132, in another example, has a width of 1 to 12 inches, for instance 2.75 inches. In one example, the optional sill dam 202 includes a width of 0.50 to 4 inches, for instance 1.50 inches in one example. The elastomeric film 200 has a thickness that permits the elastomeric film to remain pliable (e.g., for fitting within the rough opening frame and folding at corners), such as 0.006 inches to 0.125 inches. In one example where the elastomeric film 200 includes the sill dam 202, the elastomeric film 200 is thicker along the sill dam 202. For instance, the sill dam 202 includes an elastomeric film 200 that is twice as thick as the elastomeric film 200 of the rough opening panel 130.

The elastomeric film 200 is constructed with a material including, but not limited to, a synthetic rubber, butyl rubber, asphalt free rubber, or the like. For instance, the elastomeric film 200 includes, in an example, a butyl film or tape. In one example, the elastomeric film 200 includes a Young's modulus of 160 psi, 210 psi, or any value in between. In another example, the elastomeric film 200 is tacky. For instance, the elastomeric film 200 is intrinsically tacky or includes an adhesive on one or both sides of the elastomeric film 200 for adhesion to one or more of the wall panel 106, the rough opening frame 110, the fenestration unit 104 or the like. The elastomeric film 200 is water resistant and provides a barrier against the ingress of moisture through the rough opening 108 in an installed configuration (Shown in FIG. 4). In other examples, the elastomeric film 200 is resistant to ultra-violet radiation to mitigate degradation of the material of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 as a result of exposure to sunlight.

The rough opening panel 130 is configured to couple along the rough opening frame 110. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the rough opening panel 130 includes the panel support substrate 204 located on the upper surface of the elastomeric film 200 and includes a (optional) tacky surface on the lower surface of the elastomeric film 200. The tacky surface adheres the rough opening panel 130 to the rough opening frame 110, specifically the frame sill 112 and at least a portion of the left upright 114, the right upright 116, or any combination thereof. As previously stated, the rough opening panel 130 includes a first elastomeric deformation characteristic according to the lamination of the panel support substrate 204 and the elastomeric film 200. The panel support substrate 204 constrains deformation of the elastomeric film 200 along the rough opening panel 130 of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102. For instance, a first elastomeric deformation characteristic of the rough opening panel 130 is greater than that of the second elastomeric deformation characteristic of the wall flange 132 because of the panel support substrate 204. In other words, the panel support substrate 204 anchors the rough opening panel 130 of the elastomeric film 200 against deformation relative to the wall flange 132 of the elastomeric film 200. That is to say, the panel support substrate 204 stiffens the rough opening panel 130 with regard to stretching or the like and reduces wrinkling along the rough opening panel 130.

When installed the rough opening panel 130 (with the panel support substrate 204) presents a planar, smooth surface to minimize (e.g., eliminate or decrease) pooling of water and improve the fit of the fenestration unit 104 with the rough opening frame 110. The panel support substrate 204 is constructed with a pliable (folds, creases or the like) material having a third elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, but greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic. For instance, the panel support substrate 204 is constructed from a material, including but not limited to, a polymer sheet, butyl, foil, metal coil sheet, aluminum, copper, galvanized steel or iron, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, or the like. The panel support substrate 204 includes, but is not limited to, a thickness between around 0.006″ and 0.0625″. In one example, the panel support substrate 204 is sufficiently pliable to include a minimal bend radius at the frame corner 120. The minimal radius provides clearance to accommodate the installation of the fenestration unit 104 within the rough opening 108 having the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 installed. For instance, the panel support substrate 204 includes a bend radius between 0.006 inches and 0.50 inches. On the interior face (e.g., upper surface) of the rough opening panel 130, the panel support substrate 204 provides, for instance, a smooth (e.g., non-tacky) surface that facilitates the installation of the fenestration unit 104. In one example, the material of the panel support substrate 204 is abrasion resistant. For instance, the panel support substrate 204 is durable enough to withstand abrasion and shear caused by installation of the fenestration unit 104.

The wall flange 132 is coupled to the rough opening panel 130 of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 by a wall flange joint 208. The wall flange joint 208 includes the elastomeric film 200, in one example. Optionally, the wall flange joint 208 includes a relief in the elastomeric film 200. For instance, the wall flange joint 208 includes, but is not limited to, a notch, crease, groove, scoring line, or the like. The wall flange joint 208 acts as a hinge for the wall flange 132 and permits application of the wall flange 132 to the wall panel 106 of the building 100 while the rough opening panel 130 is coupled with the rough opening frame 106. The wall flange 132 is deformable into a planar configuration and is coupled along the wall panel 106 surrounding the rough opening frame 110 (e.g., the installed configuration). The deformable character of the wall flange 132 (e.g., stretchability) is provided by the elastomeric deformation characteristic of the wall flange material. For instance, as previously stated the wall flange 132 has a second elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric defamation characteristic of the rough opening panel 130 (including the panel support substrate 204. For instance, the wall flange 132 is constructed with a material having a second elastomeric deformation characteristic (e.g., an elastic modulus of between around 160-210 psi). The wall flange 132 is installed with a smooth, consistent surface over the wall panel 106 according deformable character of the wall flange 132. The smooth (e.g., substantially unwrinkled) installation minimizes (e.g., eliminates or decreases) the collection of moisture along the wall flange 132.

Optionally, the wall flange 132 includes a wall flange coating 218. The wall flange coating 218 includes, but is not limited to, a non-tacky butyl rubber, cotton liner, nonwoven mesh, paper, or other coating that bonds to the elastomeric film 200 and resists bonding to the fenestration unit 104 while allowing deformation of the wall flange 132, for instance as it is stretched along the wall panel 106 near the frame corners 120. The wall flange coating 218 optionally neutralizes an adhesive property of the elastomeric film 200. Stated another way, the wall flange coating 118 minimizes (e.g., reduces or eliminates) any inherent tacky property of the elastomeric film 200.

An example of the optional sill dam 202 is shown in FIG. 2 (in dashed lines). The sill dam 202 is coupled to the rough opening panel 130 at a sill dam joint 210. The sill dam joint 210 is optionally formed with the elastomeric film 200. Optionally, the sill dam joint 210 includes a relief in the elastomeric film 200 to facilitate folding of the sill dam 202 relative to the rough opening panel 130. For instance, the sill dam joint 210 includes a notch, crease, groove, scoring line or the like. The sill dam 202 is, in one example, constructed with the elastomeric film 200 used with other components of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102. For instance, the sill dam 202 is tacky on one or more of the upper or lower surfaces.

As shown in FIG. 2, the sill dam 202 includes a sill dam substrate 206. The sill dam substrate 206 is coupled along the lower surface of the sill dam 202. The sill dam substrate 206 increases the elastomeric deformation characteristic of the sill dam 202 along the planar surface of the sill dam substrate 206. Stated another way, the sill dam substrate 206 constrains the sill dam 202 from stretching and reduces wrinkling along the sill dam 202 when installed along the fenestration unit frame 122. The sill dam 202 is installed with a smooth, planar surface that minimizes (e.g., eliminates or decreases) the collection of moisture in a wrinkled surface of a film. The sill dam 202 is foldable along the sill dam joint 210 to the installed configuration (shown in FIG. 3). The sill dam joint 210 is a hinge for the sill dam 202 that permits folding of the sill dam 202 and application to the fenestration unit frame 122 (see FIG. 1). In an example, the sill dam substrate 206 is constructed from a material including, but not limited to, a polymer sheet, paper, foil, biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, or the like. As previously mentioned, the sill dam 202 optionally includes a portion of the elastomeric film 200 having a thickness greater than other portions of the elastomeric film 200 (e.g., one or more of the rough opening panel 130 or the wall flange 132).

One or more liners are removably coupled to the tacky sides of the elastomeric film 200. For instance, a wall flange liner 214 is coupled to the lower surface of the wall flange 132, a panel liner 212 is coupled to the tacky side (lower surface) of the rough opening panel 130, and a sill dam liner 216 is coupled to the upper surface of the sill dam 202. Optionally, each of the liners (the panel liner 212, the wall flange liner 214, or the sill dam liner 216) is independently removable. In one example, two or more liners on the same side of the elastomeric film 200 are combined into a single liner. For instance, the panel liner 212 and the wall flange liner 214 are constructed as a single liner. The liners protect the tacky surface of the elastomeric film 200 from collecting debris or adhering to each other. The liners are constructed with a carrier having a releasable surface or coating, including but not limited to, a wax coated paper, a polymer sheet, or the like.

FIG. 3 illustrates the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 arranged in a folded configuration, for instance as it would appear when installed. The wall flange 132 is folded along the wall flange joint 208 downward relative to the rough opening panel 130. Where the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes the sill dam 202, the sill dam 202 is folded upward along the sill dam joint 210 relative to the rough opening panel 130. One or more of the liners, such as the panel liner 212 or the wall flange liner 214, are removable from the rough opening panel 130 and the wall flange 132 respectively, as shown in FIG. 3. The panel support substrate 204 is configured to facilitate the flexure (e.g., folding) of the wall flange joint 208 and the sill dam joint 210. For instance, the panel support substrate 204 extends from the wall flange joint 208 to the sill dam joint 210 or is absent (e.g., one-sixteenth or one-eighth of an inch gap) at the wall flange joint 208 or the sill dam joint 210.

FIG. 4 shows an example of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 installed in the rough opening 108. The panel liner 212 is removed and the rough opening panel 130 is applied to (or laid along) the rough opening frame 110. For instance, the tacky surface (e.g., on the lower surface of the elastomeric film 200) is adhered to the rough opening frame 110. In another example, the tacky surface bonds to the rough opening frame 110. The rough opening panel 130 is optionally applied to the left upright 114, the sill 112 and the right upright 116, or any combination thereof. In FIG. 4, the rough opening panel 130 is shown coupled to the left upright 114 and the frame sill 112 (the right upright 116 is shown in FIG. 1). The panel support substrate 204 constrains stretching in the rough opening panel 130 while allowing for folding pliability (e.g., at the corners) and provides a smooth, continuous surface along the panel 130. The panel support substrate 204 reduces wrinkles in the rough opening panel 130 minimizes (eliminates or decreases) the pooling of moisture along the rough opening panel 130 and diverts moisture toward the wall flange 132 (away from the rough opening 108). In one example, the rough opening panel 130 is sufficiently pliable (while constraining stretching) to include a minimal bend radius at the frame corner 120. For instance, the rough opening panel 130 includes a bend radius measuring between 0.006 inches to 0.50 inches.

In the installed configuration, the wall flange 132 is folded at the wall flange joint 208 and stretched around at least one frame corner 120 along the wall panel 106 of the rough opening 108 in a planar configuration. For instance, along the wall flange joint 208, the bend radius of the wall flange 132 is substantially equal to the bend radius of the rough opening panel 130 at the frame corners 120. The length of the front edge 201 and the intervening material between the front edge 201 and the wall flange joint 208 increases as the wall flange 132 is stretched around the corner frame 120. Accordingly, the length of the front edge 201 in the installed configuration is greater than the length of the wall flange joint 208.

The wall flange 132 is not constrained by a substrate (e.g., like the panel support substrate 204 constrains the rough opening panel 130). Accordingly, the wall flange 132 is deformed around the frame corner 120 (e.g., stretched) to provide a smooth surface along the wall panel 106 including at locations adjacent the frame corners 120. In contrast, the panel support substrate 204 anchors the rough opening panel 130 and minimizes (e.g., prevents or reduces) the stretching of the elastomeric film 200. As previously stated herein, the first elastomeric deformation characteristic of the rough opening panel 130 is greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic of the wall flange 132 (e.g., that pliably stretches over the wall panel 106 at corners).

The wall flange 132 is laid along the wall panel 106 in a planar configuration. The tacky surface (e.g., on the lower surface of the elastomeric film 200) is adhered to the wall panel 106. In one example, the tacky surface of the wall flange 132 bonds to the wall panel 106 in the planar configuration. In another example, the wall flange is optionally coupled to the wall panel 106 with fasteners in addition to or in place of adhering the tacky surface of the wall flange 132 to the wall panel 106. Examples of fasteners include, but are not limited to, nails, screws, staples, or the like. In one example, the elastomeric film 200 seals (e.g., self-seals) around holes punctured through the elastomeric film 200. For instance, the elastomeric film 200 expands around the fasteners according to the elastomeric deformation characteristic of the elastomeric film 200.

Prior to installation of the fenestration unit 104, the sill dam 202 (if included) extends from the rough opening panel 130. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the sill dam 202 is not folded along the sill dam joint 210. The sill dam liner 216 remains attached to the sill dam 202 to protect the tacky surface of the elastomeric film 200 from collecting debris or accidentally adhering to other items.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary cross section of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 in the installed configuration between the rough opening frame 110 and the fenestration unit 104. The rough opening panel 130 is installed on the rough opening frame 110 (the sill 112 as shown in FIG. 5) and the wall flange 132 is folded along the wall flange joint 208 and attached to the wall panel 106. For instance, the tacky surface of the elastomeric film 200 is coupled to the frame sill 112 and the wall panel 106. Stated another way, the lower surface of the elastomeric film 200 is adhered to the frame sill 112 and the wall panel 106 as previously described herein. The fenestration unit 104 is supported by the frame sill 112 with the rough opening panel 130 in between the fenestration unit 104 and the frame sill 112. The rough opening panel 130 is located along the lower surface of the fenestration unit frame 122. In one example, the rough opening panel 130 has a width that is substantially equal to a distance between the wall panel 106 and an interior wall panel 502.

The elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes a sill dam 202 as shown in FIG. 5. The sill dam 202 is folded along the sill dam joint 210 toward the fenestration unit frame 122. The tacky side of the sill dam 202 (e.g., upper surface of the elastomeric film 200) is adhered along the fenestration unit frame 122. For instance, the sill dam 202 is coupled along the fenestration unit frame 122 and adhered to the fenestration unit frame 122. In another example, the sill dam 202 is coupled with another mechanism including fasteners extending through the dam and into the fenestration unit frame 122.

In the example shown in FIG. 5, the sill dam 202 includes a back edge 203 (e.g., opposed to the front edge 201 shown in FIG. 2). In another example, where the sill dam 202 is not included, the rough opening panel 130 includes the back edge 203′ (see also FIG. 2) along the opposite end of the rough opening panel 130 from the wall flange joint 208. Optionally, the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes a continuous surface from the front edge 201 to the back edge 203 (or 203′) of the assembly 102. For instance, the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 provides a contiguous elastomeric film 200 (e.g., butyl membrane barrier) to prevent water infiltration through the rough opening 108 and to the interior of the building 100. In one example, moisture is directed from the back edge 203 of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 toward the front edge 201 of the elastomeric flashing assembly 102. For instance, where the frame sill 112 includes a downward slope from the interior to the exterior side of the building 100 the slope is assumed by the elastomeric flashing assembly including the rough opening panel 130. Accordingly, moisture is directed along the upper surface of the elastomeric flashing assembly from the back edge 203 toward the front edge 201 (e.g., toward the exterior of the building 100).

FIG. 6 shows a diagram of an exemplary method 600 for installing an elastomeric flashing assembly 102 previously described herein and shown for instance in FIGS. 1-5. In describing the method 600, reference is made to one or more components, features, functions, and steps previously described herein. Where convenient, reference is made to the components, features, steps and the like with reference numerals. Reference numerals provided are exemplary and are nonexclusive. For instance, features, components, functions, steps, and the like described in the method 600 include, but are not limited to, the corresponding numbered elements provided herein. Other corresponding features described herein (both numbered and unnumbered) as well as their equivalents are also considered.

At 602, the method of installing an elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes coupling the rough opening panel 130 of the elastomeric film 200 along the rough opening frame 110. The rough opening panel 130 includes the panel support substrate 204, and the rough opening panel 130 includes the first elastomeric deformation characteristic as previously described herein. The panel liner 212 is removed from the tacky surface (e.g., adhesive side) of the elastomeric film 200 portion corresponding to the rough opening panel 130. In one example, the tacky surface of the rough opening panel 130 is located on the lower surface of the elastomeric film 200. The tacky surface of the rough opening panel 130 is adhered along the rough opening frame 110. The rough opening panel 130 is coupled along the left upright 114, the sill 112, the right upright 116, or any combination thereof where the rough opening panel 130 is a smooth, continuous surface along the rough opening frame 110. For instance, the panel support substrate 204 is a uniform, smooth exposed surface. In one example, the rough opening panel 130 is coupled along the rough opening frame 110 in a continuous plane.

At 604, the wall flange 132 of the elastomeric film 200 is coupled along the wall panel 106 of the rough opening frame 110. Coupling the wall flange 132 to the wall panel 106 includes any one, or all, of steps 606 through 610.

At 606, the wall flange 132 is folded at the wall flange joint 208 relative to the rough opening panel 130. For instance, the wall flange 132 is folded toward the wall panel 106. The wall flange liner 214 is removed from the tacky side (e.g., adhesive side) of the elastomeric film 200 portion corresponding toe the wall flange 132 in preparation for the coupling of the wall flange 132 to the wall panel 106.

At 608, the wall flange 132 is stretched around at least one rough opening frame corner 120 according to a second elastomeric deformation characteristic (previously described) of the wall flange 132. The second elastomeric deformation characteristic is lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic. The length of the front edge 201 of the wall flange 132 is stretched to include a greater length than the wall flange joint 208. The panel support substrate 204 resists stretching of the rough opening panel 130. For instance, the wall flange 132 stretches according to the second elastomeric deformation characteristic and the rough opening panel is anchored to the rough opening frame 110 as a result of the first elastomeric deformation characteristic being greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic.

At 610, the wall flange 132 is laid along the wall panel 106 in a planar configuration according to the second elastomeric deformation characteristic. The tacky surface of the wall flange 132 (e.g., the adhesive side located on the lower surface of the elastomeric film 200) is laid along the wall panel 106 and adhered to the wall panel 106. For instance, the tacky surface of the elastomeric film 200 of the wall flange 132 bonds to the wall panel 106, coupling the wall flange 132 to the wall panel 106. The wall flange 132 includes a uniform, smooth exposed surface where laid along the wall panel 106. As previously described, the panel support substrate 204 resists deformation (stretching) of the rough opening panel 130.

Where the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes the sill dam 202, as previously described herein, the method 600 further includes coupling the sill dam 202 along the fenestration unit frame 122. The sill dam 202 is folded along the sill dam joint 210. For instance, the sill dam 202 is folded toward the fenestration unit frame 122. The sill dam liner 216 is removed from the elastomeric film 200 of the sill dam 202, exposing the tacky surface of the sill dam 202. The tacky surface of the sill dam 202 (e.g., the upper surface of the elastomeric film 200) is laid on to the fenestration unit frame 122 and adhered to the fenestration unit frame 122. Accordingly, the elastomeric flashing assembly 102 includes a continuous surface from the front edge 201 to the back edge 203 providing a barrier against moisture entering the rough opening 108. The continuous, smooth surface of the rough opening panel 130, wall flange 132, sill dam 202, or any combination thereof directs moisture away from the rough opening 108 and mitigates the pooling of moisture along the rough opening frame 110. The uniform, smooth surface of the wall panel 106 provides a good interface for building wrap, decorative wall coverings (stucco, siding or the like).

Various Notes & Examples

Example 1 can include subject matter, such as can include an elastomeric flashing assembly comprising: an elastomeric film including a rough opening panel and a wall flange coupled with the rough opening panel at a wall flange joint; a liner removably coupled along an elastomeric film adhesive side; and a panel support substrate coupled along the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film for installation along a rough opening frame: the rough opening panel having a first elastomeric deformation characteristic based on the panel support substrate, and the wall flange having a second elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, the wall flange with the second elastomeric deformation characteristic deformable into a planar configuration while coupled along a wall panel surrounding the rough opening frame in an installed configuration.

Example 2 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Example 1, to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate is a continuous plane.

Example 3 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1 or 2 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate includes a uniform smooth exposed surface.

Example 4 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-3 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate anchors the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film against deformation relative to the wall flange of the elastomeric film.

Example 5 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of one or any combination of Examples 1-4 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate includes a third elastomeric deformation characteristic greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic, and the first elastomeric deformation characteristic is based on the third elastomeric deformation characteristic of the panel support substrate.

Example 6 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-5 to optionally include wherein the elastomeric film includes a sill dam coupled with the rough opening panel at a sill dam joint, the sill dam has a sill dam thickness greater than a rough opening panel thickness.

Example 7 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-6 to optionally include wherein the sill dam is rotatable at the sill dam joint into a fenestration coupling configuration, in the fenestration coupling configuration the sill dam extends from the rough opening panel to a fenestration unit frame above the rough opening panel.

Example 8 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-7 to optionally include wherein the wall flange includes a wall flange coating, the wall flange coating neutralizes an adhesive property of the elastomeric film.

Example 9 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-8 to optionally include wherein the liner includes a panel liner coupled along the rough opening panel and a separate wall flange liner coupled along the wall flange.

Example 10 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-9 to optionally include wherein in the installed configuration, the rough opening panel extends over the rough opening frame and the wall flange is folded at the wall flange joint and stretched around at least one rough opening frame corner along a wall panel of the rough opening frame in a planar configuration.

Example 11 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-10 to optionally include wherein the elastomeric film includes a butyl tape, and the panel support substrate includes a biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate.

Example 12 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-11 to optionally include an elastomeric flashing assembly comprising: an elastomeric film including: a rough opening panel, a wall flange coupled with the rough opening panel at a wall flange joint, and a sill dam coupled with the rough opening panel at a sill dam joint; a film liner removably coupled along an elastomeric film adhesive side; a sill dam liner removably coupled along a sill dam adhesive side; and a panel support substrate coupled along the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film between the wall flange joint and the sill dam joint: the rough opening panel having a first elastomeric deformation characteristic based on the panel support substrate, the wall flange having a second elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, and in an installed configuration, the rough opening panel extends over the rough opening frame, the sill dam is folded at the sill dam joint and coupled along a fenestration unit frame, and the wall flange is folded at the wall flange joint and stretched around at least one rough opening frame corner along a wall panel of the rough opening frame in a planar configuration.

Example 13 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-12 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate is a continuous plane.

Example 14 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-13 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate includes a uniform smooth exposed surface.

Example 15 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-14 to optionally include wherein in the installed configuration the panel support substrate continuously extends over a sill portion and one or more of left and right upright portions of the rough opening frame.

Example 16 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-15 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate anchors the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film against deformation relative to the wall flange of the elastomeric film.

Example 17 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-16 to optionally include wherein the panel support substrate includes a third elastomeric deformation characteristic greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic, and the first elastomeric deformation characteristic is based on the third elastomeric deformation characteristic of the panel support substrate.

Example 18 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-17 to optionally include wherein the wall flange includes a wall flange coating, the wall flange coating neutralizes an adhesive property of the elastomeric film.

Example 19 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-18 to optionally include wherein the liner includes a panel liner coupled along the rough opening panel and a separate wall flange liner coupled along the wall flange.

Example 20 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-19 to optionally include wherein the elastomeric film includes a butyl tape, and the panel support substrate includes a biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate.

Example 21 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-20 to optionally include a method of installing an elastomeric flashing assembly comprising: coupling a rough opening panel of an elastomeric film along a rough opening frame, the rough opening panel including a panel support substrate, and the rough opening panel includes a first elastomeric deformation characteristic; coupling a wall flange of the elastomeric film along a wall panel of the rough opening frame, coupling including: folding the wall flange at a wall flange joint relative to the rough opening panel, stretching the wall flange around at least one rough opening frame corner according to a second elastomeric deformation characteristic of the wall flange lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, and laying the stretched wall flange along the wall panel in a planar configuration according to the second elastomeric deformation characteristic.

Example 22 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-21 to optionally include wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame and the panel support substrate is a continuous plane.

Example 23 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-22 to optionally include wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame and the panel support substrate is a uniform smooth exposed surface.

Example 24 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-23 to optionally include wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes resisting stretching of the rough opening panel with the panel support substrate.

Example 25 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-24 to optionally include coupling a sill dam along a fenestration unit frame, the elastomeric film includes the sill dam coupled with the rough opening panel at a sill dam joint.

Example 26 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-25 to optionally include wherein coupling the sill dam includes: folding the sill dam at a sill dam joint toward the fenestration unit frame, affixing the sill dam along the fenestration unit frame.

Example 27 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-26 to optionally include wherein laying the stretched wall flange along the wall panel in the planar configuration includes the wall flange with a uniform smooth exposed surface.

Example 28 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-27 to optionally include wherein laying the stretched wall flange along the wall panel in the planar configuration includes resisting stretching of the rough opening panel with the panel support substrate.

Example 29 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-28 to optionally include wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes: removing a panel liner from an elastomeric film adhesive side corresponding to the rough opening panel, and adhering the elastomeric film adhesive side of the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame.

Example 30 can include, or can optionally be combined with the subject matter of Examples 1-29 to optionally include wherein coupling the wall flange along the wall panel of the rough opening frame includes: removing a wall flange liner from an elastomeric film adhesive side corresponding to the wall flange, and laying the elastomeric adhesive side of the stretched wall flange along the wall panel includes adhering the wall flange along the wall panel.

Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or more of the other examples.

The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. An elastomeric flashing assembly comprising:

an elastomeric film including a rough opening panel and a wall flange coupled with the rough opening panel at a wall flange joint;

a liner removably coupled along an elastomeric film adhesive side; and

a panel support substrate coupled along the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film for installation along a rough opening frame: the rough opening panel having a first elastomeric deformation characteristic based on the panel support substrate, and the wall flange having a second elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, the wall flange with the second elastomeric deformation characteristic deformable into a planar configuration while coupled along a wall panel surrounding the rough opening frame in an installed configuration.

2. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the panel support substrate is a continuous plane.

3. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the panel support substrate includes a uniform smooth exposed surface.

4. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the panel support substrate anchors the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film against deformation relative to the wall flange of the elastomeric film.

5. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the panel support substrate includes a third elastomeric deformation characteristic greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic, and the first elastomeric deformation characteristic is based on the third elastomeric deformation characteristic of the panel support substrate.

6. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the elastomeric film includes a sill dam coupled with the rough opening panel at a sill dam joint, the sill dam has a sill dam thickness greater than a rough opening panel thickness.

7. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 6, wherein the sill dam is rotatable at the sill dam joint into a fenestration coupling configuration, in the fenestration coupling configuration the sill dam extends from the rough opening panel to a fenestration unit frame above the rough opening panel.

8. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the wall flange includes a wall flange coating, the wall flange coating neutralizes an adhesive property of the elastomeric film.

9. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the liner includes a panel liner coupled along the rough opening panel and a separate wall flange liner coupled along the wall flange.

10. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein in the installed configuration, the rough opening panel extends over the rough opening frame and the wall flange is folded at the wall flange joint and stretched around at least one rough opening frame corner along a wall panel of the rough opening frame in a planar configuration.

11. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 1, wherein the elastomeric film includes a butyl tape, and the panel support substrate includes a biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate.

12. An elastomeric flashing assembly comprising:

an elastomeric film including: a rough opening panel, a wall flange coupled with the rough opening panel at a wall flange joint, and a sill dam coupled with the rough opening panel at a sill dam joint;

a film liner removably coupled along an elastomeric film adhesive side;

a sill dam liner removably coupled along a sill dam adhesive side; and

a panel support substrate coupled along the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film between the wall flange joint and the sill dam joint: the rough opening panel having a first elastomeric deformation characteristic based on the panel support substrate, the wall flange having a second elastomeric deformation characteristic lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, and in an installed configuration, the rough opening panel extends over the rough opening frame, the sill dam is folded at the sill dam joint and coupled along a fenestration unit frame, and the wall flange is folded at the wall flange joint and stretched around at least one rough opening frame corner along a wall panel of the rough opening frame in a planar configuration.

13. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the panel support substrate is a continuous plane.

14. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the panel support substrate includes a uniform smooth exposed surface.

15. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein in the installed configuration the panel support substrate continuously extends over a sill portion and one or more of left and right upright portions of the rough opening frame.

16. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the panel support substrate anchors the rough opening panel of the elastomeric film against deformation relative to the wall flange of the elastomeric film.

17. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the panel support substrate includes a third elastomeric deformation characteristic greater than the second elastomeric deformation characteristic, and the first elastomeric deformation characteristic is based on the third elastomeric deformation characteristic of the panel support substrate.

18. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the wall flange includes a wall flange coating, the wall flange coating neutralizes an adhesive property of the elastomeric film.

19. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the liner includes a panel liner coupled along the rough opening panel and a separate wall flange liner coupled along the wall flange.

20. The elastomeric flashing assembly of claim 12, wherein the elastomeric film includes a butyl tape, and the panel support substrate includes a biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate.

21. A method of installing an elastomeric flashing assembly comprising:

coupling a rough opening panel of an elastomeric film along a rough opening frame, the rough opening panel including a panel support substrate, and the rough opening panel includes a first elastomeric deformation characteristic;

coupling a wall flange of the elastomeric film along a wall panel of the rough opening frame, coupling including: folding the wall flange at a wall flange joint relative to the rough opening panel, stretching the wall flange around at least one rough opening frame corner according to a second elastomeric deformation characteristic of the wall flange lower than the first elastomeric deformation characteristic, and laying the stretched wall flange along the wall panel in a planar configuration according to the second elastomeric deformation characteristic.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame and the panel support substrate is a continuous plane.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame and the panel support substrate is a uniform smooth exposed surface.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes resisting stretching of the rough opening panel with the panel support substrate.

25. The method of claim 21 comprising coupling a sill dam along a fenestration unit frame, the elastomeric film includes the sill dam coupled with the rough opening panel at a sill dam joint.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein coupling the sill dam includes:

folding the sill dam at a sill dam joint toward the fenestration unit frame, affixing the sill dam along the fenestration unit frame.

27. The method of claim 21, wherein laying the stretched wall flange along the wall panel in the planar configuration includes the wall flange with a uniform smooth exposed surface.

28. The method of claim 21, wherein laying the stretched wall flange along the wall panel in the planar configuration includes resisting stretching of the rough opening panel with the panel support substrate.

29. The method of claim 21, wherein coupling the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame includes:

removing a panel liner from an elastomeric film adhesive side corresponding to the rough opening panel, and

adhering the elastomeric film adhesive side of the rough opening panel along the rough opening frame.

30. The method of claim 21, wherein coupling the wall flange along the wall panel of the rough opening frame includes:

removing a wall flange liner from an elastomeric film adhesive side corresponding to the wall flange, and

laying the elastomeric adhesive side of the stretched wall flange along the wall panel includes adhering the wall flange along the wall panel.