Externally Projecting Liquid Deflector Patents (Class 52/97)
  • Publication number: 20030177717
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a flashing system for a chimney-bonnet positioned on a chimney of a building structure. The flashing system includes at least one flashing member including at least an abutting portion and a flange portion. The abutting portion is formed to extend from the flange portion and is formed and configured to be positioned between a bottom portion of the chimney-bonnet and a surface of the chimney. The flange portion is formed to extend outwardly downward from the abutting portion and is formed and configured to direct moisture away from the surface of the chimney.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Roy Dean Gatherum
  • Publication number: 20030177727
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a flashing configured to reduce moisture intrusion in a building structure between two exterior treatments. The flashing includes a lower portion, a upper portion and a middle portion intermediate the front and upper portions. The upper portion includes a back surface and a front surface and is configured to be positioned between a wall structure of the building structure and a second exterior treatment. The middle portion includes a bottom surface and a top surface and is configured to be intermediate the first exterior treatment and the second exterior treatment. The lower portion includes a back surface and a front surface and is configured to be positioned against a face surface of a first exterior treatment a distance so as to reduce moisture intrusion from entering behind the lower portion of the flashing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Roy Dean Gatherum
  • Publication number: 20030136060
    Abstract: A water deflecting apparatus is provided for a fixture mounted on a wall. The apparatus comprises a mounting plate having a front and a back. A protrusion extends outwardly from the front of the mounting plate, the protrusion having an aperture for extending about the fixture, a bottom and a top which slopes downwardly to at least one side of the opening when the apparatus is mounted on the wall, thereby deflecting water towards said at least one side of the opening. A passageway extends downwardly from the top towards the bottom thereof and is spaced-apart from the opening, thereby deflecting water away from the fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: David J. Bonshor
  • Publication number: 20030131542
    Abstract: A rain water diverter (transition flashing) to prevent water intrusions at eave of sloped roof and vertical wall abutments, The diverter comprises of a vertical wall flange that lies along the wall and a roof flange that lies against the sloped roof, spanning the lower portion of the roof flange is the up-turned U-shaped diverter, at an angle of preferably 95° or more from vertical flange. The unit has J-trim to accommodate sidings and a starter shingle slot that also serves as a stop to aid in installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Elmer Coblentz
  • Patent number: 6578322
    Abstract: A roof edge system includes a water dam and a fascia secured to the water dam with spring clips. The water dam is mounted to a roof and extends upwardly to a peak before extending downwardly along the face of an outside wall. Each spring clip is mounted to the water dam, and is covered by the fascia. The fascia includes a catch that cooperates with a detent on the spring clip to hold the fascia in place. The fascia extends over the peak of the water dam and down the wall to a hook portion that hooks over an outwardly extending lip at the lower end of the water dam. The resulting system provides a hidden connection between the water dam and the fascia, is inexpensive, and can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled without any tools, while also providing superior wind and water resistance and improving the appearance of the roof edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: W.P. Hickman Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Mike Kintop
  • Patent number: 6543186
    Abstract: A utility pipe encasement collar for preventing water from weather related sources such as rain and snow from traveling rearwardly along the exterior surface of the utility pipe and into a building structure from which the pipe projects. In a first embodiment the collar includes a weather proof elastomeric sheet material having an opening therethrough sized to inherently huggingly accommodate a utility pipe passed through the opening, and a generally rigid support member extending laterally from the elastomeric sheet material. In a second embodiment the collar includes a first generally rigid weather proof sheet member having an upright generally U-shape opening therethrough and a second generally rigid weather proof sheet member having an inverted generally U-shape opening therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: William J. Gilleran
  • Publication number: 20030061771
    Abstract: A roof edge system includes a water dam and a fascia secured to the water dam with spring clips. The water dam is mounted to a roof and extends upwardly to a peak before extending downwardly along the face of an outside wall. Each spring clip is mounted to the water dam, and is covered by the fascia. The fascia includes a catch that cooperates with a detent on the spring clip to hold the fascia in place. The fascia extends over the peak of the water dam and down the wall to a hook portion that hooks over an outwardly extending lip at the lower end of the water dam. The resulting system provides a hidden connection between the water dam and the fascia, is inexpensive, and can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled without any tools, while also providing superior wind and water resistance and improving the appearance of the roof edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: Mike Kintop
  • Patent number: 6539675
    Abstract: A cornice device for building structures including a crown member and a connector member. The crown member has a first end configured to attach to the roof portion of the building structure and a second end. The crown member may include an optional fascia board and an optional roof nailer member attached to the fascia board. The connector member comprises a first leg configured to cooperate with the second end of the crown member. The second leg of the connector member is configured to couple to the outer wall of the building structure. The crown member and the connector member are configured to flex during installation to accommodate for various framing variances. The cornice device also includes means for discharging water from the cornice device which is spaced apart the outer wall of the building structure so as to keep the water discharged from and off the cornice device from damaging the outer wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Elite Exteriors, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Gile
  • Publication number: 20030056445
    Abstract: A waterproof deck (10) is formed with a subfloor (20) having a waterproof sheet (30) covering the subfloor. A T-bar strip (32) has its stem (34) positioned at the edge of the subfloor, on the waterproof sheet. Protrusions (44) in the stem of the T-bar strip maintain the stem a sufficient distance away from the waterproof sheet and the underlying structure to form water passages at the free edge of the deck, which allows any water seepage through the concrete to drain at the free edge of the deck. Flashing at the sides of the deck shield the T-bar strip from direct contact with the adjacent vertical wall surfaces of the building structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Danny Wayne Cox
  • Patent number: 6505455
    Abstract: A structural termination system includes an elongated structural member having a generally horizontal lower web defining a lower surface shaped to fit closely along the upper surface of a building. Moisture curable adhesive is disposed on the lower surface, and extending substantially uninterrupted along the entire length of the structural member to form a seal along the entire structural member when installed on an upper surface of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Chem Link, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip C. Georgeau
  • Patent number: 6484461
    Abstract: A building component comprises a cladding unit having an overhang portion and a securing portion. The outer face of the overhang portion serves as a barge/fascia board. The lower face of the overhang portion serves as a soffit. The cladding unit is thin walled and of sideways S-shape with three spaced upright parallel walls. Two walls namely one outer wall and the center wall are connected by a lower plate at their lower edges and form the overhang and two walls namely the center wall and the second outer wall are connected by an upper plate at their upper edges and form the securing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Frederick Andrew Schofield
  • Patent number: 6474032
    Abstract: A brick prefabricated pocket construction element which becomes part of a cornice of a building under construction comprising a molded form made of metal, plastic, or vinyl, that is positioned on top of a brick wall facing. The device includes a soffit pocket. The brick pocket eliminates lumber for brick pockets and reduces maintenance. The brick pocket comprises a flat backplate with screw holes adjacent the top and bottom edges. A horizontal lip or soffit flange is positioned below the screw holes adjacent the top edge of the backplate. A cover wall is spaced below the horizontal lip. The horizontal plate extends from the back plate and has a vertical face or outer wall that extends downward and is spaced from the back plate to form the brick pocket. The space between the horizontal lip and the horizontal plate forms the soffit pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Charles D. Wynn
  • Publication number: 20020139059
    Abstract: A coupling apparatus includes first, second, and third walls and a drip edge. An interior portion of the apparatus is defined between the first wall and the second wall, and the third wall connects the first wall and the second wall within the interior portion. A hole is contained in the first wall to provide a passageway from the interior portion to an exterior portion of the apparatus. The drip edge is coupled to the first wall in the exterior portion and is disposed below the hole. In a further implementation, the apparatus includes fourth and fifth walls and a cavity. The fifth wall extends inwardly from the fourth wall, and the second wall extends downward from the fifth wall and is laterally offset from the fourth wall. The cavity contains an electrical conduit, is defined between the second wall and a plane containing the fourth wall, and is defined between the fifth wall and a base supporting the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: David L. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 6457279
    Abstract: A flashing frame for a roof-penetrating building part, in particular in a roof window frame, comprises mutually connected frame members (6, 12) of weather-shielding material for positioning along the sides (1-4) of the roof-penetrating building part adjoining the roofing. The frame members for positioning along sides (3, 4) of the roof-penetrating building member, which do not extend perpendicularly to the pitch of the roof, consist of flashing members (7) designed as L-profiles with a profile wall (8) for positioning at least partially under the roofing (5), and an upright profile wall (9) for positioning in abutment against the side of the roof-penetrating building part. Flashing members (7) are placed in the side frame members in extension of each other with mutual overlapping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventors: Per Jacobsen, Jens Troels Plesner Kristensen
  • Patent number: 6449911
    Abstract: Deck joist flashing 10 is provided which includes a top wall 20 extending between lateral edges 22 spaced apart by a width similar to a width of a joist J to be protected from coming into contact with water. Side walls 30 extend down from the lateral edges 22 of the top wall 20. Bottom edges 34 of each side wall 30 include a beveled wall 40 extending therefrom. Each beveled wall 40 extends diagonally away from the bottom edges 34 of the side wall 30 to a tip 44. The tips 44 of the two beveled walls 40 are spaced further from each other than the lateral edges 22 of the top wall 20 so that the tips 44 are spaced away from sides of the joist J by the flashing 10. In this way, water is directed away from surfaces of the joist J to preserve the joist J from deterioration associated with contact with water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventor: Donald E. Hudson
  • Publication number: 20020108316
    Abstract: A flashing for sealing about a roof penetration includes a first sheet having a first edge. The first sheet includes a substantially planar portion and a portion that is inclined with respect to the planar portion. The inclined portion has a recess open at the first edge. A second sheet has a first edge. The second sheet includes a substantially planar portion and a portion that is inclined with respect to the planar portion. The inclined portion has a recess open at the first edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Joel N. Miller
  • Patent number: 6412229
    Abstract: A water distributor for directing water from roofing configurations that form an inside roof valley to the rain gutters is disclosed. The water distributor directs the water from the roof valley without the distributor collecting debris or becoming clogged with leaves or twigs that may interfere with its function. Generally, the distributor includes a substantially triangular top portion having at least one trough extending therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Kuhns
  • Publication number: 20020073636
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a skid plate and a method for attaching the skid plate to the bottom surface of a pre-hung door assembly to improve wear and moisture resistance. The skid plate includes a first side having a first shaped portion configured to conform to the bottom end of a first doorjamb arrangement and a second side having a second shaped portion configured to conform to the bottom end of a second doorjamb arrangement. The method for attaching the skid plate to the pre-hung door bottom surface includes applying an adhesive to bond the skid plate to the bottom surface, positioning the skid plate so that the first shaped portion and the second shaped portion align with their respective doorjamb ends, engaging tabs against the frame side surface to the doorjambs, and driving fasteners through the skid plate and tabs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Oded E. Rochman
  • Patent number: 6401401
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved multi-component flashing system for controlling water and air that intrudes at windows, doors, louvers and other wall penetrations. It accomplishes this through the use of several known commercially available products which are applied to the areas to be protected in a unique manner thus saving time and providing a heretofore unknown measure of protection. The first product is an elastomeric adhesive sealant which readily bonds to most building materials as well as the components of this system. The second product is a clay coated polyethylene film which can be folded, cut and shaped to fit various opening conditions. A third, optional component, is a uniquely designed preformed flexible termination accessory which also readily bonds to the clay coated film material through the use of the elastomeric adhesive sealant. The clay coated film material is readily available in roll form and can readily be hand cut to the dimensions of the particular job.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Mark F. Williams
  • Patent number: 6401402
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved flashing system and method for controlling water and air intrusion around windows, doors, louvers and other wall penetrations. More specifically, the invention utilizes commercially available products such as coated polyethylene sheet material and elastomeric rubber adhesive sealant in a unique manner. It has been found that this polyethylene coated material can be creased and folded to form a flashing component and serve to control water and air intrusion. Prior to this invention, a separate pre-molded termination accessory was required to effectively seal corner areas around window and door rough openings. Additionally, the invention provides for full perimeter flashing and supplemental sealing at selected joint locations prior to installation of a closure member in the opening to prevent water and air intrusion around windows, doors and other building openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Mark F. Williams
  • Patent number: 6393773
    Abstract: The L-shaped, end cap is adapted to be mounted on a concrete balcony. The balcony has a rise (a vertical height) an upper run and a lower run. The end cap is an L-shaped end piece having a front plate and a lower plate. The front plate of the end piece has a plate rise substantially equivalent to the concrete balcony rise. The L-shaped end piece has a depending lip along the interface between the plate rise and the lower plate run. The depending lip is adapted to collect and disperse water droplets therefrom. Preferably, the end piece is made of pultruded fiberglass. However, the end piece may be made of plastic, stainless steel, copper, aluminum or other similar materials. For example, pultruded fiberglass may be utilized as the end piece. A method of capping a concrete balcony includes covering the rise and a portion of the lower balcony run by adhering plastic thereon and forming, with the plastic, a depending drip edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Lawrence M. Marks
  • Patent number: 6385925
    Abstract: Window drain comprises, in general, a base having a horizontally extending lower surface and a sloping downwardly and outwardly upper surface. To the base are connected: a front flange, an upstanding rear rib, an end flange at each end, window supports and spacers attached on the front flange. In one embodiment, the window drain is made for a window of a specific width. In another embodiment, the window drain, is versatile so it can be used for windows of different widths. In a third embodiment, the window drain can be made, in situ, for different window widths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Scott Arthur Wark
  • Publication number: 20020043029
    Abstract: The present invention provides a siding boards attachment structure having excellent ventilation characteristics and a high structural strength and a starter fitting used therewith. The siding boards attachment structure includes a starter fitting for supporting a siding board in the lowest portion, a ground sill flashing disposed in a lower portion of the siding board in the lowest portion, a furring strip for fixing the starter fitting, and the siding board supported by the starter fitting. The starter fitting includes a base plate portion having a planar rear side surface that is configured to be fixed to the furring strip, a supporting portion for supporting siding boards bent forward from the base plate portion, and spacing portions formed at left and right end portions of the base plate portion to have the cross sectional shape of a squarish letter U.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Applicant: NICHIHA CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Satoshi Hikai
  • Patent number: 6354046
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses an elastomeric skylight membrane molded as a single piece comprising a planar element 18 for sealably engaging roof sheathing 26 and a centrally positioned collar element 20 for sealably engaging the rough opening framing members 34. The skylight collar membrane 20 is inserted over the framed rough opening for a skylight 16 having the elastomeric collar element tightly engaging the framing members 34 and of substantially the same height as the rough opening frame members. The planar element 18 engages the roof sheathing 26 and is fixedly attached thereto by any means well known within the art. Positioned across the up slope side 36 of the collar 20 is an angularly protruding edge 32 for preventing water from wicking between the skylight frame 34 and the skylight membrane 10.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Michael R Swearingen
  • Patent number: 6334283
    Abstract: A window frame incorporating a sliding sash, the frame providing increased water resistance by incorporating an integral J-rail return, the return portion of which has a double wall to provide a depending trough at the bottom of the frame with a wall forming a chamber including the trough, opening from the bottom of the frame into the chamber and from the bottom of the trough to the exterior to provide increased dam height against water backing up and spilling over the interior sill of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Royal Group Technologies Limited
    Inventor: Ronald Fredrick Edger
  • Patent number: 6311450
    Abstract: A roof drip molding having a resin layer of varying width on the surface of a supporting member having a varying width. The resin material is adhesively applied to the surface of the supporting member of varying width.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Tanigaki, Kanehiro Nagata, Hirohisa Kimura, Yoshito Koide
  • Publication number: 20010023565
    Abstract: An insulation board includes an array of elements such as domes, pyramids, or frustrums coupled to a top surface of a body. These elements are arranged to lie in rows and columns to define fluid flow passageways to promote fluid drainage away from a building containing the insulation board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Inventors: Timothy E. Snider, David E. Szymanski, Richard L. McLaughlin, Christopher G. Gattis
  • Publication number: 20010023564
    Abstract: Devices and methods for protecting weepholes in brick veneer structures against insects and other pests while still allowing drainage and for helping prevent mortar portions and other objects from blocking the weepholes. A weephole device is described that includes a substantially vertical spacer portion having a pair of side walls that are maintained in a spaced relation to one another to define a gap for the passage of water or other fluids. The spacer portion is shaped and sized to be inserted into a weephole space between a pair of bricks. A tray is affixed to the spacer portion and includes a substantially horizontally disposed tray portion that is shaped and sized to capture falling mortar portions or other objects that might block the weephole were they to fall behind it within the air gap between the brick veneer wall and the structural inner wall. The rear edge of the tray portion has an edge that is intended to contact the inner wall when the weephole device is emplaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Inventor: Dale Phillips
  • Publication number: 20010017008
    Abstract: A water distributor for directing water from roofing configurations that form an inside roof valley to the rain gutters is disclosed. The water distributor directs the water from the roof valley without the distributor collecting debris or becoming clogged with leaves or twigs that may interfere with its function. Generally, the distributor includes a substantially triangular top portion having at least one trough extending therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Publication date: August 30, 2001
    Inventor: Richard Kuhns
  • Patent number: 6256933
    Abstract: A water distributor for directing water from roofing configurations that form a roof valley to rain gutters is disclosed. The device directs the water traveling down the roof valley into the rain gutters without collecting debris or becoming clogged with leaves or twigs that may interfere with its function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Richard L. Kuhns
  • Patent number: 6202366
    Abstract: A water drainage system and water collector pan for use in unit masonry block walls includes a plurality of water collection pans which may be quickly placed on the top surface of the course of masonry block units over the length of a selected block wall course for collecting the water drained through the interior cavities of the upper courses and directing the water to the exterior of the wall. The collector pans includes a substantially planar collector surface, which, when installed on the block, extends from the front to the rear edges of the block, and generally vertical ridges surrounding the front, rear and side edges of the collector portion and extending to a height slightly less than the height of the bed joint between the blocks, and a weep spout extending outward from the collector surface over the portion of the block to be covered by the bed joint to provide an exit for the collected water from the interior of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventors: Jeffrey Thomas Snyder, Jerald Allen Snyder
  • Patent number: 6192635
    Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided that have a single panel having a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, with a fabric material covering selected portions of the frame member to form the panel when the frame member is in the unfolded orientation, the fabric assuming the unfolded orientation of the frame member. The single panel can further include an amusement feature provided thereon, or can be used as a cover for an object, a pool, pond, box, case or shelter, or can be used as a base with an opening provided in the fabric through which an object can be inserted. The single panels can even be combined to form structures having different configurations and utility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu Zheng
  • Patent number: 6170207
    Abstract: The present invention provides an exterior wall frame construction for excluding rain, the construction having a frame and a water stop. The frame has a head, a sill, and two jambs. The two jambs are each connected to the head and the sill for holding a door or a window. The water stop is located at the head of the frame. The water stop has a top surface, a front sidewall, a rear sidewall, and a pair of end caps. The front sidewall extends upwardly from the top surface to form a barrier against water leaking over the frame from the exterior of the structure. The front sidewall has at least one weep hole located adjacent to the top surface, the weep hole being a conduit through the front sidewall allowing water to drain from the water stop to the outside of the building. The top surface is preferably slanted downward from the rear sidewall to the front sidewall, so that any water leaking onto the top surface runs down to the front sidewall and out the weep hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Michael Lee Saindon
  • Patent number: 6161343
    Abstract: A moisture barrier assembly for the end grain at the lower end of a wood casing such as door jambs, molding for exterior building sidings and window frames is disclosed. The barrier includes a moisture impervious plate such as plastic attached to and covering the entire lower surface of the casing. As an additional protective measure, a layer of a wood end grain sealant such as paraffin or other olefin wax is applied to the lower surface of the casing prior to attachment of the plate to the casing. The plate may also include one or more grooves or flutes across an upper surface portion thereof to permit air circulation between the plate and casing for drying the casing end grain in the event moisture seeps into the end grain through cracks or disruptions in the sealant layer from around the upper edges of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Robert H. Young
  • Patent number: 6161344
    Abstract: A water-proof window flange is of an elongated, extruded shape. In an end view, it includes a vertical first member, a horizontal second member extending forwards orthogonally from an intermediate position on the vertical member, and a third member extending backwards from a forward end of the horizontal second member. An inner end of the third member is positioned below and forward of a lower end of the first member. The top end of the vertical first member is for being positioned between a siding and subsiding of a wall. The bottom end of the vertical first member is for being positioned on top of a window frame. The inner end of the third member is for being positioned in front of the window frame, and below a top edge of the window frame. The top of the vertical first member is positioned far above the lower edge of the siding to prevent rain water from seeping around the top of the window flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Paul T. Blanchett
  • Patent number: 6128865
    Abstract: A fine mesh screen structure is mounted along a wall in the path of a flow of liquid to divide and split larger size liquid drops into much smaller droplets which are dispersed without agglomeration. In a preferred embodiment a series of support angle brackets are spaced along the length of a sloped roof end around the perimeter of the building. Support bars extend outwardly from the brackets to hold the mesh screen in the path of rainwater falling from the roof. The support bars may hold the mesh at an acute downward angle several inches below the roof to provide sufficient momentum for the drops to be forced through the mesh for size reduction. In another embodiment, the screen may position along an internal wall within a cooling tower in the path of water distributions to similarly reduce the size of water droplets which can be more effective for the cooling function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Michael W. Din
  • Patent number: 6101767
    Abstract: A structural termination system includes a one-piece elongated structural member having an outer wall and a horizontal bottom wall defining a lower surface having substantially the same contour as an upper surface of an associated building wall, wherein the building wall is characterized by the absence of a wood nailer structure adjacent the upper surface of the building wall. The structural member further includes a drip edge extending downwardly from the outer wall such that the outer wall and drip edge cooperate to define an integral fascia. Structural adhesive is disposed on the lower surface of the elongated structural member and securely bonds the structural member directly to an upper surface of an associated building wall without a wood nailer structure or mechanical fasteners along the structural member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Chem Link, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip C. Georgeau
  • Patent number: 6098343
    Abstract: A gutter attachable to wall structure of a building for the reception of moisture and the discharge of same harmlessly to an exterior wall surface. The gutter includes a rear wall for disposition below a sill pan mounted in a door or window opening of the building structure. Extensions on the ends of the gutter also receive moisture from sill pan or structural surfaces of the building. Moisture from a sill pan is directed toward openings in a front wall of the gutter located above an exterior wall surface of the building structure. A trim plate conceals the openings. The extensions include convergent walls to avoid interference with the wall covering material later applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventors: Glenn E. Brown, Gregory A. Moffitt
  • Patent number: 6076310
    Abstract: A device for diverting water flow along vertical side edges of an exterior window frame according to the present invention incoperates an upper mounting portion for fixedly attaching to a vertical side edge of an exterior window frame, and a lower deflecting portion fixedly formed along a lower portion of the upper mounting portion. The lower deflecting portion has an inwardly curved and tapered surface along which water to be diverted flows and is deflected outwardly. More specifically, in this embodiment, the upper mounting portion includes left and right side portions fixedly positioned at a right angle relative to each other, whereby the upper mounting portion is fixedly positionable within a corner recess of the vertical side edge of the window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Jongil Kim
  • Patent number: 6052959
    Abstract: A moisture vent (10) has an elongated back flashing (12), an elongated base side (14) extending from the back flashing, an elongated vent side (18) extending upwardly from the base side, an elongated stucco side (24) extending inwardly from the vent side, a front flashing (32) extending upwardly from the stucco side adjacent the back flashing, and a termite barrier (34) extending outwardly and downwardly from the intersection of the base and the vent sides. Upon installation, the back flashing is mounted to a foundation (6) of a structure (8) with the front flashing in contact with a foam backing (2) of an exterior insulation and finishing system (4) and the stucco side adjacent a bottom face (5) of the exterior insulation and finishing system. To provide air flow, the stucco side has slots (28), and the vent side has vents (22). In one embodiment the slots have fins, and in another embodiment, the vents have louvers. A cap (40) is provided for closing an open end (36) of the moisture vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventor: Paul A. LaBrosse
  • Patent number: 6038821
    Abstract: A sill support for protecting the sill of a window or door in new or retrofit construction which minimizes the need for on-site fabrication and comprises left and right end dam sections that engage a center connecting member of variable length depending upon the width of the door or window opening being treated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Plastic Components, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Larson, Thomas J. Gretz, John Ofcharsky
  • Patent number: 6035587
    Abstract: A drip edge for use on a building roof for directing water off of the roof, away from the building and, preferably, into a gutter is provided. The drip edge includes a planar body portion which is positioned under the roofing shingles. An open throat portion, which is substantially U-shaped, can fit over an existing protruding drip edge. A downwardly extending leg portion has a lower flexible section which ends in an outwardly directed foot portion. The drip edge can be installed over an existing drip edge, allowing retrofit of the new drip edge. The drip edge can be used with a variety of gutter designs. The drip edge prevents water from getting between the fascia and the gutter inner wall, protecting the building from water damage and the gutter from damage due to ice accumulation, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Amerimax Home Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert D. Dressler
  • Patent number: 6026616
    Abstract: Eave cladding which overlies the eave of a building, without overlying the roof of the building. A vertical portion, having a top, bottom, interior face, and exterior face overlies a sub-fascia, with a top and bottom. The interior face of the vertical portion is disposed adjacent the sub-fascia. The top of the vertical portion extends at most to the top of the sub-fascia, and the bottom of the vertical portion extends past the bottom of the sub-fascia. A horizontal lip is disposed at the top of the vertical portion, and forms a ninety degree angle with the vertical portion. The horizontal lip extends outwards from the exterior face of the vertical portion. An underlying portion is disposed at the bottom of the vertical portion, and forms a ninety degree angle with the vertical portion. The underlying portion extends inwards from the interior face of the vertical portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: J. W. Gibson
  • Patent number: 6009672
    Abstract: A water collector for directing water from roofing configurations that form an inside valley to the rain gutters is disclosed. The device collects the water without the device collecting debris or becoming clogged with leaves or twigs that may interfere with its function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Inventor: Richard L. Kuhns
  • Patent number: 5983579
    Abstract: A moisture barrier assembly for the end grain at the lower end of a wood casing such as door jambs, molding for exterior building sidings and window frames is disclosed. The barrier includes a moisture impervious plate such as plastic attached to and covering the entire lower surface of the casing. As an additional protective measure, a layer of a wood end grain sealant such as paraffin or other olefin wax is applied to the lower surface of the casing prior to attachment of the plate to the casing. The plate may also include one or more grooves or flutes across an upper surface portion thereof to permit air circulation between the plate and casing for drying the casing end grain in the event moisture seeps into the end grain through cracks or disruptions in the sealant layer from around the upper edges of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Robert H. Young
  • Patent number: 5979123
    Abstract: A protective shield formed of sheet material is provided for placing between the wood-to-concrete foundation interface of a building. A portion of the shield positions the lower edge of a substrate siding and a finish layer. A sealant is provided between the sheet material and the concrete foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Robert D. Brockman
  • Patent number: 5953861
    Abstract: A channel-shaped elongated member has a first wall which is opposite a second wall, and a floor. The second wall has a distal portion, also bifurcated into a primary wall and a secondary wall, forming a receiving channel. There is also a sealing means for forming a watertight seal between an underlayment waterproofing material and the receiving channel. In one embodiment, the receiving channel is composed of a malleable material wherein the primary wall of the receiving channel is externally marked in order to provide a guideline for crimping the channel thereby ensuring a watertight seal after the application of caulk. In another embodiment, the primary wall of the receiving channel is angled toward the secondary wall in order to firmly receive an underlayment waterproofing material, thereby forming a watertight seal when caulk is added.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventor: Frank C. Podgwaite
  • Patent number: 5946877
    Abstract: A fastenable composite roofing shingle is made from a composition comprising an organic, resinous material and an inorganic filler material, the shingle having a structure comprising a top surface forming an upper, headlap portion and a lower, butt portion, with the headlap portion having one or more targets suitable for indicating a desired fastener location to a shingle installer. The targets include a recessed area in the top surface of the shingle to enable a head of a fastener to be sheltered below the top surface. The recessed area has a hollow dimple defining an area of additional indentation, whereby the thickness of the shingle in the recessed area is greater than the thickness of the shingle in the dimple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles E. Gallinat, Andy Rudy, Thomas K. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5918427
    Abstract: A termite shield includes two parallel planes of barrier material separated by perpendicular connecting strips to hold the barriers a fixed distance apart until completion of the wall fixes their positions. The strips can then be removed or bent back to permit access to the gap between the planes for inspection and repair. Flanges above and below secure the shield to sheathing above and below, and flanges along the back attach to the wall beneath to perfect the barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Pieter A. VanderWerf
  • Patent number: 5918426
    Abstract: The present invention involves an extruded material capable of being rolled into a coil, for use on the edge of a roof as a molding. The extrusion comprises a polymer material with cross-sectional a roof, fascia, and hinged portions. The roof portion is adapted to attach to roofing material on the roof. The flexible hinge connects the roof portion and the fascia portion and is unitarily formed with the roof and fascia portions. The roof and fascia portions are formed of a hard plastic material, and the flexible hinge is formed of a plastic material having greater flexibility than the hard plastic material. The roof portion includes ribs for inhibiting water penetration between the roofing material and said roof portion. The roof portion includes a protrusion serving as a connecting location with the flexible hinge, either on an end generally parallel to the roof portion serving as the connecting location with the flexible hinge, or on a perpendicular end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Atlantis Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Gifford, Leon M. Ringenberg