U.S. patent application number 10/294460 was filed with the patent office on 2003-09-25 for flashing system.
Invention is credited to Gatherum, Roy Dean.
Application Number | 20030177712 10/294460 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 28046770 |
Filed Date | 2003-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030177712 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gatherum, Roy Dean |
September 25, 2003 |
Flashing system
Abstract
A method and apparatus for providing a flashing system
configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an opening extending
through an exterior treatment of a building structure. The flashing
system includes at least one flashing piece having a main flashing
portion and a scaling flange. The main flashing portion is
configured to extend outward a distance from a periphery of the
opening of the building structure to provide an effective moisture
barrier and configured to be positioned against a wall having the
opening defined therein. The sealing flange is formed and
configured to extend outward from the main flashing portion and
configured to be positioned adjacent a peripheral-opening-structure
at the periphery of the opening. The flashing system also includes
a drip flange extending downwardly outward from a portion of the
sealing flange. With this arrangement, the flashing system is
configured to direct moisture away from the wall below the opening
extending through the exterior treatment of the building
structure.
Inventors: |
Gatherum, Roy Dean; (Murray,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THORPE NORTH WESTERN
8180 SOUTH 700 EAST, SUITE 200
P.O. BOX 1219
SANDY
UT
84070
US
|
Family ID: |
28046770 |
Appl. No.: |
10/294460 |
Filed: |
November 13, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60366679 |
Mar 20, 2002 |
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60407313 |
Aug 30, 2002 |
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60409411 |
Sep 9, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/60 ;
52/58 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 13/158 20130101;
E04D 13/178 20130101; E04D 13/02 20130101; E02D 31/02 20130101;
E04D 13/1585 20130101; E04D 13/1475 20130101; E04B 1/70 20130101;
E06B 2001/628 20130101; E04F 19/00 20130101; E04D 13/1415 20130101;
E04F 19/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/60 ;
52/58 |
International
Class: |
E04D 001/36; E04D
003/38; E04D 013/14 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A flashing system configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an
opening extending through an exterior treatment of a building
structure, the flashing system comprising: at least one flashing
piece having a main flashing portion and a sealing flange, said
main flashing portion configured to extend outward a distance from
a periphery of the opening of the building structure to provide an
effective moisture barrier and configured to be positioned against
a wall having the opening defined therein, said sealing flange
extending outward from said main flashing portion and configured to
be positioned adjacent a peripheral-opening-structure at the
periphery of the opening; and a drip flange extending downwardly
outward from a portion of said sealing flange, and configured to
direct moisture away from the wall below the opening extending
through the exterior treatment of the building structure.
2. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
flashing piece comprises a bottom flashing piece, a top flashing
piece, a first side flashing piece and a second side flashing
piece, each including a corresponding one of said main flashing
portion and said sealing flange and each configured to be
positioned on the wall at a corresponding bottom side, top side,
first side and second side of the opening extending through the
exterior treatment of the building structure.
3. The flashing system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
laminate configured to extend over said main flashing portion of
said at least one flashing piece.
4. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said drip flange
comprises a folded-back portion wrapped around an under-side
portion of said drip flange.
5. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said drip flange
comprises a rounded lip at an end of said drip flange.
6. The flashing system of claim 4, wherein said drip flange
comprises a downward extension extending from said folded-back
portion, said downward extension configured to be positioned
against the wall below the opening extending through the exterior
treatment of the building structure.
7. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said distance of said
main flashing portion of said at least one flashing piece extending
from the opening at least four inches.
8. The flashing system of claim 1, further comprising a sealing
flange extension configured to extend substantially perpendicularly
inward from said sealing flange and configured to extend at least
partially over the peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of
the opening.
9. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
flashing piece comprises: a first side flashing piece, a second
side flashing piece and a main flashing member; wherein said main
flashing member includes said main flashing portion configured to
be positioned against the wall and extend from the periphery of the
opening, said main flashing member having a top sealing flange and
a bottom sealing flange; and wherein each of said first side
flashing piece and said second side flashing piece includes said
sealing flange.
10. The flashing system of claim 9, further comprising a sealing
flange extension extending inward from each of said top sealing
flange and said sealing flange of said first side flashing piece
and said second side flashing piece, wherein said sealing flange
extension is configured to extend at least partially over the
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening.
11. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
flashing piece comprises a unitary flashing member including said
main flashing portion, said sealing flange and said drip
flange.
12. The flashing system of claim 11, wherein said unitary flashing
member comprises said sealing flange extension extending inward
from said sealing flange and configured to extend at least
partially over the peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of
the opening.
13. The flashing system of claim 2, wherein said sealing flange for
said bottom flashing piece extends outward beyond the
peripheral-opening-struc- ture at the periphery of the opening.
14. The flashing system of claim 2, further comprising a downward
extension between an end of said sealing flange and said drip
flange.
15. The flashing member of claim 13, further comprising a downward
extension between an end of said sealing flange and said drip
flange.
16. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
flashing piece comprises a metallic material.
17. The flashing system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
flashing piece comprises a polymeric material.
18. A flashing member configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an
opening extending through an exterior treatment of a building
structure, the flashing member comprising: a main flashing portion
and a sealing flange, said main flashing portion configured to
extend outward a distance from a periphery of the opening of the
building structure to provide an effective moisture barrier and
configured to be positioned against a wall having the opening
defined therein, said sealing flange extending outward from said
main flashing portion and configured to be positioned adjacent a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening at the
lower portion thereof; and a drip flange extending downwardly
outward from a portion of said sealing flange configured to direct
moisture away from the opening extending through the exterior
treatment of the building structure.
19. The flashing member of claim 18, wherein said drip flange
comprises a folded-back portion wrapped around an under-side
portion of said drip flange.
20. The flashing member of claim 18, wherein said drip flange
comprises a rounded lip at an end of said drip flange.
21 The flashing member of claim 18, wherein said flashing member
comprises a metallic material.
22. The flashing member of claim 18, wherein said flashing member
comprises a polymeric material.
23. The flashing member of claim 19, wherein said drip flange
comprises a downward extension extending from said folded-back
portion, said downward extension configured to be positioned
against the wall below the opening extending through the exterior
treatment of the building structure.
24. The flashing member of claim 18, wherein said sealing flange
extends outward beyond the peripheral-opening-structure at the
periphery of the opening.
25. The flashing member of claim 18, further comprising a downward
extension between an end of said sealing flange and said drip
flange.
26. The flashing member of claim 24, further comprising a downward
extension between an end of said sealing flange and said drip
flange.
27. A flashing system configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an
opening extending through an exterior treatment of a building
structure, the flashing system comprising: at least one flashing
piece having a main flashing portion and a sealing flange, said
main flashing portion configured to extend outward a distance from
a periphery of the opening of the building structure to provide an
effective moisture barrier and configured to be positioned against
a wall adjacent to the opening defined therein, said sealing flange
extending substantially orthogonally outward from said main
flashing portion and configured to abutingly seal to a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening; and a
drip flange extending downwardly outward from a portion of said
sealing flange, and configured to direct moisture away from the
wall below the opening extending through the exterior treatment of
the building structure.
28. A flashing system configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an
opening extending through an exterior treatment of a building
structure, the flashing system comprising: a bottom flashing piece
having a bottom flashing portion and a bottom sealing flange, said
bottom flashing portion configured to extend outward a distance
from a bottom periphery of the opening of the building structure to
provide an effective moisture barrier and configured to be
positioned against a wall adjacent to the bottom periphery of the
opening defined therein, said bottom sealing flange extending
substantially orthogonally outward from said bottom flashing
portion and configured to abutingly seal to a
peripheral-opening-structure at the bottom periphery of the
opening; a first side flashing piece having a side flashing portion
and a side sealing flange, said side flashing portion configured to
extend outward a distance from a first side periphery of the
opening of the building structure to provide said effective
moisture barrier and configured to be positioned against the wall
adjacent to the first side periphery of the opening defined
therein, said side sealing flange extending substantially
orthogonally outward from said side flashing portion and configured
to abutingly seal to a peripheral-opening-structure at the first
side periphery of the opening; a second side flashing piece having
a side flashing portion and a side sealing flange, said side
flashing portion configured to extend outward a distance from a
second side periphery of the opening of the building structure to
provide said effective moisture barrier and configured to be
positioned against the wall adjacent to the second side periphery
of the opening defined therein, said side sealing flange extending
substantially orthogonally outward from said side flashing portion
and configured to abutingly seal to a peripheral-opening-structure
at the second side periphery of the opening; a top flashing piece
having a top flashing portion and a top sealing flange, said top
flashing portion configured to extend outward a distance from a top
periphery of the opening of the building structure to provide said
effective moisture barrier and configured to be positioned against
the wall adjacent to the top periphery of the opening defined
therein, said top sealing flange extending substantially
orthogonally outward from said top flashing portion and configured
to abutingly seal to a peripheral-opening-structure at the top
periphery of the opening; and a drip flange extending downwardly
outward from said bottom sealing flange, and configured to direct
moisture away from the wall below the opening extending through the
exterior treatment of the building structure.
29. A means for flashing an opening extending through an exterior
treatment of a building structure for reducing moisture intrusion
at the opening thereof, comprising: flashing means for flashing a
periphery of the opening of the building structure, said flashing
means extending outward against a wall from the periphery of the
opening and extending over a portion of a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening; and
moisture-directing means for directing moisture away from the
exterior treatment below the opening, said moisture-directing means
extending downwardly outward from said flashing means.
30. A method of forming a flashing system configured to reduce
moisture intrusion from an opening extending through an exterior
treatment of a building structure, the method comprising: forming
at least one flashing piece having a main flashing portion and a
sealing flange, configuring said main flashing portion to extend
outward a distance from a periphery of the opening of the building
structure to provide an effective moisture barrier and configuring
said main flashing portion to be positioned against a wall having
the opening defined therein; configuring said sealing flange to
extend substantially outward from said main flashing portion and
configuring said sealing flange to be positioned adjacent a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening; and
forming a drip flange extending downwardly outward from a portion
of said sealing flange, and configured to direct moisture away from
the wall below the opening extending through the exterior treatment
of the building structure.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises forming a bottom flashing piece, a top
flashing piece, a first side flashing piece and a second side
flashing piece, each including a corresponding one of said main
flashing portion and said sealing flange and each configured to be
positioned on the wall at a corresponding bottom side, top side,
first side and second side of the opening extending through the
exterior treatment of the building structure.
32. The method of claim 31, further comprising forming at least one
laminate configured to overlay said main flashing portion for each
of said bottom flashing piece, said top flashing piece, said first
side flashing piece and said second side flashing piece.
33. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said drip flange
comprises forming a folded-back portion wrapped around an
under-side portion of said drip flange.
34. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said drip flange
comprises forming a rounded lip at an end of said drip flange.
35. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises forming said main flashing portion said
distance extending at least four inches.
36. The method of claim 30, further comprising forming a sealing
flange extension configured to extend substantially inward from
said sealing flange and configured to extend at least partially
over the peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the
opening.
37. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises forming a first side flashing piece, a
second side flashing piece and a main flashing member.
38. The method of claim 37, wherein said forming said main flashing
member comprises forming a top sealing flange and a bottom sealing
flange and configuring said main flashing portion to be positioned
against the wall and extend from the peripheral-opening-structure
at the periphery of the opening.
39. The method of claim 37, wherein said forming each of said first
side flashing piece and said second side flashing piece comprise
forming said sealing flange therewith.
40. The method of claim 37, further comprising forming a sealing
flange extension extending inward from each of said top sealing
flange and said sealing flange of said first side flashing piece
and said second side flashing piece.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein said forming said sealing
flange extension comprise configuring said sealing flange extension
to extend at least partially over the peripheral-opening-structure
at the periphery of the opening.
42. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises forming a unitary flashing member
including said main flashing portion, said sealing flange and said
drip flange.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein said forming said unitary
flashing member comprises forming a sealing flange extension
extending inward from said sealing flange and configured to extend
at least partially over the peripheral-opening-structure at the
periphery of the opening.
44. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises configuring said sealing flange to extend
outward beyond the peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of
the opening.
45. The method of claim 30, further comprising forming a downward
extension between an end of said sealing flange and said drip
flange.
46. The method of claim 44, further comprising a downward extension
between an end of said sealing flange and said drip flange.
47. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises forming said at least one flashing piece
from a metallic material.
48. The method of claim 30, wherein said forming said at least one
flashing piece comprises forming said at least one flashing piece
from a polymeric material.
49. A method of flashing a periphery of an opening defined through
an exterior treatment of a building structure, the method
comprising: providing at least one flashing piece having a main
flashing portion and a sealing flange, said main flashing portion
configured to extend outward a distance from a periphery of the
opening of the building structure to provide an effective moisture
barrier; providing a drip flange extending downwardly outward from
a portion of said sealing flange; and disposing said at least one
flashing piece so that said main flashing portion is positioned
against a wall extending proximately from the periphery of the
opening, said sealing flange extending outward from said main
flashing portion to be positioned adjacent a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening and
said drip flange extending downwardly outward from said portion of
said sealing flange configured to direct moisture away from the
wall below the opening extending through the exterior treatment of
the building structure.
50. The method of claim 49, wherein said providing said at least
one flashing piece comprises providing a bottom flashing piece, a
top flashing piece, a first side flashing piece and a second side
flashing piece, each including a corresponding one of said main
flashing portion and said sealing flange.
51. The method of claim 50, wherein said disposing comprises:
positioning said bottom flashing piece against the wall at a bottom
side of the opening of the building structure; positioning said
first side flashing piece and said second side flashing piece
against the wall at a first side and a second side, respectively,
of the opening of the building structure; and positioning said top
flashing piece against the wall at a top side of the opening of the
building structure.
52. The method of claim 50, wherein said disposing comprises:
attaching said sealing flange of said bottom flashing piece to the
peripheral-opening-structure at a bottom side of the opening of the
building structure; attaching said sealing flange of said first
side flashing piece and said sealing flange of said second side
flashing piece to the peripheral-opening-structure at a first side
and a second side, respectively, of the opening of the building
structure; and attaching said sealing flange of said top flashing
piece to the peripheral-opening-structure at a top side of the
opening of the building structure.
53. The method of claim 49, wherein said disposing comprises
adhesively attaching said sealing flange to a portion of the
peripheral-opening-stru- cture.
54. The method of claim 49, wherein said disposing comprises
attaching said main flashing portion to the wall adjacent the
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening
extending through the exterior treatment of the building
structure.
55. The method of claim 49, wherein said providing said drip flange
comprises providing said drip flange with a folded-back portion
wrapped around an under-side portion of said drip flange.
56. The method of claim 49, wherein said providing said drip flange
comprises providing said drip flange with a rounded lip at an end
of said drip flange.
57. The method of claim 49, wherein said providing said at least
one flashing piece comprises providing said distance of said main
flashing portion to extend outward from the opening between
approximately four and eight inches.
58. The method of claim 49, wherein said providing said at least
one flashing piece comprises providing a first side flashing piece,
a second side flashing piece and a main flashing member.
59. The method of claim 49, wherein said providing said at least
one flashing piece comprises providing a unitary flashing member
including said main flashing portion, said sealing flange and said
drip flange.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application serial No.: 60/366,679, filed Mar. 20, 2002; No.
60/407,313, filed Aug. 30, 2002; and, No. 60/409,411 filed Sep. 9,
2002.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates generally to water management systems
for reducing water intrusion in structures. More specifically, the
invention relates to flashing systems and flashing configurations
for doors, windows, and various utility and pipe-through
configurations and for eaves and foundation interfaces, chimney
structures, and their incorporation with, and between, exterior
treatments, such as stucco, brick, and siding.
[0004] 2. The Background Art
[0005] Since ancient times "Black mold" fungus and other molds
having known health risks associated with them have been found
growing within the walls of homes and buildings. Such molds can,
and have, caused a recognized and serious health threat to home
owners and building occupants. The growth of such molds can be
facilitated by moisture seeping within the walls of homes and
buildings. Conventionally, keeping moisture out of human-built
structures has been an ongoing goal. Since mold spores have been
found to be a serious health risk of late, due to increased
incidence of moisture ingress in newer construction systems,
preventing moisture from entering the walls of homes and buildings
is considered much more serious and widespread concern than it has
previously.
[0006] Wherever discontinuities in exterior treatment exist, for
example where openings such as doors and windows are provided,
keeping water from entering the wall structures around or through
such discontinuities and openings has been problematic. Numerous
solutions to this problem have been tried, depending on the type of
structure involved. Furthermore, the areas where the walls of a
building meet the foundation, particularly in wood frame
construction, have been recognized as another area where water can
enter, because a construction joint of some type typically is
provided there. Likewise where the roof meets the walls, and where
one type of exterior treatment meets another (for example brick
extends part way up a wall and stucco the remainder of the way to
the roofline, for example) provision for water-proofing the
exterior of the structure has been a concern. For these and other
reasons, the problem of moisture ingress is well recognized in the
trades and in the field of architectural design.
[0007] One example in modem construction technology is the problem
of sealing around doors and windows positioned in and extending
through a stucco exterior treatment. Prior best practice was to
install a window in the structure, in which the nailing flanges of
the window frame (whether made of polymeric resin, or of aluminum,
or some other material) are attached to the exterior sheathing over
the frame. This might be before, or after, tarpaper, a plastic
fiber-reinforced membrane, such as TYVEK.RTM., or other sealing
layer is applied to the sheathing. A sealing strip comprising a
laminate of a polymer sheet and a bituminous sealant layer (e.g.
the laminate made by Protecto-Wrap Company of Denver, Colo.) is
then laid over the bottom nailing flange, and adheres to the flange
and paper around the window; and then the strip is usually also
stapled to the paper-covered sheathing. Two like sealing strips are
then laid down the sides of the window over the nailing flanges and
likewise stapled. Then finally a sealing strip is laid over the top
window nailing flange, and this strip is usually made long enough
to extend outward beyond the sides of the window to lay over the
strips laid against the sides of the window. Subsequently the
stucco exterior treatment is applied. This usually takes one to
several days, depending on when the stucco crew can be scheduled,
how long it takes to prepare to apply the particular stucco system
used (for example how long it takes to apply the reinforcing mesh),
etc.
[0008] In that time, due to heat or cold, the sealing strips can
become "unstuck" and not adhere to the paper and/or nailing flange,
or they can wrinkle, and can otherwise can provide a less than
perfect seal. After the stucco is applied, water can sometimes
enter the structure through this interface between the window and
the stucco. In a storm for example, water from precipitation may
enter by seeping through porous or cracked stucco, around the
sealing strips, or behind them if wrinkled or de-laminated from the
paper or window. This is highly undesirable, as dry rot, mold
spores, structural damage, discoloration of stucco or interior
walls, etc. can occur. The leaking condition of the window may
require the stucco around the window, the interior finish
treatment, and sometimes even the structure around the window to be
replaced. Likewise, the same generally applies to door openings,
and other places in the structure, such as utility boxes,
pipe-throughs, vents, etc. where something passes through the
exterior treatment.
[0009] Also, while stucco has been discussed thus far, the same
problems, though they may be addressed slightly differently in each
case, apply to exterior siding, brick, stone, and other treatments
applied to the exterior. One solution is to additionally provide a
metal or polymeric resin flashing to problem areas, with a similar
object as is done in roofing, to provide for water management
around the problem areas and to minimize intrusion of water by
directing it over or around such problem areas. Usually such a
flashing, when provided, is applied above the opening, the object
being to direct water out and around or over the opening without
entering it. One difficulty with the prior solutions is that water
can sometimes seep back under conventional flashing, especially
where no sealant is provided between the flashing and the window,
or a provided sealant has de-laminated due to age and hot/cold
temperature cycling, for example. Often wind or lawn sprinkler jets
can drive water up under flashing of conventional configuration.
The result can include the above-referenced recognized problems
resulting from water intrusion.
[0010] Another problem area is the interface between the chimney
and its covering structure. Usually a chimney-bonnet structure is
used over the top of the chimney. However, conventionally in stucco
construction a metal chimney-bonnet is made oversized, and does not
always prevent moisture from seeping into or being driven into gaps
between the chimney and bonnet structure. Such water entering the
gaps can result in the above-referenced recognized problems in the
frame and otherwise within the structure of the chimney.
[0011] Another problem area is the interface between an exterior
treatment covering a building frame and a cement foundation. Here,
water from roof runoff splashing up and against the structure, from
melting snow, from ponding water if adequate drainage around the
structure is not provided, etc. can work through porous materials,
unsealed material interfaces, and cracks that can open with time,
and can seep into the framed walls and/or the basement or first
floor of the structure (especially with slab on grade construction
in the latter case). Therefore, providing for water management at
the structure/foundation interface is also critical.
[0012] Likewise, at the eaves of a structure, water management has
also been recognized as very important. If water can get behind the
exterior wall treatment at the top, such as at the eaves, then it
can damage the whole wall structure, top to bottom. Likewise, at a
junction of two exterior treatments water can sometimes seep into
cracks and joints. For example, the situation mentioned above where
brick may transition to stucco at some point up a wall, water
management at the joint is problematic, and is as critical as that
around openings, if for no other reason that there may be a great
length of such a joint, even extending completely around a
structure, providing increased opportunity for a crack to open,
etc. and allow seepage of water into the structure.
[0013] Current best practice is using window drip flashing along
the top of the brick, and laying up the stucco over this. However
water can still get behind this arrangement and into the structure,
especially in the cases of melting snow and wind-driven rain or
sleet.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0014] It has been recognized that further improvement in water
management at critical areas such as those mentioned above will
yield benefits of lower incidence of harmful mold spores, dry rot
and other structural damage; decreased incidence of interior water
damage such as unsightly stains, etc. Further, cost savings to
constructors, who will have fewer costly repairs to new
construction, and to homeowners, who will have less costly repairs
after a builders warranties have expired, will be realized by more
reliably excluding water from the structure.
[0015] The present invention is directed to a method and apparatus
of forming and installing a flashing system configured to reduce
moisture intrusion at an opening extending through an exterior
treatment of a building structure. The flashing system includes at
least one flashing piece having a main flashing portion and a
sealing flange. The main flashing portion is configured to extend
outward a distance from a periphery of the opening of the building
structure to provide an effective moisture barrier and configured
to be positioned against a wall having the opening defined therein.
The sealing flange is formed and configured to extend outward from
said main flashing portion and configured to be positioned adjacent
a peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening. The
flashing system also includes a drip flange extending downwardly
outward from a portion of the sealing flange, and configured to
direct moisture away from the wall below the opening extending
through the exterior treatment of the building structure.
[0016] In one aspect of the invention, the drip flange can be
formed with a folded-back portion wrapped around an under-side
portion of the drip flange. The drip flange can also be formed to
include a rounded lip at an end of the drip flange. The drip flange
can be formed with a downward extension extending from the portion
of the sealing flange with a downwardly outward extension extending
at an end of the downward extension.
[0017] In another aspect of the invention, the distance of the main
flashing portion of the at least one flashing piece can be
configured to extend outward from the periphery of the opening at
least four inches. Once the main flashing portion is positioned
against the wall, at least one laminate can overlay the main
flashing portion to seal any openings in the main flashing portion
that may be formed from fastening the main flashing portion to the
wall.
[0018] In still another aspect of the invention, the flashing
system can include a sealing flange extension formed and configured
to extend substantially perpendicularly inward from the sealing
flange and configured to extend at least partially over the
peripheral-opening-struc- ture at the periphery of the opening.
[0019] In another aspect, the flashing system can be formed from a
metallic material, a polymeric material, or both.
[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, the at least one
flashing piece can include a bottom flashing piece, a top flashing
piece, a first side flashing piece and a second side flashing
piece, each including a corresponding one of the main flashing
portion and the sealing flange and each configured to be positioned
on the wall at a corresponding bottom side, top side, first side
and second side of the opening extending through the exterior
treatment of the building structure.
[0021] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one
flashing piece can include a first side flashing piece, a second
side flashing piece and a main flashing member. The main flashing
member can include the main flashing portion configured to be
positioned against the wall and extend from the periphery of the
opening. The main flashing member can include a top sealing flange
and a bottom sealing flange. With this arrangement, each of the
first side flashing piece and the second side flashing piece can
include the sealing flange. Also, in this embodiment, the flashing
system can include a sealing flange extension extending inward from
each of the top sealing flange and the sealing flange of the first
side flashing piece and the second side flashing piece, wherein the
sealing flange extension is configured to extend at least partially
over the peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the
opening.
[0022] In still another embodiment, the at least one flashing piece
comprises a unitary flashing member including the main flashing
portion, the sealing flange and the drip flange. Such a unitary
flashing member can include the sealing flange extension extending
inward from the sealing flange and configured to extend at least
partially over the peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of
the opening.
[0023] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a
flashing member configured to reduce moisture intrusion at an
opening extending through an exterior treatment of a building
structure. The flashing member includes a main flashing portion and
a sealing flange. The main flashing portion is configured to extend
outward a distance from a periphery of the opening of the building
structure to provide an effective moisture barrier and configured
to be positioned against a wall having the opening defined therein.
The sealing flange is configured to extend outward from the main
flashing portion and configured to be positioned adjacent a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening at the
lower portion thereof. The flashing member includes a drip flange
extending downwardly outward from a portion of said sealing flange
configured to direct moisture away from the opening extending
through the exterior treatment of the building structure.
[0024] In one aspect of the invention, the sealing flange is formed
and configured to extend outward beyond the
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening. The
sealing flange can also include a downward extension between an end
of the sealing flange and the drip flange.
[0025] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a
means for flashing an opening extending through an exterior
treatment of a building structure for reducing moisture intrusion
at the opening thereof. The means for flashing includes flashing
means for flashing a periphery of the opening of the building
structure. The flashing means extends outward against a wall from
the periphery of the opening and extending over a portion of a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening. The
means for flashing also includes moisture-directing means for
directing moisture away from the exterior treatment below the
opening. The moisture-directing means extends downwardly outward
from the flashing means.
[0026] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a
method of flashing a periphery of an opening defined through an
exterior treatment of a building structure. In the method, at least
one flashing piece and a drip flange are provided. The at least one
flashing piece includes a main flashing portion and a sealing
flange. The main flashing portion is configured to extend outward a
distance from a periphery of the opening of the building structure
to provide an effective moisture barrier. The drip flange is
configured to extend downwardly outward from a portion of the
sealing flange. With this arrangement, the at least on flashing
piece is disposed so that said main flashing portion is positioned
against a wall extending proximately from the periphery of the
opening and so that the sealing flange extending outward from the
main flashing portion is positioned adjacent a
peripheral-opening-structure at the periphery of the opening. In
this manner, the drip flange extends downwardly outward from the
portion of the sealing flange configured to direct moisture away
from the wall below the opening extending through the exterior
treatment of the building structure.
[0027] In one aspect of the invention, the at least one flashing
piece provided can a bottom flashing piece, a top flashing piece, a
first side flashing piece and a second side flashing piece, each
including a corresponding one of the main flashing portion and the
sealing flange. The bottom flashing piece can be positioned against
the wall at a bottom side of the opening of the building structure;
the first side flashing piece and the second side flashing piece
can be positioned against the wall at a first side and a second
side, respectively, of the opening of the building structure; and,
the top flashing piece can be positioned against the wall at a top
side of the opening of the building structure. With this
arrangement, the sealing flange can be adhesively attached to a
portion of the peripheral-opening-structure. The main flashing
portion is can also be attached to the wall adjacent the
peripheral-opening-structur- e at the periphery of the opening
extending through the exterior treatment of the building
structure.
[0028] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through
consideration of the ensuing description, accompanying drawings,
and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view, partially in
cut-away, of a water management system in one embodiment of the
invention, and adapted for a window, or doorframe, or other
through-wall feature, a window being shown by way of example;
[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view partially in section taken
along line 2-2 in FIG. 1, and partially in cut-away, of a bottom
flashing element of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 illustrating
features thereof in greater detail;
[0031] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 3-3 in
FIG. 1, of a portion of the flashing system installed below the
window of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, an exterior finish below
the window being shown in outline, and omitting representation of a
sealant which can be located between the lower flashing element and
the bottom of the window frame, and which would be pressed very
thin and present as a line in this cross section view;
[0032] FIG. 3(a) is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
a portion of the flashing system installed below the window of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 3 with an exterior finish below the window
and extending beyond a front portion of the window shown in
outline;
[0033] FIG. 3(b) is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
a portion of the flashing system installed below the window of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 3 with an exterior finish below the window
and extending beyond a front portion of the window shown in
outline;
[0034] FIG. 4 is a perspective view, partially in cut-away,
partially in section taken along line 4-4 through any one of the
two sides and one top flashing pieces in FIG. 1;
[0035] FIG. 5 is an enlarged view, taken at line 5-5 in FIG. 4, of
a portion of that view showing further details;
[0036] FIG. 5a is an enlarged view taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 4,
of a portion of that view in the another embodiment where the
flashing does not come around the side of the window frame and
across a portion of the front of the window frame, as in FIG. 5,
but rather folds back upon its self along the side portion of the
window frame extending out from the wall;
[0037] FIG. 5b is an enlarged view, taken along line 5-5 in FIG. 4
in another embodiment, similar to that of FIG. 5a but wherein a
sealing flange terminates in a free end of a flange which is
configured to lay along side a side portion of the window frame
extending out from the wall;
[0038] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view, taken at line 6-6 in FIG. 1, of
a portion of the top flashing piece showing further detail and
possible additional embodiments in outline;
[0039] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment integral
in a window frame unit, wherein the flashing is combined with the
nail flange, and the drip flange is integrally connected to the
bottom of the outer bottom of the window by molding or welding in a
unitary construction or by attachment by adhesive or fasteners;
[0040] FIG. 7(a) is a perspective view of another embodiment
depicting a sealing flange being positioned, in outline, around a
window frame having a drip flange positionable at a bottom portion
thereof, the window frame previously inserted and positioned in an
opening in the wall of the building structure;
[0041] FIG. 8 is an enlarged view, taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 7
of a bottom portion of the window frame of FIG. 7 showing
additional details;
[0042] FIG. 8(a) is a partial cross-sectional view of a bottom
portion of the window frame, depicting the drip flange being
attached to the window frame with an adhesive;
[0043] FIG. 8(b) is a partial cross-sectional view of the bottom
portion of the window frame, depicting the drip flange attached to
the window frame with a channel and protrusion arrangement;
[0044] FIG. 8(c) is a partial cross-sectional view of the bottom
portion of the window frame, depicting the drip flange attached to
a bottom peripheral portion of the window frame with the channel
and protrusion arrangement;
[0045] FIG. 9 is a similar view as that of FIG. 8 of another
embodiment wherein the drip flange is positioned back from the
front of the window under the bottom, rather than flush with the
front face of the frame;
[0046] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view, partially in
cut-away of another embodiment of the invention, additional
variations being shown in outline, e.g. whether molded or folded,
in the later case having seams shown in outline;
[0047] FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded view of another embodiment
of the invention similar to that shown in FIG. 1O showing one
example of a cut and folded metal construction with additional
pieces to be soldered, welded or otherwise sealingly attached,
shown before (left side), and after (right side), attachment;
[0048] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 12-12 in
FIG. 13, of another embodiment illustrating adaptation for use with
certain exterior surface treatments, for example stonework, such as
water management in a stonework to stucco interface;
[0049] FIG. 12(a) is a cross-sectional view of a flashing member in
another embodiment illustrating an application of the flashing
member disposed between two exterior treatments, for example, brick
work and a stucco interface;
[0050] FIG. 12(b) is a simplified side view of the flashing member
illustrated in FIG. 12(a);
[0051] FIG. 12(c) is a cross-sectional view of a flashing member
disposed between two exterior treatments in still another
embodiment illustrating the flashing member having a j-channel
portion configured to receive one of the exterior treatments;
[0052] FIG. 12(d) is a simplified side view of the flashing member
illustrated in FIG. 12(c);
[0053] FIG. 12(e) is a simplified side view of a flashing member
configured to be disposed between two exterior treatments in
another embodiment illustrating the flashing member having a
j-channel portion configured to receive one of the exterior
treatments;
[0054] FIG. 13 is a perspective view, partially in section,
partially in cut-away, illustrating an application of the flashing
embodiment shown in FIG. 12;
[0055] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 14-14 in
FIG. 15, illustrating adaptation for use with certain exterior
surface treatments, for example brick work, such as water
management in a brick work to stucco interface;
[0056] FIG. 15 is a perspective view, partially in section,
partially in cut-away, illustrating an application of the flashing
embodiment shown in FIG. 14;
[0057] FIG. 16 is a perspective view, partially in section,
partially in cut-away, of another embodiment illustration of
adaptation for use with a sloped top portion of certain exterior
surface treatments, such as eliminating the need for fair raking in
brick work, and how it can be integrated into a flashing system for
transition to stucco or another exterior treatment, or directly
with flashing around a roof at the eaves, gable(s), a pediment,
etc.;
[0058] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment
configured for water management at a structure wall/foundation
interface incorporated in a structure having a brick exterior
there;
[0059] FIG. 18 is an enlarged cross-sectional view, taken in the
area of line 18-18 in FIG. 17;
[0060] FIG. 18(a) is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment
of a flashing member having a j-channel portion configured for
water management at a wall/foundation interface incorporated for a
stucco exterior treatment;
[0061] FIG. 18(b) is a simplified side view of another embodiment
of the flashing member having the j-channel portion configured for
water management at a wall/foundation interface incorporated for a
stucco exterior treatment;
[0062] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment
configured for water management at a structure wall/foundation
interface incorporated in a structure having a stucco exterior
there;
[0063] FIG. 20 is an enlarged cross-sectional view, taken in the
area of line 20-20 in FIG. 19;
[0064] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view, taken along line 21-21 in
FIG. 22 of an embodiment configured for water management at a
structure wall/roof eaves interface incorporated in a structure,
the sheathing and roof truss of which is shown only in outline for
relative position;
[0065] FIG. 22 is a perspective view, partially in section,
partially in cut-away, illustrating incorporation of the flashing
shown in FIG. 21 in a roof eave, configured to both allow airflow
and protect the structure from water intrusion at a top portion of
the exterior wall;
[0066] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
flashing member having an upper portion and a lower portion
configured for water management at a wall/roof structure interface
of a building structure;
[0067] FIGS. 23(a) through 23(i) are cross-sectional views of other
flashing member configurations similar to FIG. 23, the flashing
member configurations each having an upper portion and a lower
portion configured for water management at a wall/roof structure
interface of a building structure;
[0068] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
flashing member interconnected to vents at an eave portion of a
building structure and positioned intermediate the roof structure
and an upper portion of a wall;
[0069] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a flashing member of
another embodiment to that depicted in FIGS. 19 and 20, configured
for water management at a structure wall/foundation interface
incorporated in a structure having a stucco exterior treatment;
[0070] FIG. 26 is a perspective view the flashing member depicted
in FIG. 25, illustrating a unitary flashing member including
j-channel flashing, an extension member with a drip flange with an
alternative downward extension shown in outline;
[0071] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of alternative configurations
A through H of the flashing member depicted in FIGS. 25 and 26,
each of which include a j-channel flashing, an extension member and
a drip flange;
[0072] FIG. 28 is a perspective exploded view of a flashing system
for a door frame, illustrating a door frame having brick molding
formed therearound, flashing pieces formed to abut the brick
molding and mold flashing configured to cover the brick molding and
a portion of the flashing pieces;
[0073] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 29-29 in
FIG. 28 of the mold flashing prior to being inserted over the
molding and a portion of the flashing piece;
[0074] FIG. 29(a) is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment
of the mold flashing depicted in FIGS. 28 and 29, illustrating a
mold flashing configured to abut with a side flashing piece
positioned on an inside surface of a door frame;
[0075] FIG. 29(b) is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment
of the mold flashing depicted in FIGS. 28 and 29, illustrating a
mold flashing incorporated with a side flashing piece as a unitary
structure, the side flashing piece configured to be positioned on
an inside surface of the door frame;
[0076] FIG. 29(c) is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment
of the mold flashing depicted in FIGS. 28 and 29, illustrating a
mold flashing incorporating a side flashing piece and wall flashing
portion in a one-piece-structure;
[0077] FIG. 30 is a perspective exploded view of a flashing system
for a door frame, illustrating mold flashing formed and configured
to fit over existing brick molding around an already existing door
frame;
[0078] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 31-31 in
FIG. 30 of the mold flashing prior to being inserted over the
existing brick molding;
[0079] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a flashing system
incorporated with a utility structure having a cylindrical-shaped
extension from a building structure;
[0080] FIG. 33 is a front view of a flashing member with a
circular-shaped opening, depicting cut-out lines and fold lines to
form flange pieces in the flashing member;
[0081] FIG. 34 is a perspective exploded view of the flashing
system and a utility structure, depicting the flashing member
disposed around the utility structure and a cone flashing
configured to be disposed over the flashing member and utility
structure;
[0082] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
flashing system incorporated with a utility structure having a
rectangular-shaped extension from a building structure;
[0083] FIG. 36 is a front view of a main flashing member with a
rectangular-shaped opening, depicting cut-out lines and fold lines
to form flange pieces in the main flashing member;
[0084] FIG. 37 is a perspective exploded view of the flashing
system having a main flashing member and an outer flashing member
with a drip flange depicted to correspondingly and respectively fit
over a rectangular-shaped utility structure;
[0085] FIG. 38 is a perspective exploded view of a flashing system
composed of flashing members, a chimney-bonnet and a chimney,
depicting by out-line the flashing members insertable between the
chimney and the chimney-bonnet; and
[0086] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the chimney having the
flashing system assembled with the chimney-bonnet.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0087] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the
exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific
language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be
understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is
thereby intended.
[0088] With reference to FIG. 1 of the drawing figures, which are
given by way of example, and not by way of limitation, a flashing
system 10 in one embodiment comprises metal or plastic flashing
pieces 12, 13, 14, 15 which cooperate to form a water-tight seal
around a window 16 in a wall structure 18. Taking as an example the
case of a stucco exterior treatment, though the invention can be
applicable to other exterior treatments, such as stone, siding,
brick, etc., frame members 19, 21, cooperate with exterior
sheathing 20, such as exterior grade medium density fiberboard,
ply-board or the like to form a wall structure. The wall defines an
opening which receives the window 16. This is usually before, but
can be after, an exterior waterproofing layer i.e. moisture barrier
(sometimes called "vapor barrier") 22 is applied to the sheathing,
as shown in FIG. 3. The waterproof layer can be, for example, a
bituman-impregnated felt, i.e. "tar paper", TYVEK.RTM. or a
suitable substitute, and is generally applied by nailing or
stapling it to the sheathing. A nailing flange 24 of the window can
be inside or outside the paper 22, though even when the window is
installed after the moisture barrier is applied to the wall the
barrier membrane is usually brought out over the nailing flange, at
least on top of the window. In either case, the bottom nailing
flange should go over the moisture barrier if best practice is
followed, so as to better shed water.
[0089] The system in the illustrated embodiment is installed by
first installing a bottom flashing member 12 underneath the bottom
of the window. As will be appreciated with respect to FIGS. 2 and
3, this is to provide a seal below the window. This can be by
virtue of a seal between the bottom piece 12 and the window, and
between a downwardly extending flashing portion 26, and the
moisture barrier. The bottom flashing member is also configured to
direct water coming off the bottom of the window, for example from
weep holes 28, and otherwise off the window, downwardly and
outwardly by virtue of a drip flange 30 which in the illustrated
embodiment extends downwardly for some length, usually from zero to
about 1", for example about 1/2", and outwardly at an oblique
deflection angle, for example an angle of about thirty degrees.
This inclined portion can extend from zero to about 3/4". This
guides water 32 so that it drips down and away from the front face
of the exterior treatment 34 (in this case stucco) and does not
immediately contact it. Although the water may drip down free of
the wall, or may be blown back into the wall by wind lower down in
its fall, at least it is not a more concentrated stream of water
running off the window immediately below it as would otherwise be
the case. This drip flange 30 acts to protect the stucco beneath
the window 16 from discoloration or deterioration due to excessive
water exposure and attendant biological growth. As is well known,
stucco is not entirely water-tight, and water can more readily seep
back underneath the window were it not for the bottom piece 12 thus
configured.
[0090] As can be seen, "wing" portions 35 of the bottom piece 12
extend outwardly beyond the sides of the window for some distance
36, commensurate with the depth of the flashing portion 26.
Typically, this distance will be between about 3 or 4 inches and
about 16 inches. This outwardly extending wing portion 35 is
present on both sides of the bottom piece 12 below the window.
[0091] A bead of sealant (not shown) can be applied to the top of
the bottom piece 12 or the bottom of the window before installing
the bottom piece. This can be flattened and provide a continuous
seal by pushing up the flashing piece against the bottom of the
window. In another embodiment, an adhesive foam strip can be
provided along a top portion 37 of the flashing piece. This foam
sealing strip can provide a seal by virtue of a restoring force of
the foam causing it to fill the space when the bottom piece 12 is
pushed up against the window. An adhesive foam laminate, or another
suitable sealing strip with suitable adhesive, can be used to stick
to both the flashing and the window in another embodiment. In one
example, an adhesive foam tape strip can be applied to the top of
the flashing, leaving a peel-back paper backing over the side of
the tape that will stick to the bottom of the window until just
before installation.
[0092] Furthermore, when the bottom piece 12, is cut, tabs 38
remain. The tabs 38 can be folded up around the bottom outer
portion of the window 16. While these tabs are optional, there is
little incremental cost to providing them as the metal would
otherwise need to be removed in any event. In one embodiment, a
seal, such as a bead of sealant or the adhesive foam strip
described above, can be provided on these tabs also. The tabs 38
can provide additional interlocking and water resistance around the
corner regions formed by flashing pieces 12, 13, 14 and 15.
[0093] In one embodiment, the flashing piece 12 is attached by
staples or other fasteners directly through the flashing piece 12.
In another embodiment, a laminate sealing strip 40 of a polymeric
sheet and bituminous sealant, as mentioned above, is applied over a
portion of the flashing piece 12 and then staples or other
fasteners are driven through the laminate and the flashing and the
paper 22, into the sheathing 20. This way, the sealant of the
laminate is drawn in to seal the staple holes made in the flashing
piece 12.
[0094] Next, two side flashing pieces, 13, 14 are set up against
the sides of the window 16. These pieces, as can more clearly be
seen with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, cooperate with the window 16
to provide a water-tight seal around the window 16. A sealing
flange 45, extends outward at a right angle against a side of the
frame across the window 16 from the flashing portion 26. The
sealing flange can double back on itself behind to provide a smooth
edge 44 and increased strength. In one embodiment a foam seal strip
46 can be provided. The foam seal can be for example, a foam tape
with adhesive on both sides which adheres to a turned back portion
48 of the sealing flange 45, and also to a side portion 51 of the
window 16. In another embodiment a bead of sealant 47 can be used
between the sealing flange 45 and the window frame. In another
embodiment, the sealing flange extends around the front periphery
50 of the window frame, and a flange 42 extends inwardly 45 at a
right angle to the sealing flange, over an outer periphery of the
window frame. The doubled-back portion 48 mentioned can be provided
on the portion of the sealing flange adjacent the front of the
window, rather than on the side of the window. Again the folded
back portion provides a finished edge.
[0095] These side pieces also have portions of the outwardly
extending flashing portion 26 which extend above and below the
window, which for convenient reference will also be called wing
portions 35. These overlap the similar wing portions 35 of the
bottom sealing flange member 12, which has previously been
attached. They also extend above the window 16 a distance 52 less
than or equal to the width of a top flashing piece 15, to be
discussed. As will be appreciated, that dimension, 52, can be the
same, greater, or lesser, than the width 36 of the side pieces 13
and 14. Also, the width 52 can be the same as, or different than,
the distance 36 of the side members 13 or 14, and can be the same
lesser or greater than a thickness 52 of the bottom member 12. As
will be appreciated, in the illustrated embodiment these dimensions
are the same and the pieces overlap by the same amount, however,
such dimensions are not so limited. The important consideration is
that they are configured so that they shed water; that is to say,
that the top flashing number extends over top the side pieces,
which extend overtop the bottom flashing.
[0096] As discussed before in connection with the bottom piece 12,
the sealing flanges can have folding tab portions 38, which fold
under and over the outwardly extending portion of the window 16 and
cooperate with the other flashing members to provide a more
water-tight seal. As will be appreciated, the bottom tab portions
38 on the side flashing pieces 13 and 14 will fold under the window
and also behind the drip flange 30, up against a bottom inner
portion (54 in FIG. 3) of the bottom flashing member 12.
[0097] As discussed before, the flashing pieces 13, 14 are attached
by staples, or other fasteners. Laminate sealing strips 56 can also
be used, as described above.
[0098] Completing the flashing of the window, the top flashing
piece 15 is fit over the top of the window 16, and wing portions 35
of this top piece overlap the upwardly extending wing portions of
the side pieces 13 and 14. The sealing flange 42 of the top piece
extends out over the outwardly extending portion of the window, and
contacts the top side of the window in a sealing engagement. As
before discussed, a bead of sealant or an adhesive foam sealing
strip can be provided to improve the water-tightness of the seal
between the top flange member and the window. In another embodiment
the sealing flange turns and extends downward over a front face 50
of the window in a sealing engagement, as before described with
reference to the side pieces 13 and 14. The top piece can be
further appreciated with reference to FIG. 6, where different,
other embodiments are shown in outline form. In one embodiment the
sealing flange 42 extends over the front of the window and is
trimmed back at an angle 58 which can be for example forty-five
degrees. Likewise, the tab portion 38, which folds down, (if
provided) can be cut back by an angle 60 from the front, to hide
the front edge under stucco (not shown) to be applied. For example,
this angle 60 can be between about five and fifteen degrees in the
illustrated embodiment. In another embodiment the tab 38 can be
brought downward commensurate with a front portion of the sealing
flange 42 and then cut back at another angle 62, for example
forty-five degrees. In another embodiment the top can be dressed by
cutting back the tab at an angle 64 from a top front corner 66. For
example, that angle can be forty-five degrees.
[0099] A further sealing laminate strip 68 can be applied over the
top flashing piece 15 to seal any holes made by staples 70 or other
fasteners driven through the flashing, as described above.
[0100] As will be appreciated, a sealing flange 45 alone extending
from flashing pieces 13, 14 and 15 can be provided without the
inwardly extending sealing flange portion 42 (shown in outline).
The sealing flange still acts to provide a sealing engagement with
a side portion extending inward from the front face 50 of the
window. Also, in this embodiment, tabs 38 (shown in outline) may,
or may not, be employed in attaching the flashing pieces 12, 13, 14
and 15.
[0101] Turning to FIG. 3(a), another embodiment of the bottom
flashing piece 560 is illustrated in a side view in relation to the
window 16 and exterior treatment 34. This embodiment provides
bottom flashing piece 560 in the case of the exterior treatment 34
extending outward beyond the front portion 50 of the window 16. The
bottom flashing piece 560 can include a sealing portion 562, a
flashing portion 564 and a drip flange 566. The sealing portion 562
is configured to abut with a bottom portion of the window 16 while
the flashing portion 564 is configured to lay against the wall
below the window 16. The flashing member in embodiment is similar
to the bottom flashing piece depicted in FIG. 3, except this bottom
flashing piece extends beyond the front portion 50 of the window 16
to accommodate an exterior treatment 34 also extending beyond the
front portion 50 of the window 16.
[0102] Depending on the exterior treatment 34 placed under the
bottom flashing piece, the sealing portion 562 can extend outwardly
as needed to cover the top of the treatment. The drip flange 566 is
formed and configured to extend outwardly and downward from an end
of the sealing flange, configured to direct water 32 from the
window 16 and away from the exterior treatment 34. The drip flange
566 can include a folded back portion 568 and a rounded lip at an
end thereof. The folded-back portion 568 can provide a finished
edge and added strength to the drip flange 566 as such drip flange
is exposed to view and to potential knocks and bumps thereto. The
portion of the sealing flange 562 extending outward beyond the
window frame can be given a slight downward inclination to better
shed water.
[0103] FIG. 3(b) depicts another embodiment of a bottom flashing
piece 570 in relation to an exterior treatment 34 that extends
beyond a front portion 50 of a window 16. The bottom flashing piece
is similar to bottom flashing piece 560 (FIG. 3(a)), except bottom
flashing piece 570 includes front portion 576 extending between the
sealing flange 572 and the drip flange 578. The front portion 576
is formed so as to be substantially perpendicular with respect to
the sealing flange 572 and extend in a plane substantially parallel
with the flashing portion 574. As in the previous embodiment, the
sealing flange 572 is configured to abut a bottom portion of the
window 16 and the flashing portion 574 is configured to abut with a
moisture barrier 22 and the exterior sheathing 20 on a wall of the
building structure. The exterior treatment 34 is applied under the
bottom flashing piece 570 with the front portion 576 and the drip
flange 578 extending over a top portion of the exterior treatment
34. The drip flange 548 is formed and configured to extend
outwardly and downward from the front portion 576 with a folded
back portion 549 at an end thereof. With this arrangement, moisture
32 is directed from the window 16 partially over an exposed portion
of the sealing flange, over the front portion 576 and drip flange
578 and away from the exterior treatment 34.
[0104] With reference now to FIGS. 7, 8 and 9, in other
embodiments, the invention can be implemented by incorporating
salient features directly in the window 72. For example, this can
be done by molding the features in a window frame formed of a
polymeric resin. The sealing flashing described above can be
provided by extending a nailing flange outward to form a sealing
flange 74 around the outer periphery of the window. For example,
this flange could extend farther, for example 6" rather than the 1"
or 2" nailing flange commonly provided. Again, the reason for
extending this flange is to prevent water leaking back into the
structure from the joint between the stucco and the window 72 at a
forwardly extending portion 76 which comes outward through the
exterior treatment. Again, for sake of convenience, we will discuss
this embodiment in connection with a stucco exterior treatment, but
as will be appreciated, the same is applicable to other exterior
treatments such as the brick and siding mentioned. A bottom drip
flange 78, again extending downwardly some distance from an 1/8" to
a 1/2" to as much as 3/4", for example, and then outward at an
oblique deflection angle 80 of between about fifteen and forty-five
degrees (and in the illustrated example about thirty degrees) is
provided. This drip flange portion can be molded unitary, or can be
afterwards attached by heat welding, solvent welding, ultrasonic
welding, or otherwise as is known in the art to join pieces of
polymeric resin.
[0105] With reference particularly to the embodiment shown in FIG
s. 8 and 9, in one embodiment the drip flange 78 can extend
downwardly from an outward face 82 of the window, and in another
embodiment the drip flange 78a can be set back to depend downwardly
from a bottom portion 84 of the frontwardly projecting portion 76
of the window 72. As will be appreciated, which of the embodiments
(that of FIG. 8 or FIG. 9) is provided, depends on many factors,
such as the exterior treatment to be used, the distance which the
forwardly extending portion 76 extends outward from the sealing
flange portion 74. In another example, the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 8 could be used with a stucco pop-out, whereas that of FIG.
9 could be used without a stucco pop-out.
[0106] With respect to FIG. 7(a), in another embodiment which
incorporates salient features directly in a window 740, the window
740 includes a window frame 742 defining a face surface 744 and a
periphery 746. The window frame can also include a drip flange 760
positionable at a bottom portion of the window frame 742. The
window frame 742 can be inserted into an opening of a building
structure and attached to a wall defining the opening by fastening
the window frame to the wall through a nailing flange 748. With the
window frame 742 positioned and attached to the wall, a sealing
flange 750 can be positioned over and around the periphery 746 of
the window frame 742. The sealing flange 750 can include a back
surface 752 and a front surface 754 and defines a sealing flange
opening 756 therethrough. The sealing flange 750 can be positioned
so that window frame 742 extends through the sealing flange opening
756 (shown in outline) so that the back surface 752 partially abuts
against the nailing flange 748 and partially the wall of the
building structure. The sealing flange 750 extends outward from the
periphery 746 of the window frame 742 a distance so as to provide
an effective moisture barrier. It can be adhesively or otherwise
fastened to the nailing flange and the wall of the building
structure. A bead of sealant can be applied between the nailing
flange and the sealing flange, which forms a moisture tight seal
when the sealing flange is pressed against the nailing flange. Such
an effective moisture barrier can extend anywhere from about three
or four inches to about 16 inches, typically 6 to 9 inches. With
this arrangement, an exterior treatment, such as stucco, can be
placed over the wall and the sealing flange 750 to abut against the
periphery 446 of the window frame 742.
[0107] The drip flange 760 can be unitary and seamlessly formed
with the window frame 742. Also; the drip flange 760 can be
configured to be attachable to the window frame 742 either prior to
or subsequent to inserting the window frame 742 into the opening of
the building structure. The drip flange 760 can also be configured
to be removable from the window frame 742.
[0108] FIGS. 8(a) through 8(c) illustrate various examples of how
an attachable drip flange 760 can be implemented. Turning first to
FIG. 8(a), the drip flange can include a downward extension 762 and
an outward extension 764. The downward extension 762 can be
configured to extend downward from a bottom portion of the window
frame 742 and the outward extension 764 can be configured to extend
outward from an end of the downward extension 762. With the
downward extension 762 and outward extension 764, the drip flange
760 configured to direct moisture away from the exterior treatment
below the window frame 742. In this embodiment, the drip flange can
be attached to the bottom portion of the window frame 742 with a
suitable adhesive 766.
[0109] In another embodiment, FIG. 8(b) illustrates the drip flange
760 attachable to the bottom portion of the window frame 742 by a
laterally sliding arrangement. In this arrangement, the bottom
portion of the window frame 742 can include a channel 768 that
corresponds with an elongate protrusion 770 extending from an end
portion of the drip flange 760. The drip flange 760 can be
positioned so that the elongate protrusion 770 sits adjacently to a
side of the channel 768 to a position so that the drip flange 760
can be slid laterally therein. In an alternative method of
attaching the elongate protrusion 770 can be engaged with the
channel 768 by positioning the elongate protrusion 770 in front of
the channel 768 and forced therein, wherein the drip flange 760 is
attached to the bottom portion of the window frame 742 by an
interference fit.
[0110] With respect to FIG. 8(c), the channel 768 can be formed in
a bottom peripheral portion of the window frame 742. The drip
flange 760 can then be attached to the bottom portion of the window
frame 742, similar to that shown in FIG. 8(b), by laterally sliding
the elongate protrusion 770 through the channel 768 or by forcing
the elongate protrusion 770 into the channel 768 to be attached by
an interference fit.
[0111] With reference now to FIG. 10, in another embodiment the
water management system comprises a unitary flashing piece 90,
which can be formed of polymeric resin, for example by a molding
process. In this embodiment, the flashing piece is sized to fit
over a window 92 previously attached to a wall 94. The unitary
piece is substantially the same as the four-piece system, but is
made specifically with the same dimensions as the window 92 to
cooperate therewith to provide the same advantages for that window
specifically. A sealing strip 96, for example the adhesive foam
tape described above, or a bead of sealant, is attached to the
inner surface 98 of the unitary flashing element 90, to provide the
configuration described above in connection with the four-piece
unit. The unitary flashing piece in this embodiment can be attached
by fasteners, such as staples, as described above, and also in
another embodiment a sealant strip can be used to seal the holes
through a flashing portion 102, as described above.
[0112] In this embodiment also, a lower drip flange 104 is
provided, substantially as described above. In the polymeric resin
embodiment, the drip flange can be molded unitary with the rest of
the unit, or can be added by heat welding, solvent welding,
ultrasonic welding, etc, or can be attached on site as described
above.
[0113] In another embodiment, the unitary flashing unit 106
illustrated in FIG. 11 is formed of a metal material. In the
illustrated embodiment, the unit is formed by cutting out the
center, and folding the bottom drip flange 108 and a top window
enclosing flange 110 from the unitary sheet. Side portions 112, 114
are formed of separate folded metal pieces, which are pushed
through the opening from behind, and welded, brazed, or are
otherwise sealingly attached to the rest of the unitary sheet 106
at least along an attachment flange 116 provided on each metal
piece. A portion 118 of the upper window and casing portion 110 is
folded around behind the two side extension pieces 116 provided
112, 114, and is folded back on itself to interlock. This
configuration provides a dressed appearance, similar to that which
is provided by the embodiment using four-pieces described above,
when completed.
[0114] With reference now to FIG s. 12 and 13, the problem of
moisture control at an interface between two exterior treatments is
addressed. In the case where the exterior treatment 119 includes
stone work below, and stucco 130 above, a flashing 120 can be
configured to direct moisture outward and over the lower exterior
treatment 119, by means of a drip flange 122 similar to that
described above. Water 124 is directed outward to fall away from
the face of the stonework exterior treatment. In one embodiment, a
portion 126 extends from a flashing portion 120 adjacent the
(covered) face of the sheathing to a front portion 123 extending
downward over the exterior treatment 119. The portion 126 is
inclined at a slight angle 128 to lessen the tendency for water to
pool there. A front portion 123 can extend over the exterior
treatment a distance to facilitate an effective moisture barrier.
Such a distance can extend between about 1/4 inch to three inches,
and for example, can be about 3/4 inches. The front portion is
configured to be positioned against the face surface of the
exterior treatment 119 to reduce moisture entering therebehind.
Once the flashing 120 is positioned, a stucco 130 exterior
treatment can be applied over the flashing portion 120; however,
other exterior treatments can also be used, for example wood or
metal horizontal siding, brick, board and batten siding, etc.
[0115] With reference now to FIG s. 14 and 15, in another
embodiment a flashing strip 132 can be configured to fit over top
another exterior treatment 134, such as a brick exterior treatment,
at an upper edge. Again, this is to deflect water 136 outward and
away from the exterior treatment 134. This illustrated embodiment,
the drip flange 138 can further comprise a downwardly extending
flange portion 140 which provides greater depth of the drip flange
downward from the top of the exterior treatment 134. As will be
appreciated, this feature can be deleted in another embodiment. A
portion 142 of the flashing adjacent a top of the brick work can be
inclined at a first smaller angle 143, while a second portion 144
is disposed at a second, steeper angle 145. Extending between the
portion 142 and the drip flange 138, a front portion 137 can be
provided and configured to be positioned against the face of the
exterior treatment 134. Similar to the embodiment just previously
described, the front portion 137 extends a distance to facilitate
providing an effective moisture barrier so as to reduce moisture
from entering therebehind. The inclined portions 144, 142 are
provided to discourage water ponding within an exterior treatment,
such as stucco 146, siding, etc.; and, rather, encourages water to
run off.
[0116] Moreover, with both the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12
through 15, if a brick work, exterior treatment is used above the
flashing, (and stonework below, for example) the sloping portions
(126 in FIGS. 12, 142 and 144 in FIG. 14) support a back edge (not
shown) of a brick, and the widening gap, as it extends outward,
will be filled with mortar, and is usually provided with weep
holes. In any case, it has been found that the sloping
configuration helps the bottom portion of a brick exterior
treatment dry more quickly, as the water moves outwardly and
downwardly along the inclined portion of the flashing 120, 132.
[0117] Referring to FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), another embodiment,
similar to that previously described in FIGS. 12 through 15, is
illustrated. In particular, a flashing member 310 is sized and
configured to be positioned between a first exterior treatment 304
and a second exterior treatment 306, wherein a top surface 305 of
the first exterior treatment 304 is at an angle, such as an angled
brick cap or brick sill course 308.
[0118] The flashing member 310 illustrated in FIGS. 12a, b is
L-shaped having an upper portion 312 which can be positioned behind
a moisture barrier 313 and a base portion 314. The base portion 314
can be substantially orthogonal with respect to the upper portion
312, or the base portion 314 can be sloped (not shown), such as the
sloped portion 126 described in FIG. 12. Such base portion 314 can
extend outward as far as needed, depending on the exterior
treatment 304. The base portion 314 also can include a drip flange
316 extending outwardly downward from an end of the base portion
314. Such a drip flange 316 can include a folded back portion 318
wrapping around adjacent an under-side surface of the drip flange
316. Such a folded back portion 318 forms a rounded lip 324
providing a dressed edge at a tip of the drip flange 316, which
meets the downward slope of the sill course 308.
[0119] With this arrangement, the flange member 310 is sized and
configured to be disposed proximate the top surface 305 of the
first exterior treatment 304. In particular, a back surface 322 of
the upper portion 312 is configured to attach to the wall sheathing
302 so that a bottom surface 324 of the base portion 314 adjacently
faces the top surface 305 of the first exterior treatment 304.
Attaching of the flashing member 310 can be accomplished with a
suitable adhesive and/or fasteners, or other suitable means. With
the flashing member so attached and positioned, a second exterior
treatment 306 may then be placed against the wall. The second
exterior treatment 306 may include, but is not limited to, stucco,
siding, stone work and/or brick work.
[0120] FIGS. 12(c) and 12(d) illustrate another embodiment of a
flashing member 330, similar to that described in FIGS. 12(a) and
12(b), except in this embodiment, the flashing member 330 includes
a j-channel portion 334. The flashing member 330 is configured to
be positioned over a top surface 305 of a first exterior treatment
304, such as an angled brick cap or sill course 308. The flashing
member 330 includes a back surface 344 configured to be positioned
against a wall sheathing 302 and a moisture barrier 313 is
positioned over an upper portion 332. The j-channel portion of the
flashing member be u-shaped or v-shaped, or another shape suitable
for disposition at a bottom portion of a second exterior treatment
306 (shown in outline), such as a stucco treatment.
[0121] The flashing member 330 also includes an upper rear
j-channel portion 336, a drip flange 340 and a base portion 338,
the base portion 338 being intermediate the upper rear j-channel
portion 336 and the drip flange 340. The upper rear j-channel
portion 336 extends up and rearward from the j-channel portion 334
and, more specifically, extends from the channel portion 334
through multiple bends in the flashing member 330 around the
channel portion 334. The channel portion 334 can include multiple
weep holes 335 extending through the channel portion 334. Such weep
holes 335 allow moisture 346 from the second exterior treatment 306
to escape through the weep holes 335 toward the drip flange 340.
Due to the series of bends around the channel portion 334, the weep
holes 335 extend through two structural layers of the channel
portion 334. With this arrangement, the upper rear j-channel
portion 336 extends at least to a height of the channel portion 334
to catch moisture 346 that may wick upward between the upper
j-channel portion 336 and the upper flashing portion 332 as
moisture 346 flows through the weep holes 335. The j-channel
portion 332 is sized and configured to receive a second exterior
treatment, namely stucco.
[0122] The upper portion 332 extends to a height to provide an
effective flashing to reduce ingress of moisture 346, and the base
portion 338 and drip flange are configured to direct moisture 346
received though the weep holes 335 from the second exterior
treatment away from a back portion of the first exterior treatment
304.
[0123] The drip flange 340 can include a folded-back portion 342
that wraps around an under side of the drip flange 340. The
folded-back portion 342 provides a dressed edge and added strength
to the flashing member 330 to better withstand potential knocks and
blows to the flashing member 340, since such drip flange 320 will
be exposed on the building structure. The flashing member 330 can
be attached by adhesively attaching the back surface 344 to the
wall and/or the flashing member 330 can be attached with fasteners
307 through the upper portion 332 of the flashing member 330.
[0124] FIG. 12(e) illustrates another embodiment of a flashing
member 350 having a j-channel portion 354, similar to that
described in FIGS. 12(c) and 12(d). In this embodiment, the
j-channel portion 352 includes a channel portion 354 for receiving
the second exterior treatment 306. The flashing member 350 includes
an upper portion 352 which doubles back from a top of the flashing
to a base portion 358 below the j-channel portion 354. The base
portion 358 is configured to extend laterally from a back portion
356 of the upper portion 352 and is configured to extend below the
channel portion 354 to a drip flange 360. The drip flange 360 can
be configured to extend outwardly downward with an incline and can
include a folded-back portion 362 for added strength to the
flashing member 350. In this manner, moisture 366 can be directed
through weep holes 355 in the channel portion 354 and directed over
the base portion 358 and drip flange 360, thereby allowing moisture
366 to escape from the second exterior treatment 306 and flow away
from a back portion of the first exterior treatment 304.
[0125] With reference now to FIG. 16, in another embodiment,
similar to that discussed above and illustrated in FIG s. 14 and
15, a flashing strip 150 is configured to fit over an inclined
portion 152 of an upper portion of a brickwork exterior treatment
154. A drip flange 156 and downwardly depending portion 158 below
that, are made wide enough to cover the stepping setbacks of the
bricks of the exterior treatment 154, and can be, for example, up
to 3", or more, in total depth 160 from a sloping portion 162 which
extends outward and downward from the sheathing 20 of the
structure. This flashing 150 can be configured to form a set back
area, and be exposed between the top of the brick 154 and the eaves
164, in which case the flashing will be exposed, or to provide a
transition to stucco 166 extending between the brick work and
structure above, such as the eaves 164. In the former case, the
flashing is tucked behind a structure, such as an cave 168 covering
a roof overhang. Such additional structure may be attached to the
flashing 150 and the sheathing 20 in an overlapping portion 170,
for example by staples, screws, nails, or other fasteners. Where
stucco 166 is applied, the eave 168 can attach to the stucco in an
overlapping portion 171.
[0126] Like the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 through 15, the
configuration shown in FIG. 16 assures that water will be deflected
outward and over, and away from behind the brick exterior treatment
154. It may be used to obtain architectural effects, for example it
may fill an aesthetic function, as well as a practical one of
keeping water out of a top portion of a wall of a structure.
[0127] With reference now to FIGS. 17 and 18, another problematic
area, as mentioned, is the interface between a foundation 172, and
an exterior treatment, for example brick work 174. A flashing 176
attached to the sheathing 20 of the structure extends underneath
the brick work, and over top the foundation, to extend down the
front of the foundation and is positioned against the foundation
172 over a distance 178 extending between approximately 1/4 inch
and 3 inches, for example, about 3/4 inch. A drip flange 180 which
can be folded back, as described above, is provided to direct water
182 out and over the outside of the foundation 172 which can be
covered by a finish coating 184 for example. Such a coating 184 can
extend to an underside of the drip flange 180, and which may abut
with the drip flange 180 or leave a gap 181 therebetween. The
flashing member is positioned underneath a moisture barrier 183 in
the illustrated embodiment.
[0128] The flashing can be provided with a sloping portion 186
extending between the sheathing 20 and outside front corner 188 of
the foundation. If a brick exterior treatment is to be supported, a
grout 190 is laid down on top of the foundation before the flashing
is applied, to provide support for the weight of the exterior brick
work when the grout has set up. When the brickwork 174 is placed on
top of the flashing 176, mortar 192 fills the outward widening
space between a back bottom corner 194 of the bottom course of
bricks, and the front of the exterior. Again, this provides a
sloping surface to direct water outward and away from the bottom of
the brick exterior treatment. As will be appreciated, weep holes
are periodically provided in the bottom of brickwork, and this
sloping surface will provide a sloping weep hole as well.
[0129] Similar to the flashing utilized in FIGS. 17 and 18, FIG.
18(a) illustrates another embodiment of a flashing member 375
incorporating a j-channel portion 377 configured to receive an
exterior treatment 374 (shown in outline), such as a stucco
exterior treatment. In this embodiment, the flashing member 375 can
include an upper portion 376 having at its base a channel portion
377 with weep holes 378 defined therethrough. The flashing member
375 also can include a back portion 379, a base portion 380 and a
front portion 381, wherein the base portion 380 extends between the
back portion 379 and the front portion 381. The back portion 379 is
formed to extend from a series of bends around the channel portion
377. The back portion 379 extends upward behind the j-channel
portion 377 at least a height of the channel portion 377. The base
portion 380 extends laterally from an end of the back portion 379
below the channel portion 377 and is configured to extend along a
top surface 372 of the foundation 371. The base portion 380 can
include, but is not so limited, a downward slope toward the front
portion 381 of the flashing member 375. The front portion 381
extends downward and is configured to be positioned against the
face surface 373 of the foundation 371. Such a front portion 381 is
configured to extend a distance 382 to facilitate provision of an
effective barrier to water getting up under and behind the
flashing. Such effective moisture barrier can extend the distance
382 so as to reduce the likelihood of moisture 386 penetrating
upward behind the front portion 381 and onto the top surface 372 of
the foundation 371. The effective moisture barrier can also extend
a distance 382 so that a sealant, such as silicone, bitumen, or
other caulking, can be applied between the front portion 381 and
the face surface 373 of the foundation 371. The distance 382 can
range from approximately a 1/4 inch to 3 inches, or more, for
example, 3/4 inch.
[0130] The front portion 381 can include a drip flange 383
configured to extend outwardly downward from an end of the front
portion 381. The drip flange 383 can include a folded-back portion
384 for added strength. The drip flange 383 can also include a
downward extension 385 (shown in outline), which can extend a
distance configured to provide the effective moisture barrier so as
to prevent moisture from entering therebehind.
[0131] In one embodiment, the effective moisture barrier can extend
a distance so as to facilitate providing a sealant between an end
of the downward extension 385 and the face surface 373 of the
foundation 371. In this embodiment, in order to facilitate moisture
to more freely escape from behind the flashing, weep holes can be
provided through the folded-back portion 384 of the drip flange
383.
[0132] With this arrangement, the flashing member 375 is sized and
configured to be positioned over the foundation 371 and against the
wall 370 so that a back surface of the flashing upper portion 376
and the back portion 379 of the flashing member 375 are positioned
against the wall 370, the base portion 380 is positioned over the
top surface 372 of the foundation, and the front portion 381 is
positioned against the face surface 373 of the foundation to
provide the effective moisture barrier described above.
[0133] The flashing member 375 can then be attached by adhesively
attaching it to the wall 370 and/or fastening it to the wall 370
with staples, screws or other suitable fasteners. The exterior
treatment 374, such as a stucco treatment, can then be applied over
the wall 370 so that a bottom portion of the exterior treatment 374
is disposed in the channel portion 377 of the flashing member 375.
In this manner, moisture 386 can escape from the bottom portion of
the exterior treatment 374 through the weep holes 378 in the
channel portion 377 and then be directed away from the foundation
371 over the drip flange 383 of the flashing member 375. In
addition, a coating (described in FIGS. 17 and 18) can be applied
over the foundation 371 up to an underside of the drip flange
383.
[0134] FIG. 18(b) illustrates another embodiment of a flashing
member 390 including a j-channel portion 392. In this embodiment, a
back portion 394 of the flashing member 390 extends from a top end
of an upper front portion 391. The j-channel portion includes weep
holes 393 defined therethrough. A base portion 395 extends
laterally from a lower end of the back portion 394 and extends
below the channel portion 392 to a front portion 396. The front
portion 396 extends downward from the base portion 395 and is
configured to be positioned against the foundation. The front
portion 396 can include a drip flange 397 at a bottom end thereof.
The drip flange 397 can include a folded-back portion 398, and it
can include a downward extension 399 (shown in outline) configured
to extend substantially vertically downward in the same plane as
the front portion 396. These features provide the same or similar
functions as described above in conjunction with the embodiment
just before described. A sealant can be applied between the front
portion and/or its downward extension and the foundation.
[0135] With reference now to FIG s. 19 and 20, in another
embodiment, a flashing can be configured to perform a similar
function at an interface between a foundation 196 and a stucco
exterior treatment 198 at the bottom portion of an exterior wall
200. In this case, a flashing 202 extends over the lower portion of
the exterior sheathing 20, and then deflects back and under the
exterior sheathing to form a foundation contacting portion 204
contacting the foundation wall. In one embodiment, the foundation
contacting portion 204 extends downward a distance between 1/4 inch
to two inches, and for example, approximately 1/2 inch. A bead of
sealant can be provided between the flashing and the foundation at
the time of installing the flashing to provide a seal at the
foundation contacting portion. The flashing 202 can also include a
drip flange 206 extending outwardly downward from an end of the
foundation contacting portion 204 to direct water 208 outwardly and
over an exterior finish coating 210 applied to the foundation 196.
The drip flange 206 can include a folded-back portion 212 folded
around an underside of the drip flange 206 for added strength to
the drip flange 206. As with other embodiments, the exterior finish
coating 210 below the drip flange 206 can be pushed up under it, to
reduce moisture ingress. A gap between the finish coat and the drip
flange can be provided. This allows moisture that may be trapped
therebehind to escape.
[0136] A j-channel flashing is attached to the flashing 202 in the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20. The j-channel 214 is provided
with weep holes 216 to accommodate moisture 218 escaping from the
bottom of the stucco exterior treatment 198.
[0137] With the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18a,b, as
well as that of 19 and 20, the height of the flashing, or how far
it goes up the exterior wall sheathing 20 of the structure, depends
on conditions in a particular application. For example, it can
extend up a first height 220 in either case, for example about 6",
or 8", or so. Or, if snow is expected to lay against the structure,
or frequent floods are expected, a taller flange extending up to a
second height 222, for example 18", can be provided to keep
moisture from entering the structure at the interface between the
foundation (172 in FIG. 17, 196 in FIG. 19), and the structure.
[0138] Turning to FIGS. 25 and 26, in another embodiment of the
invention a flashing member 400 having a unitary structure formed
and configured to be positioned at a foundation 196 and a stucco
exterior treatment 198 interface, provided. The flashing member 400
can include an upper portion 402 having a back surface 404 and an
inside surface 406. The flashing is formed and configured to
include a channel portion 408 adjacent a bottom portion of the
upper portion 402. With this arrangement, the upper portion 402 is
positioned and configured such that the channel portion 408 is
configured to receive the stucco exterior treatment 198 and the
back surface 404 abuts with exterior sheathing 20.
[0139] Typically a moisture barrier wrap 407 is placed over top the
upper portion 404, or the upper portion is slid up under it (if the
moisture barrier is placed on the structure beforehand). At
periodic positions in a bottom surface of the channel portion 408,
weep holes 409 can be provided to extend through the channel
portion 408 to allow moisture 424 to escape from a bottom portion
of the stucco exterior treatment 198. The flashing member 400 can
be positioned and attached to the exterior sheathing 20 with
fasteners, such as screws, nails or staples, or a suitable
adhesive, or another suitable method of attaching the flashing
member 400 to the building structure.
[0140] For added strength, and to further prevent moisture from
seeping behind the flashing member 400, the flashing member
doubles-back around the channel portion 408 to the back surface 404
of the upper portion 402, extending upward at least to a height of
a top portion of the channel portion 408 as discussed above. The
flashing member 400 then includes a bend that extends downward to
form a flashing extension portion 410. Such a flashing extension
includes a foundation contacting portion 414 with a back surface
412 configured to be positioned against a portion of the foundation
196. The foundation contacting portion 414 is positioned against
and abuts with the foundation 196 along a distance 426. Such a
distance abutting the surface of the foundation 196 is configured
to facilitate providing an effective moisture barrier, so as to
reduce moisture 424 entering upward behind the foundation
contacting portion 414 of the flashing extension member 410. In the
illustrated embodiment, the distance 426 can extend between
approximately 1/4 inch to 2 inches for example, and, for example,
can be 12 inch.
[0141] The flashing member 400 can include a drip flange 416 which
extends from a bottom end of the flashing extension 410. The drip
flange 416 is formed and configured to extend outwardly downward
from the flashing extension member 410. The drip flange 416 can be
configured to include a lip 420 an end thereof so as to accommodate
moisture 424 dripping off the end without wicking around to an
under-side surface 418 of the drip flange 416. The drip flange 416
can also be formed and configured to include a folded back portion
421 which can wrap around the drip flange 416 to an under-side
surface 418 thereof. In another embodiment, the folded back portion
421 can include a downward extension 422. The downward extension
422 can be formed and configured to extend substantially vertically
downward so as to abut the surface of the foundation 196. Such a
downward extension 422 extends a distance to further facilitate an
effective barrier to reduce moisture from entering behind the
flashing member 400 and/or wicking upward behind the flashing
member 400. After positioning the flashing member 400 to the
foundation 196, a coating 210 can be applied to the foundation so
that the coating 210 extends to an under-side of the drip flange
416; and, in some cases, such a coating 210 can be applied to cover
a portion of the downward extension 422 below the drip flange.
[0142] With reference to FIG. 27, by way of example a number of
flashing member configurations A through H formed and configured to
be positioned at an interface between a foundation and a stucco
exterior treatment are illustrated. Each of the flashing member
configurations A through H include a j-channel portion and a
flashing extension portion extending downwardly and inwardly from a
bottom portion of the channel portion, and a foundation contacting
portion, and can include a drip flange extending downwardly outward
from the foundation contacting portion of the flashing. Flashing
member configurations A through H are depicted by way of example,
and other flashing member configurations can be employed having
various different dimensions and aspects, depending on factors
individual to the particular building structure where it is to be
used.
[0143] Turning first to flashing member configuration A, the
flashing extension portion 430 is as described above, but having an
upward extension portion first extension member 432 extending to a
top portion of the j-channel flashing 434. Also, flashing member
configuration A does not include the double-back portion around the
channel portion 436. Flashing member configuration A is configured
such that the j-channel portion 434 can be lifted upward to expose
the extension 432 to thereby staple or fasten the otherwise hidden
extension portion 432 to the exterior sheathing (20 in FIG. 25)
extending over the building structure.
[0144] With respect to flashing member configuration B, such
configuration B is similar to flashing member 400 illustrated in
FIGS. 25 and 26, except the flashing extension member 440 of
configuration B is formed and configured to extend vertically
downward to the drip flange 442. As such, it can be used where the
sheathing of the frame is flush with the outer surface of the
foundation.
[0145] The flashing member configuration C is similar to the
flashing 400 discussed above in connection with FIGS. 25, 26 but
includes a j-channel flashing 450 with a channel portion 452 having
a v-shaped structure. Similar to the embodiment discussed in FIG.
26, the channel portion 452 doubles back around an under-side of
the channel portion 452 to at least a height of a top of the
channel portion 452. For added support to the channel portion 452,
the flashing extension member 454 doubles back proximately midway
along the channel portion 452 and extends from the channel portion
452 to a vertical portion 456 of the flashing extension member,
which is set back from a vertical plane of the j-channel flashing
450. The vertical portion 456 is formed and configured to contact
and abut with a surface of the foundation and is in a vertical
plane substantially parallel with the vertical plane of the
j-channel portion 450 but set back from it. Therefore it can
accommodate building configurations where the sheathing extends
down over a top portion of the foundation (as shown in FIG.
25).
[0146] Turning to flashing member configuration D in FIG. 27, it is
similar to flashing member configuration C, except a vertical
portion 462 of the flashing extension portion 460 is configured to
substantially coincide with a vertical plane of the back surface
466 of the j-channel portion 464. Thus it can be used where the
sheathing is flush with the outer surface of the foundation.
[0147] With respect to flashing member configuration E, it is
similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 26, except the flashing
extension member 470 extends outwardly downward from a back corner
474 of the channel portion 472 of the j-channel portion 476 to a
vertical foundation contacting portion 478 configured to contact
and abut with a surface of the building foundation.
[0148] Flashing member configuration F is similar to flashing
member configuration C, except the flashing extension member 480
can include a first vertical portion 482 and a second vertical
portion 484 with an outwardly downward extension 484 therebetween.
The first vertical portion 482 can be formed and configured to be
the substantially same vertical plane as the back surface of the
j-channel portion 486 and the second vertical portion 484
configured to abut with a surface of the building structure. The
first vertical portion 482 and the second vertical portion 484 can
be formed and configured to be in substantially parallel
planes.
[0149] Turning to flashing member configuration G, it is similar to
flashing member configuration A, except the flashing extension
member 490 extends to the first extension member 492 in a
substantially continuous plane to the top portion of the j-channel
portion 494. Thus it can be used where the sheathing 20 is flush
with the foundation.
[0150] Now turning to flashing member configuration H, such
configuration H is similar to flashing member configuration F,
except the first vertical portion 496 of the flashing extension
member 497 depends from a back-top portion of the j-channel.
[0151] These various embodiments illustrate how a j-channel can be
combined with a flashing at the foundation-structure interface. The
unitary construction is cost-effective because a separate j-channel
need not be installed. Moreover it will be noted that there are
numerous ways to provide the advantages of the invention mentioned
above. For example, each of the various embodiments includes a
foundation contacting portion and a j-channel portion, as well as
an upper flashing portion that can extend upwards adjacent the
sheathing 20 and underneath a moisture barrier 407, all to provide
an economical means of reducing water intrusion at the
foundation-structure interface.
[0152] With reference now to FIGS. 21 and 22, we turn to an upper
portion of an exterior treatment, such as stucco 224 where it
approaches the eaves 226 of the structure 228. It is important to
keep water from entering the structure at the top of the wall, to
prevent damage, and mold spore hazards which could occur if
moisture can get behind the exterior treatment. This goal is
complicated by the fact that venting is used to provide for air
flow 230 through vents 232 and into the roof of the structure 228
for cooling purposes (as is known, vents are provided near the top
of the roof for this air to escape through once it has absorbed
heat from the roof 234). As will be appreciated, this helps the
roofing materials 234 used to last longer. But it also provides an
opportunity for water to enter the wall. Wind-driven rain or
sprinkler water can be driven through the vents and get into the
wall behind the exterior treatment.
[0153] A top protective flashing piece 236 which accommodates air
flow, is provided in this embodiment to extend from the exterior
sheathing 20 downward and over an exterior treatment, such as the
stucco 224 and down the face thereof for some distance. This
distance can be relatively short e.g. first length down to a bottom
edge 238 or a longer downward distance to a bottom edge 240; and,
in either case, a drip flange 242 can be provided as described
above. As will be appreciated, it is more important the farther
down the flange bottom 240 is, exposing it to wind-driven water for
example. A curving portion 244 extending upward and outward from
the moisture barrier 245 and exterior sheathing 20 of the
structure, and attaching to the bottom of the roof trusses 246
provides protection for the top of the exterior treatment from
moisture which may be driven through the vents 232 in the eaves
226. This can happen, for example, when strong winds drive rain or
snow against the side of the structure 228 and at the same time
creating a negative pressure at the roof top vents (not shown)
which tends to draw the air through the vents 232. In this
embodiment such moisture is prevented from entering the structure
itself by the curving portion 244, and is directed back downward
and outward and over the exterior treatment 224 as in the
embodiments described above. As can be appreciated, this provides
an extra measure of security that moisture will not enter the
structure at the top of the exterior treatment, at the interface
between the roof 234 and walls of the structure. An outward edge
248 can be turned back in one embodiment to provide increased
stiffness of the outer edge of the flashing piece 236.
[0154] FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of a flashing member
260 configured to reduce moisture intrusion from entering an upper
portion 259 of a wall 250 above vents 255 at the eave portion 254
of the building structure while also accommodating air flow 253
through the vents 255 into the roof structure 256 for cooling
purposes. The flashing member 260 can include an upper portion 262
and a lower portion 264 with a bent edge 265, or alternatively, a
rounded portion, defined therebetween. The flashing member 260 is
formed and configured to be positioned where the trusses 257 of the
roof structure 256 meet the upper portion 259 of the wall 250. In
particular, the upper portion 262 of the flashing member 260 can be
configured to be positioned adjacent the trusses 257 and in some
cases, at least partially positioned against the trusses 257. The
lower portion 264 of the flashing member 260 can be formed and
configured to be positioned against the upper portion 259 of the
wall 250. Typically, the wall 250 will have an exterior sheathing
251 and a moisture barrier 252, such as Tyvek.RTM., Bituminous
felt, or another suitable barrier in place. As such, the lower
portion 264 of the flashing member 260 is configured to be
positioned over and against the exterior sheathing 251 and over the
moisture barrier which is 252 positioned therebetween after the
flashing in installed.
[0155] The lower portion 264 of the flashing member 260 can also
include a drip flange 266 (shown in outline) extending outwardly
downward from a portion of the lower portion 264 of the flashing
member configured to direct moisture from the wall 250 of the
building structure. The drip flange 266 can include a folded-back
portion 268 (shown in outline) wrapped around an under side of the
drip flange 266 for added strength to the drip flange 266. The
lower portion 264 of the flashing member is configured to extend a
distance 269 downward against the wall 250 below the vents 255 of
the eave portion 254 of the building structure. Such a distance 269
can extend from zero to seven inches, or more, below the vents 255
behind the stucco 253. As will be appreciated, if a drip flange 266
is used the stucco can be placed up to, and behind the drip edge,
but would not be placed above it.
[0156] The flashing member 260 can be attached with fasteners or,
alternatively, can be adhesively attached. In particular, the
flashing member 260 can be attached by fastening the lower portion
264 to the wall 250 and/or by fastening the upper portion 262 to
the trusses 257 of the roof structure 256. After attaching the
flashing member 260 to the building structure, a stucco exterior
treatment 258 (shown in outline) can be formed over the wall 250,
and the vents 255 can be properly positioned and attached to the
wall 250 and roof structure 256. The cave member defining the vents
will be attached over, or behind, the stucco 258, depending on
which is installed first. With this arrangement, the upper portion
262 of the flashing member 260 facilitates air flow 253 through the
vents and into the roof structure 256 while also acting as a guard
member to reduce moisture intrusion at the upper portion 259 of the
wall 250. Also, the lower portion 264 of the flashing member 260
extends the distance 269 below the vents 255 to reduce moisture
intrusion behind the flashing member 260 and thereby reduces
moisture from potentially entering the upper portion 259 of the
wall 250.
[0157] FIG. 23(a) illustrates another embodiment of a flashing
member 270, similar to the embodiment described in FIG. 23, except
an upper portion 271 of the flashing member 270 extends from a
lower portion 272 so that the upper portion is positioned
intermediate the vents 255 and the upper portion 259 of the wall
250. In particular, the upper portion 272 is positioned such that
the upper portion 271 is substantially free from any contact with
the wall 250, roof structure 256 and the vents 255. In an other
embodiment, the upper portion 271 can include an end portion 273
(shown in outline) configured to abut with a portion of the trusses
257, and which can be attached thereto.
[0158] FIG. 23(b) illustrates another embodiment of a flashing
member 275, similar to the embodiment described in FIG. 23(a),
except an upper portion 276 of the flashing member 275 includes an
abutting flange portion 278. The abutting portion 278 is configured
to be positioned against the trusses 257 of the roof structure 256
and directs water downward and outward, away from the wall. Such
abutting portion 278 can be attached to the trusses 257 with
fasteners as well as a lower portion 277 extending from the upper
portion 276 can be attached to the wall 250 with fasteners, as
previously described.
[0159] FIG. 23(c) illustrates another embodiment in a flashing
member 280 at the upper portion 259 of the wall below the roof
structure 256. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment
described in FIGS. 23(a) and 23(b), except an upper portion 281 of
the flashing member 280 extends substantially orthogonally from a
lower portion 282 of the flashing member 280. The flashing member
280 can be readily positioned by positioning the lower portion 282
to the wall 250 so that an end portion of the upper portion 281
abuts a portion of the trusses 257. The upper portion 281 of the
flashing member 280 can also include either a hanging portion 283
(shown in outline) or an abutting portion 284 angled from the upper
portion 281 to coincide with the angle of the trusses 257.
[0160] FIG. 23(d) illustrates another embodiment for positioning a
flashing member 286 at the upper portion 259 of the wall 250 and
into the roof structure 256. In this embodiment, the flashing
member 286 includes an upper portion 287 and a lower portion 288.
The lower portion 288 is formed and configured to be positioned
against an upper portion 259 of the wall 250 and to extend below
the vents 255 as previously described. The upper portion 287 is
formed and configured to extend over the upper portion 259 of the
wall 250 and into the trusses 257 of the roof structure 256. With
this arrangement, the upper portion 287 can include cut-outs (not
shown) sized and configured to extend between each of the trusses
257 over the upper portion 259 of the wall 250.
[0161] FIG. 24 illustrates another embodiment of a flashing member
290 positioned intermediate the vents 255 and the upper portion 259
of the wall. In this embodiment, the flashing member 290 is formed
and configured to be attachable to or formed as a unitary structure
with the eave member defining vents 255. The flashing member 290
acts as a guard member that directs airflow 253 through the vents
255 and into the trusses 257 of the roof structure 256. Also, the
flashing member 290 acts as a guard member to reduce moisture from
entering an upper portion 259 of the wall 250. In addition to the
flashing member 290, a flashing 292 can also be positioned against
an upper portion 259 of the wall 250, which can extend below the
vents 255 to reduce moisture from entering therebehind and
potentially entering the upper portion 259 of the wall 250.
[0162] With reference to FIGS. 23e through 23i, a J-channel 293 or
other means 294 of providing for an upper termination of a stucco
exterior treatment (not shown) can be incorporated into a flashing
295 for use at an eave portion of a structure. A J-channel can be a
separate element added to the flashing as in FIG. 23f, or can be
formed unitary therewith as shown in FIGS. 23e and 23g. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 23h, a flange 294 is provided to run
stucco up to. In one embodiment (shown in outline) the flange can
incorporate a folded-back portion 296. With reference to FIG. 23i,
if the top of the stucco is to overlap the flashing for some
distance 297 the flange 294 can be incorporated higher on the
flashing by providing a separate element (not shown), or providing
the bent configuration illustrated.
[0163] In each of the embodiments described in FIGS. 23, 23(a
through i), and 24, the flashing member is formed and configured to
maintain airflow 253 through the vents 255 into the roof structure
256 as well as reduce moisture intrusion at the upper portion 259
of the wall 250. Other flashing member configurations can be
employed having various dimensions. The salient features include,
but are not limited to: providing a flashing at an upper portion of
the moisture barrier 252, to direct moisture over-top and to the
outside of the moisture barrier; protecting the upper portion 259
of a wall 250 from moisture intrusions, particularly that drawn
through vents 255 at the eaves.
[0164] Turning now to FIGS. 28 and 29, a flashing system 500 for a
door 502 framed with a brick molding 504 around a periphery of the
door 502, can be beneficial. This flashing system can be provided
during the construction of a door 502 and the molding 504 formed
around the periphery thereof. In some embodiments it can be a
retrofit to protect the door frame and molding. The flashing system
500 can include a top flashing piece 506, a first side flashing
piece 508 and a second side flashing piece 510, each of which can
include a flashing portion 512, a sealing flange 514 and tabs 516.
The flashing portion 512 extends a distance to facilitate an
effective moisture barrier. Such a distance can extend
approximately four to sixteen inches, for example.
[0165] The first and second side flashing piece 508 and 510 can be
installed by positioning such side flashing pieces 508 and 510 on a
wall 503 adjacent first and second sides of the door frame unit
502. In particular, the flashing portion 512 for each of the side
flashing pieces 508 and 510 are positioned against the wall 503 so
that the sealing flange 514 is positioned against an outer side
surface 505 of the brick molding 504. The first and second side
flashing pieces 508 and 510 may, or may not, include tabs 516,
which are formed and configured to fold over a top surface 507 of
the molding 504. The top flashing piece 506 can then be positioned
so that the flashing portion 512 is positioned against the wall 503
of the building structure and the sealing flange 514 is positioned
against the top surface 507 of the molding 504. Tabs 516 at
opposing ends of the sealing flange 514 can then be folded over
respective side portions 505 of the molding to abut an outer
surface of the sealing flange 514 of the first and second side
flashing pieces 508 and 510.
[0166] With each of the top flashing piece 506 and first and second
side flashing pieces 508 and 510 in position, a mold flashing 520
can be fit over the molding 504. The mold flashing 520 is generally
u-shaped, but may be other shapes depending on the dimensions of
the brick molding 504, and is formed and configured to fit over the
molding 504. The mold flashing 520 can be formed from a metallic
material, such as copper, steel, or aluminum, or any other suitable
material. The mold flashing 520 is formed and configured to fit
over and cover the molding 504 to reduce water damage to the
molding 504 and decrease maintenance that may be necessary to
preserve the molding 504.
[0167] In one embodiment, the mold flashing 520 can include an
facia portion 522, a first side portion 524 and a second side
portion 526. The mold flashing 520 is sized and configured to fit
over the molding 504 so that the first side portion 524 fits over
the outer side surface 505 of the molding 504 with the sealing
flange 514 therebetween. Likewise, the second side portion 526 fits
over the inner side surface 507 of the molding 504. Each of the
first and second side portions 524 and 526 can include a folded
back portion 528 to provide added strength and a finished edge to
ends of the mold flashing 520.
[0168] FIG. 29(a) illustrates another embodiment in a mold flashing
520. This embodiment is similar to the previous embodiment, except
there is an additional side flashing piece 527. Such a side
flashing piece 527 is formed and configured to be positioned
partially over the molding 504 and partially on the inside surface
529 of the door frame, such as over the door jamb. With the side
flashing piece 527 positioned on the inside surface 529 of the door
frame, the mold flashing 520 fits over the molding 504 so that the
first side portion 524 fits over the sealing flange 514 and the
second side portion 526 fits over the inner side surface 507 of the
molding 504 and a portion of the side flashing piece 527.
[0169] FIG. 29(b) illustrates another embodiment in a mold flashing
530. The embodiment includes the side flashing piece in the
previous embodiment with the mold flashing in a unitary structure.
In particular, the mold flashing 530 can include a first side
portion 534 and a second side portion 536 each extending from the
outer facia portion 532 of the mold flashing 530. The second side
portion 536 extends further than the first side portion 534,
wherein the second side portion 536 extends over an inside surface
507 of the door frame, such as the doorjamb. The first side portion
534 can include a folded back portion 538 for added strength to the
mold flashing 530. As in the previous embodiments, this embodiment
also is configured to be employed with the flashing portion 512 and
sealing flange 514 for each of the top flashing piece 506 and the
first and second side flashing pieces 508 and 510.
[0170] With respect to FIG. 29(c), in another embodiment a mold
flashing 560 is sized and configured to fit over a brick molding
504 on a wall 503 adjacent a door 502. In this embodiment, the mold
flashing and the flashing piece are formed as a unitary structure.
In particular, the mold flashing 560 includes an outer portion 564
and first and second side portions 566 and 568 extending laterally
from opposing ends of the outer facia portion 564. As in previously
described embodiments, the mold flashing is sized and configured to
fit over molding 504 at the periphery of a door so that the first
and second side portions 566 and 568 are configured to fit over
respective outer and inner side surfaces 505 and 507 of the molding
504. The mold flashing 560 also includes a wall flashing portion
562 extending laterally from an end of the first side portion 566.
The wall flashing portion 562 is configured to be positioned
against the wall 503 so that the first side portion 566 abuts with
the outer surface 505 of the molding 504. The second side portion
568 is sized and configured to be positioned over the inner side
surface 507 of the molding 504 and at least partially over an inner
surface 529 of the door frame, such as the doorjamb.
[0171] Turning to FIGS. 30 and 31, a "retro-fit" flashing 550 is
formed and configured to fit over a brick molding 540 of an already
existing door 544. The mold flashing 550 can be generally L-shaped.
The mold flashing 550 can include a front facia portion 552 and a
side portion 554 with folded back portions 558 at each free end of
the front portion 552 and side portion 554. The mold flashing 550
can be installed by positioning an inside surface 555 of the mold
flashing 540 against the outside exposed surface 541 of the molding
540. The front portion 552 can further include an extension portion
556 formed and configured to extend over a portion of the exterior
structure 542 adjacent the molding 540. The extension portion can
be configured to contact on an exterior treatment and to cover
cracks that can open up between an exterior treatment and the brick
molding. With this arrangement, the mold flashing 550 forms an
exterior protective cover that covers the already existing molding
540, that maintains a clean finished look, and decreases
maintenance that would otherwise have been necessary to preserve a
pleasing appearance of the existing molding 540.
[0172] With reference to FIG. 31(a), in another embodiment the
flashing 550 can incorporate a jamb extension portion 560
configured to cover the weather-exposed portion of the doorframe
540. An outer flange 562 is shortened, as it will need to be
inserted between the brick molding and an exterior treatment, which
may be a tight fit, or require making a slot around the outer edge
of the brick mold to receive it. A serrated edge 563 can be
provided to ease insertion into a gap between the brick molding and
an exterior treatment, which may contain caulk. In another
embodiment a folded back portion 564 is provided to add strength
and provide a finished edge.
[0173] FIGS. 32 through 34 illustrate a flashing system 590 for a
utility structure 580. The flashing system 590 in this embodiment
is configured to fit around a utility structure 580 having a
cylindrical-shaped extension from a building structure, such as a
pipe for a water faucet or an electrical conduit. The flashing
system 590 can include a main flashing portion 592, including
bendable flange pieces 594. In one embodiment the system can
further comprise a further flashing 596. The main flashing portion
592 and flange pieces 594 can be formed and configured by providing
an opening 598 defined in the main flashing portion 592 and then
cutting along cut lines 599 to form the flange pieces 594. The main
flashing portion is disposed over the utility structure 580 through
the opening 598 so that a back surface of the main flashing portion
592 abuts and is attached to an exterior sheathing 582 of a wall of
the building structure. The flange pieces 594 can then be fitted
and manipulated to abut the utility structure 580. Note that pipes
or conduits having diameters between the hole 598 diameter and the
diameter of the flange portion 597 can be accommodated. In one
embodiment the further flashing 596 can be formed and configured to
fit around the utility structure 580 and, more particularly, fitted
around the flange pieces 594. Typically, an upper half of the
flashing is tucked under the moisture barrier 595, while a lower
half is outside the moisture barrier. This can be done by slipping
the flashing through a slit 597 in the moisture barrier membrane,
and this helps prevent moisture intrusion. With this arrangement,
an exterior treatment 584 can then be placed over the main flashing
portion 592.
[0174] FIGS. 35 through 37 illustrate another embodiment of a
flashing system 610 for a utility structure 600. The flashing
system 610 in this embodiment is configured to fit around a utility
structure 600 having a rectangular-shaped extension from a building
structure, such as an electrical outlet box shown. The flashing
system 610 can be formed and configured to include a main flashing
portion 612, and can further comprise an outer flashing member 620
in one embodiment. The main flashing portion 612 can include an
opening 618 defined therein with flange pieces 614 extending
outward from the main flashing portion 612 and around a periphery
of the opening 618. The flange pieces can be formed by cutting,
snipping, or stamping along cut-out lines 599 and then folding them
back along fold-lines 617. The main flashing portion 612 is formed
and configured to be disposed around the utility structure 600 so
that a back surface of the main flashing portion 612 abuts an
exterior sheathing 602 or wall of the building structure and the
flange pieces 614 abut with peripheral sides of the utility
structure 600. Here again, an upper half of the flashing can be
underneath the moisture barrier membrane, and a lower half can be
outside it.
[0175] The outer flashing member 620 can be a unitary structure, or
fabricated from multiple flashing pieces, namely, a bottom flashing
piece 622, first and second side flashing pieces 624 and 626 and a
top flashing piece 628. Each of the flashing pieces 622 through 628
can be pre-formed and attached together so that the flashing pieces
are sized for standard-sized utility structures, such as electrical
outlet boxes. In cases where the utility structure is not a
standard size, each of the flashing pieces can be formed and
configured to match the necessary size of a particular utility
structure 600 and to correspond with the sizing of the main
flashing portion 612 and the opening therein 618. With the outer
flashing member 620 positioned and attached to abut the main
flashing portion 612 and flange pieces 614, an exterior treatment
604 is formed over the main flashing portion 612 so that an end
portion of the exterior treatment 604 abuts portions of the outer
flashing member 620. The bottom flashing piece is formed and
configured to include a drip flange 630 which extends outwardly
downward over a portion of the exterior treatment 604 configured to
direct moisture away from such exterior treatment 604. A sealant or
foam strip as discussed above can be used to provide additional
water-tightness. In one embodiment the main flashing 612 is used,
but the outer flashing 620 is omitted.
[0176] Turning now to FIGS. 38 and 39, a flashing system 710 for a
chimney-bonnet 704 positioned on a chimney 700 of a building
structure is illustrated. The chimney-bonnet 704 can be one of the
many chimney cap structures known in the art. Typically, the
chimney-bonnet is formed as a crown or cap for the chimney which
accommodates a flue 710, which allows smoke to escape from the
chimney.
[0177] The flashing system 710 configured to be positioned with the
chimney-bonnet can include a first flashing member 712, a second
flashing member 714, a third flashing member 716 and a fourth
flashing member 718, each of which are formed and configured to
abut with and fit on a first, second, third and fourth side of an
upper portion 702 of the chimney 700 and fit under a lower portion
706 of the chimney-bonnet 704. Each of the flashing members 712,
714, 716 and 718 include an abutting portion 720 and a fascia
portion 722. The abutting portion 702 is formed and configured to
be disposed between an inside surface at the lower portion 706 of
the chimney-bonnet 704 and the upper portion 702 of the chimney
700, and lay against or abut an outer wall of the chimney.
[0178] The abutting portion can be formed so as to extend in a
substantially parallel plane as the upper portion 701 of the
chimney 700. The fascia portion 722 is formed and configured to
extend outwardly downward from the abutting portion 720. Such a
facia portion 722 can include a rippled extension for ornamental
effect or can include a planar extension, or can include a rounded
surface, each configured to direct moisture away from the chimney
700.
[0179] Each of the flashing members 712, 714, 716 and 718 can also
include an extension portion 724 and a downward extension 726. The
extension portion 724 can be formed and configured to extend inward
from the facia portion 722. Such extension portion 724 is sized to
extend toward the chimney 700 and can abut therewith. The downward
extension 726 is formed and configured to extend downward from an
end of the extension portion 724 along side the chimney and to abut
the chimney 700. The downward extension 726 extends a distance
configured to facilitate an effective moisture barrier. Such an
effective moisture barrier can discourage moisture from wicking
therebehind and/or facilitate placing a sealant between the
downward extension 726 and the chimney as discussed above.
[0180] To install the flashing system 710 in one example method, an
exterior sheathing is provided and overlaid over at least an
outside surface of the chimney 700 by a moisture barrier. The
chimney-bonnet 704 is positioned over the chimney 700 so that a
lower portion 706 of the chimney-bonnet 704 is disposed over an
upper portion 702 of the chimney 700. A gap is provided between the
lower portion 706 of the chimney bonnet 704 and the upper portion
702 of the chimney that is sized and configured to receive the
abutting portion 720 of each of the flashing members 712, 714, 716
and 718.
[0181] With the chimney-bonnet 704 positioned, the abutting portion
720 for each of the flashing members 712, 714, 716 and 718 can be
inserted in the gap at corresponding first, second, third and
fourth sides of the chimney-bonnet 704 and chimney 700, as depicted
in outline. As such, the downward extension 726 is positioned along
side the chimney and/or positioned to abut with a surface of the
chimney 700 and, particularly, with an exterior sheathing or the
like. The abutting portion 720 for each of the flashing members
712, 714, 716 and 718 can be secured to the chimney 700 by suitable
fasteners, such as for example, staples, screws, nails, or other
fasteners, or a suitable adhesive. Also, the downward extension 726
can be secured to the chimney with suitable fasteners. Such
fasteners may be employed by pneumatically shooting the fasteners
through the lower portion 706 of the chimney bonnet 704 so that
such fasteners extend through the abutting portion 720 and into the
upper portion 702 of the chimney 700. Fasteners can also be used to
interconnect each of the flashing members 712, 714, 716 and 718
together between adjacent abutting portions 720, facia portions
722, extension portions 724 and/or downward extensions 726. A
sealant can be used at the corner joints.
[0182] In another embodiment, the flashing can be pre-assembled and
then placed on the chimney. In this later case, the chimney bonnet
is placed afterward. A unitary structure, or a prefabricated one
where the corners are sealed, welded, braised or soldered can be
advantageous.
[0183] An exterior treatment can then be applied to the outer
surface of the chimney 700, which can extend up to and/or at least
partially over the end downward extension portion 726 of each of
the flashing members 712, 714, 716 and 718 so that the exterior
treatment is disposed under and proximate to the extension portion
724 and/or the fascia portion 722 of the flashing system 710. In
this manner, the facia portion 722 is configured to extend over and
beyond the outer surface of the exterior treatment disposed against
the chimney so that moisture is directed away from the exterior
treatment via such facia portion 722. As will be appreciated, in
one embodiment the flashing can comprise just the abutting portion
720 and fascia portion 722, and the stucco or other exterior
treatment is laid up underneath and behind the fascia portion, so
that moisture is directed outward and away from the exterior
treatment.
[0184] The flashing system 710 having each of the flashing members
712, 714, 716 and 718 can be pieced and attached together during
the installation of the flashing system 710 to the chimney 700 and
chimney-bonnet 704. On the other hand, each of the flashing members
712, 714, 716 and 718 can be pieced together initially to form a
one-piece structure. In such a case, the abutting portion of each
of the flashing members 712, 714, 716 and 718 can include an inner
lip configured to hang the one-piece structure to a top surface of
the chimney 700, or another suitable hanging mechanism such as a
wire, in which case the one-piece structure is disposed over the
chimney 700, after which, the chimney-bonnet 704 is disposed and
secured to the abutting portion 720 of the flashing members and the
chimney 700.
[0185] The various types of flashings as set forth above can be
installed by a flashing crew of one or more individuals. Such a
flashing crew can work around and in conjunction with other trades,
such as the individuals framing the building structure, applying
and/or forming the exterior treatments, and installing the windows.
The flashing crew can install various flashing systems and flashing
members to any and all openings and changes in the exterior
treatments on the building structure, such as that previously set
forth, namely windows, doors, utility-type openings, interfaces
between the wall and eaves of the building structure, interfaces
between the foundation and various exterior treatments, interfaces
between roof and various exterior treatments, and interfaces
between two types of exterior treatments.
[0186] As will be appreciated, the flashing system described herein
provides improved water-tightness of structures, and particularly
reduces water ingress at critical points, such as joints and
interfaces between two differing exterior treatments, at the roof
line, and at the foundation, structure wall interface. Moreover,
the system in accordance with the invention can be implemented with
minimal additional cost, and the benefit of lower maintenance cost
over the life of the structure, and the prevention of water damage
which could otherwise occur providing substantial cost savings
overall. Further, the system as illustrated herein mitigates the
formation of mold, and mold spores, and the like, which can be
harmful to the health of the occupants of the structure.
[0187] While several embodiments of the invention have been
illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various
modifications can be made without departing from the invention,
which is defined by the appended claims.
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