U.S. patent application number 11/960400 was filed with the patent office on 2008-06-26 for ventilated siding system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Gary Monteer. Invention is credited to Gary Monteer.
Application Number | 20080148672 11/960400 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39540908 |
Filed Date | 2008-06-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080148672 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Monteer; Gary |
June 26, 2008 |
VENTILATED SIDING SYSTEM
Abstract
A lap siding system for use on an exterior of a building that
includes a plank having a length and a complementary member, such
as corner trim, door trim, etc. The lap siding system further
includes a flashing disposed between the plank and the
complementary member. The plank, the complementary member, and the
flashing are adapted to be coupled to an exterior of a substructure
of a building. At least one of the plank, the complementary member,
and the flashing is adapted to create at least one ventilation
channel between the substructure of the building and at least one
of the plank, the complementary member, and the flashing.
Inventors: |
Monteer; Gary; (Mapleton,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KIRTON & MCCONKIE
60 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE, SUITE 1800
SALT LAKE CITY
UT
84111
US
|
Assignee: |
Monteer; Gary
Mapleton
UT
|
Family ID: |
39540908 |
Appl. No.: |
11/960400 |
Filed: |
December 19, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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60871231 |
Dec 21, 2006 |
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60871351 |
Dec 21, 2006 |
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60871338 |
Dec 21, 2006 |
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60871240 |
Dec 21, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/533 ;
52/716.2; 52/741.3 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 19/024 20130101;
E04F 13/007 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/533 ;
52/741.3; 52/716.2 |
International
Class: |
E04F 13/076 20060101
E04F013/076; E04G 13/00 20060101 E04G013/00; E04C 2/38 20060101
E04C002/38 |
Claims
1. A method of ventilating a siding system comprising: providing a
siding system; providing a flashing for attaching a first
complementary member to a substructure; providing a first
ventilation channel between the first complementary member and the
substructure; and providing a second ventilation channel between a
second complementary member and the first complementary member.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the siding system comprises a
plurality of complementary members.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein the plurality of complementary
members are combined in a modular fashion.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the flashing comprises at least
one support member for providing at least one space between the
first complementary member and the substructure.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the at least one space is a
ventilation channel.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the flashing is fastened to the
substructure, the flashing thereafter coordinating the coupling of
the first complementary member to the second complementary member
and the first and second complementary members to the
substructure.
7. The method of claim 2, wherein the flashing coordinates the
coupling of the plurality of complementary members to a siding
material.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the flashing provides at least
one ventilation channel between the siding material, the flashing,
the plurality of complementary members and the substructure.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the siding system is fastened to
the substructure with at least one concealed fastener.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein the siding system comprises a
plurality of ventilation channels.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the plurality of ventilation
channels are in fluid communication.
12. The method of claim 2 wherein a gap is provided between at
least two of said complementary members.
13. The method of claim 12 wherein the plurality of complementary
members are positioned such that they can expand and contract with
respect to one another.
14. A ventilated siding system for covering a substructure,
comprising: a plurality of complementary members; a plurality of
flashing members for attaching the plurality of complementary
members to the substructure; and a plurality of ventilation
channels positioned between the plurality of complementary members,
the plurality of flashing members and the substructure;
15. The siding system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of
complementary members are combined in a modular fashion.
16. The siding system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of
flashing members comprise at least one support member for providing
at least one space between the plurality of complementary members
and the substructure.
17. The siding system of claim 16, wherein the at least one space
is a ventilation channel.
18. The siding system of claim 17, wherein the plurality of
flashing members is fastened to the substructure, the plurality of
flashing members thereafter coordinating the coupling of the
plurality of complementary members to one another and to the
substructure.
19. The siding system of claim 14, wherein the plurality of
flashing members coordinates the coupling of the plurality of
complementary members to a siding material.
20. The siding system of claim 14, wherein the siding system is
fastened to the substructure with at least one concealed
fastener.
21. The siding system of claim 14, wherein the siding system
comprises a plurality of ventilation channels.
22. The siding system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of
ventilation channels are in fluid communication.
23. The siding system of claim 14 wherein a gap is provided between
at least two of said complementary members.
24. The siding system of claim 23 wherein the plurality of
complementary members are positioned such that they can expand and
contract with respect to one another.
25. A modular siding system providing a plurality of ventilation
channels comprising: a plurality of complementary members; a
plurality of flashing members for attaching the plurality of
complementary members to a substructure; and a siding material;
wherein the plurality of flashing members coordinate the coupling
of the plurality of complementary members to the siding material
such that the plurality of ventilation channels is positioned
between the plurality of complementary members, the siding material
and the substructure.
26. The modular siding system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of
ventilation channels provides an air circulation path between the
plurality of complementary members, the siding material and the
substructure.
27. The modular siding system of claim 26, wherein the plurality of
flashing members comprise at least one support member for providing
at least one ventilation channel between the plurality of
complementary members and the substructure.
28. The modular siding system of claim 27, wherein the siding
system is fastened to the substructure with at least one concealed
fastener.
29. The modular siding system of claim 25, wherein the plurality of
ventilation channels are in fluid communication.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application Nos. 60/871,231, filed Dec. 21, 2006, entitled
VENTILATED LAP SIDING SYSTEM, 60/871,351, filed Dec. 21, 2006,
entitled LAP SIDING SYSTEM, 60/871,338, filed Dec. 21, 2006,
entitled APPLIQUE AND SIDING SHIM, and 60/871,240, filed Dec. 21,
2006, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SECURING COMPONENTS OF LAP
SIDING SYSTEMS, which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to lap siding systems and
apparatus for use on the exteriors of residential and commercial
buildings. Lap siding systems generally provide aesthetically
pleasing, low maintenance exteriors to a variety of buildings by
attaching overlapping horizontal or vertical boards or planks to
the exterior of a building. For simplicity, the term "plank"
includes boards, slats, and panels. Planks may be made of wood,
cementitious material, plastic, metal, glass, various types of
fiber and filler material, composites of these materials and other
materials known in the art.
[0003] A common problem in construction is that of weatherproofing
structural junctures in lap siding systems, such as between planks,
at corners, at junctions between planks and other structural
features such as windows and doors, and at junctions between planks
and other decorative features such as trim, appliques, and similar
features. Weatherproofing serves the goal of protecting the
underlying structure of the building from the damage associated
with water seepage that can result in flourishing termite, pest,
and mold populations. Damage resulting from water seepage may also
result in rotting, swelling, and warping of the planks of the lap
siding system, the trim, appliques, and other features, and/or the
underlying structure. Water seepage may also result in a reduction
of the effectiveness of insulation, cracks in the masonry,
loosening of the siding system from the underlying structure of the
building, and the like.
[0004] The standard practice in weatherproofing is to seal and back
the juncture with flashing. Typically, such flashing is made of
metal or vinyl and positioned under the juncture and affixed to the
underlying structure. This type of flashing is normally placed
along the entire seam created by the juncture.
[0005] The flashing is usually sealed against the underlying
structure with caulk. However, caulk tends to shrink over time.
Additionally, the weathering and dissimilar thermal expansion and
contraction of the flashing, siding, and caulk often leads to
failure of the seal so that water seeps behind the siding and may
result in water damage to the lap siding system and underlying
structure. Furthermore, the exposed junctions, caulk, and flashing
may be unsightly.
[0006] Additionally, the bottommost horizontal planks and starter
strips of currently available lap siding systems abut or contact a
portion of the foundation or wainscot. Water often collects and
sits in this juncture causing water damage to the bottommost planks
and starter strips. Furthermore, the bottommost planks and starter
strips are often disposed so close to the underlying structure of
the building that water wicks up between the bottommost planks,
starter strips, and the underlying structure of the building, which
increases the likelihood that significant water damage will
occur.
[0007] Another problem in the installation of a lap siding system
on a building is the difficulty in evenly attaching each plank to
the underlying structure. The conventional method of installation
requires constant measuring of plank position and adjustment, which
is time-consuming.
[0008] With some lap siding systems, a clearance between the roof
and the lap siding system of at least two inches may be required.
Flashing and counter flashing may be installed and caulked to
protect the gap from wind and water. However, this gap may be
unsightly and, like the junctions discussed above, the caulk and
flashing may fail so that water is able to seep behind the
flashing.
[0009] Most lap siding systems are secured to the underlying
structure by top nailing, which is also referred to as blind
nailing. The nail used in blind nailing is driven through the plank
near the top of the plank such that the nail head would be covered
by the next higher plank as it overlaps the top of the lower plank.
Each progressively higher plank overlaps the top nail of the lower
plank, thus rendering it a blind nail. Blind nailing secures the
planks to the structure and provides an aesthetically pleasing
appearance to the lap siding. However, with the only fastening
mechanism being applied at the tops of the planks, the lower
portion of the planks is unsecured. In the event of moderate or
high winds, it is common for wind to get under the lower edge of
the plank and apply upward and/or outward pressure on the plank,
causing it to loosen, bend, warp, or even separate from the
building. Accordingly, it is common in many parts of the world to
secure the planks with both blind nails and face nails. The face
nails are driven through the lower or bottom portion of the planks
and into the underlying plank and/or the underlying structure.
[0010] While the face nails can provide additional strength to the
coupling of the plank to the structure, the face nails are known to
cause several concerns. As one example, the face nails are often
considered to be unsightly and attempts to paint over them are
often unsuccessful for a number of reasons. In some circumstances,
the face nails can be driven too far into the plank exposing siding
fibers. The exposed siding fibers are then open to the elements
and, if the face nail is countersunk too far, the structural
integrity of the siding plank may be impaired. Additionally, the
face nails, whether driven too far or not, create another opening
in the exterior siding and a possible channel for water to be
wicked, or otherwise passed, from the exterior of the siding to the
interior of the siding where it can cause one or more of the
problems identified above.
[0011] Proper installation of lap siding with face nails requires
each face nail to be caulked and sealed to resist moisture from
penetrating through the siding. Other than being incredibly
time-consuming to caulk each face nail, the caulking also presents
long term problems due to differences in materials between the
caulk and the planks, different expansion and contraction rates,
and different weathering patterns between the materials.
Accordingly, even if the caulking and painting can be done
initially to avoid the aesthetic problems and to prevent moisture
from penetrating the siding at the face nail, the adequacy of the
seal generally deteriorates over time and the aesthetic issues
generally arise as the color of the paint over caulk changes tone
differently than the paint over the siding plank.
[0012] Conventional lap siding relies heavily on attempts to
weatherproof the structure by sealing the structure against the
exterior elements, such as by caulking the joints between planks
and at junctures where planks terminate at other structural or
decorative features, such as windows, doors, trim, or changes in
the contour of the underlying structure. However, time has shown
that a perfect and complete seal of a structure against the
elements is difficult and can have negative consequences for the
structure and its occupants. As one example, it is generally
accepted that homes need to breath. Allowing a home to breath is
believed to improve the longevity of the structure and improve the
living conditions in the home. In the attempts to seal a home
against the exterior elements, siding planks are generally placed
close together and caulking is applied between the siding planks
and/or between siding planks and other materials forming the
exterior of the structure. When these caulking seals are freshly
applied, assuming the seals are done correctly, the home cannot
breath. There is generally no air flow behind the siding planks or
other features.
[0013] Additionally, when one of these caulked seals fails and
allows a little bit of moisture to penetrate the exterior shell of
the structure, the moisture is effectively trapped between the
exterior shell and the underlying structure. As suggested above,
moisture can penetrate the exterior shell in a number of ways, such
as through the face nails and/or the joints between planks,
particularly when the caulking ages and weathers. Once the moisture
is trapped between the exterior shell and the underlying structure,
the moisture can lead to several problems including rotting of the
structure and/or siding planks, allowing mold to grow between the
siding planks and the structure, and attracting a variety of pests.
Because of the extremely limited airflow between the structure and
the siding planks, the moisture will not dry out very quickly. In
many circumstances, the moisture may not sufficiently dry out in
time to prevent the negative consequences of the moisture.
SUMMARY
[0014] The apparatus and system of the present disclosure has been
developed in response to the present state of the art, and in
particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that
have not been fully solved by currently available lap siding
systems and apparatus. Thus, the present disclosure provides a lap
siding system and apparatus for providing an aesthetically
pleasing, low maintenance exterior to a variety of buildings.
[0015] In accordance with the technology as embodied and broadly
described herein in the preferred embodiment, a lap siding system
is provided. The lap siding system may include a plurality of
planks having a first end and a second end. Additionally, one or
more of the ends of each plank may be operatively associated with
another exterior member of the building, such as another siding
plank, a door trim member, a window trim member, a corner member,
or other such members, one or more of which may also comprise part
of the lap siding system of the present disclosure. When installed
on a building, a portion of each plank may overlap a part of
another plank. The planks may be installed on the building such
that there is a space provided between at least a portion of the
planks and the underlying structure of the building, which may also
be referred to as the substructure of the building.
[0016] The space provided between the substructure and the planks
may be referred to as a ventilation channel. Accordingly, a
building covered with multiple planks as part of a lap siding
system may include multiple ventilation channels between the planks
and the substructure. In order to facilitate the movement of air
through the one or more ventilation channels, the planks of the lap
siding system and the complementary members, such as corner trim,
door trim, window trim, etc., may be associated in a manner to
provide a complementary ventilation channel between the associated
end of the plank and the structures of the complementary members.
One or more complementary ventilation channels may be provided in a
building implementing the lap siding system of the present
disclosure. The complementary ventilation channels may be adapted
to extend between at least two ventilation channels.
[0017] These and other features and advantages of the present
description will become more fully apparent from the following
description and appended numbered paragraphs, or may be learned by
the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] In order that the manner in which the above-recited and
other features and advantages of the present disclosure are
obtained will be readily understood, a more particular description
of the present systems and methods briefly described above will be
rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are
illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these
drawings depict only typical embodiments of the systems and methods
and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope,
the present technology will be described and explained with
additional specificity and detail through the use of the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a building at least
partially covered by a lap siding system;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a cross section top view of a corner trim member
that may be part of a lap siding system;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of exploded inside and outside
corner trim members;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an assembled portion of a
corner trim member;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional top view of the corner time
member of FIG. 2;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a corner trim members
associated with siding planks and a starter flashing;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of the corner trim member,
siding plank and starter flashing of FIG. 6;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a frieze board as
associated with a soffit and a horizontal siding plank;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a frieze board as
associated with a soffit and a vertical siding plank;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the siding system utilizing
a "plank and batten" configuration with an apron trim and frieze
board.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] The presently preferred embodiments will be best understood
by reference to the drawings. It will be readily understood that
the components, as generally described and illustrated in the
figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed
description of the lap siding system, as represented in FIGS. 1
through 18, is not intended to limit the scope of the present
disclosure, as described in the appended numbered paragraphs, but
is merely representative of presently preferred embodiments.
[0030] FIG. 1 presents a perspective view of a building 100, which
is representative of the large diversity of buildings with which
the lap siding system of the present disclosure may be used. As
used herein the terms building and structure will be used
synonymously to identify an object to which a lap siding system may
be applied. For example, the structures and buildings may include
residential homes, commercial buildings, schools and other
non-residential buildings, sheds, garages, boat houses, dog houses,
etc. The structures to which the lap siding systems may be applied
may comprise a variety of elements depending on the method of
construction. For purposes of description, the structure 100 will
be described as including a substructure (not shown) at least part
of which forms part of or the entire exterior skeleton of a
building. The term substructure will be used herein to refer to
that portion of the building to which one or more members of the
lap siding system is attached.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates that the exposed exterior 102 of the
building 100 may include a variety of components. As exemplary
components, FIG. 1 illustrates a door 104, a window 106, a
foundation 108, and soffit and fascia elements 110. Additionally,
the exposed exterior 102 includes a lap siding system 112. The lap
siding system may include several component parts, many of which
are described hereinbelow and the remainder of which are consistent
with the principles described in the present disclosure. The door
104 and the window 106 illustrated in FIG. 1 are representative of
the variety of doors and window that are or may become available
for use. The foundation 108 is representative of the variety of
circumstances in which a lap siding system may adjoin a different
exterior material. For example, lap siding systems 112 may be
applied on the exterior of a second level of a building while the
first level of the building is covered by brick, stucco, or some
other material such as an apron or skirting. The soffit and fascia
elements 110 are similarly representative of the variety of
circumstances in which an upper portion of a building may extend
further than the lower portion of the building. Such a situation is
most common at the roofline, but may also occur when an upper level
room includes a bay window or is otherwise configured to provide an
overhang, such as to form a covered porch or similar feature.
[0032] The lap siding system 112 of the present disclosure may
provide numerous benefits to the building it covers. For example,
the present lap siding system may promote the weatherproofing of
the building through the use of flashings at junctures between
planks and between planks and other elements of the plank siding
system 112. Additionally, the present lap siding system may
facilitate the installation of the planks and other elements
through the use of interlocking members between the planks. Some
aspects of these features will be described herein; other aspects
have been previously described in United States patent application
entitled WEATHERPROOF LAP SIDING SYSTEM, application Ser. No.
11/271,633, filed Nov. 10, 2005, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety for all purposes.
[0033] With continued reference to FIG. 1, lap siding systems 112
according to the present disclosure may include planks 114, which
may be horizontal planks 116, vertical planks 118, or planks
configured otherwise. The exact configuration of each plank 114 and
its association with neighboring planks may vary based on its
intended orientation and usage. Additionally, plank siding systems
112 may include one or more complementary members 120 adapted to
cooperate with the planks 114 to cover the exposed exterior 102 of
the building 100. The complementary members 120 may include such
elements as corner trim members 122, door trim members 124, window
trim members 126, soffit members 128, fascia members 130 and apron
members (not shown). In some installations, it may be preferable to
use a joint member 132 for decorative and/or functional purposes,
which joint member may be configured as a complementary member
120.
[0034] For example, the lap siding system 112 may include
decorative appliques such as decorative shutters, window sills,
window headers, sill boxes, masonry headers, door headers and
gables. Additionally, the lap siding system 112 may include a
plurality of planks, flashings, trim members and other
complementary elements 120. The various components of the lap
siding system are adapted to be easily installed in a variety of
configurations. Additionally, in some configurations, the present
lap siding system provides weatherproofing benefits to the
substructure as well.
[0035] As described above, a persistent problem in weatherproofing
buildings is the possibility for moisture to wick, seep, or
otherwise get behind the exterior materials and to become trapped
between the exterior materials and the substructure of the
building. Prior efforts have attempted to seal the exterior
completely through the use of caulking and sealing between the
various exterior materials. However, as discussed in the above
incorporated application, such weatherproofing efforts have been
less than fully successful, particularly when elements of
aesthetics and the impact of time are considered.
[0036] The lap siding systems 112 of the present disclosure utilize
air, and particularly the possibility of moving air, to increase
the opportunities for any moisture trapped between the exterior
materials and the substructure to be dried out before leading to
the problems identified above, such as rot, mold, and/or pests. One
example of the associations between the planks 114, the
complementary members 120, and the substructure is shown in FIGS.
2-7, which illustrate an exemplary relationship between planks 114
and an exemplary corner trim member 122.
[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates a cross sectional top view of a segment
of an exemplary corner trim member 122. As illustrated, corner trim
member 122 includes a first leg 134 and a second leg 136, which are
adapted to be joined together to form a 90.degree. angle. The
corner trim member 122 also includes flashings 140 associated with
each of the first and second legs 134, 136. The first and second
legs 134, 136 of the corner trim member 122 may be coupled together
in any suitable manner, such as the interlocking dado cut and
finger configuration 142 shown in FIG. 2. Additionally, the first
and second legs 134, 136 may be coupled together at any suitable
angle to provide the desired corner trim. Alternatively, the corner
trim member 122 may be made of a single member configured to have
two extending leg segments to which the flashings 140 are
coupled.
[0038] Flashings 140 may be associated with the legs of the corner
trim member 122 in any suitable manner. When the corner trim member
122 is attached to the building, the flashings 140 and the legs may
be coupled together in a manner to provide a corner trim member 122
that is at least somewhat, if not substantially, difficult to
separate into its component parts without breakage. The coupling
between the flashing 140 and the remainder of the corner trim
member 122 will be described in more detail below.
[0039] As illustrated, the flashings 140 are secured to a building
100 by means of fasteners 172, wherein the fasteners 172 are
inserted through an extended portion 162 of the flashings 140. The
lap siding system 112 further comprises an interlocking clip 198.
The interlocking clip 198 is placed over an upper plank 208 such
that a first portion 300 of the interlocking clip 198 is positioned
between the upper plank 208 and the building 100 while a second
portion 302 of the interlocking clip 198 is position over the outer
surface of the upper plank 208. The configuration and use of the
interlocking clip 198 will become more apparent in the discussion
of FIGS. 5-7 below.
[0040] As configured, the corner trim member 122 comprises a
plurality of ventilation channels 180. Each ventilation channel 180
provides air circulation to the individual components of the lap
siding system 112 thereby providing an escape for undesirable
moisture within the system 112. Additionally, each individual
ventilation channel 180 may be in fluid communication with another
ventilation channel 180 such that a ventilation system is created
within the lap siding system 112. The specifics of the ventilation
channels 180 and their various subcomponents will be discussed in
detail below in connection with FIGS. 5-10.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of corner trim members
122, specifically an outside corner trim member 144 and an inside
corner trim member 146, separated from flashing 140. As illustrated
in FIG. 3, flashings 140 may be positioned at any suitable location
on the corner trim member 122 to configure the corner trim member
122 for use in the desired location. For example, when the
flashings 140 are coupled to the inside of the corner trim member
122, the corner trim member is configured as an outside corner 144.
Similarly, when the flashings 140 are coupled to the outside of the
corner trim member 122, the corner trim member is configured as an
inside corner 146. Therefore, the flashing 140 is configured as a
universal member that may be used with either corner trim member
configuration 144 and/or 146.
[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the
corner trim member 122 having the flashing 140 coupled thereto.
FIG. 4 presents an exemplary method of coupling the flashing 140 to
the leg member 134 of the corner trim member 122. While only one
method of coupling is illustrated, it is understood that other
methods are available.
[0043] As illustrated, the leg member 134 includes a mouth 148
having a lower lip 150 and an upper lip 152. The mouth 148 is
adapted to receive at least a portion of the flashing 140 and may
be configured to retain a portion of the flashing 140 within the
mouth 148. The mouth 148 of the leg member 134 may include a
variety of elements suitable for receiving and retaining portions
of the flashing 140, at least some of which may vary depending on
the configuration of the flashing 140. For example, the mouth 148
may include a channel 154 adapted to receive a portion of the
flashing 140 and may include an indentation 156 in the upper lip
152 for catching a flange portion 166 of the flashing 140.
[0044] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary flashing 140 including
portions adapted to cooperate with the mouth 148 to couple the
flashing 140 to the leg member 134. As illustrated, the flashing
140 includes a head portion 158 adapted to extend into the mouth
148 of the leg portion 134. The flashing 140 further includes a
platform portion 160 and an extension portion 162. The head portion
158 illustrated in FIG. 4 includes a tongue 164 extending into the
channel 154 and a flange 166 that extends into the indentation
156.
[0045] With reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, it can be seen that the
flashing 140 and leg member 134 configuration illustrated therein
allow the head 158 of the flashing to be inserted into the mouth
148 of the leg member 134 with the flange 166 passing beyond the
ridge 168 of the upper lip 152 and into the indentation 156. Once
the flange 166 is received into the indentation 156, the flashing
can only be removed with fairly substantial manipulation of the
flashing 140, assuming it is constructed of flexible materials or
by sliding the flashing along the length of the corner leg member
134. Once the corner trim member 122 is installed on a building,
the opportunity for sliding the flashing along the length may be
severely limited and the flashing and leg member may be
sufficiently coupled.
[0046] Additionally or alternatively, the flashing 140 may be
coupled to the remaining portions of the corner trim member 122 in
other suitable manners. For example a portion of the flashing may
be coupled to the leg member 134 by fasteners, adhesives, or other
known coupling agents. Preferred configurations would allow the
fastening means to be hidden from view when the corner trim member
122 is applied to the building. One exemplary alternative may
include a flashing with a simplified head portion adapted to help
position the flashing 140 relative to the leg member 134 and may
include a fastening means hidden from view, such as a screw or
other fastener through the back side of the fastener 140 and into
the back side of the leg member 134. One example of such a
simplified head configuration is shown and described in more detail
in connection with FIG. 5.
[0047] With continued reference to FIGS. 2-4, FIGS. 5-10 will be
described to further illustrate the ventilation features of the lap
siding systems 112 of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 illustrates a
top view of a corner trim member 122 coupled to a flashing 140,
both of which are substantially as shown and described in
connection with FIGS. 2-4. It should be noted that the corner trim
member 122 discussed in connection with FIGS. 5-7 is representative
of the variety of complementary members 120 with which the planks
114 may be associated. Corner trim member 122 includes the exterior
members 170, which includes the first and second leg members 134,
136 as illustrated, and flashings 140 coupled to the exterior
members 170. FIG. 5 further illustrates a configuration where the
support portion 160 is adapted to provide a space through which a
fastener 172 may be used to couple the flashing 140 to the exterior
member 170.
[0048] The top view illustrated in FIG. 5 further illustrates some
of the ventilation channels 180 created by the lap siding system
112 of the present disclosure. As illustrated, platform portions
160 are adapted to separate exterior members 170 from the
substructure 100 of the building. The platform portions 160 may be
provided in a variety of configurations to offset the exterior
members 170 from the substructure 100 by a desired offset distance
182. The offset distance 182 established by the platform portions
160 may define the depth of the corner ventilation channel 184 and
the platform ventilation channels 186. Flashings 140 may include
platform portions 160 of a variety of configurations to create
greater or fewer platform ventilation channels 186 of any suitable
shape or configuration.
[0049] With continuing reference to FIG. 5 and with reference to
FIG. 6, it can be seen that planks 208, 212 are adapted to be
associated with the corner trim members 122 within plank channels
190, at least partially formed by flashings 140 and the exterior
members 170. In a perfectly weatherproofed building, moisture would
not be able to penetrate the exterior shell of the building to be
trapped behind the corner trim member 122. For example, the top of
the corner trim member 122 would be capped by a soffit and/or roof
structure and the bottom of the corner trim member would be capped
or otherwise sealed against the exterior moisture. Additionally,
the flashings 140 are adapted to keep substantially all of the
water that might contact the planks from seeping or wicking behind
the corner trim member 122. However, experience has shown that
water has an amazing ability penetrate into undesirable location
within siding systems despite best efforts of prevention.
[0050] Regardless of how the water finds its way into a siding
system, moisture retained within a siding system leads to certain
problems for the structure as previously discussed. Therefore, the
present invention provides a plurality of ventilation channels 180
thereby providing an escape route for moisture trapped within the
lap siding system 112. Specifically, the ventilation channels 180
created between the corner trim member 122 and the substructure of
the building are adapted to allow air to move behind the corner
trim member 122 thereby drying out moisture that may be present
behind the trim.
[0051] In order to maximize the size of the ventilation channels
180 and to minimize the surface area of the corner trim member 122
in direct contact with the substructure, the platform portion 160
of the flashing 140 may be configured with multiple platform
supports 192 as illustrated in FIGS. 2-6. The platform portion 160
may additionally or alternatively be adapted to include support
members of different configurations, some of which may increase the
contact surface area between the flashing 140 and the substructure
compared to the illustrated embodiments.
[0052] The ventilation channels 180 created by the present lap
siding systems 112 may have varying degrees of air flow through the
channels depending on the location of the channel on the structure
and depending on the ambient weather conditions. For example, the
degree of ventilation, or air flow rate, may increase on a windy
day compared to a calm day. Continuing with the example of the
corner trim member 122, the corner ventilation channel 184 may be
adapted to principally rely upon air entering the channel from the
top or bottom of the channel (e.g., from the soffit region or
adjacent the foundation). In such circumstances, the top of the
corner ventilation channel 184 is configured in fluid communication
with ventilation channels in the soffit and/or roof structure of
the building. The bottom of the corner ventilation channel 184 may
be open to the atmosphere to allow air flow in and out.
Additionally or alternatively, the bottom of the corner ventilation
channel 184 may be shielded to a greater or lesser degree by one or
more systems adapted to prevent water from entering the corner
ventilation channel 184 while still allowing air to flow through
the corner ventilation channel.
[0053] While the ventilated lap siding systems of the present
disclosure are primarily passive ventilation systems (i.e., systems
that do not utilize or rely upon mechanical means to drive air
through the ventilation channels 180), lap siding systems within
the scope of the present disclosure may be adapted and installed to
facilitate a driven ventilation system. For example, a fan may be
positioned near to an opening in the ventilation system to blow air
in the desired direction to increase air flow in one or more of the
ventilation channels. Clean-up operations following a flood or
other event in which an exceptionally large amount of water
contacts the building or in which water contacts the building in
unexpected manners (such as from the ground up rather than
otherwise) present one example of when a driven ventilation system
may be economically implemented. An air pump with a hose may be
coupled to an inlet of one or more of the ventilation channels 180
and air may be pumped through the channels at a suitable flow rate
to accelerate the drying of the building. To the extent that two or
more of the ventilation channels are in fluid communication, the
mechanical, driven ventilation system will be simplified.
[0054] Additionally, a complementary ventilation channel 218 is
provided to allow for the natural expansion and contraction of the
siding members 208, 212 due to changes in the climate and
temperature. In addition to providing ventilation, the
complementary ventilation channel 218 provides a physical gap
between the siding members 208, 212 and the flashing 140. During
expansion, the complementary ventilation channel 218 provides a
space into which the siding members 208, 212 may expand rather than
buckling and/or dislodging from the substructure 100. The
complementary ventilation channel 218 in conjunction with the plank
channel 190 provides sufficient clearance between the siding
members 208, 212, the complementary corner members 134, 136 and the
flashing 140 whereby the siding members 208, 212 may expand and
contract without undesirable binding and/or rubbing on other
components of the lap siding system 112.
[0055] FIGS. 6-10 further illustrate aspects of the ventilation
channels 180 that are provided by the lap siding system 112 of the
present disclosure. FIGS. 6 and 7 present front views of a segment
of planks 208 and 212 disposed in association with a corner trim
member 122 substantially as it may be associated when installed on
a building. As shown most clearly in FIGS. 7 and 8, planks 212 and
208, respectively, are angled as is traditional in lap siding
systems.
[0056] The angled configuration of tradition siding systems is
replicated within the current lap siding system 112 by the use of
shims 274. The shims 274 may be modified to form a continuous
structure capable of filling the voids between multiple overlapping
components such as siding planks and an even and/or uneven building
substructure 100. Additionally, the shims 274 may be formed to
include any material, shape, size, dimensions, orientation, and/or
other features in order to fill undesirable voids within the lap
siding system 212. Finally, the shims 274 may be secured, attached
and/or installed to any component in any order of installation
using any attachment mechanism or method.
[0057] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, the lower region 194 of
plank 212 is supported away from the substructure of the building
(not shown) by a starter flashing 196. Starter flashing 196 is
illustrative of a variety of starter flashings that may be
implemented to offset the lower region 194 of the plank 114 from
the substructure of the building.
[0058] For example, in the event that an apron (not shown) is
disposed below the lowermost layer of planks, the starter flashing
196 may include clips or braces to facilitate positioning of the
starter flashing 196 relative to the apron. Similarly, the starter
flashings that may be used may include drainage features and/or
water control features to help direct water away from whatever may
be underlying the lowermost layer of planks. An embodiment of an
alternative starter flashing is discussed below in connection with
FIG. 10.
[0059] FIGS. 6 and 7 further illustrate an interlocking clip 198
that may be used to couple the lower plank 212 with an upper plank
208. The interlocking clip 198 may be coupled to an underlying
plank 212 and/or 208 using one or more fasteners, such as through
fastener hole 200. As seen most clearly in FIGS. 6 and 7,
interlocking clip 198 includes a beveled lower edge 202 that is
adapted to cooperate with the beveled lower edge 204 in the
interlocking groove 206 in the backside of the lower region 194 of
each plank 212 and 208. As illustrated, the interaction between the
interlocking clip 198 and the interlocking groove of the upper
plank 208 is similar to the interaction of the interlocking groove
206 of lower plank 212 with the beveled lower edge 220 of the
starter flashing 196.
[0060] The contours of the surfaces of the interlocking clip 198,
the starter flashing 196 and the interlocking groove 206 may vary
depending on the preferences of the manufacturer and the
circumstances of the installation. However, when mating beveled
surfaces are utilized, a bevel of between about 30.degree. and
about 60.degree. may be suitable for the interlocking clip 198, the
starter flashing 196 and the interlocking groove 206.
[0061] While not necessary for the purposes of the ventilated
siding system of the present disclosure, the interaction between
the interlocking clip 198 and the interlocking groove 206 may
provide the lap siding system with a variety of features. For
example, the interlocking relationship between the clip 198 and the
groove 206 may couple the lower region 194 of the plank 208 to the
building 100, such as by coupling to the next lower plank 212 or to
a starter flashing 196 as illustrated in FIG. 6. Additionally or
alternatively, the interlocking clip 198 may provide an
installation guide to enable the installers to properly position
and align subsequent layers of planks without undue measurement and
leveling.
[0062] Additionally or alternatively, the interlocking clips 198
and the interlocking groove 206 may be adapted to provide a vent
between the subsequent planks. As illustrated most clearly in FIG.
6, the interlocking clip 198 is adapted to be slightly thicker than
the depth of the interlocking groove 206. The difference between
the interlocking clip thickness and the depth of the interlocking
groove may cause the lower region 194 of an upper plank 208 to be
offset from the upper region 210 of the lower plank 212 thereby
forming a vent 214 between the locations of the interlocking clips
198. The vent 214 may allow air into and out of the plank
ventilation channels 216, which is another example of a ventilation
channel 180 within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0063] The vent 214 may be adapted to advantageously allow ambient
air to flow into the plank ventilation channels 216 for subsequent
flow into one or more other ventilation channels 180. The vents 214
and the relationship between the upper planks 208 and the lower
planks 212 may be adapted to provide sufficient coverage of the
vent 214 that moisture would not be able enter the vent, except for
during the infrequent times when water moves upward, such as during
flooding. Additionally, the relationship between the upper and
lower planks 208, 212 may include sufficient spacing to limit
and/or prevent wicking between the two planks. The interlocking
clip 198 and the interlocking groove 206 may be adapted to create a
vent 214 having a gap of varying thickness between the upper and
lower planks. For example, the spacing between the planks may
provide a vent 214 as small as about 0.1 centimeters thick or as
large as 0.5 centimeters.
[0064] With continuing reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the
relationships between the vents 214, the plank ventilation channels
216, and the complementary ventilation channel 218 are described in
more detail. As illustrated, the plank ventilation channels 216 run
behind each of the planks 208 and/or 212, between the planks 208
and/or 212 and the substructure of the building (not shown). As the
planks 208 and/or 212 and the plank ventilation channels 216
approach a complementary member such as the corner trim member 122,
the plank ventilation channels 216 are in fluid communication with
the complementary ventilation channel 218. Accordingly, each of the
plank ventilation channels 216 and each of the complementary
ventilation channels 218 in the building (not shown) may be in
fluid communication with each other. Additionally or alternatively,
one or more of the various ventilation channels may be isolated
from the others.
[0065] With continued reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, it can be seen
that the complementary ventilation channel 218 may be in fluid
communication with the plank ventilation channels 216 and with the
ambient air. The complementary ventilation channel 218 may be in
fluid communication with the ambient air as illustrated, due to the
angled planks 208 and/or 212 creating a gap 222 between the outer
surface of the planks and the inner surface 280 of the
complementary member 120. Additionally or alternatively, the
complementary ventilation channel 218 may be in fluid communication
with the ambient air at one or more ends of the complementary
ventilation channel 218. For example, at the bottom end 278 of the
corner trim member 122, the complementary ventilation channel 218
may be at least partially open to the environment.
[0066] FIGS. 6 and 7 further illustrate the plank 212 coupled to a
starter flashing 196 at the lower region 194 of the lower plank
212. The starter flashing 196 may be continuous along the entire
lower region 194 of the lower plank 212 or may provide one or more
gaps or openings to allow air flow into the plank ventilation
channel 216. Additionally or alternatively, the lowermost plank
ventilation channel 216 may be aerated at least in part because of
its fluid communication with other ventilation channels.
[0067] FIG. 6 also illustrates an upper plank 208 coupled to a
lower plank 212 by an interlocking clip 198. As seen in FIGS. 6 and
7, the interlocking clip 198 has a length substantially shorter
than the length of the planks 208 and 212. In some configurations
the interlocking clip 198 may be sufficiently short to require
multiple interlocking clips spaced apart along the length of the
plank. For example, interlocking clips having a length 276 of
between about one inch and three inches may be spaced apart on
about 24-48 inch centers to provide the desired degree of coupling.
In such configurations, the interlocking clips 198 will not
interfere with airflow through the vents 214. Accordingly, the
plank ventilation channels 216 may also be in communication with
ambient air by way of the vents 214.
[0068] Turning now to FIGS. 8-10, another exemplary complementary
member 120 is illustrated to provide additional examples of
ventilation channels 180 within the scope of the present
disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary frieze board 224 that
may be used to provide a finished trim between the top of the plank
208 and/or 118 and the soffit members 128. Frieze boards 224 may be
used in cooperation with horizontal planks 116 and/or with vertical
planks 118. The frieze board 224 as illustrated in FIGS. 8-10 may
be used with either horizontal planks 116 or vertical planks 118.
For purposes of description, frieze 226 of FIG. 8 will be referred
to as horizontal frieze 226 due to its adapted use in cooperation
with horizontal planks 116. Additionally, for purposes of
description, frieze 246 of FIGS. 9 and 10 will be referred to as
vertical frieze 246 due to its adapted use in cooperation with
vertical planks 118. It will be noted that frieze board 224 is the
same component in each of FIGS. 8-10 and only referred to as
different parts for purposes of description in connection with the
present invention.
[0069] Frieze boards 224 may be made of any variety of suitable
materials, including wood, composite wood, engineered wood,
cementitious materials, vinyl, and metals. Frieze boards 224 may
also be adapted to cooperate with one or more flashings 140 wherein
the one or more flashings 140 may comprise a host of variations
directed towards adapting the frieze board 224 for use within the
present lap siding system 112.
[0070] Turning now to the exemplary horizontal frieze 226 of FIG.
8, it can be seen that the horizontal frieze 226 is adapted to
couple to a plank flashing 228 and to a soffit flashing 230. The
plank flashing 228 and the soffit flashing 230 each may be adapted
to facilitate the coupling of the frieze board 226 to the
substructure of the building 100 and to facilitate the relationship
between the horizontal frieze 226 and the adjoining members, i.e.
128 and 116. For example, the plank flashing 228 may include an
extension portion 232, a support portion 234, and a head portion
236. When installed on a building 100, the extension portion 232 of
the plank flashing 228 will be the lowermost region of the
horizontal frieze 226. The extension portion 232 may serve multiple
purposes. For example, the extension portion 232 may act as a
flashing to help keep water and moisture from getting behind the
upper most horizontal plank 116 and/or from getting behind the
horizontal frieze 226.
[0071] Additionally or alternatively, the extension portion 232 may
provide the installers with a facilitated installation method. For
example, the horizontal frieze 226 may be secured to the building
100 with fasteners 172 through the extension portion 232 rather
than through the material of the frieze member itself. In addition
to facilitating the installation, the use of the extension portion
232 for coupling the frieze to the building maintains the integrity
of the frieze board 224 thereby limiting the amount of moisture
that can penetrate behind the frieze board 224.
[0072] The support portion 234 may be substantially similar to the
support portion 160 of the previous illustrations. The support
portion 234, as well as the remainder of the flashing 140, may be
made of any suitable materials, such as plastics, metals, composite
materials, and the like. The configuration of the support portion
234 and the remainder of the flashing may depend somewhat on the
materials selected as some materials are more easily configurable
than others. As described above, the support portion 234 may be
adapted to provide ventilation channels 180 behind the frieze board
224.
[0073] Additionally, the support portion 234 may provide a space
for the plank flashing 228 to be coupled to the exterior member 238
of the horizontal frieze 226, which may be similar to or different
from the configuration shown in greater detail above, and which may
include the use of a fastener through the support portion 234 and
into the exterior member 238. For the purposes of brevity, the
details of the ventilation channels 180 and the relationship
between the support portion and the ventilation channels 180 will
be summarized by reference to the above discussion of the
ventilation channels of the corner member 122. The frieze
ventilation channels 240 may be adapted to be in fluid
communication with at least one other ventilation channel 180, such
as the corner ventilation channel 186.
[0074] The plank flashing 228 further comprises a head portion 282
configured to compatibly engage a mouth portion 242 of the
horizontal frieze 226. The mouth portion 242 is formed at one end
of the frieze 226 wherein the mouth portion 242 extends along the
length of the frieze 226 defining the recessed space between an
outer lip 284 and an inner lip 286 of the frieze 226. The head
portion 282 of the plank flashing 228 further comprises at least
one support portion 288 whereby at least one ventilation channel
180 is created between the head portion 282 and the inner surface
of the inner lip 286.
[0075] The head portion 236 of the plank flashing 228 is noticeably
different from the head portion 158 illustrated above. As discussed
above, the head portion 236, however, provides many of the same
functionality of the head portion 158. For example, the head
portion 236, in cooperation with the mouth portion 242 in the
exterior member 238, facilitates the proper alignment of the plank
flashing 228 relative to the exterior member 238.
[0076] Additionally or alternatively, the head portion 236 in
cooperation with the mouth portion 242 and a suitable adhesive may
provide sufficient bonding strength between the plank flashing 228
and the exterior member 232 to not require additional fasteners.
The head portion 236 and the head portion 158 may be
interchangeable and are examples of the various couplings that may
be provided between the flashings and the exterior members. The
selection of a particular configuration for the head portion may
depend on the exterior member to which the flashing is being
connected and/or the preferences of the manufacturer or
installer.
[0077] The plank flashing 228 further comprises a flange extension
290. The flange extension 290 comprises an outwardly extended
portion of the plank flashing 228 thereby providing a plank channel
292 adapted to receive an end of the horizontal plank 116. The
flange extension 290 further provides protection to the channeled
end of the horizontal plank 116 as well as provides an aesthetic
shielding of any exposed fasteners 172.
[0078] The soffit flashing 230 is substantially similar to the
plank flashing 228, including an extension portion 232, a support
potion 234, and a head portion 236. The support portion 234 may
provide at least one of the features described above for the
support portion, including the creation of ventilation channels 180
and the coupling of the flashing 230 to the exterior member 100.
Additionally, the head portion 236 may provide the functionality
described above, including facilitating the coupling of the soffit
flashing to the exterior member.
[0079] As illustrated, the head portion 236 of the soffit flashing
230 is different from the head portion of the flashing associated
with the corner member 122 and the head portion of the plank
flashing 228. The head portion 236 of the soffit flashing 230
comprises a j-shape configured to compatibly engage an upper
portion 296 of the horizontal frieze 226. Specifically, the head
portion 236 of the soffit flashing 230 comprises a tab 298 for
engaging a groove 304 of the horizontal frieze 226. The groove 304
runs the entire length of the frieze 226 and is located towards the
upper end of the frieze. The head portion 236 of the soffit
flashing 230 is yet another example of the various head portion
configurations that are within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0080] The extension portion 232 of the soffit flashing 230, as
illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, may provide the features of the
extension portions previously described and may include one or more
additional features. As most clearly seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the
extension portion 232 includes a soffit channel 244 adapted to
receive an edge portion of a soffit member 128. In some
implementations, the soffit channel 244 may be adapted to help
control moisture. For example, as illustrated the soffit channel
244 includes a weather flap 294. The weather flap 294 comprises an
extended inner portion of the soffit channel 244 configured to
contact an upper side of a soffit member 128 upon insertion of the
soffit member 128 into the soffit channel 244. The weather flap 294
thereby maintains contact with the inserted soffit member 128 and
provides a downward force on the soffit member 128 thereby further
securing the soffit member 128 within the soffit channel 244.
[0081] Additionally or alternatively, the soffit channel 244 may be
adapted to facilitate ventilation within and among the soffit 128
and fascia elements (not shown). Additionally or alternatively, the
soffit channel 244 may be adapted to provide fluid communication
between one or more ventilation channels 180 and 240 associated
with the complementary member 120 and/or one or more ventilation
channels associated with other parts of the building 100.
Additionally or alternatively, the soffit channel 244 may be
adapted to facilitate the installation of the soffit members 128.
As illustrated, the soffit flashing 230 is disposed at the
uppermost region of the frieze board 224 when installed. The soffit
member 128 may be installed by sliding the rear edge of the soffit
member (i.e., the edge that will be disposed adjacent to the
building 100) into the soffit channel 244 and resting the rear
portion of the soffit member 128 on the upper side of the head
portion 236 of the soffit flashing 230 as illustrated.
[0082] Referring now to FIGS. 9 and 10, a frieze board 224 is shown
configured for cooperation with vertical planks 118. FIGS. 9 and 10
illustrate a cross-sectional view of a vertical frieze 246 at least
substantially similar to the horizontal frieze 226 illustrated in
FIG. 8 where like elements are indicated by the same reference
numbers. For purposes of description, the frieze board 224 of FIGS.
9 and 10 will be referred to as a vertical frieze 246, not because
it extends in a vertical direction but because it cooperates with
vertical planks 118. Vertical friezes 246 may be configured similar
to horizontal friezes 226 in many ways. For example, vertical
friezes 246 may be adapted to be the uppermost member of the
building exterior. Accordingly, vertical frieze 246 is shown
including a soffit flashing 230, which may be configured similar to
or identical to the soffit flashings used with horizontal friezes
226.
[0083] However, because the vertical frieze 246 is adapted to
cooperate with vertical planks 118, which may also be referred to
as "board and batten" or "plank and batten" siding, the lowermost
region may vary from the exemplary horizontal friezes shown in FIG.
8. As illustrated, the vertical frieze 246 includes a base flashing
248 adapted to engage the upper edge of the vertical planks 118.
The base flashing 248 may be provided in any suitable configuration
adapted to raise the lower region of the frieze to about the same
height as the upper region, which is raised from the building
substructure by the support portion of the soffit flashing 230. For
example, the base flashing 248 may include a head portion 306
comprising a support portion 234 similar to the previously
discussed support portion of the plank flashing 228 and soffit
flashing 230 members.
[0084] The base flashing 248 may be constructed of any suitable
material or combination of materials and may be coupled to the
exterior member 238 of the vertical frieze 246 in any suitable
manner. As illustrated, some configurations of suitable vertical
friezes 246 may be adapted to allow air flow from behind the
exterior member 238 to ventilation channels 180 associated with the
vertical planks 118.
[0085] The interaction of the vertical planks 118 and the base
flashing 248 is similar to the interaction of the horizontal planks
116 and the plank flashing 228. For example, the base flashing 248
comprises a flange extension 308 which defines a plank channel 310
for engaging an upper end of a vertical plank 118. The flange
extension 308 further provides protection to the channeled end of
the vertical plank 118 as well as provides an aesthetic shielding
of any exposed fasteners 172. The flange extension 308 is further
configured to provide a ventilation channel 180 as well as to
provide adequate space to accommodate an end portion of a batten
254 as illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0086] While the physical dimensions of the horizontal frieze 226
and the vertical frieze 246 are the same, the interaction of base
flashing 248 with the vertical frieze 246 is noticeably different
from the interaction of the horizontal frieze 226 and the plank
flashing 228. Of particular notice is the gutter 312 formed between
an upward extension 314 of the flange extension 308 and the outer
surface of the vertical frieze 246. As configured, the gutter 312
provides a channel for collecting water as well as provides an
aesthetic shielding of the outer lip 284. It will also be noted
that the base flashing 248 as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 is
configured without an extending head portion 282 as included with
the plank flashing 228 in FIG. 8. As illustrated, the absence of an
extended head portion 282 provides an additional ventilation
channel 180 thereby aiding in the overall ventilation of the
present lap siding system 112.
[0087] As configured in FIGS. 9 and 10, the vertical frieze 246 may
be installed prior to the vertical planks 118 and the vertical
planks 118 may be directed into a plank groove 310 at the bottom of
the base flashing 248 during installation of the vertical planks
118. Similarly, in some installations of horizontal planks 116, it
may be preferred to use a base flashing 248 in cooperation with a
frieze board 226 rather than the plank flashing 228 described in
connection with FIG. 8.
[0088] Referring now to FIG. 10, exemplary vertical planks 118 are
shown within a portion of the lap siding system 112. Vertical
planks 118 may be referred to as a "plank and batten" or "board and
batten" siding system. In FIG. 10, the board or plank 250 is
bordered on either side by a first and/or second batten 254, 256.
The illustration of FIG. 10 is representative and exemplary of
other vertical plank systems that are included in the present
disclosure. Some aspects regarding suitable boards 250 and battens
254, 256 were previously described in the present applicant's
co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/271,633, previously
incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, as illustrated, the
design of the outer surface 262 of the battens 254, 256 may vary
within the aesthetic scope of the current invention. For example,
in one embodiment batten 254 comprises a squared outer contour
while batten 256 comprises a rounded outer contour.
[0089] As seen in FIG. 10, the battens 254, 256 may be coupled to
the building substructure 100 by fasteners on at least one side
thereof. In one method of installation, a first batten 254 may be
fastened to the substructure 100 on one or both extensions 260 via
an appropriate fastener 172. A first board 256 may then be slid
into the plank channel 258 formed between the extension portion 260
of the first batten 254 and the exterior portion 262 of the first
batten. A second batten 264 may then be disposed in relation to the
other side of the first board 256. The second batten 264 may then
be coupled to the substructure 100 (not shown) with fasteners on
the still exposed extension portion 260, which in the illustrated
version is on the right-most edge of the illustrated boards and
battens. Subsequently, a second board 272 may be moved into place
relative to the second batten 256 and the installation process
would continue until the desired exterior of the building is
covered.
[0090] FIG. 10 further illustrates at least some of the ventilation
channels 180 that may be associated with vertical planks. As will
be seen, the ventilation channels 180 of the vertical planks 118
may be analogous to the ventilation channels described above in
connection with the horizontal planks 116. Moreover, while not
explicitly discussed herein, the ventilation channels 180 of the
vertical planks 118 may cooperate with the ventilation channels 180
of the various complementary trim members 120 described herein. For
example, the board 250 of the vertical planks 118 may be adapted to
cooperate with the plank channel 190 of the corner trim member
122.
[0091] FIG. 10 further illustrates a board ventilation channel 266
provided behind the boards 250. As illustrated, the board
ventilation channel 266 is thin, such as approximately the
thickness of the extension portion 260 and support portion 192 of
the battens 254, 256. In some embodiments, the board ventilation
channels 266 may be between about 0.1 cm thick and about 0.5 cm
thick. Additionally or alternatively, the battens 254, 256 may be
adapted to provide board ventilation channels 266 sufficiently
thick to avoid wicking moisture.
[0092] FIG. 10 further illustrates batten ventilation channels 268,
which may be similar to the complementary ventilation channels 218
described above. Similar to the complementary ventilation channels
218 described above, the batten ventilation channels 268 may
provide a ventilation channel between the upper ventilation
channels in the building 100 (not shown), such as ventilation
channels associated with the soffit and fascia elements, and the
ambient air and/or ventilation channels at the lower end of the
siding system 112. Accordingly, the batten ventilation channels 268
may facilitate air flow through and among the various board
ventilation channels 266 and other ventilation channels 180.
[0093] With continuing reference to FIG. 10, the battens 254, 256
are illustrated as including a board stop member 270 extending
inwardly from the exterior portion 262. Once the batten 254 and/or
256 is installed on a building, the board stop member 270 will
extend inwardly from the exterior portion 262 a distance short of
the distance between the exterior portion 262 and the flashing
portion 260. Accordingly, the board stop member 270 may be
configured to not interfere with the fluid communication between
the batten ventilation channels 268 and the board ventilation
channels 266. The board stop member 270 may be adapted to maintain
a predetermined spacing between the edge of the board 250 and the
internal framework of the battens 254, 256, thus maintaining a
batten ventilation channel 266 of a predetermined size.
[0094] The board stop member 270 illustrated is optional but may be
included to help ensure proper installation of the boards and
battens to preserve the ventilation channels. In addition to use of
the stop member 270 in conjunction with the battens 254, 256,
suitable board stop members may be provided and/or incorporated
into other members of the lap siding system 112. For example, the
flashing of the corner trim member 122 may be adapted to provide a
stop member configured to maintain the horizontal planks 114 a
predetermined distance away from the head and support portions of
the flashing, to thereby maintain a sufficiently-sized
complementary ventilation channel 180. Similar adaptations may be
made to the remaining flashings and relationships described herein
and are within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0095] FIG. 10 further illustrates an optional configuration
including an apron member 316 engaged with a lower region of the
plank 118 and batten 256 system via an apron flashing 318. As
illustrated, the apron member 316 comprises an upper portion 320
similarly configured to the upper portion 296 of the frieze member
224. Unlike the frieze member 224, the apron member 316 comprises a
blunt lower portion 322 configured to dress a lower region of a
building (not shown).
[0096] The apron flashing 318 may comprise any configuration
suitable to adjoin the apron member 316 to the remainder of the lap
siding system 112. As illustrated, the apron flashing comprises an
extension portion 232 and a support portion 234; each utilized
according to the prior discussion for attaching the apron flashing
318 to the building 100 (not shown) and providing ventilation
throughout the lap siding system 100. Additionally, the apron
flashing 318 comprises a plank channel 324 for compatibly receiving
a lower portion of the lap siding system 112 components.
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 10, the plank channel 324 is
configured to receive a plank 118 and a batten 256 in a combined
configuration.
[0097] The apron flashing 318 further comprises a head portion 326
similar to the head portion 236 of the soffit flashing 230. The
head portion 326 comprises a tap feature 328 adapted to compatibly
engage a groove 330 as formed on the outer surface of the upper
region 320 of the apron member 316. Other features of the head
portion 326 may include a gutter 312 for collecting and channeling
heavy moisture, as well as flange 332 for directing heavy moisture
away from the outer surface of the apron member 316.
[0098] While not specifically illustrated and discussed in the
present disclosure, the remaining complementary members 120,
including door trim members 124, window trim members 126, and other
members that may be used in connection with the lap siding systems
112 may include flashings and other components adapted to improve
the ventilation between the substructure of the building and the
various components that comprise the exterior shell of the
building.
[0099] For example, a trim clip (not shown) may be incorporated
into the lap siding system 112 to provide ventilation as well as
secure various complementary members 120 to the building 100. Use
of a trim clip within the present system 112 is accomplished so as
to eliminate the need for nails or other fasteners 172 to extend
through the exterior surface of the complementary member 120. For
example, a trim clip may be first attached to a building 100 with a
fastener 172 and thereafter be attached to a complementary member
120 by an adhesive or other fastener that is aesthetically pleasing
to the overall system 112.
[0100] Accordingly, and as introduced at the outset, the present
disclosure is directed toward lap siding systems including planks
and complementary members, at least one of which is adapted to
provide and/or increase the ventilation between the planks and/or
complementary members and the substructure of the building.
[0101] It is believed that the disclosure set forth above
encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility.
While each of these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred
form, the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated
herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous
variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions
includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations
of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties
disclosed herein. The principles of the present disclosure may be
embodied in other specific forms without departing from its
structures, methods, or other essential characteristics as broadly
described herein.
[0102] The described embodiments are to be considered in all
respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope of
the disclosure is, therefore, indicated by the appended numbered
paragraphs, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes
that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the
numbered paragraphs are to be embraced within their scope.
Similarly, where the description and/or the following numbered
paragraph recites "a" or "a first" element or the equivalent
thereof, such description should be understood to include
incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor
excluding two or more such elements.
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