Fascia Panel

Abstract

Abstract This invention relates to a fascia panel 10 for attachment to inclined rafters of a building. The fascia panel 10 includes an elongate fascia wall 20 having a plurality of ventilation apertures 50 extending therethrough. The fascia panel is preferably attached to the rafters by way of fascia brackets 1200. The invention also relates to a fascia panel system formed from a plurality of fascia panels 20 in combination with a plurality of fascia brackets 1200. Abstract 2021200672 03 Feb 2021 1 / 13 FIGURE 1 10 20 30 30 40 40 40 30 20 40 30 20 20 30 40 30 40 (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) (vi) (vii) 20 30A 30A 30A 30A 45 45 40A 40A 40A 50 60 50 60 45 70 50 60 50 60 70 20 21 20 06 72 0 3 Fe b 20 21 10 30 30 30A 20 D 30A 0 40A 60 70 45 45 40 30 30 20 20 40 60 40A 40 40 70 FIGURE 1

Description

FASCIA PANEL Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fascia panel, and more particularly, to a fascia panel that includes a plurality of apertures to facilitate an airflow for ventilating a roof structure. Background of Invention

[0002] Ventilation of a building has numerous benefits for both the building and its occupants. For example, the ventilation of a roof structure by the introduction of cooler ambient air from the outside can prevent the temperature within the roof structure space from rising to undesirable levels, which also reduces the cost of cooling the interior living or working space of the building below. In addition, increased ventilation in a roof structure tends to reduce the humidity within the roof structure, which can prolong the life of the lumber used in the building's framework and elsewhere by diminishing the incidence of mildew, mold and dry-rot. Such conditions, if left untreated, can prove to be detrimental to the health of any occupants residing within the building. Thus, ventilation promotes a healthier environment while helping to maintain the integrity of the building.

[0003] However, the options available for addressing poor ventilation in a building are often limited.

[0004] For instance, ventilation is typically supplied to the roof structure space either by means of providing continuous gaps or regular spaced vents around the roof structure, or through the use of mechanical roof ventilation exhaust systems.

[0005] In terms of mechanical roof ventilation exhaust systems, the use of turbine vents such as those sold commercially under the brand name, Whirlybird™, are often quite noisy devices, aesthetically unsightly and generally inefficient, particularly when there are only one or two such devices actually installed within the roof structure.

[0006] The alternative means of providing continuous gaps in the eaves or regular spaced vents around the roof structure are typically introduced at the time of designing the building, rather than something that can be introduced at a later date, without incurring significant cost.

[0007] In the case of vents, there are certain examples of where vents have been introduced into the soffit, or even into the fascia panel. However, such vents are often nothing more than mere perforations that are inadequately sized in terms of being able to achieve efficient ventilation for the roof structure space.

[0008] In addition, retro-installation of such vents in older buildings may disturb asbestos in the soffit lining, which creates an undesirable health hazard.

[0009] The present invention seeks to provide a fascia panel, which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0010] A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not to be taken as an admission that the document or matter was known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims. Summary of Invention

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a fascia panel for a building having an upright wall structure and a roof structure supported thereon, the roof structure having a plurality of inclined rafters extending outwardly of the wall structure, the fascia panel comprising: an elongate fascia wall having a plurality of ventilation apertures extending substantially therethrough, such that when the fascia panel is mounted to a terminal end of one or more of the rafters, the ventilation apertures allow air to pass substantially therethrough to ventilate a space enclosed by the roof structure.

[0012] In one embodiment, the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 500 mm? per lineal metre / run.

[0013] In one embodiment, the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 1000 mm?2 per lineal metre / run.

[0014] In one embodiment, the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 2500 mm? per lineal metre / run.

[0015] In one embodiment, the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 5000 mm? per lineal metre / run.

[0016] Suitably, the fascia wall is shaped to define an upper portion, a lower portion and a central portion disposed therebetween, wherein the plurality of ventilation apertures extend substantially through the central portion and / or the lower portion.

[0017] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of ventilation apertures takes the form of a generally circular or elliptical aperture.

[0018] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of ventilation apertures takes the form of a generally elongate slot.

[0019] In one embodiment, at least one of the plurality of ventilation apertures takes the form of a louver having an opening and a hood that partially overhangs the opening.

[0020] In one embodiment, the hood extends outwardly from an internally facing surface of the central portion and / or the lower portion of the fascia wall.

[0021] In one embodiment, the hood extends outwardly from an externally facing surface of the central portion and / or the lower portion of the fascia wall.

[0022] In one embodiment, the plurality of apertures are arranged in close proximity to each other to define a mesh.

[0023] In one embodiment, the central portion of the fascia wall is shaped to define an inwardly oriented portion, and wherein one or more of the plurality of ventilation apertures extend substantially through at least one wall portion of the inwardly oriented portion.

[0024] In one embodiment, the at least one wall portion of the inwardly oriented portion is oriented at an angle that falls within a range of between 95 degrees and 175 degrees relative to the central portion.

[0025] In one embodiment, the at least one wall portion of the inwardly oriented portion is oriented at an angle that falls within a range of between 100 degrees and 140 degrees relative to the central portion.

[0026] Preferably, the fascia panel is produced by roll-forming or pressing sheet metal or sheet metal alloy.

[0027] Suitably, the plurality of ventilation apertures are produced by pressing or punching the sheet metal or sheet metal alloy.

[0028] Preferably, the sheet metal is selected from the group consisting of steel, iron and aluminium.

[0029] In one embodiment, the sheet metal is coated or galvanised steel.

[0030] In one embodiment, the sheet metal is coated with zinc-aluminium or zinc- aluminium-magnesium alloy.

[0031] In one embodiment, the sheet metal alloy is brass.

[0032] In one embodiment, the fascia panel is produced by extrusion or injection moulding of an engineering plastic.

[0033] Preferably, the engineering plastic is selected from the group consisting of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0034] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a fascia panel system for a building having an upright wall structure and a roof structure supported thereon, the roof structure having a plurality of inclined rafters extending outwardly of the wall structure, the fascia system comprising: a plurality of fascia panels according to the first aspect; and a plurality of fascia brackets, each configured for mounting a corresponding one of the fascia panels to a terminal end of one of the rafters.

[0035] Preferably, the fascia bracket is configured at a first end thereof for engaging with each of an upper portion and a lower portion of the fascia wall.

[0036] Suitably, the fascia bracket is configured at an opposing second end thereof for mounting to the terminal end of the or each rafter.

[0037] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. Brief Description of Drawings

[0038] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0039] Figure 1 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 5 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 6 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 7 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 8 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 9 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 10 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 11 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 12 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view taken from below; (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of a fascia panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

[0051] Figure 13 shows (i) a rear perspective view (taken from the left), (ii) a rear perspective view, (iii) a rear perspective view (taken from the right), (iv) an end-on view (taken from the right) and (v) an end-on view (taken from the left) of the fascia panel of Figure 12 fitted with a fascia bracket (as shown in perspective views in (vi) and (vii)) for mounting said fascia panel to a structural roof element such as a rafter (not shown). Detailed Description

[0052] It is to be understood that the following description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting with respect to the description.

[0053] The present invention is predicated on the finding of an elongate fascia panel for use in capping the rafters of a roof structure, in which the fascia panel comprises a plurality of apertures that extend substantially through the fascia panel that are suitably configured to allow enough air to pass therethrough to ventilate the space enclosed by the roof structure. Advantageously, the plurality of apertures in their various shapes and sizes facilitate the necessary air volume intake, whilst providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance when viewed externally, all delivered within manufacturing practicalities.

[0054] For instance, the building regulatory guidelines in Australia at the time of filing this application, stipulate that for a high pitch roof structure having a roof pitch of typically 16 degrees to 22 degrees or more, there must be a continuous gap in the eaves (an area of the roof which overhangs the walls) of at least 10 mm around the perimeter of the roof to provide an adequate volume of air supply to the roof structure space for ventilation purposes. Lower pitch roof structures having a pitch of 16 degrees to 22 degrees or less require greater ventilation. A common building practice is to allow approximately four (4) eave vents per 90m? of roof area to allow adequate intake for a roof ventilation exhaust device such as the Whirlybird™.

[0055] With respect to the various embodiments of the present invention, the inventors have configured each fascia panel with a plurality of ventilation apertures having a total ventilation area of at least 500 mm? to 1000 mm? per lineal metre / run to ventilate the space enclosed by the roof structure, where small roof areas and / or low pitch rooves or in situations where reduced ventilation may be desirable for the overall energy consumption (heat and cooling) of a dwelling.

[0056] For larger roof areas and / or high pitch rooves, the inventors have configured each fascia panel with a plurality of ventilation apertures having a total ventilation area of at least 2500 mm? per lineal metre / run to ventilate the space enclosed by the roof structure, more preferably, at least 5000 mm? per lineal metre / run.

[0057] Advantageously, the plurality of apertures also serve to facilitate the evaporation / drying out of localised moisture / water that may have entered the roof structure space.

[0058] What now follows is a description of the general form of a fascia panel according to the various embodiments of the present invention, for use with a building having an upright wall structure and a roof structure supported thereon, in which the roof structure has a plurality of inclined rafters extending outwardly of the wall structure.

[0059] Fascia Panel

[0060] Briefly, the fascia panels take the form of a sheet metal member of a suitable thickness that has been roll-formed or otherwise shaped using appropriate equipment to define a fascia wall that may be either generally flat in appearance or may comprise one or more recessed portions distributed along a vertical length of the fascia wall at different intervals to provide a desirable aesthetic appearance.

[0061] As will be described in more detail below, all of the fascia panels comprise an elongate fascia wall having a plurality of ventilation apertures extending substantially therethrough, such that when the fascia panel is mounted to a terminal end of one or more of the inclined rafters of the roof structure (not shown), the ventilation apertures allow air to pass substantially therethrough to ventilate a space enclosed by the roof structure at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 500 mm? to 1000 mm? per lineal metre / run, where small roof areas and / or low pitch rooves or in situations where reduced ventilation may be desirable for the overall energy consumption (heat and cooling) of a dwelling. While for larger roof areas and / or high pitch rooves, the plurality of ventilation apertures allow air to pass substantially therethrough to ventilate a space enclosed by the roof structure at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 2500 mm? per lineal metre / run, more preferably, at least 5000 mm? per lineal metre / run.

[0062] To facilitate mounting of these fascia panels to the terminal end of one or more of the inclined rafter(s) of the roof structure, there is also described herein a fascia panel system, in which each of a plurality of the fascia panels is configured at upper and lower portions of the fascia wall thereof to engage with at least one of a plurality of fascia brackets, that are themselves configured for mounting to the terminal end of a corresponding one of the rafter(s).

[0063] Fascia Bracket

[0064] The inventors have found that good results can be obtained when a conventional fascia bracket (sold commercially under the name, Stramit™ Versatile Rafter Bracket).

[0065] What follows is a brief description of the features of the Stramit™ Versatile Rafter Bracket that enable the various embodiments of the fascia panel according to the present invention to be successfully mounted to the rafters of a roof structure.

[0066] As shown in Figure 13(vi)-(vii), the fascia bracket 1200 takes the form of plate metal that has been shaped at one end to define a generally square or trapezoidal shaped portion 1210 having one or more apertures extending substantially therethrough for use in mounting the fascia bracket 1200 to a longitudinal side facing surface of a rafter (not shown) by mechanical fasteners (not shown). It will be appreciated by skilled workers that the apertures can be formed by punching / pressing the fascia bracket 1200 using suitable equipment.

[0067] Disposed at an opposing end of the fascia bracket 1200 is an elongate fascia panel engaging portion 1220 that is oriented in the same plane as the generally square or trapezoidal shaped portion 1210 and is configured to engage a rear surface of the fascia wall in an end-on manner in use.

[0068] The elongate fascia panel engaging portion 1220 comprises portions that extend laterally either side of the lateral edges of the generally trapezoidal shaped portion 1210. The two laterally extending portions 1220A, 1220B are configured to engage with a corresponding one of the suitably configured upper and lower portions of the fascia wall, as will be described in more detail below.

[0069] The fascia panel engaging portion 1220 also comprises a pair of spaced apart flanges 1230A, 1230B that extend orthogonally from the rear surface engaging edge of the fascia panel engaging portion 1220. Each flange 1230A, 1230B comprises at least one aperture (not shown) extending substantially therethrough, configured for either receiving a mechanical fastener (not shown) that has been received through an aperture (not shown) extending substantially through the fascia wall of the fascia panel, or receiving a protrusion (not shown) that extends outwardly from a rear surface of the fascia wall.

[0070] What now follows is a detailed description of each of the various embodiments of the fascia panel according to the present invention.

[0071] Embodiment 1

[0072] Figure 1 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 10 according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] As shown in Figure 1, and as described above, the fascia panel 10 takes the form of sheet metal of suitable thickness that has been roll-formed or otherwise shaped using appropriate equipment to define a fascia wall 20 that comprises a plurality of generally shallow recessed portions distributed vertically along the length of the fascia wall 20 at differing intervals to provide a desirable aesthetic appearance.

[0074] Good results have been obtained when the sheet metal used is a galvanised or coated metal such as galvanised steel to protect against corrosion.

[0075] As shown in Figure 1(i)-(iv), the fascia wall 20 has been shaped to define an upper portion 30, an opposing lower portion 40, and a central portion disposed therebetween.

[0076] The upper portion 30 of the fascia wall 20 has been folded at a generally 70 to 90 degree angle relative to the remainder of the fascia wall 20. A terminal end portion of the folded upper portion 30 has itself been folded at a generally 30 to 60 degree angle relative to the remainder of the folded upper portion 30 to define a lip 30A for use in engaging a corresponding one of the two laterally extending portions 1220A of the fascia bracket 1200, as shown in Figure 13(i)-(v).

[0077] As shown in Figure 1(i)-(iv), The opposing lower portion 40 of the fascia wall 20 has been folded at a generally 80 to 90 degree angle relative to the remainder of the fascia wall 20. A portion of the folded lower portion 40 has itself been folded at a generally 80 to 90 degree angle relative to the remainder of the folded lower portion 40 to define a generally rectangular-shaped channel 45. A terminal end portion of this additional folded lower portion 40 is then folded inwardly toward the channel 45 and then folded back on itself to define a hook 40A for use in engaging with a corresponding one of the two laterally extending portions 1220B of the fascia bracket 1200, as shown in Figure 13(i)-(v).

[0078] Mounting

[0079] In order to mount the fascia panel 10 to a roof structure, fascia brackets 1200 are first mounted to the ends of one or more rafters of the roof structure using mechanical fasteners via the apertures extending though the generally trapezoidal shaped portion 1210. Once mounted, the fascia engaging portion 1220 of each fascia bracket 1200 is then presented for use in mounting the fascia panel 10 thereto. This can be achieved by simply sliding the fascia panel 10 over the fascia engaging portion 1220 of the fascia brackets 1200 so that the lip 30A of the upper portion 30 and the channel 45 of the lower portion 40 of the fascia wall 20 engage with a corresponding one of the two laterally extending portions 1220A, 1220B of the fascia engaging portion 1220, as shown in Figure 13(i)-(v).

[0080] Once engaged, the two flanges 1230A, 1230B of each fascia bracket 1200 abut a rear surface of the fascia wall 20 of the fascia panel 10 so that the fascia panel 10 can be secured in place by passing mechanical fasteners (not shown) through apertures (not shown) extending through each of the flanges 1230A, 1230B and apertures (not shown) extending through the fascia wall 20 when substantially aligned.

[0081] Ventilation Apertures

[0082] As shown in Figure 1 (i), (iii)-(iv) and (vi), the central portion of the fascia wall 20 comprises a plurality of generally triangular shaped ventilation apertures (hereinafter given the general reference numeral, 50) of alternating orientation distributed across the length of the fascia wall 20 in spaced apart arrangement, at a lower end thereof.

[0083] As shown in Figure 1(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vi), there is formed, just beneath the triangular shaped apertures 50, a plurality of generally circular or elliptical ventilation apertures (hereinafter given the general reference numeral, 60) also distributed across the length of the fascia wall 20 in spaced apart arrangement.

[0084] Lastly, as shown in Figure 1(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vi)-(vii), there is a further set of generally circular or elliptical ventilation apertures (hereinafter given the general reference numeral, 70) formed in a staggered arrangement along the length of the channel 45 formed by the folded lower portion 40 of the fascia wall 20.

[0085] It will be appreciated by skilled workers that all of these ventilation apertures 50, 60, 70 can be formed by punching / pressing the fascia wall 20 using suitable equipment during manufacture.

[0086] As described above, the number and size of these ventilation apertures 50, 60, 70 relative to the length of the fascia panel 10 dictates the volume of intake air that can legitimately flow through the apertures 50, 60, 70 into the space enclosed by the roof structure for ventilation purposes.

[0087] In this embodiment, the inventors have configured the fascia panel 10 so that the plurality of triangular and circular or elliptical ventilation apertures 50, 60, 70 have a combined ventilation area of at least 5,000 mm? per lineal metre / run of the fascia panel 10, so as to comply with the current Australian building regulations.

[0088] Now that the configuration of the fascia panel 10 of the first embodiment has been fully described, the following provides a description of a number of other embodiments of the present invention that have more or less the basic configuration as the fascia panel 10, but have been configured with a plurality of apertures, slots, louvers, or a mixture thereof, in order to comply with the current Australian building regulations for ventilation purposes.

[0089] In each of the following embodiments, the reference numerals used for the fascia panel, and for the fascia wall, the upper portion of the fascia wall and the lip formed by folding the upper portion, the lower portion of the fascia wall and the channel and hook formed by folding the lower portion, associated with the fascia panel, will conform to the reference numerals used in respect of the fascia panel 10 of the first embodiment, albeit with an additional numeral prefix corresponding to the numbering of the associated fascia panel.

[0090] Importantly, the inventors have configured the fascia panels of the following embodiments so that the plurality of apertures, slots, louvers, or a mixture thereof, have a combined ventilation area of at least 2,500 mm? per lineal metre / run of the fascia panel, so as to comply with the current Australian building regulations.

[0091] Embodiment 2

[0092] Figure 2 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 100 according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] As shown in Figure 2(i), (iii)}-(iv) and (vi), the fascia panel 100 comprises a plurality of generally elongate ventilation slots oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 100 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 120 of the fascia panel 100.

[0094] A first set of ventilation slots 150 formed in two rows is positioned generally halfway down the fascia wall 120. The positioning of these slots 150 is to ensure that if a gutter (not shown) is mounted in proximity to the fascia panel 100, the rear wall of the gutter does not impede airflow through these slots 150.

[0095] And, a second set of ventilation slots 160 formed in three rows is located towards a lower end of the fascia wall 120.

[0096] As shown in Figure 2(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of ventilation slots 170 formed in two rows distributed along the length of a channel 145 formed by a folded lower portion 140 of the fascia wall 120.

[0097] Lastly, as shown in Figure 2(i) and (iii)-(iv), there is a final set of ventilation slots 170 formed in a single row distributed along the length of the rear facing wall of the channel 145 formed by the folded lower portion 140 of the fascia wall 120.

[0098] Embodiment 3

[0099] Figure 3 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 200 according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] As shown in Figure 3(i), (iii)}-(iv) and (vi), the fascia panel 200 comprises a plurality of generally circular or elliptical ventilation apertures 250 distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 220 of the fascia panel 200, at a lower end thereof.

[0101] In this embodiment, the ventilation apertures 250 take the form of a conical countersink with a generally rectangular vane oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 200 that extends across the countersink and acts to preclude insects or debris passing through the ventilation apertures 250 into the roof structure enclosure.

[0102] Embodiment 4

[0103] Figure 4 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (ili) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 300 according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] In this embodiment, and in addition to the recessed portions described above, a fascia wall 320 of the fascia panel 300 has been shaped at a central portion thereof to provide two additional recessed portions 320A, 320B, each defined by a generally sloping upper wall portion, and a generally horizontal lower wall portion.

[0105] As shown in Figure 4(i) and (iii), the lower wall portion in each recessed portion 320A, 320B comprises a plurality of generally elongate ventilation slots 350, 360 extending substantially therethrough. These ventilation slots 350, 360 are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 300 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of the lower wall portion.

[0106] In one embodiment, the generally horizontal lower wall portion of each of the two recessed portions 320A, 320B is oriented at an angle that falls within a range of between 95 degrees and 175 degrees relative to the central portion of the fascia wall 320, and more preferably between 100 degrees and 140 degrees relative to the central portion.

[0107] It will be appreciated by skilled workers, that when the fascia panel 300 is mounted to the terminal end of one or more rafters of a roof structure via the use of fascia brackets 1200, the two recessed portions 320A, 320B will extend inwardly with respect to the rest of the central portion, where the height of the mounted fascia panel 300 is such that the two sets of ventilation slots 350, 360 are not visible when viewed from ground level, thereby providing a desirable aesthetic appearance.

[0108] Lastly, as shown in Figure 4(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of ventilation slots 370 formed as two rows distributed along the length of a channel 345 formed by the folded lower portion 340 of the fascia wall 320.

[0109] Embodiment5

[0110] Figure 5 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 400 according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] As shown in Figure 5(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vi), a fascia wall 420 of the fascia panel 400 comprises a plurality of apertures arranged in close proximity to each other so as to form a ventilation mesh 450 along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 420 of the fascia panel 400, at a lower end thereof.

[0112] In this embodiment, it will be appreciated by skilled workers that the ventilation mesh 450 acts to preclude insects or debris passing through the apertures of the ventilation mesh 450 into the roof structure enclosure.

[0113] In addition, as shown in Figure 5(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of apertures arranged in the form of another ventilation mesh 460 along the length of a channel 445 formed by the folded lower portion 440 of the fascia wall 420.

[0114] Embodiment 6

[0115] Figure 6 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vil) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 500 according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] Similar to the fifth embodiment, Figure 6(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vi) shows that a fascia wall 520 of the fascia panel 500 comprises a plurality of apertures arranged in close proximity to each other so as to form a ventilation mesh 550 along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 520, at a lower end thereof.

[0117] In addition, as shown in Figure 6(i), (iii)-(iv), there is another set of multiple apertures arranged in close proximity to each other so as to form a second ventilation mesh 560 distributed along the length of the rear facing wall of a channel 545 formed by the folded lower portion 540 of the fascia wall 520.

[0118] Also, as shown in Figure 6(i), (iii)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of apertures arranged in the form of a ventilation mesh 570 along the length of the channel 545 formed by the folded lower portion 540 of the fascia wall 520.

[0119] Embodiment 7

[0120] Figure 7 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 600 according to a seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] As shown in Figure 7(i)-(iv) and (vi), a fascia wall 620 of the fascia panel 600 comprises a first row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 650 that comprise an opening and a hood portion that partially overhands the opening. The plurality of ventilation louvers 650 are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 600 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of the fascia wall 620.

[0122] A second row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 660 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 600 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 620, at a lower end thereof.

[0123] In this embodiment, and as shown particularly in Figure 7(ii), the hood portion of each ventilation louver 650, 660 extends outwardly from a rear face of the fascia wall 620 and is oriented vertically relative to the fascia wall 620 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 650, 660 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0124] Lastly, as shown in Figure 7(i) and (iii)-(iv), there is a plurality of apertures arranged in the form of a ventilation mesh 670 distributed along the length of the rear facing wall of a channel 645 formed by the folded lower portion 640 of the fascia wall 620.

[0125] In this embodiment, the ventilation mesh 670 acts to provide localised ventilation for drying of entrapped moisture, as well as contributing to the overall ventilation airflow.

[0126] Embodiment 8

[0127] Figure 8 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 700 according to an eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Similar to the seventh embodiment, Figure 8(i)-(iv) and (vi) shows that a fascia wall 720 of the fascia panel 700 comprises a first row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 750 oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 700 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 720.

[0129] And a second row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 760 is oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 700 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of the central portion of the fascia wall 720, at a lower end thereof.

[0130] Again, and as shown particularly in Figure 8(ii), the hood portion of each ventilation louver 750, 760 extends outwardly from a rear face of the fascia wall 720 and is oriented vertically relative to the fascia wall 720 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 750, 760 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0131] In addition, as shown in Figure 8(iv), there is a further set of generally elongate ventilation slots 770 distributed along the length of the rear facing wall of a channel 745 formed by the folded lower portion 740 of the fascia wall 720.

[0132] Lastly, as shown in Figure 8(i), (iii)}-(iv) and (vii), the fascia panel 700 comprises a set of generally circular or elliptical ventilation apertures 780 formed in a staggered arrangement along the length of the channel 745 formed by the folded lower portion 740 of the fascia wall 720.

[0133] Embodiment 9

[0134] Figure 9 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 800 according to a ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Similar to the seventh and eighth embodiments, Figure 9(i)-(iv) and (vi) shows that a fascia wall 820 of the fascia panel 800 comprises a first row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 850 that comprise an opening and a hood portion that partially overhands the opening. The plurality of ventilation louvers 850 are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 800 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 820.

[0136] And a second row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 860 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 800 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of the central portion of the fascia wall 820, at a lower end thereof.

[0137] Again, and as shown particularly in Figure 9(ii), the hood portion of each ventilation louver 850, 860 extends outwardly from a rear face of the fascia wall 820 and is oriented vertically relative to the fascia wall 820 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 850, 860 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0138] In addition, as shown in Figure 9(i)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 870 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are distributed along the length of a channel 845 formed by the folded lower portion 840 of the fascia wall 820.

[0139] In this embodiment, the hood portion of each of these ventilation louvers 870 extends upwardly from a base of the channel 845 and is oriented toward a front face of the fascia wall 820 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 870 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0140] From an aesthetic perspective, the upward facing hood portions of the ventilation louvers 870 provides a neat, more aesthetically pleasing profile.

[0141] Embodiment 10

[0142] Figure 10 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 900 according to a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Similar to the ninth embodiment, Figure 10(i)-(iv) and (vi) shows that a fascia wall 920 of the fascia panel 900 also comprises a first row of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 950 that comprise an opening and a hood portion that partially overhands the opening. The plurality of ventilation louvers 950 are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 900 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 920.

[0144] And a second row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 960 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 900 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of the central portion of the fascia wall 920, at a lower end thereof.

[0145] Again, and as shown particularly in Figure 10(ii), the hood portion of each ventilation louver 950, 960 extends outwardly from a rear face of the fascia wall 920 and is oriented vertically relative to the fascia wall 920 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 950, 960 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0146] In addition, as shown in Figure 10(i)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 970 distributed along the length of a channel 945 formed by the folded lower portion 940 of the fascia wall 920.

[0147] In this embodiment, the hood portion of each of these ventilation louvers 970 extends upwardly from a base of the channel 945 and is oriented toward a rear face of the fascia wall 920 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 970 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0148] Embodiment 11

[0149] Figure 11 shows (i) a front perspective view, (ii) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vil) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 1000 according to an eleventh preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] Figure 11(i)-(iv) and (vi) shows that a fascia wall 1020 of the fascia panel 1000 comprises a single row of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 1050 that comprise an opening and a hood portion that partially overhands the opening. The plurality of ventilation louvers 1050 are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 1000 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 1020.

[0151] Again, and as shown particularly in Figure 11(ii), the hood portion of each ventilation louver 1050 extends outwardly from a rear face of the fascia wall 1020 and is oriented vertically relative to the fascia wall 1020 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 1050 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0152] In addition, as shown in Figure 11(i)-(iv) and (vii), there is a further set of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 1060 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are distributed along the length of a channel 1045 formed by the folded lower portion 1040 of the fascia wall 1020.

[0153] In this embodiment, the hood portion of each ventilation louver 1060 extends upwardly from a base of the channel 1045 and is oriented toward a rear face of the fascia wall 1020 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 1060 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0154] Embodiment 12

[0155] Figure 12 shows (i) a front perspective view, (li) an end-on view, (iii) a front perspective view (taken from below); (iv) a rear perspective view, (v) a top view, (vi) a front view and (vii) a bottom view of an elongate fascia panel 1100 according to a twelfth preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0156] Similar to the ninth and tenth embodiments, Figure 12(i)-(vii) shows that a fascia wall 1120 of the fascia panel 1100 comprises a single row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 1150 1050 that comprise an opening and a hood portion that partially overhands the opening. The plurality of ventilation louvers 1150 are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 1100 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of a central portion of the fascia wall 1120.

[0157] And a second row of a plurality of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 1160 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are oriented to align with a longitudinal axis of the fascia panel 1100 and distributed in spaced apart arrangement along the length of the central portion of the fascia wall 1120, at a lower end thereof.

[0158] In this embodiment, the hood portion of each ventilation louver 1150, 1160 extends outwardly from a front face of the fascia wall 1120. However, the hood portion is still oriented vertically relative to the fascia wall 1120 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 1150, 1160 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0159] In addition, as shown in Figure 12(i)-(iv) (vi) and (vii), there is a further set of generally elongate punched or pressed ventilation louvers 1170 with an opening and partially overhanging hood portion are distributed along the length of a channel 1145 formed by the folded lower portion 1140 of the fascia wall 1120.

[0160] In this embodiment, the hood portion of each ventilation louver 1170 extends outwardly from a base of the channel 1145 and is oriented toward the front face of the fascia wall 1120 to direct any intake air that passes through an opening of the ventilation louvers 1170 upwards into the roof structure space.

[0161] Advantages

[0162] The fascia panels according to the various embodiments of the present invention disclosed herein, provide a number of benefits, including, but not limited to:

[0163] 1. An increased ventilation to the roof structure space, which has the desirable outcome of reducing the humidity within the roof space, which will ultimately preserve the lifetime of the structural components of the roof by limiting the occurrence of mildew, mold and dry-rot;

[0164] 2. Can be retrofitted to older buildings without needing to replace or modify the soffit lining around the perimeter of the roof structure, thereby reducing the likelihood of disturbing any asbestos that might be present in the soffit lining;

[0165] 3. Precludes the need to use mechanical roof ventilation exhaust systems that are noisy, aesthetically unsightly and generally inefficient; and

[0166] 4. Aesthetically pleasing designs.

[0167] Other Embodiments

[0168] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the relevant art, that the various fascia panel embodiments described herein are not limited to being manufactured from roll-formed or pressed galvanised steel, as described above, but may be manufactured from other materials that are used within the industry.

[0169] For instance, in other embodiments, the fascia panels may be manufactured from a sheet metal selected from the group consisting of aluminium and iron or a sheet metal alloy such as brass. In one example, the fascia panel may be manufactured from sheet steel coated with an aluminium-zinc coating (such as that sold commercially under the name, Zincalume™ Steel) to also protect against corrosion.

[0170] Alternatively, the fascia panel may be produced from an engineering plastic by extrusion or injection moulding.

[0171] For instance, in other embodiments, the fascia panel may be manufactured using an engineering plastic selected from the group consisting of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

[0172] Definitions

[0173] Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example, a temperature range, a time range, or concentration range, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual values included in the ranges given are intended to be included in the disclosure. It will be understood that any subranges or individual values in a range or subrange that are included in the description herein can be excluded from the claims herein.

[0174] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0175] Throughout this application, the term “about” is used to indicate that a value includes the inherent variation of error for the device, the method being employed to determine the value, or the variation that exists among the study subjects.

[0176] The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

[0177] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B", when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0178] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," “outer,” “beneath,” "below," "lower," “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the Figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures.

[0179] While the invention has been described in conjunction with a limited number of embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that many alternatives, modifications and variations in light of the foregoing description are possible. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as may fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as disclosed.

[0180] Where the terms "comprise", "comprises", "comprised" or "comprising" are used in this specification (including the provisional claims) they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but not precluding the presence of one or more other features, integers, steps or components, or group thereof.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A fascia panel for a building having an upright wall structure and a roof structure supported thereon, the roof structure having a plurality of inclined rafters extending outwardly of the wall structure, the fascia panel comprising: an elongate fascia wall having a plurality of ventilation apertures extending substantially therethrough, such that when the fascia panel is mounted to a terminal end of one or more of the rafters, the ventilation apertures allow air to pass substantially therethrough to ventilate a space enclosed by the roof structure.

2. A fascia panel according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 500 mm? per lineal metre / run.

3. A fascia panel according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 1000 mm? per lineal metre / run.

4. A fascia panel according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 2500 mm? per lineal metre / run.

5. A fascia panel according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation apertures are configured to allow the roof structure space to be ventilated at a vent area per lineal metre of at least 5000 mm? per lineal metre / run.

6. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the fascia wall is shaped to define an upper portion, a lower portion and a central portion disposed therebetween, wherein the plurality of ventilation apertures extend substantially through the central portion and / or the lower portion. 7- A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one of the plurality of ventilation apertures takes the form of a generally circular or elliptical aperture.

8. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one of the plurality of ventilation apertures takes the form of a generally elongate slot.

9. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one of the plurality of ventilation apertures takes the form of a louver having an opening and a hood that partially overhangs the opening.

10. A fascia panel according to claim 9, wherein the hood extends outwardly from an internally facing surface of the central portion and / or the lower portion of the fascia wall.

11. A fascia panel according to claim 9, wherein the hood extends outwardly from an externally facing surface of the central portion and / or the lower portion of the fascia wall.

12. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of apertures are arranged in close proximity to each other to define a mesh.

13. Afascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the central portion of the fascia wall is shaped to define an inwardly oriented portion, and wherein one or more of the plurality of ventilation apertures extend substantially through at least one wall portion of the inwardly oriented portion.

14. Afascia panel according to claim 13, wherein the at least one wall portion of the inwardly oriented portion is oriented at an angle that falls within a range of between 95 degrees and 175 degrees relative to the central portion.

15. Afascia panel according to claim 13, wherein the at least one wall portion of the inwardly oriented portion is oriented at an angle that falls within a range of between 100 degrees and 140 degrees relative to the central portion.

16. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the fascia panel is produced by roll-forming or pressing sheet metal or sheet metal alloy.

17. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the plurality of ventilation apertures are produced by pressing or punching the sheet metal or sheet metal alloy.

18. A fascia panel according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the sheet metal is selected from the group consisting of steel, iron and aluminium.

19. Afascia panel according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the sheet metal is coated or galvanised steel.

20. Afascia panel according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the sheet metal is coated with zinc-aluminium or zinc-aluminium-magnesium alloy.

21. A fascia panel according to claim 16, wherein the sheet metal alloy is brass.

22. A fascia panel according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the fascia panel is produced by extrusion or injection moulding of an engineering plastic.

23. A fascia panel according to claim 22, wherein the engineering plastic is selected from the group consisting of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

24. A fascia panel system for a building having an upright wall structure and a roof structure supported thereon, the roof structure having a plurality of inclined rafters extending outwardly of the wall structure, the fascia system comprising: a plurality of fascia panels according to any one of claims 1 to 23; and a plurality of fascia brackets, each configured for mounting a corresponding one of the fascia panels to a terminal end of one of the rafters.

25. A fascia panel system according to claim 24, wherein the fascia bracket is configured at a first end thereof for engaging with each of an upper portion and a lower portion of the fascia wall.

26. A fascia panel system according to claim 25, wherein the fascia bracket is configured at an opposing second end thereof for mounting to the terminal end of the or each rafter.

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