Snow fence element, arrangement and method

Abstract

A snow fence element, a snow fence arrangement, and a method of mounting a snow fence arrangement on a cladding of a building. The snow fence element (2) is an elongated piece made of sheet material and comprises two branches (15, 17) facing away from a middle part (13) into opposite lateral directions. The fence element is mounted to a roof cladding (4) by means of fastening devices (3) comprising fastening surfaces (24) against which the middle part is mountable, and support surfaces (25) against which a lower branch (17) can be supported.

Description

Background of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a snow fence element mountable on a roof for preventing skidding of snow and ice on a surface of a roofing of a building.

[0002] The invention further relates to a snow fence arrangement for serving as a roof safety guard, and also to a method for mounting a snow fence arrangement on a cladding of a building.

[0003] The field of the invention is defined more specifically in the preambles of the independent claims.

[0004] Different kind of snow guards are used to prevent dangerous situations caused by snow and ice falling from roofs of buildings. There are for example snow guards comprising two parallel pipes arranged between fastening elements. In some alternative snow guard solutions there are elongated snow fence elements made of sheet material and arranged transversely on a roof cladding. However, the present solutions have shown to contain some disadvantages.Brief description of the invention

[0005] An object of the invention is to provide a novel and improved snow fence element, and also to provide an arrangement and method for providing a roof safety guard on a cladding of a building.

[0006] The snow fence element according to the invention is characterized by the characterizing features of the first independent apparatus claim.

[0007] The arrangement according to the invention is characterized by the characterizing features of the second independent apparatus claim.

[0008] The method according to the invention is characterized by the characterizing features of the independent method claim.

[0009] An idea of the disclosed solution is to provide a snow fence element which is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material and having a cross-section comprising a middle part with longitudinal side surfaces. There is also a transverse first branch joining a first end of the middle part with a first bend and a transverse second branch joining a second end of the middle part with a second bend. Further, the first and second branches are located on opposite side surfaces of the middle part.

[0010] In other words, the cross-section profile of the element comprises two branches which are directed away from the middle part into opposite lateral directions with the same or differing angular orientation.

[0011] It can be considered that the basic structure comprising the middle, or central part, and the opposingly directed branches resembles letter Z with the exception that the middle part is not slanted.

[0012] An advantage of the disclosed solution is that two elements with the disclosed profile can easily be placed to overlap each other, whereby an overlapping joint can be made between two elements without a need to cut the elements into desired lengths for the joint. In other words, lengths of the overlapping elements at the overlapping joint can be selected freely.

[0013] Also, the snow fence element can be manufactured without a specific joint section. In other words, the product can be identical without an area or section designed for longitudinal extension.This applies to both distal ends of the snow fence element.

[0014] The overlapping joining is facilitated by the branches directed into opposite directions in relation to the middle part. In case the first and second branches were directed into the same direction no proper overlapping could be reached without providing deformation to angles of the joined fence elements.

[0015] In case the branches were directed to the same side of the middle part, the angles of the branches would have to be so wide that the structural rigidity and resistance against bending would then diminish.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the fence element is one-piece structure.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the fence element is made of relatively narrow strip of steel material.

[0018] According to an embodiment, maximum overall height of the cross-section of the element is 200 mm.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the fence element is made by means of sheet metal techniques implementing bending, cutting and punching.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of the middle part of the fence element comprises straight side surfaces. Thus, the middle part has simple configuration which is easy to manufacture and allows for good stack ability of the elements. Improved stack ability properties means improved logistics.

[0021] According to an embodiment, there is a first obtuse angle between the first branch and a first side surface of the middle part, and a second obtuse angle between the second branch and a second side surface of the middle part. In other words, orientations of the first and second branches are provided with angle measures being greater than 90° and less than 180°, and preferably 95 - 120°. An advantage of the obtuse angle is that the first and second branches have open configuration when the fence element is seen from its sides. The open configuration facilitates overlapping of two longitudinally joining fence elements when mounting them, and also facilitates stacking of the fence elements during handling, transport and storage of several fence elements.

[0022] According to an embodiment, magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles are equal. In other words, the branches are facing away from the middle part in same orientation angle.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the magnitudes of the obtuse angles are 95° - 120°.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the magnitudes of the obtuse angles are 100°.

[0025] According to an alternative embodiment, magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles are different.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of the fence element comprises a stiffening bend at a distal end of the first branch. In other words, a free end portion of the first branch is provided with an additional bend for stiffening the structure. At the stiffening bend material of the first branch is turned backwards whereby there is a relatively short stiffening part having deviant orientation.

[0027] According to an embodiment, length of the stiffening part is less than one fourth of the length of the first branch.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the stiffening part is facing on the same side surface side of the middle part as the second branch and there is an acute angle between the first branch and the stiffening part. An advantage of the stiffening bend is that the load caused by the snow i.e., snow load cannot easily deform the fence element.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of the fence element comprises a stopper part joining a distal end of the second branch by means of a third bend. The stopper part is orientated to increase overall height of the fence element in the direction defined by orientation of the middle part. In other words, an outermost end of the stopper part forms an outermost edge of the fence element in one of the height directions.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the stopper part is angularly orientated in relation to the middle part and thereby increases dimensions of the fence element in a transverse direction. In other words, the outermost edge of the stopper part is located at a greater transverse distance from the side surface of the middle part than the third bend which is jointing the second branch and the stopper part. An advantage is that the stopper part can be installed to the vicinity of a gutter. This leaves less free space for snow or ice in the vicinity of the gutter, which could fall of the roof.

[0031] According to an embodiment, a free longitudinal edge of the stopper part is toothed. In other words, the toothed edge is intended to be faced towards the outer surface of the roofing and allow water to pass through gaps between the teeth and to implement the teeth to prevent thin ice layers to pass the stopper part. Further, water can run also between gaps between tips of the teeth and the roof cladding, since typically the teeth are not in contact with the roof cladding. A further advantage of the toothing is that the teeth may be configured to follow the roof contour and may be designed in a way that the teeth may be manually deformed so that they do not touch the roof surface.

[0032] The toothed fence element can serve as a kind of a snow rake effectively preventing snow and ice from falling under the snow guard.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the middle part is provided with several successive decorative openings arranged on longitudinal central axis of the fence element. In other words, the middle part comprises a plurality of openings providing the fence element with attractive appearance. Further, the decorative openings facilitate handling of the fence elements since fingers can penetrate through the openings when carrying and mounting the fence elements. The decorative openings can also decrease weight of the fence elements and thereby improve the handling and mounting measures.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the decorative openings are provided with a shape of a diamond pattern. This way a unique appearance can be provided. The diamond shape is also relatively wide at its middle part and allows thereby good gripping by means of fingers passing through the diamond patterns.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the middle part is provided with a plurality of successive fastening openings arranged to at least one continuous row extending longitudinally from end to end of the fence element. In other words, the middle part comprises one or more continuous strings of fastening holes. An advantage of the continuous row of the fastening holes is that when two fence elements are arranged to overlap, then the fastening holes of the overlapping fence elements are easy to arrange to match with each other so that mounting to the fastening device and to each other is easy to execute.

[0036] According to an embodiment, there are several successive fastening openings in two rows and a central row of several successive decorative openings is located between the two rows of the fastening openings.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the fastening holes are oblong holes, which also facilitates mounting of the fence elements to the fastening devices and also facilitates joining of two fence elements.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the disclosed solution relates also to a snow fence arrangement for serving as a roof safety guard. The arrangement comprises at least one elongated snow fence element and at least two fastening devices for mounting the at least one fence element transversely on a roof cladding of a building. The fence element is in accordance with the features and embodiments disclosed in this document. The fastening devices comprise fastening surfaces against which the middle part of the snow fence element is fastened. The fastening devices further comprise support surfaces being transversely orientated in relation to the fastening surfaces and wherein angle of orientation of the support surfaces corresponds to bending angle of the second branch of the fence element whereby a bottom surface of the second branch is supported against upper surfaces of the support surfaces. In other words, the second branch of the element can be placed against the support surfaces of the fastening devices to facilitate mounting of the fence element. The support surfaces can hold the fence element during the mounting and can define correct mounting height for the fence element. Thus, the support surfaces facilitate and quicken the mounting of the fence element. A further advantage of the arrangement is that when the snow fence element is installed accordingly, the first bend directs rainwater down to the second bend washing any dust / dirt away and keeping the element clean. In other words, when installed in this way, the first bend does not prevent rainwater from washing the snow fence element.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the second branch joining a lower end of the middle part of the cross-section of the fence element is sloping towards an eave of the roof. This way the lower second branch and the stopping part jointing the second branch reach towards the eave, and they decrease thereby the distance between the fence element and the end of the roofing, whereby the amount of non-secured snow and ice below the fence element can be decreased and safety improved.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the first branch joining an upper end of the middle part of the cross-section of the fence element is sloping towards a top of the roof. This way the first branch can prevent snow and ice skidding over the fence element. The first branch increases the overall height of the fence element, and the sloping first branch serves as an effective stopper surface.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the fence element is arranged perpendicularly in relation to sloping direction of the roofing i.e., the middle part is perpendicular to the roof cladding.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the roof cladding comprises standing seams and the fastening devices are mounted to the standing seams.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the fastening device comprises a bracket which is single-piece element made of plate-like metal material.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the disclosed solution relates also to a method of mounting a snow fence arrangement on a cladding of a building. The method comprises: fastening at least two fastening devices to a structure of the cladding and at a distance from each other; and mounting at least one fence element to plate-like brackets of the at least two fastening devices. The method further comprises: using the fence element which is in accordance with the features and embodiments disclosed in this document; fastening the middle portion of the fence element against fastening surfaces of the brackets; and supporting the second branch of the fence element by means of slanting support surfaces of the brackets.

[0045] The above disclosed embodiments may be combined in order to form suitable solutions having those of the above features that are needed.Brief description of the figures

[0046] Some embodiments are described in more detail in the accompanying drawings, in which Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a snow fence arrangement mounted on a roof cladding, Figure 2 is a schematic side view of a snow fence element, Figure 3 is a schematic view of a cross-sectional profile of a snow fence element, Figure 4 is a schematic view of a snow fence arrangement mounted on a roof cladding and seen from gutter side of a roof and Figure 5 is a schematic detail of a joint between two fence elements, Figures 6 and 7 are schematic views of the structures disclosed in Figures 4 and 5 seen from opposite side, and Figure 8 is a schematic view of a fastening device for mounting a snow fence element.

[0047] For the sake of clarity, the figures show some embodiments of the disclosed solution in a simplified manner. In the figures, like reference numerals identify like elements.Detailed description of some embodiments

[0048] Figure 1 discloses a snow fence arrangement 1 comprising a snow fence element 2 mounted to a fastening device 3. The fence element 2 is mounted transversally in relation to a roof cladding 4. The fence element 2 may be fastened to the fastening device 3 by means of fastening screws 5, for example. The fastening device 3 may be mounted to a standing seam 6 of the roof cladding 4 and fastening elements 7 of the fastening device 3 may comprise screw mounting and shape locking principles, for example. The fastening device may comprise a bracket 8 which is single-piece element made of plate-like metal material. The bracket 8 may comprise an opening 9 which can serve as carry handle and can facilitate handling of several brackets during mounting operations.

[0049] Figure 2 discloses a fence element 2 which is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material and which is a one-piece structure. A lowermost longitudinal edge of the fence element 2 comprises several teeth 10 whereby the fence element 2 is a kind of a snow rake which can effectively prevent snow and ice from falling under it. If needed, the teeth 10 can also be easily deformed to match with shapes of a roof cladding. At a middle part of the fence element 2 there are several successive decorative openings 11 with a shape of a diamond pattern, for example. Further, there are several successive fastening openings 12a, 12b in two rows and a central row of several successive decorative openings 11 is located between them. As can be noted, the fence element 2 has continuous unchanged configuration from end to end so that the fence element can be cut at any point and can be joined in an overlapping manner without any special jointing sections or separate joining pieces. At the joining area the partly overlapping fence elements may easily be placed so that the decorative openings 11 and the fastening openings 12, 12b match at the overlapping section.

[0050] Figure 3 discloses a cross-section A-A of the fence element 2 shown in Figure 2 in an enlarged view. The cross-section comprises a middle part 13 with side surfaces 14a, 14b. A transverse first branch 15 is joined to a first end of the middle part 13 with a first bend 16, and a transverse second branch 17 is joined to a second end of the middle part 13 with a second bend 18. As can be noted, the first and second branches 15, 17 are located on opposite side surfaces 14a, 14b of the middle part 13. Thus, the cross-section profile of the fence element 2 comprises two branches 15, 17 which are directed away from the middle part 13 into opposite lateral directions with the same or differing angular orientation.

[0051] There is a first obtuse angle 19 between the first branch 15 and a first side surface 14a of the middle part 13, and a second obtuse angle 20 between the second branch 17 and a second side surface 14b of the middle part 13. Then orientations of the first and second branches 15, 17 are provided with angle measures being greater than 90° and less than 180°, preferably 95 - 120°. In Figure 3 the magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles 19, 20 are equal, but in some cases, they may have differing angles.

[0052] At a distal end of the first branch 15 there may be a stiffening bend 21 for stiffening the structure. At the stiffening bend 21 material of the first branch 15 is turned backwards whereby there is a relatively short stiffening part having deviant orientation.

[0053] The cross-section of the fence element 2 further comprises a stopper part 22 joining a distal end of the second branch 17 by means of a third bend 23. Then the stopper part 22 is orientated to increase overall height H of the fence element 2. Since the stopper part 22 is angularly orientated in relation to the middle part 13, it increases dimensions of the fence element also in a transverse direction T. This way, the outermost edge of the stopper part 22 is located at a greater transverse distance T from the side surface 14b and can extend closer to a gutter of a roof. Furthermore, a free edge of the stopper part 22 is toothed and comprises several teeth 10.

[0054] Figures 4 - 6 disclose a snow fence arrangement 1 wherein snow fence elements 2 are mounted to a roof cladding 4 by means of fastening devices 3. When the roof cladding is of steel plate cladding type and comprises standing seams 6, the fastening devices 3 can be mounted to the standing seams 6. However, the fastening devices 3 can be mounted to any type of roof claddings, such as undulated steel plate roof claddings and bitumen roof claddings. Figures further show that several fence elements 2 can be joined one after each other by overlapping the successive two fence elements at a joining section J. Length of the overlapping joining section J can be selected case by case. Detail A and B in Figures 5 and 7 show that fastening holes 12a, 12b can be utilized for fastening the overlapping fence elements 2 together by means of coupling screws 23.

[0055] Figure 7 discloses a fastening device 3 provided with a fastening surface 24 against which a middle part of a snow fence element can be fastened. The fastening device 3 further comprises a support surface 25 being transversely orientated in relation to the fastening surface 24. An angle of orientation of the support surface 25 corresponds to a bending angle of a second branch of the fence element whereby a bottom surface of the second branch can be supported against upper surface of the support surface 25.

[0056] The fastening device 3 may be a single-piece object manufactured from a steel plate whereby the fastening surface 24 and the support surface are joining to a basic structure by means of a bends 26 and 27. The fastening surface 24 may be provided with holes 28 for facilitating screw mounting of the fence element.

[0057] The drawings and the related description are only intended to illustrate the idea of the invention. In its details, the invention may vary within the scope of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0048]Figure 1 discloses a snow fence arrangement 1 comprising a snow fence element 2 mounted to a fastening device 3. The fence element 2 is mounted transversally in relation to a roof cladding 4. The fence element 2 may be fastened to the fastening device 3 by means of fastening screws 5, for example. The fastening device 3 may be mounted to a standing seam 6 of the roof cladding 4 and fastening elements 7 of the fastening device 3 may comprise screw mounting and shape locking principles, for example. The fastening device may comprise a bracket 8 which is single-piece element made of plate-like metal material. The bracket 8 may comprise an opening 9 which can serve as carry handle and can facilitate handling of several brackets during mounting operations.

[0049]Figure 2 discloses a fence element 2 which is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material and which is a one-piece structure. A lowermost longitudinal edge of the fence element 2 comprises several teeth 10 whereby the fe...

Background of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a snow fence element mountable on a roof for preventing skidding of snow and ice on a surface of a roofing of a building.

[0002] The invention further relates to a snow fence arrangement for serving as a roof safety guard, and also to a method for mounting a snow fence arrangement on a cladding of a building.

[0003] The field of the invention is defined more specifically in the preambles of the independent claims.

[0004] Different kind of snow guards are used to prevent dangerous situations caused by snow and ice falling from roofs of buildings. There are for example snow guards comprising two parallel pipes arranged between fastening elements. In some alternative snow guard solutions there are elongated snow fence elements made of sheet material and arranged transversely on a roof cladding. However, the present solutions have shown to contain some disadvantages.Brief description of the invention

[0005] An object of the invention is to provide a novel and improved snow fence element, and also to provide an arrangement and method for providing a roof safety guard on a cladding of a building.

[0006] The snow fence element according to the invention is characterized by the characterizing features of the first independent apparatus claim.

[0007] The arrangement according to the invention is characterized by the characterizing features of the second independent apparatus claim.

[0008] The method according to the invention is characterized by the characterizing features of the independent method claim.

[0009] An idea of the disclosed solution is to provide a snow fence element which is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material and having a cross-section comprising a middle part with longitudinal side surfaces. There is also a transverse first branch joining a first end of the middle part with a first bend and a transverse second branch joining a second end of the middle part with a second bend. Further, the first and second branches are located on opposite side surfaces of the middle part.

[0010] In other words, the cross-section profile of the element comprises two branches which are directed away from the middle part into opposite lateral directions with the same or differing angular orientation.

[0011] It can be considered that the basic structure comprising the middle, or central part, and the opposingly directed branches resembles letter Z with the exception that the middle part is not slanted.

[0012] An advantage of the disclosed solution is that two elements with the disclosed profile can easily be placed to overlap each other, whereby an overlapping joint can be made between two elements without a need to cut the elements into desired lengths for the joint. In other words, lengths of the overlapping elements at the overlapping joint can be selected freely.

[0013] Also, the snow fence element can be manufactured without a specific joint section. In other words, the product can be identical without an area or section designed for longitudinal extension.This applies to both distal ends of the snow fence element.

[0014] The overlapping joining is facilitated by the branches directed into opposite directions in relation to the middle part. In case the first and second branches were directed into the same direction no proper overlapping could be reached without providing deformation to angles of the joined fence elements.

[0015] In case the branches were directed to the same side of the middle part, the angles of the branches would have to be so wide that the structural rigidity and resistance against bending would then diminish.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the fence element is one-piece structure.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the fence element is made of relatively narrow strip of steel material.

[0018] According to an embodiment, maximum overall height of the cross-section of the element is 200 mm.

[0019] According to an embodiment, the fence element is made by means of sheet metal techniques implementing bending, cutting and punching.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of the middle part of the fence element comprises straight side surfaces. Thus, the middle part has simple configuration which is easy to manufacture and allows for good stack ability of the elements. Improved stack ability properties means improved logistics.

[0021] According to an embodiment, there is a first obtuse angle between the first branch and a first side surface of the middle part, and a second obtuse angle between the second branch and a second side surface of the middle part. In other words, orientations of the first and second branches are provided with angle measures being greater than 90° and less than 180°, and preferably 95 - 120°. An advantage of the obtuse angle is that the first and second branches have open configuration when the fence element is seen from its sides. The open configuration facilitates overlapping of two longitudinally joining fence elements when mounting them, and also facilitates stacking of the fence elements during handling, transport and storage of several fence elements.

[0022] According to an embodiment, magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles are equal. In other words, the branches are facing away from the middle part in same orientation angle.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the magnitudes of the obtuse angles are 95° - 120°.

[0024] According to an embodiment, the magnitudes of the obtuse angles are 100°.

[0025] According to an alternative embodiment, magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles are different.

[0026] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of the fence element comprises a stiffening bend at a distal end of the first branch. In other words, a free end portion of the first branch is provided with an additional bend for stiffening the structure. At the stiffening bend material of the first branch is turned backwards whereby there is a relatively short stiffening part having deviant orientation.

[0027] According to an embodiment, length of the stiffening part is less than one fourth of the length of the first branch.

[0028] According to an embodiment, the stiffening part is facing on the same side surface side of the middle part as the second branch and there is an acute angle between the first branch and the stiffening part. An advantage of the stiffening bend is that the load caused by the snow i.e., snow load cannot easily deform the fence element.

[0029] According to an embodiment, the cross-section of the fence element comprises a stopper part joining a distal end of the second branch by means of a third bend. The stopper part is orientated to increase overall height of the fence element in the direction defined by orientation of the middle part. In other words, an outermost end of the stopper part forms an outermost edge of the fence element in one of the height directions.

[0030] According to an embodiment, the stopper part is angularly orientated in relation to the middle part and thereby increases dimensions of the fence element in a transverse direction. In other words, the outermost edge of the stopper part is located at a greater transverse distance from the side surface of the middle part than the third bend which is jointing the second branch and the stopper part. An advantage is that the stopper part can be installed to the vicinity of a gutter. This leaves less free space for snow or ice in the vicinity of the gutter, which could fall of the roof.

[0031] According to an embodiment, a free longitudinal edge of the stopper part is toothed. In other words, the toothed edge is intended to be faced towards the outer surface of the roofing and allow water to pass through gaps between the teeth and to implement the teeth to prevent thin ice layers to pass the stopper part. Further, water can run also between gaps between tips of the teeth and the roof cladding, since typically the teeth are not in contact with the roof cladding. A further advantage of the toothing is that the teeth may be configured to follow the roof contour and may be designed in a way that the teeth may be manually deformed so that they do not touch the roof surface.

[0032] The toothed fence element can serve as a kind of a snow rake effectively preventing snow and ice from falling under the snow guard.

[0033] According to an embodiment, the middle part is provided with several successive decorative openings arranged on longitudinal central axis of the fence element. In other words, the middle part comprises a plurality of openings providing the fence element with attractive appearance. Further, the decorative openings facilitate handling of the fence elements since fingers can penetrate through the openings when carrying and mounting the fence elements. The decorative openings can also decrease weight of the fence elements and thereby improve the handling and mounting measures.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the decorative openings are provided with a shape of a diamond pattern. This way a unique appearance can be provided. The diamond shape is also relatively wide at its middle part and allows thereby good gripping by means of fingers passing through the diamond patterns.

[0035] According to an embodiment, the middle part is provided with a plurality of successive fastening openings arranged to at least one continuous row extending longitudinally from end to end of the fence element. In other words, the middle part comprises one or more continuous strings of fastening holes. An advantage of the continuous row of the fastening holes is that when two fence elements are arranged to overlap, then the fastening holes of the overlapping fence elements are easy to arrange to match with each other so that mounting to the fastening device and to each other is easy to execute.

[0036] According to an embodiment, there are several successive fastening openings in two rows and a central row of several successive decorative openings is located between the two rows of the fastening openings.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the fastening holes are oblong holes, which also facilitates mounting of the fence elements to the fastening devices and also facilitates joining of two fence elements.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the disclosed solution relates also to a snow fence arrangement for serving as a roof safety guard. The arrangement comprises at least one elongated snow fence element and at least two fastening devices for mounting the at least one fence element transversely on a roof cladding of a building. The fence element is in accordance with the features and embodiments disclosed in this document. The fastening devices comprise fastening surfaces against which the middle part of the snow fence element is fastened. The fastening devices further comprise support surfaces being transversely orientated in relation to the fastening surfaces and wherein angle of orientation of the support surfaces corresponds to bending angle of the second branch of the fence element whereby a bottom surface of the second branch is supported against upper surfaces of the support surfaces. In other words, the second branch of the element can be placed against the support surfaces of the fastening devices to facilitate mounting of the fence element. The support surfaces can hold the fence element during the mounting and can define correct mounting height for the fence element. Thus, the support surfaces facilitate and quicken the mounting of the fence element. A further advantage of the arrangement is that when the snow fence element is installed accordingly, the first bend directs rainwater down to the second bend washing any dust / dirt away and keeping the element clean. In other words, when installed in this way, the first bend does not prevent rainwater from washing the snow fence element.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the second branch joining a lower end of the middle part of the cross-section of the fence element is sloping towards an eave of the roof. This way the lower second branch and the stopping part jointing the second branch reach towards the eave, and they decrease thereby the distance between the fence element and the end of the roofing, whereby the amount of non-secured snow and ice below the fence element can be decreased and safety improved.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the first branch joining an upper end of the middle part of the cross-section of the fence element is sloping towards a top of the roof. This way the first branch can prevent snow and ice skidding over the fence element. The first branch increases the overall height of the fence element, and the sloping first branch serves as an effective stopper surface.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the fence element is arranged perpendicularly in relation to sloping direction of the roofing i.e., the middle part is perpendicular to the roof cladding.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the roof cladding comprises standing seams and the fastening devices are mounted to the standing seams.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the fastening device comprises a bracket which is single-piece element made of plate-like metal material.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the disclosed solution relates also to a method of mounting a snow fence arrangement on a cladding of a building. The method comprises: fastening at least two fastening devices to a structure of the cladding and at a distance from each other; and mounting at least one fence element to plate-like brackets of the at least two fastening devices. The method further comprises: using the fence element which is in accordance with the features and embodiments disclosed in this document; fastening the middle portion of the fence element against fastening surfaces of the brackets; and supporting the second branch of the fence element by means of slanting support surfaces of the brackets.

[0045] The above disclosed embodiments may be combined in order to form suitable solutions having those of the above features that are needed.Brief description of the figures

[0046] Some embodiments are described in more detail in the accompanying drawings, in which Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a snow fence arrangement mounted on a roof cladding, Figure 2 is a schematic side view of a snow fence element, Figure 3 is a schematic view of a cross-sectional profile of a snow fence element, Figure 4 is a schematic view of a snow fence arrangement mounted on a roof cladding and seen from gutter side of a roof and Figure 5 is a schematic detail of a joint between two fence elements, Figures 6 and 7 are schematic views of the structures disclosed in Figures 4 and 5 seen from opposite side, and Figure 8 is a schematic view of a fastening device for mounting a snow fence element.

[0047] For the sake of clarity, the figures show some embodiments of the disclosed solution in a simplified manner. In the figures, like reference numerals identify like elements.Detailed description of some embodiments

[0048] Figure 1 discloses a snow fence arrangement 1 comprising a snow fence element 2 mounted to a fastening device 3. The fence element 2 is mounted transversally in relation to a roof cladding 4. The fence element 2 may be fastened to the fastening device 3 by means of fastening screws 5, for example. The fastening device 3 may be mounted to a standing seam 6 of the roof cladding 4 and fastening elements 7 of the fastening device 3 may comprise screw mounting and shape locking principles, for example. The fastening device may comprise a bracket 8 which is single-piece element made of plate-like metal material. The bracket 8 may comprise an opening 9 which can serve as carry handle and can facilitate handling of several brackets during mounting operations.

[0049] Figure 2 discloses a fence element 2 which is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material and which is a one-piece structure. A lowermost longitudinal edge of the fence element 2 comprises several teeth 10 whereby the fence element 2 is a kind of a snow rake which can effectively prevent snow and ice from falling under it. If needed, the teeth 10 can also be easily deformed to match with shapes of a roof cladding. At a middle part of the fence element 2 there are several successive decorative openings 11 with a shape of a diamond pattern, for example. Further, there are several successive fastening openings 12a, 12b in two rows and a central row of several successive decorative openings 11 is located between them. As can be noted, the fence element 2 has continuous unchanged configuration from end to end so that the fence element can be cut at any point and can be joined in an overlapping manner without any special jointing sections or separate joining pieces. At the joining area the partly overlapping fence elements may easily be placed so that the decorative openings 11 and the fastening openings 12, 12b match at the overlapping section.

[0050] Figure 3 discloses a cross-section A-A of the fence element 2 shown in Figure 2 in an enlarged view. The cross-section comprises a middle part 13 with side surfaces 14a, 14b. A transverse first branch 15 is joined to a first end of the middle part 13 with a first bend 16, and a transverse second branch 17 is joined to a second end of the middle part 13 with a second bend 18. As can be noted, the first and second branches 15, 17 are located on opposite side surfaces 14a, 14b of the middle part 13. Thus, the cross-section profile of the fence element 2 comprises two branches 15, 17 which are directed away from the middle part 13 into opposite lateral directions with the same or differing angular orientation.

[0051] There is a first obtuse angle 19 between the first branch 15 and a first side surface 14a of the middle part 13, and a second obtuse angle 20 between the second branch 17 and a second side surface 14b of the middle part 13. Then orientations of the first and second branches 15, 17 are provided with angle measures being greater than 90° and less than 180°, preferably 95 - 120°. In Figure 3 the magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles 19, 20 are equal, but in some cases, they may have differing angles.

[0052] At a distal end of the first branch 15 there may be a stiffening bend 21 for stiffening the structure. At the stiffening bend 21 material of the first branch 15 is turned backwards whereby there is a relatively short stiffening part having deviant orientation.

[0053] The cross-section of the fence element 2 further comprises a stopper part 22 joining a distal end of the second branch 17 by means of a third bend 23. Then the stopper part 22 is orientated to increase overall height H of the fence element 2. Since the stopper part 22 is angularly orientated in relation to the middle part 13, it increases dimensions of the fence element also in a transverse direction T. This way, the outermost edge of the stopper part 22 is located at a greater transverse distance T from the side surface 14b and can extend closer to a gutter of a roof. Furthermore, a free edge of the stopper part 22 is toothed and comprises several teeth 10.

[0054] Figures 4 - 6 disclose a snow fence arrangement 1 wherein snow fence elements 2 are mounted to a roof cladding 4 by means of fastening devices 3. When the roof cladding is of steel plate cladding type and comprises standing seams 6, the fastening devices 3 can be mounted to the standing seams 6. However, the fastening devices 3 can be mounted to any type of roof claddings, such as undulated steel plate roof claddings and bitumen roof claddings. Figures further show that several fence elements 2 can be joined one after each other by overlapping the successive two fence elements at a joining section J. Length of the overlapping joining section J can be selected case by case. Detail A and B in Figures 5 and 7 show that fastening holes 12a, 12b can be utilized for fastening the overlapping fence elements 2 together by means of coupling screws 23.

[0055] Figure 7 discloses a fastening device 3 provided with a fastening surface 24 against which a middle part of a snow fence element can be fastened. The fastening device 3 further comprises a support surface 25 being transversely orientated in relation to the fastening surface 24. An angle of orientation of the support surface 25 corresponds to a bending angle of a second branch of the fence element whereby a bottom surface of the second branch can be supported against upper surface of the support surface 25.

[0056] The fastening device 3 may be a single-piece object manufactured from a steel plate whereby the fastening surface 24 and the support surface are joining to a basic structure by means of a bends 26 and 27. The fastening surface 24 may be provided with holes 28 for facilitating screw mounting of the fence element.

[0057] The drawings and the related description are only intended to illustrate the idea of the invention. In its details, the invention may vary within the scope of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0048]Figure 1 discloses a snow fence arrangement 1 comprising a snow fence element 2 mounted to a fastening device 3. The fence element 2 is mounted transversally in relation to a roof cladding 4. The fence element 2 may be fastened to the fastening device 3 by means of fastening screws 5, for example. The fastening device 3 may be mounted to a standing seam 6 of the roof cladding 4 and fastening elements 7 of the fastening device 3 may comprise screw mounting and shape locking principles, for example. The fastening device may comprise a bracket 8 which is single-piece element made of plate-like metal material. The bracket 8 may comprise an opening 9 which can serve as carry handle and can facilitate handling of several brackets during mounting operations.

[0049]Figure 2 discloses a fence element 2 which is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material and which is a one-piece structure. A lowermost longitudinal edge of the fence element 2 comprises several teeth 10 whereby the fe...

Claims

1. A snow fence element (2) mountable on a roof for preventing skidding of snow and ice on a surface of a roofing of a building; wherein the snow fence element (2) is an elongated piece made of sheet metal material; and wherein cross-section of the fence element (2) comprises a middle part (13) comprising longitudinal side surfaces (14a, 14b); a transverse first branch (15) joining a first end of the middle part (13) with a first bend (16); and a transverse second branch (17) joining a second end of the middle part (13) with a second bend (18); characterized in that the first and second branches (15, 17) are located on opposite side surfaces (14a, 14b) of the middle part (13) .

2. The fence element as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that there is a first obtuse angle (19) between the first branch (15) and a first side surface (14a) of the middle part (13), and a second obtuse angle (20) between the second branch (17) and a second side surface (14b) of the middle part (13).

3. The fence element as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that magnitudes of the first and second obtuse angles (19, 20) are equal.

4. The fence element as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 - 3, characterized in that the cross-section of the fence element (2) comprises a stiffening bend (21) at a distal end of the first branch (15) .

5. The fence element as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 - 4, characterized in that the cross-section of the fence element (2) comprises a stopper part (22) joining a distal end of the second branch (17) by means of a third bend (23); and wherein the stopper part (22) is orientated to increase overall height (H) of the fence element (2) in the direction defined by orientation of the middle part (13).

6. The fence element as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that a free longitudinal edge of the stopper part (22) is toothed.

7. The fence element as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 - 6, characterized in that the middle part (13) is provided with several successive decorative openings (11) arranged on longitudinal central axis of the fence element (2).

8. The fence element as claimed in any one of the preceding claims 1 - 7, characterized in that the middle part (13) is provided with a plurality of successive fastening openings (12a, 12b) arranged to at least one continuous row extending longitudinally from end to end of the fence element (2).

9. A snow fence arrangement (1) for serving as a roof safety guard and comprising: at least one elongated snow fence element (2); and at least two fastening devices (3) for mounting the at least one fence element (2) transversely on a roof cladding (4) of a building; characterized in that the fence element (2) is in accordance with any one of the previous claims 1 - 8; the fastening devices (3) comprise fastening surfaces (24) against which the middle part (13) of the fence element (2) is fastened; and the fastening devices (3) further comprise support surfaces (25) being transversely orientated in relation to the fastening surfaces (24) and wherein angle of orientation of the support surfaces (25) corresponds to bending angle of the second branch (17) of the fence element (2) whereby a bottom surface of the second branch (17) is supported against upper surfaces of the support surfaces (25) .

10. The arrangement as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that the fastening device (3) comprises a bracket which is single-piece element made of sheet-like metal material.

11. A method of mounting a snow fence arrangement (1) on a cladding (4) of a building, wherein the method comprises: fastening at least two fastening devices (3) to a structure of the cladding (4) and at a distance from each other; and mounting at least one fence element (2) to plate-like brackets of the at least two fastening devices (3); characterized by using the fence element (2) which is in accordance with any one of the claims 1 - 8 and fastening the middle portion (13) of the fence element (2) against fastening surfaces (24) of the brackets; and supporting the second branch (17) of the fence element (2) by means of slanting support surfaces (25) of the brackets.

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