Ultraviolet protective cover for UV-sensitive rooftop penetration materials

Abstract

There is disclosed a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials made of a deformable sheet having an inner and outer arcuate edge and two lateral edges therebetween defining two opposing sides. When the opposing sides are joined a first and second opening are formed. The first opening defined by the inner edge is dimensionally sized to envelope a penetration and extends to the second opening that is defined by the outer arcuate edge. The outer arcuate edge may be non-concentric to the lateral edges such that the second opening sits coplanar with the roof and corresponding pitch angle. The cover having at least one locking tab on one side and a corresponding receiving aperture on the opposite side to retain the sheet in an assembled configuration. The cover having fastening bores disposed adjacently to the lateral side edges for receiving a fastener to secure the cover in an assembled configuration.

Description

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTS AND TRADE DRESS

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. This patent document may show and / or describe matter which is or may become trade dress of the owner. The copyright and trade dress owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or otherwise reserves all copyright and trade dress rights whatsoever.RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

[0002] This patent claims priority from Provisional Application No. 63 / 777,501, filed Mar. 25, 2025, entitled “ULTRAVIOLET PROTECTIVE COVERS FOR ROOFTOP PENETRATIONS,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUNDField

[0003] This disclosure relates to covers for rooftop penetration flashing.Description of the Related Art

[0004] Early iterations of human shelters integrated various forms of ventilation stemming from the upper extremity of the shelters. For instance, yurts, teepees or thatched huts provide for a simple opening up at the top to allow smoke to escape from inside the structure. More sophisticated structures such as a compluvium were integrated for rain recapturing and terracotta flue pipes were early forms of heating systems. As the industrial revolution came, so did indoor plumbing and coal heating systems, later giving rise to a slew of rooftop penetrations such as chimneys, soil stacks and stovepipes.

[0005] As used herein the phrase “rooftop penetration” or “penetration” mean an object that passes through at least the outer layer of weather resistant material on a rooftop at an angle of between 25 and 90 degrees as compared to the roof pitch. As indicated above, typical “rooftop penetrations” are vents for plumbing, heating, and ventilation that pass excess heat (typically, but not always) from the interior of the structure to the exterior through a “stack” style pipe, chimney or similar structure and often terminate in a diffusing vent designed to avoid rain and insects or other animals from gaining entry to the structure through the rooftop penetration.

[0006] Modernly, rooftops have become busier than ever with plumbing vents, heating ventilation and air conditioning ducts, electrical conduits for solar panels, solar panel anchors, condensation lines, water pipes, skylights and many other objects and structures that pass through an opening in a roof exposed to the atmosphere. All forms of roof penetrations share a common issue, water leakage. As each form of penetration must cross the barrier from indoor to outdoor through a hole in the roof, each penetration serves as a potential leak point. These leak points tend to lead into slippery slopes of financial burdens such as mold and mildew growth, structural wood rot, ceiling and wall damage, electrical hazards, and can even invite pests such as termites caused by wood rot. To counteract these leak points, roof penetrations typically employ a barrier called flashing.

[0007] As used herein, the term “flashing” refers to any weather resistant material-typically galvanized steel, aluminum, copper, plastic, or flexible rubber-installed at roof intersections or penetrations to create a barrier that directs water away from gaps and back onto the primary roofing surface. Flashing encompasses a variety of forms adapted to specific applications, including ventilation, plumbing, or structural anchors. This includes components designed to seal vertical pipes, conduits, or narrow structural legs protruding from the roof, often referred to as pipe boots, roof jacks, or vent sleeves. Typically, flashing is integrated into the surrounding roofing materials (e.g., shingles), where the flashing serves as the primary seal between the penetration, the roof aperture, and the atmosphere. While many flashings are circular in cross-section to accommodate cylindrical pipes, others may be square, rectangular, or irregularly shaped to fit specialized structural mounts.

[0008] The gaps between penetrations, the apertures from which the penetration protrudes their flashing is often sealed with tar, silicone, polyurethane, polymer, rubber, or other similar material and is typically left exposed to the elements, collectively referred to as “seals.” Likewise, the flashing itself is often sealed to the rooftop or primary roofing material. These seals are crucial at maintaining the water barrier at their weakest point, the point at which the penetration occurs or the flashing material joins with the roofing material. However, the material these seals are made from are typically quite ultraviolet (“UV”) reactive, meaning, that these materials break down over time and repeated exposure to direct UV radiation from exposure from the sun. As a result, these seals—sometime the flashing itself depending on the material used—usually only last 2-5 years before failing due to UV radiation / sun damage. “UV radiation” or “sun damage” refers to the form of electromagnetic energy from the sun that triggers a chemical process called photodegradation, which breaks down the molecular bonds in flexible flashing materials and sealing material-like rubber used in pipe boots or silicone used to seal gaps-causing them to become brittle, crack, and lose their ability to maintain a watertight seal. Flashings that use certain types of metals are also susceptible to corrosion and oxidation leading to rust that eats through the material creating pinhole leaks. If left unattended, these weak points aggregate, and leaks occur causing a slew of potential damage and risk. As used hereinafter “UV-sensitive penetration materials” refers to flashings, seals and peripheral components associated with these elements all of which are susceptible to UV radiation and degradation.

[0009] For most homeowners, hiring a repairman to service the seals, and / or replace the flashing or even the penetrations themselves is costly and time-consuming. Few homeowners or structure owners even think to re-visit these seals after they are initially placed. Accordingly, there remains a need for a solution to expand the shelf life of these seals, flashing and even penetrations to mitigate the risk of water damage.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 is a top view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a top view of a second embodiment of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a left side view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials installed on a rooftop penetration.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials in a partially assembled configuration.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a rear view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials in an assembled configuration.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials in an assembled configuration.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials installed on a rooftop penetration.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process of use of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0018] Throughout this description, elements appearing in figures are assigned three-digit reference designators, where the most significant digit is the figure number and the two least significant digits are specific to the element. An element that is not described in conjunction with a figure may be presumed to have the same characteristics and function as a previously described element having a reference designator with the same least significant digits.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] What is needed is a cost-effective solution that expands the longevity of UV-sensitive penetration materials by adding an additional protective barrier to combat UV radiation. The solution also needs to be adaptable to various sizes of rooftop penetrations and easily installed. The solution would also be UV resistive, meaning it is made up of UV resistive material that in turn provides UV coverage over the UV-sensitive penetration materials to prevent degradation from UV exposure. The solution also preferably is customizable to adapt to various rooftop pitches and general area of protective coverage.

[0020] As disclosed more fully below, a cover that protects the existing UV-sensitive penetration materials from UV damage and degradation is shown and described. Notably, the cover is not watertight, and intentionally so. Creating a watertight seal is much more difficult to do, and entirely unnecessary in the case of an object designed to protect other objects from UV radiation. As will be seen, the UV cover includes various bores, cutouts, and apertures. When installed, these are not sealed, because they need not be to serve their primary function of protecting the underlying seals, flashing, and rooftop penetrations from UV damage and degradation. Likewise, the cover may include perforations to allow for easy, customizable sizing for various rooftop pitches and penetration sizes. These perforations are not watertight, but need not be for the intended purpose.Description of Apparatus

[0021] Referring now to FIG. 1, a top view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials 100 is shown. The cover 100 is formed by a deformable, substantially flat sheet of material. The cover 100 may be fabricated by die-cutting, stamping, or thermoforming the sheet of material into a specified geometry and dimensional sizing. The cover 100 is preferably constructed from a UV-resistant materials. Suitable materials include but are not limited to: high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyphenylene ether (PPE), UV stabilized polymers such as UV-stabilized Nylon 66, fluoropolymers, or polymeric materials impregnated with carbon black or other chemical UV inhibitors, galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, tin, aluminum, or other material exhibiting similar mechanical properties and resistance to degradation or embrittlement when exposed to solar radiation or outdoor elements. Preferred UV-resistant materials may also exhibit fire resistance or retardant behavior as well, particularly for rooftop installation in fire prone areas.

[0022] Such materials are selected to mitigate the risk of embrittlement or surface cracking caused by prolonged exposure to UV, thereby maintaining effective coverage of the flashing, seals and penetration for which it is installed. Furthermore, the material of the cover 100 is characterized by a high degree of deformability, allowing a substantially flat sheet to be manipulated, bent, or rolled into a generally conical geometry to accommodate the exterior profile of a rooftop penetration. As used herein, the “substantially flat configuration” refers to the cover 100 in a pre-assembly orientation having a substantially flat or planar form (see, e.g., FIG. 1 and FIG. 2) whereas “assembled configuration” refers to the cover 100 in a conical orientation (see, e.g., FIG. 6). The material of the cover 100 also maintains a shear value that allows the cover 100 to be cut with hand tools like scissors or shears while maintaining the high degree of deformability. In most cases, the cover in an assembled configuration may be considered a conical segment with a transverse cut across a top portion of the cone at an axis perpendicular to a center point axis and another transverse cut across a lower point that may also be perpendicular or at an irregular angle relative to the same axis.

[0023] The deformability may be achieved through the inherent ductility and elongation properties of the material at ambient temperatures. Once formed, the material maintains its configuration via fasteners as will be discussed, meaning the material need not maintain memory of the assembled configuration, although other forms of deformation processes such as thermoforming (heating the material to a softened state to form a desired shape) are contemplated which may require material memory to maintain a reformed geometry.

[0024] The cover 100 has a general arch shape having a central cutout 102 defining an inner edge 104 and two opposing vertical edges 108. The cover 100 further has two opposing lateral edges 118a and 118b that extends into an outer arcuate edge 106 that circumscribes radially each of the lateral edges 118a and 118b. The inner edge 104 has an inner radius RI measured from a center point CP that is offset from a transverse, perpendicular axis A. While as disclosed the radius RI may be measured from the center point CP, the inner edge 104 may also be formed as an arc. The inner edge 104 is offset by a predetermined distance to aid the engagement of a plurality of locking tabs 110 with corresponding locking apertures 112.

[0025] The cover 100 has a first and second lateral side 116a and 116b disposed in a substantially symmetrical arrangement about a central axis B. The first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b are functionally identical and it is to be understood that features described for one side may be made applicable to both sides.

[0026] The two opposing vertical edges 108 extend away from a transverse axis A into the inner edge 104 and provide for a degree of excess cover 100 material. The excess cover 100 material is defined by a lateral guideline 140 which may be kiss cuts / perforated, or press lines disposed at predetermined intervals, effectively defining a frangible or deformable boundary that guides a user to fold and / or cut the cover 100 along the lateral guideline 140. The lateral guideline 140 is offset from and runs parallel to the transverse, perpendicular axis A such that the lateral guideline 140 forms the lateral boundary for the vertical edges 108 and defines the beginning of vertical edge 104. The lateral guidelines 140 further spans the horizonal length of the cover 100 from end to end. The lateral guideline 140 serves as a visual indicator to a user, such that when the cover is in the assembled configuration, the excess provided by the vertical edges 108 creates an overlap between the two lateral sides 116a and 116b marked by the lateral guideline 140. In this way, full radial coverage around the UV-sensitive penetration materials is gained.

[0027] From the distal ends of vertical edges 108 extends two opposing lateral edges 118a and 118b that then extend radially into the outer arcuate edge 106 to form the cover 100. The outer arcuate edge 106 is formed by an arc such that the body of the cover 100 spans between the inner edge 104 and the outer arcuate edge 106. The arc may be configured to form the body of the cover 100 in a shape that is generally semi-circular, parabolic, elliptical, oblong or any geometry that facilitates optimal UV coverage over the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0028] The body of the cover 100 is what provides UV coverage when the cover 100 is in an assembled configuration and is placed over UV-sensitive penetration materials. The cutout 102 is configured to wrap around the dimension of a penetration (e.g. such as a vent pipe) when the cover 100 is in the assembled configuration. The cover 100 may be secured around the penetration itself via the cutout 102, or in some instances and with certain types of flashing, the flashing itself may act as a sleeve and is disposed atop or about the penetration in which case the cover 100 envelopes both the flashing and penetration collectively. Typically, the flashing sits beneath or generally below the penetration in which case the body of the cover 100 spans the circumferential area above and around the flashing to provide optimal UV protection.

[0029] To accommodate varying dimensions of penetrations the cover 100 is provided with a plurality of cutout guidelines 114 disposed along the body of the cover 100. The cutout guidelines 114 may be kiss cuts / perforated, or press lines disposed at a predetermined intervals, effectively defining a frangible or deformable boundary that guides a user to fold and / or cut the cover 100 along the cutout guidelines 114 (others not labelled, and still more or fewer may be included in a particular case). The cutout guidelines 114 may define standardized dimensions ranging from about between 1 inch to about 6 inches or more. The standardized dimensions may also be indicated on the body of the cover 100 by markers 120. In this way, the user can quickly and efficiently identify the desired dimension of the cutout 102 and utilize the cutout guidelines 114 to cutaway the portion of the cover 100 needed to size the cutout 102 accordingly. For example, if a penetration has a diameter of 3 inches, the user will cut along the cutout guideline 114 associated with the standardized dimension of 3 inches and dispose of the cutaway material-when assembled the cutout forms a 3-inch opening capable of encircling the 3-inch penetration. Each one of the cutout guidelines 114 defines the maximum inner radius RI. Using the same example as before, if a user cuts along the cutout guidelines 114 associated with the 3-inch diameter marker 120, the user is effectively redefining the inner edge 104 and thus redefining the inner radius RI. In this way, the cover 100 is variably dimensioned and capable of accommodating varyingly sized penetrations.

[0030] The lateral guideline 140 may also be used to constrict the cutout 102 to accommodate non-standardized penetration dimensions. The user would cut the small square formed by the cross-section of the lateral and cutout guidelines 140 / 114 such that a notch is formed from the removal of the removed material. In this way, the cutout 102 can encircle a non-standardized penetration dimension. For example, if a penetration dimension is one half an inch, the user can remove the cross-section by cutting along the lateral guideline 140 up to the cutout guidelines 114 associated with the 1-inch marker. This permits the cover to have a smaller opening when in the assembled configuration. This can be repeatable for any one of the cutout guidelines 102 to accommodate non-standardized dimensioned penetrations.

[0031] The cover 100 may further have body guidelines 122 disposed along the body of the cover 100. The body guidelines 122 may be kiss cuts / perforated, or press lines disposed at a predetermined intervals, effectively defining a frangible or deformable boundary that guides a user to fold and / or cut the cover 100 along the body guidelines 122. The body guidelines 122 define the maximum coverage provided by the body of the cover 100. The body guidelines 122 define a short 122a, medium 122b and maximum 122c length of the cover 100. Wherein each of the body guidelines alters the body of the cover 100. The short 122a being the minimum coverage provided by the cover 100 whereas the medium 122b provides iteratively more coverage and the maximum 122c is determined by the manufactured sizing of the outer arcuate edge 106. The body guidelines 122 redefine the outer arcuate edge 106 much the same way as the cutout guidelines 114 redefine the inner accurate edge 104. For example, if the user desires to use the minimum amount of material to provide coverage, the user would cut along the short body guideline 122a disposing of the material which redefines the outer arcuate edge 106. In this way the cover 100 provides for varying degrees of UV coverage. Along with varying the degree of coverage, the amount of material used may also be aesthetic purposes. A user may wish to keep a low profile and opt-in for less material to maintain the minimum amount of UV coverage for the UV-sensitive penetration materials or in the alternative, the user may wish to use the maximum amount of cover 100 material to provide the most circumferential coverage for the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0032] While the current embodiment discloses a limited range of standardized cutout 102 sizes and three varying degrees of coverage provided by the body of the cover 100 via the body guidelines 122, the cover 100 may have several more dimensional ranges and accompanying guidelines 114 / 122. Furthermore, the cover 100 may be customized to allow the user to freely form the cutout 102 and body of the cover 100 to their desired lengths, straying away from the predetermined guidelines 114 / 122 respectively. The limitation of such configurations is the inner radius RI is less than the arc forming the outer edge 106 such that in the assembled configuration there remains enough material to provide UV coverage.

[0033] The cover 100 further has a plurality of locking tabs 110 extending from one of the lateral edges 118. As shown, the plurality of locking tabs 110 extend outwardly from the first lateral side 116a. The locking tabs 110 provide for a hook tab engagement structure configured to secure the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b together. When the lateral sides 116a and 116b are secured together, a first and second opening of the cover 100 is formed. The first opening corresponds to the now joined cutout 102, and the second opening corresponds to the now joined lateral edges 118 and outer arcuate edge 106 defining a base 132 (not shown). The cover 100 also has complimentary amount of locking apertures 112 disposed along the body of the cover 100 on the opposite lateral side 116b. Each of the locking tabs 110 include a neck portion 124 extending outwardly from the lateral edge 118a into a hook member 126. Each hook member 126 may be integrally formed with the neck 124 or attached thereto and may project in direction perpendicular to the perpendicular plane A. The neck 124 may extend outwardly from the lateral edge 118a about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the hook member 126 may include a curved, angled, or barbed distal portion configured to resist withdrawal once inserted into a corresponding aperture 112.

[0034] The number, spacing, shape, and orientation of the locking tabs 110 and locking apertures 112 may vary depending on the particular application, material properties, and desired retention strength. But is respective to the number of body guidelines 122, in that there is at least one locking tab 110 per each variably dimensioned body of the cover 100. For example, there is at least one locking tab 110 for the short 122a, one for the medium 122b and one for the maximum 122c length. In some embodiments, the plurality of locking tabs 110 and the plurality of receiving apertures 112 are arranged in a spaced pattern along their respective edges to distribute retention forces across multiple engagement points. This configuration may improve structural stability, resist unintended disengagement, and maintain alignment between the opposing portions of the cover 100.

[0035] The extension of the neck 124 may also be dependent on the respective body length 122a, 122b, 122c, such that the neck length 124 decreases incrementally from a maximum neck length of about 1 inch at the short 122a length, to a minimum neck length of about 0.25 inches at the maximum 122c length. The benefit of the neck 124 length is to permit sufficient play in movement when the locking tab 110 is engaged with the locking aperture 112. In this way, the respective lateral side 116 is given a degree of play equivalent to the length of the neck 124. The length of the neck 124 also corresponds to the rigidity and strength of the cover 100 material at respective lengths, meaning, at the maximum 122c length, the neck 124 provides the least degree of play as the material retention strength is lesser at the outer peripheral edges than in contract the short 122a length provides the greater retention strength demanding more degree of play for ease of installation. While the neck 124 length is disclosed as 1 inch or less, greater or less length sizes are contemplated.

[0036] The receiving apertures 112 are arranged to correspond with the plurality of locking tabs 110. Each receiving aperture 112 is sized and positioned to receive at least a portion of a respective hook member 126. In certain embodiments, the receiving apertures 112 are formed as slots, holes, or cutouts extending through the cover 100. During assembly or use, see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the lateral side 116a having the locking tabs 110 are moved toward the lateral side 116b having the corresponding receiving apertures 112. The tabs 110 may then be inserted through the apertures 112 to form a mechanical engagement there in between. The distal portions of the tabs 110 may engage an edge or backside of the receiving apertures 112, thereby retaining the tab 110 in a secured / assembled position.

[0037] The cover 100 further has a plurality of fastening bores 128 disposed adjacent to the lateral side edge 118. Each of the fastening bores 128 are equally dispersed and coaxially aligned to a corresponding fastening bore 128 on each one of the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b. The number of fastening bores 128 is respective to the number of cutout guidelines 114 such that at least one fastening bore 128 is positioned onto each of the dimensioned cutouts 102 formed by the markers 120. For example, there are two corresponding fastening bores 128 for the cutout 102 associated with the 1-inch marker 120, two corresponding fastening bores 128 for the cutout 102 associated with the 2-inch marker and so on. In this way, the selection of the diameter for the cover 100 likewise is a selection of an associated fastening bore. The fastening bores 128 are shown as separated from one another in FIG. 5, but may line up perfectly over one another when the cover 100 is in an assembled configuration such that a single fastener may pass through both corresponding fastening bores 128 at the same time.

[0038] As best shown in FIG. 5, the fastening bores 128 are configured to receive opposing ends of a fastener 130. The fastener 130 is configured to secure the cover 100 in an assembled configuration. The cover 100 may receive one or more fastener 130 to secure it into the assembled configuration. The fastener 130 may be a cable tie (also referred to as a “tie-wrap” or “zip-tie”) comprising an elongated flexible strap and a ratcheting locking head. The fastener may also be a: hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), metallic bands, wire ties, twist ties, elastic bands, grommets, clips, screws, punches, rivets, clamps, adhesive-backed straps or any other fastener capable of securing the cover in an assembled configuration. The fastener likewise is preferably formed from a weather-resistant or UV-resistant material to match the resistive properties of the cover 100. Such materials may include, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyphenylene ether (PPE), UV stabilized polymers such as UV-stabilized Nylon 66, fluoropolymers, or polymeric materials impregnated with carbon black or other chemical UV inhibitors, or other thermoplastic compositions exhibiting similar mechanical properties and resistance to degradation or embrittlement when exposed to solar radiation or outdoor elements.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 3, the cover 100 in the assembled configuration and installed over a penetration 162 is shown. The outer arcuate edge (not shown) defines the base 132 which sits atop a flashing 164 and roof 160. The roof 160 sits on a plane P oriented at an angle Θ relative to the central axis B. The base 132 sits coplanar with the plane P, such that the base 132 is oblique to central axis B when the angle Θ is greater than 0°. The central axis B is coaxially aligned with a penetration 162. The assembled configuration of the cover 100 is mathematically predetermined such that the resulting base 132 corresponds to a specific standardized roof pitch. The cover 100 is configured for use across a variety of roof pitches, where “roof pitch” or “pitch” refers to the slope of a roof's surface expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to a constant horizontal run of 12 inches (commonly formatted as “X:12” where ‘X’ is the vertical rise value in inches). For example, a “3:12 pitch” denotes 3 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal run. Some of the kiss cuts (not labelled) visible in FIG. 3 are substantially horizontal, perpendicular to the rooftop penetration 162. This is because the cover 100 may be used in its smallest form merely as a collar, only covering the UV-sensitive materials. As configured in FIG. 3, there is a roof pitch, and the UV-sensitive materials (flashing surrounding a penetration) are larger than a collar alone could protect from UV radiation.

[0040] The based 132 is selectively adaptable for roof pitch profiles that are substantially flat or low-slope profile ranging from about 0:12 to 3:12 approximately having a 0° to 14° base 132 orientation, moderate-slope profiles ranging from 3:12 to 6:12 approximately having a 14° to 26.5° base 132 orientation, and steep-slope profiles ranging from 6:12 to 9:12 approximately having a 26.5° to 37° base 132 orientation. The cover 100 may be utilized on any roof surface having a pitch falling between 0:12 and 16:12, or any incremental value therebetween.

[0041] Referring now to FIG. 2, the cover 100 is shown having a non-concentrically, arced outer arcuate edge 106 that is an alternative embodiment of the cover 100 and contains all the same elements as discussed above. As such, the elements will not be discussed again. The non-concentrically arced outer arcuate edge 106 provides for more material spanning the body of the cover 100 between the inner and outer curves 104 / 106. In this way, the cover 100 can be adaptable for various sizes for different sized rooftop penetrations or roof pitches or both. Various other widths and lengths may be used for different rooftop penetration sizes or roof pitches. In some cases, the cutout 102 may be half-square, half-oval, paraboloid, half-oblong or other shapes to accommodate penetrations of different horizontal cross-sections. But, again, because the intent is not to be weather tight or water tight, in general, one may simply choose a half-circular cutout 102 of sufficient radius to accommodate any penetration so long as the lower sections cover the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0042] Referring back to FIG. 1, the cover 100 may also have a fixed horizontal length X measured from the distal ends of the vertical edges 108 and a varying vertical length Y measured from the lateral edge 118 to the apex of the outer arcuate edge 106. For example, the cover 100 may have a horizontal length of 23.5 inches with a low-slop profile having a vertical length of 17.71 inches, whereas a steep-slop profile may have a vertical length of 31.69 inches as shown in FIG. 2. The cover 100 may have any horizontal and vertical lengths X and Y to define any of the incremental values for associates roof pitch profiles and cover 100 sizing. Various lengths for X and Y may be used for different rooftop penetrations and pitch profiles.

[0043] The cover 100 may provide for additional body guidelines 122 to accommodate the varying roof pitch profiles. Although not shown, the cover 100 may be manufactured having a vertical length Y that accommodates a roof pitch profiles from flat to steep such that a user may purchase one cover 100 and trim to size according to the designated roof profile. For example, roofs often have varying slopes, intersections, and may even have flat sections all with penetrations protruding therefrom. A cover 100 that can be customizable sized in both length and pitch profile requires less for the installer to carry up onto the roof (e.g. instead of carrying three cover 100 profiles, they may carry one that can accommodate any pitch).

[0044] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials in a partially assembled configuration. As the cover 100 is deformed by the axial movement of the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b towards one another configures the cover 100 in a conical shape. The locking tabs 110 are then guided into corresponding locking apertures 112 to temporarily secure the cover 100 in an assembled configuration.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials in the assembled configuration wherein the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b overlap such that the locking tabs 110 are received by the locking apertures 112, and each of the fastening bores 128 axially align with an opposing fastening bore to permit securement by the fastener 130 therein between. The locking tabs 110 may have teeth (not labeled) that hold the cover 100 in a conical shape by engaging with an edge of the locking apertures 112. In the assembled configuration, the first opening defined by the now joined cutout 102 can be seen. The first opening configured to circumscribe a penetration. Only one of the fastening bores 128 need be joined with the fastener 130, and preferably the top fastening bore 128 (e.g., those closest to the penetration); however, more may be used if desired, as shown herein.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials in the assembled configuration. The assembled configuration having a conical shape defining a hollow interior formed by the body of the cover 100. The body extending continuously from the first opening defined by the joined cutout 102 to the second opening defined by the base 132. The body of the cover 100 having a circular or semi-circular cross-sectional dimension increasing in size from the first opening toward the second opening. In this way the cover 100 has increasing UV coverage from the first opening down to the second opening positioned over the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials installed on the rooftop penetration 162. The cover 100 is positioned atop the flashing 164 installed between the penetration 162 and the roof 160. The base 132 matching the pitch of the roof 160 such that the cover 100 sits flush with the roof 160 and provides continuous UV coverage of the UV-sensitive penetration materials underneath. Preferably the base 132 covers all UV-sensitive penetration materials associated with the penetration 162.Description of Processes

[0048] Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart of a process of use of the cover 100 disclosed above is shown. The process has a start 840 and an end 856.

[0049] Following the start 840, a user may first begin by preparing a UV-sensitive penetration materials by cleaning the exterior surface or by sealing or resealing the gap between the penetration and a flashing of the penetration. This step is optional and is determinative of the preexisting condition of the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0050] Next, the user determines the roof pitch profile at 844. The roof pitch may be about between 0:12 and −16:12 .

[0051] After determining the roof pitch, the user then may select the appropriate cover profile at 846. If the cover is pre-formed for a designated roof pitch, then the user will select the respective cover to accommodate. For example, the user may purchase separate covers that are pre-formed having a cover designated for a roof pitch between 0-6:12, a cover designated for a roof pitch between 7-12:12, and a cover designated for a roof pitch between 12-16:12 (FIG. 3). Alternatively, if the cover does not accommodate the desired roof pitch designation, then the user can trim the cover to the respective profile designation utilizing the associated body guidelines as discussed above. Alternatively, the cover profile at 846 may be appropriate for any pitch profile, but a different profile may accommodate different rooftop penetration diameters (at the angle created by the rooftop pitch).

[0052] Next, the user will trim the cover to size at 848. The user will select the appropriate sizing of the cutout that corresponds to the dimension of the penetration at hand by utilizing the body guidelines and markers to trim the cover to size. (FIG. 1 and FIG. 2). Optionally, the user may test fit the cover to the penetration to resize the cover at 850.

[0053] If yes, the cover needs to be resized, the user will return to step 848.

[0054] If no, the user proceeds assembling the cover with step 852 wherein the user dorms the substantially flat cover into an assembled configuration (FIG. 6). The user will align the lateral side edges of the cover to engage the locking tabs with corresponding locking apertures (FIG. 4).

[0055] Next the user will secure the cover around the penetration by threading a fastener through the fastener bore disposed coaxially along the lateral side edges of the cover at 854 (FIG. 5).

[0056] The process ends at 856 with the cover secured around the penetration resting atop the roof material (FIG. 6).Closing Comments

[0057] Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on the apparatus and procedures disclosed or claimed. Although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. With regard to flowcharts, additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the steps as shown may be combined or further refined to achieve the methods described herein. Acts, elements and features discussed only in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other embodiments.

[0058] As used herein, “plurality” means two or more. As used herein, a “set” of items may include one or more of such items. As used herein, whether in the written description or the claims, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “carrying”, “having”, “containing”, “involving”, and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”, respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases with respect to claims. Use of ordinal terms such as “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. As used herein, “and / or” means that the listed items are alternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]What is needed is a cost-effective solution that expands the longevity of UV-sensitive penetration materials by adding an additional protective barrier to combat UV radiation. The solution also needs to be adaptable to various sizes of rooftop penetrations and easily installed. The solution would also be UV resistive, meaning it is made up of UV resistive material that in turn provides UV coverage over the UV-sensitive penetration materials to prevent degradation from UV exposure. The solution also preferably is customizable to adapt to various rooftop pitches and general area of protective coverage.

[0020]As disclosed more fully below, a cover that protects the existing UV-sensitive penetration materials from UV damage and degradation is shown and described. Notably, the cover is not watertight, and intentionally so. Creating a watertight seal is much more difficult to do, and entirely unnecessary in the case of an object designed to protect other objects from UV radiation. As...

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTS AND TRADE DRESS

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. This patent document may show and / or describe matter which is or may become trade dress of the owner. The copyright and trade dress owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or otherwise reserves all copyright and trade dress rights whatsoever.RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

[0002] This patent claims priority from Provisional Application No. 63 / 777,501, filed Mar. 25, 2025, entitled “ULTRAVIOLET PROTECTIVE COVERS FOR ROOFTOP PENETRATIONS,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUNDField

[0003] This disclosure relates to covers for rooftop penetration flashing.Description of the Related Art

[0004] Early iterations of human shelters integrated various forms of ventilation stemming from the upper extremity of the shelters. For instance, yurts, teepees or thatched huts provide for a simple opening up at the top to allow smoke to escape from inside the structure. More sophisticated structures such as a compluvium were integrated for rain recapturing and terracotta flue pipes were early forms of heating systems. As the industrial revolution came, so did indoor plumbing and coal heating systems, later giving rise to a slew of rooftop penetrations such as chimneys, soil stacks and stovepipes.

[0005] As used herein the phrase “rooftop penetration” or “penetration” mean an object that passes through at least the outer layer of weather resistant material on a rooftop at an angle of between 25 and 90 degrees as compared to the roof pitch. As indicated above, typical “rooftop penetrations” are vents for plumbing, heating, and ventilation that pass excess heat (typically, but not always) from the interior of the structure to the exterior through a “stack” style pipe, chimney or similar structure and often terminate in a diffusing vent designed to avoid rain and insects or other animals from gaining entry to the structure through the rooftop penetration.

[0006] Modernly, rooftops have become busier than ever with plumbing vents, heating ventilation and air conditioning ducts, electrical conduits for solar panels, solar panel anchors, condensation lines, water pipes, skylights and many other objects and structures that pass through an opening in a roof exposed to the atmosphere. All forms of roof penetrations share a common issue, water leakage. As each form of penetration must cross the barrier from indoor to outdoor through a hole in the roof, each penetration serves as a potential leak point. These leak points tend to lead into slippery slopes of financial burdens such as mold and mildew growth, structural wood rot, ceiling and wall damage, electrical hazards, and can even invite pests such as termites caused by wood rot. To counteract these leak points, roof penetrations typically employ a barrier called flashing.

[0007] As used herein, the term “flashing” refers to any weather resistant material-typically galvanized steel, aluminum, copper, plastic, or flexible rubber-installed at roof intersections or penetrations to create a barrier that directs water away from gaps and back onto the primary roofing surface. Flashing encompasses a variety of forms adapted to specific applications, including ventilation, plumbing, or structural anchors. This includes components designed to seal vertical pipes, conduits, or narrow structural legs protruding from the roof, often referred to as pipe boots, roof jacks, or vent sleeves. Typically, flashing is integrated into the surrounding roofing materials (e.g., shingles), where the flashing serves as the primary seal between the penetration, the roof aperture, and the atmosphere. While many flashings are circular in cross-section to accommodate cylindrical pipes, others may be square, rectangular, or irregularly shaped to fit specialized structural mounts.

[0008] The gaps between penetrations, the apertures from which the penetration protrudes their flashing is often sealed with tar, silicone, polyurethane, polymer, rubber, or other similar material and is typically left exposed to the elements, collectively referred to as “seals.” Likewise, the flashing itself is often sealed to the rooftop or primary roofing material. These seals are crucial at maintaining the water barrier at their weakest point, the point at which the penetration occurs or the flashing material joins with the roofing material. However, the material these seals are made from are typically quite ultraviolet (“UV”) reactive, meaning, that these materials break down over time and repeated exposure to direct UV radiation from exposure from the sun. As a result, these seals—sometime the flashing itself depending on the material used—usually only last 2-5 years before failing due to UV radiation / sun damage. “UV radiation” or “sun damage” refers to the form of electromagnetic energy from the sun that triggers a chemical process called photodegradation, which breaks down the molecular bonds in flexible flashing materials and sealing material-like rubber used in pipe boots or silicone used to seal gaps-causing them to become brittle, crack, and lose their ability to maintain a watertight seal. Flashings that use certain types of metals are also susceptible to corrosion and oxidation leading to rust that eats through the material creating pinhole leaks. If left unattended, these weak points aggregate, and leaks occur causing a slew of potential damage and risk. As used hereinafter “UV-sensitive penetration materials” refers to flashings, seals and peripheral components associated with these elements all of which are susceptible to UV radiation and degradation.

[0009] For most homeowners, hiring a repairman to service the seals, and / or replace the flashing or even the penetrations themselves is costly and time-consuming. Few homeowners or structure owners even think to re-visit these seals after they are initially placed. Accordingly, there remains a need for a solution to expand the shelf life of these seals, flashing and even penetrations to mitigate the risk of water damage.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 is a top view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a top view of a second embodiment of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a left side view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials installed on a rooftop penetration.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials in a partially assembled configuration.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a rear view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials in an assembled configuration.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials in an assembled configuration.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials installed on a rooftop penetration.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a process of use of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0018] Throughout this description, elements appearing in figures are assigned three-digit reference designators, where the most significant digit is the figure number and the two least significant digits are specific to the element. An element that is not described in conjunction with a figure may be presumed to have the same characteristics and function as a previously described element having a reference designator with the same least significant digits.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] What is needed is a cost-effective solution that expands the longevity of UV-sensitive penetration materials by adding an additional protective barrier to combat UV radiation. The solution also needs to be adaptable to various sizes of rooftop penetrations and easily installed. The solution would also be UV resistive, meaning it is made up of UV resistive material that in turn provides UV coverage over the UV-sensitive penetration materials to prevent degradation from UV exposure. The solution also preferably is customizable to adapt to various rooftop pitches and general area of protective coverage.

[0020] As disclosed more fully below, a cover that protects the existing UV-sensitive penetration materials from UV damage and degradation is shown and described. Notably, the cover is not watertight, and intentionally so. Creating a watertight seal is much more difficult to do, and entirely unnecessary in the case of an object designed to protect other objects from UV radiation. As will be seen, the UV cover includes various bores, cutouts, and apertures. When installed, these are not sealed, because they need not be to serve their primary function of protecting the underlying seals, flashing, and rooftop penetrations from UV damage and degradation. Likewise, the cover may include perforations to allow for easy, customizable sizing for various rooftop pitches and penetration sizes. These perforations are not watertight, but need not be for the intended purpose.Description of Apparatus

[0021] Referring now to FIG. 1, a top view of a cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials 100 is shown. The cover 100 is formed by a deformable, substantially flat sheet of material. The cover 100 may be fabricated by die-cutting, stamping, or thermoforming the sheet of material into a specified geometry and dimensional sizing. The cover 100 is preferably constructed from a UV-resistant materials. Suitable materials include but are not limited to: high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyphenylene ether (PPE), UV stabilized polymers such as UV-stabilized Nylon 66, fluoropolymers, or polymeric materials impregnated with carbon black or other chemical UV inhibitors, galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, tin, aluminum, or other material exhibiting similar mechanical properties and resistance to degradation or embrittlement when exposed to solar radiation or outdoor elements. Preferred UV-resistant materials may also exhibit fire resistance or retardant behavior as well, particularly for rooftop installation in fire prone areas.

[0022] Such materials are selected to mitigate the risk of embrittlement or surface cracking caused by prolonged exposure to UV, thereby maintaining effective coverage of the flashing, seals and penetration for which it is installed. Furthermore, the material of the cover 100 is characterized by a high degree of deformability, allowing a substantially flat sheet to be manipulated, bent, or rolled into a generally conical geometry to accommodate the exterior profile of a rooftop penetration. As used herein, the “substantially flat configuration” refers to the cover 100 in a pre-assembly orientation having a substantially flat or planar form (see, e.g., FIG. 1 and FIG. 2) whereas “assembled configuration” refers to the cover 100 in a conical orientation (see, e.g., FIG. 6). The material of the cover 100 also maintains a shear value that allows the cover 100 to be cut with hand tools like scissors or shears while maintaining the high degree of deformability. In most cases, the cover in an assembled configuration may be considered a conical segment with a transverse cut across a top portion of the cone at an axis perpendicular to a center point axis and another transverse cut across a lower point that may also be perpendicular or at an irregular angle relative to the same axis.

[0023] The deformability may be achieved through the inherent ductility and elongation properties of the material at ambient temperatures. Once formed, the material maintains its configuration via fasteners as will be discussed, meaning the material need not maintain memory of the assembled configuration, although other forms of deformation processes such as thermoforming (heating the material to a softened state to form a desired shape) are contemplated which may require material memory to maintain a reformed geometry.

[0024] The cover 100 has a general arch shape having a central cutout 102 defining an inner edge 104 and two opposing vertical edges 108. The cover 100 further has two opposing lateral edges 118a and 118b that extends into an outer arcuate edge 106 that circumscribes radially each of the lateral edges 118a and 118b. The inner edge 104 has an inner radius RI measured from a center point CP that is offset from a transverse, perpendicular axis A. While as disclosed the radius RI may be measured from the center point CP, the inner edge 104 may also be formed as an arc. The inner edge 104 is offset by a predetermined distance to aid the engagement of a plurality of locking tabs 110 with corresponding locking apertures 112.

[0025] The cover 100 has a first and second lateral side 116a and 116b disposed in a substantially symmetrical arrangement about a central axis B. The first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b are functionally identical and it is to be understood that features described for one side may be made applicable to both sides.

[0026] The two opposing vertical edges 108 extend away from a transverse axis A into the inner edge 104 and provide for a degree of excess cover 100 material. The excess cover 100 material is defined by a lateral guideline 140 which may be kiss cuts / perforated, or press lines disposed at predetermined intervals, effectively defining a frangible or deformable boundary that guides a user to fold and / or cut the cover 100 along the lateral guideline 140. The lateral guideline 140 is offset from and runs parallel to the transverse, perpendicular axis A such that the lateral guideline 140 forms the lateral boundary for the vertical edges 108 and defines the beginning of vertical edge 104. The lateral guidelines 140 further spans the horizonal length of the cover 100 from end to end. The lateral guideline 140 serves as a visual indicator to a user, such that when the cover is in the assembled configuration, the excess provided by the vertical edges 108 creates an overlap between the two lateral sides 116a and 116b marked by the lateral guideline 140. In this way, full radial coverage around the UV-sensitive penetration materials is gained.

[0027] From the distal ends of vertical edges 108 extends two opposing lateral edges 118a and 118b that then extend radially into the outer arcuate edge 106 to form the cover 100. The outer arcuate edge 106 is formed by an arc such that the body of the cover 100 spans between the inner edge 104 and the outer arcuate edge 106. The arc may be configured to form the body of the cover 100 in a shape that is generally semi-circular, parabolic, elliptical, oblong or any geometry that facilitates optimal UV coverage over the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0028] The body of the cover 100 is what provides UV coverage when the cover 100 is in an assembled configuration and is placed over UV-sensitive penetration materials. The cutout 102 is configured to wrap around the dimension of a penetration (e.g. such as a vent pipe) when the cover 100 is in the assembled configuration. The cover 100 may be secured around the penetration itself via the cutout 102, or in some instances and with certain types of flashing, the flashing itself may act as a sleeve and is disposed atop or about the penetration in which case the cover 100 envelopes both the flashing and penetration collectively. Typically, the flashing sits beneath or generally below the penetration in which case the body of the cover 100 spans the circumferential area above and around the flashing to provide optimal UV protection.

[0029] To accommodate varying dimensions of penetrations the cover 100 is provided with a plurality of cutout guidelines 114 disposed along the body of the cover 100. The cutout guidelines 114 may be kiss cuts / perforated, or press lines disposed at a predetermined intervals, effectively defining a frangible or deformable boundary that guides a user to fold and / or cut the cover 100 along the cutout guidelines 114 (others not labelled, and still more or fewer may be included in a particular case). The cutout guidelines 114 may define standardized dimensions ranging from about between 1 inch to about 6 inches or more. The standardized dimensions may also be indicated on the body of the cover 100 by markers 120. In this way, the user can quickly and efficiently identify the desired dimension of the cutout 102 and utilize the cutout guidelines 114 to cutaway the portion of the cover 100 needed to size the cutout 102 accordingly. For example, if a penetration has a diameter of 3 inches, the user will cut along the cutout guideline 114 associated with the standardized dimension of 3 inches and dispose of the cutaway material-when assembled the cutout forms a 3-inch opening capable of encircling the 3-inch penetration. Each one of the cutout guidelines 114 defines the maximum inner radius RI. Using the same example as before, if a user cuts along the cutout guidelines 114 associated with the 3-inch diameter marker 120, the user is effectively redefining the inner edge 104 and thus redefining the inner radius RI. In this way, the cover 100 is variably dimensioned and capable of accommodating varyingly sized penetrations.

[0030] The lateral guideline 140 may also be used to constrict the cutout 102 to accommodate non-standardized penetration dimensions. The user would cut the small square formed by the cross-section of the lateral and cutout guidelines 140 / 114 such that a notch is formed from the removal of the removed material. In this way, the cutout 102 can encircle a non-standardized penetration dimension. For example, if a penetration dimension is one half an inch, the user can remove the cross-section by cutting along the lateral guideline 140 up to the cutout guidelines 114 associated with the 1-inch marker. This permits the cover to have a smaller opening when in the assembled configuration. This can be repeatable for any one of the cutout guidelines 102 to accommodate non-standardized dimensioned penetrations.

[0031] The cover 100 may further have body guidelines 122 disposed along the body of the cover 100. The body guidelines 122 may be kiss cuts / perforated, or press lines disposed at a predetermined intervals, effectively defining a frangible or deformable boundary that guides a user to fold and / or cut the cover 100 along the body guidelines 122. The body guidelines 122 define the maximum coverage provided by the body of the cover 100. The body guidelines 122 define a short 122a, medium 122b and maximum 122c length of the cover 100. Wherein each of the body guidelines alters the body of the cover 100. The short 122a being the minimum coverage provided by the cover 100 whereas the medium 122b provides iteratively more coverage and the maximum 122c is determined by the manufactured sizing of the outer arcuate edge 106. The body guidelines 122 redefine the outer arcuate edge 106 much the same way as the cutout guidelines 114 redefine the inner accurate edge 104. For example, if the user desires to use the minimum amount of material to provide coverage, the user would cut along the short body guideline 122a disposing of the material which redefines the outer arcuate edge 106. In this way the cover 100 provides for varying degrees of UV coverage. Along with varying the degree of coverage, the amount of material used may also be aesthetic purposes. A user may wish to keep a low profile and opt-in for less material to maintain the minimum amount of UV coverage for the UV-sensitive penetration materials or in the alternative, the user may wish to use the maximum amount of cover 100 material to provide the most circumferential coverage for the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0032] While the current embodiment discloses a limited range of standardized cutout 102 sizes and three varying degrees of coverage provided by the body of the cover 100 via the body guidelines 122, the cover 100 may have several more dimensional ranges and accompanying guidelines 114 / 122. Furthermore, the cover 100 may be customized to allow the user to freely form the cutout 102 and body of the cover 100 to their desired lengths, straying away from the predetermined guidelines 114 / 122 respectively. The limitation of such configurations is the inner radius RI is less than the arc forming the outer edge 106 such that in the assembled configuration there remains enough material to provide UV coverage.

[0033] The cover 100 further has a plurality of locking tabs 110 extending from one of the lateral edges 118. As shown, the plurality of locking tabs 110 extend outwardly from the first lateral side 116a. The locking tabs 110 provide for a hook tab engagement structure configured to secure the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b together. When the lateral sides 116a and 116b are secured together, a first and second opening of the cover 100 is formed. The first opening corresponds to the now joined cutout 102, and the second opening corresponds to the now joined lateral edges 118 and outer arcuate edge 106 defining a base 132 (not shown). The cover 100 also has complimentary amount of locking apertures 112 disposed along the body of the cover 100 on the opposite lateral side 116b. Each of the locking tabs 110 include a neck portion 124 extending outwardly from the lateral edge 118a into a hook member 126. Each hook member 126 may be integrally formed with the neck 124 or attached thereto and may project in direction perpendicular to the perpendicular plane A. The neck 124 may extend outwardly from the lateral edge 118a about 1 inch. In some embodiments, the hook member 126 may include a curved, angled, or barbed distal portion configured to resist withdrawal once inserted into a corresponding aperture 112.

[0034] The number, spacing, shape, and orientation of the locking tabs 110 and locking apertures 112 may vary depending on the particular application, material properties, and desired retention strength. But is respective to the number of body guidelines 122, in that there is at least one locking tab 110 per each variably dimensioned body of the cover 100. For example, there is at least one locking tab 110 for the short 122a, one for the medium 122b and one for the maximum 122c length. In some embodiments, the plurality of locking tabs 110 and the plurality of receiving apertures 112 are arranged in a spaced pattern along their respective edges to distribute retention forces across multiple engagement points. This configuration may improve structural stability, resist unintended disengagement, and maintain alignment between the opposing portions of the cover 100.

[0035] The extension of the neck 124 may also be dependent on the respective body length 122a, 122b, 122c, such that the neck length 124 decreases incrementally from a maximum neck length of about 1 inch at the short 122a length, to a minimum neck length of about 0.25 inches at the maximum 122c length. The benefit of the neck 124 length is to permit sufficient play in movement when the locking tab 110 is engaged with the locking aperture 112. In this way, the respective lateral side 116 is given a degree of play equivalent to the length of the neck 124. The length of the neck 124 also corresponds to the rigidity and strength of the cover 100 material at respective lengths, meaning, at the maximum 122c length, the neck 124 provides the least degree of play as the material retention strength is lesser at the outer peripheral edges than in contract the short 122a length provides the greater retention strength demanding more degree of play for ease of installation. While the neck 124 length is disclosed as 1 inch or less, greater or less length sizes are contemplated.

[0036] The receiving apertures 112 are arranged to correspond with the plurality of locking tabs 110. Each receiving aperture 112 is sized and positioned to receive at least a portion of a respective hook member 126. In certain embodiments, the receiving apertures 112 are formed as slots, holes, or cutouts extending through the cover 100. During assembly or use, see FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the lateral side 116a having the locking tabs 110 are moved toward the lateral side 116b having the corresponding receiving apertures 112. The tabs 110 may then be inserted through the apertures 112 to form a mechanical engagement there in between. The distal portions of the tabs 110 may engage an edge or backside of the receiving apertures 112, thereby retaining the tab 110 in a secured / assembled position.

[0037] The cover 100 further has a plurality of fastening bores 128 disposed adjacent to the lateral side edge 118. Each of the fastening bores 128 are equally dispersed and coaxially aligned to a corresponding fastening bore 128 on each one of the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b. The number of fastening bores 128 is respective to the number of cutout guidelines 114 such that at least one fastening bore 128 is positioned onto each of the dimensioned cutouts 102 formed by the markers 120. For example, there are two corresponding fastening bores 128 for the cutout 102 associated with the 1-inch marker 120, two corresponding fastening bores 128 for the cutout 102 associated with the 2-inch marker and so on. In this way, the selection of the diameter for the cover 100 likewise is a selection of an associated fastening bore. The fastening bores 128 are shown as separated from one another in FIG. 5, but may line up perfectly over one another when the cover 100 is in an assembled configuration such that a single fastener may pass through both corresponding fastening bores 128 at the same time.

[0038] As best shown in FIG. 5, the fastening bores 128 are configured to receive opposing ends of a fastener 130. The fastener 130 is configured to secure the cover 100 in an assembled configuration. The cover 100 may receive one or more fastener 130 to secure it into the assembled configuration. The fastener 130 may be a cable tie (also referred to as a “tie-wrap” or “zip-tie”) comprising an elongated flexible strap and a ratcheting locking head. The fastener may also be a: hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®), metallic bands, wire ties, twist ties, elastic bands, grommets, clips, screws, punches, rivets, clamps, adhesive-backed straps or any other fastener capable of securing the cover in an assembled configuration. The fastener likewise is preferably formed from a weather-resistant or UV-resistant material to match the resistive properties of the cover 100. Such materials may include, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polyphenylene ether (PPE), UV stabilized polymers such as UV-stabilized Nylon 66, fluoropolymers, or polymeric materials impregnated with carbon black or other chemical UV inhibitors, or other thermoplastic compositions exhibiting similar mechanical properties and resistance to degradation or embrittlement when exposed to solar radiation or outdoor elements.

[0039] Referring now to FIG. 3, the cover 100 in the assembled configuration and installed over a penetration 162 is shown. The outer arcuate edge (not shown) defines the base 132 which sits atop a flashing 164 and roof 160. The roof 160 sits on a plane P oriented at an angle Θ relative to the central axis B. The base 132 sits coplanar with the plane P, such that the base 132 is oblique to central axis B when the angle Θ is greater than 0°. The central axis B is coaxially aligned with a penetration 162. The assembled configuration of the cover 100 is mathematically predetermined such that the resulting base 132 corresponds to a specific standardized roof pitch. The cover 100 is configured for use across a variety of roof pitches, where “roof pitch” or “pitch” refers to the slope of a roof's surface expressed as a ratio of vertical rise to a constant horizontal run of 12 inches (commonly formatted as “X:12” where ‘X’ is the vertical rise value in inches). For example, a “3:12 pitch” denotes 3 inches of vertical rise for every 12 inches of horizontal run. Some of the kiss cuts (not labelled) visible in FIG. 3 are substantially horizontal, perpendicular to the rooftop penetration 162. This is because the cover 100 may be used in its smallest form merely as a collar, only covering the UV-sensitive materials. As configured in FIG. 3, there is a roof pitch, and the UV-sensitive materials (flashing surrounding a penetration) are larger than a collar alone could protect from UV radiation.

[0040] The based 132 is selectively adaptable for roof pitch profiles that are substantially flat or low-slope profile ranging from about 0:12 to 3:12 approximately having a 0° to 14° base 132 orientation, moderate-slope profiles ranging from 3:12 to 6:12 approximately having a 14° to 26.5° base 132 orientation, and steep-slope profiles ranging from 6:12 to 9:12 approximately having a 26.5° to 37° base 132 orientation. The cover 100 may be utilized on any roof surface having a pitch falling between 0:12 and 16:12, or any incremental value therebetween.

[0041] Referring now to FIG. 2, the cover 100 is shown having a non-concentrically, arced outer arcuate edge 106 that is an alternative embodiment of the cover 100 and contains all the same elements as discussed above. As such, the elements will not be discussed again. The non-concentrically arced outer arcuate edge 106 provides for more material spanning the body of the cover 100 between the inner and outer curves 104 / 106. In this way, the cover 100 can be adaptable for various sizes for different sized rooftop penetrations or roof pitches or both. Various other widths and lengths may be used for different rooftop penetration sizes or roof pitches. In some cases, the cutout 102 may be half-square, half-oval, paraboloid, half-oblong or other shapes to accommodate penetrations of different horizontal cross-sections. But, again, because the intent is not to be weather tight or water tight, in general, one may simply choose a half-circular cutout 102 of sufficient radius to accommodate any penetration so long as the lower sections cover the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0042] Referring back to FIG. 1, the cover 100 may also have a fixed horizontal length X measured from the distal ends of the vertical edges 108 and a varying vertical length Y measured from the lateral edge 118 to the apex of the outer arcuate edge 106. For example, the cover 100 may have a horizontal length of 23.5 inches with a low-slop profile having a vertical length of 17.71 inches, whereas a steep-slop profile may have a vertical length of 31.69 inches as shown in FIG. 2. The cover 100 may have any horizontal and vertical lengths X and Y to define any of the incremental values for associates roof pitch profiles and cover 100 sizing. Various lengths for X and Y may be used for different rooftop penetrations and pitch profiles.

[0043] The cover 100 may provide for additional body guidelines 122 to accommodate the varying roof pitch profiles. Although not shown, the cover 100 may be manufactured having a vertical length Y that accommodates a roof pitch profiles from flat to steep such that a user may purchase one cover 100 and trim to size according to the designated roof profile. For example, roofs often have varying slopes, intersections, and may even have flat sections all with penetrations protruding therefrom. A cover 100 that can be customizable sized in both length and pitch profile requires less for the installer to carry up onto the roof (e.g. instead of carrying three cover 100 profiles, they may carry one that can accommodate any pitch).

[0044] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials in a partially assembled configuration. As the cover 100 is deformed by the axial movement of the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b towards one another configures the cover 100 in a conical shape. The locking tabs 110 are then guided into corresponding locking apertures 112 to temporarily secure the cover 100 in an assembled configuration.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a rear view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials in the assembled configuration wherein the first and second lateral sides 116a and 116b overlap such that the locking tabs 110 are received by the locking apertures 112, and each of the fastening bores 128 axially align with an opposing fastening bore to permit securement by the fastener 130 therein between. The locking tabs 110 may have teeth (not labeled) that hold the cover 100 in a conical shape by engaging with an edge of the locking apertures 112. In the assembled configuration, the first opening defined by the now joined cutout 102 can be seen. The first opening configured to circumscribe a penetration. Only one of the fastening bores 128 need be joined with the fastener 130, and preferably the top fastening bore 128 (e.g., those closest to the penetration); however, more may be used if desired, as shown herein.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials in the assembled configuration. The assembled configuration having a conical shape defining a hollow interior formed by the body of the cover 100. The body extending continuously from the first opening defined by the joined cutout 102 to the second opening defined by the base 132. The body of the cover 100 having a circular or semi-circular cross-sectional dimension increasing in size from the first opening toward the second opening. In this way the cover 100 has increasing UV coverage from the first opening down to the second opening positioned over the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the cover 100 for UV-sensitive penetration materials installed on the rooftop penetration 162. The cover 100 is positioned atop the flashing 164 installed between the penetration 162 and the roof 160. The base 132 matching the pitch of the roof 160 such that the cover 100 sits flush with the roof 160 and provides continuous UV coverage of the UV-sensitive penetration materials underneath. Preferably the base 132 covers all UV-sensitive penetration materials associated with the penetration 162.Description of Processes

[0048] Referring now to FIG. 8, a flowchart of a process of use of the cover 100 disclosed above is shown. The process has a start 840 and an end 856.

[0049] Following the start 840, a user may first begin by preparing a UV-sensitive penetration materials by cleaning the exterior surface or by sealing or resealing the gap between the penetration and a flashing of the penetration. This step is optional and is determinative of the preexisting condition of the UV-sensitive penetration materials.

[0050] Next, the user determines the roof pitch profile at 844. The roof pitch may be about between 0:12 and −16:12 .

[0051] After determining the roof pitch, the user then may select the appropriate cover profile at 846. If the cover is pre-formed for a designated roof pitch, then the user will select the respective cover to accommodate. For example, the user may purchase separate covers that are pre-formed having a cover designated for a roof pitch between 0-6:12, a cover designated for a roof pitch between 7-12:12, and a cover designated for a roof pitch between 12-16:12 (FIG. 3). Alternatively, if the cover does not accommodate the desired roof pitch designation, then the user can trim the cover to the respective profile designation utilizing the associated body guidelines as discussed above. Alternatively, the cover profile at 846 may be appropriate for any pitch profile, but a different profile may accommodate different rooftop penetration diameters (at the angle created by the rooftop pitch).

[0052] Next, the user will trim the cover to size at 848. The user will select the appropriate sizing of the cutout that corresponds to the dimension of the penetration at hand by utilizing the body guidelines and markers to trim the cover to size. (FIG. 1 and FIG. 2). Optionally, the user may test fit the cover to the penetration to resize the cover at 850.

[0053] If yes, the cover needs to be resized, the user will return to step 848.

[0054] If no, the user proceeds assembling the cover with step 852 wherein the user dorms the substantially flat cover into an assembled configuration (FIG. 6). The user will align the lateral side edges of the cover to engage the locking tabs with corresponding locking apertures (FIG. 4).

[0055] Next the user will secure the cover around the penetration by threading a fastener through the fastener bore disposed coaxially along the lateral side edges of the cover at 854 (FIG. 5).

[0056] The process ends at 856 with the cover secured around the penetration resting atop the roof material (FIG. 6).Closing Comments

[0057] Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on the apparatus and procedures disclosed or claimed. Although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. With regard to flowcharts, additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the steps as shown may be combined or further refined to achieve the methods described herein. Acts, elements and features discussed only in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other embodiments.

[0058] As used herein, “plurality” means two or more. As used herein, a “set” of items may include one or more of such items. As used herein, whether in the written description or the claims, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “carrying”, “having”, “containing”, “involving”, and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”, respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases with respect to claims. Use of ordinal terms such as “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. As used herein, “and / or” means that the listed items are alternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0019]What is needed is a cost-effective solution that expands the longevity of UV-sensitive penetration materials by adding an additional protective barrier to combat UV radiation. The solution also needs to be adaptable to various sizes of rooftop penetrations and easily installed. The solution would also be UV resistive, meaning it is made up of UV resistive material that in turn provides UV coverage over the UV-sensitive penetration materials to prevent degradation from UV exposure. The solution also preferably is customizable to adapt to various rooftop pitches and general area of protective coverage.

[0020]As disclosed more fully below, a cover that protects the existing UV-sensitive penetration materials from UV damage and degradation is shown and described. Notably, the cover is not watertight, and intentionally so. Creating a watertight seal is much more difficult to do, and entirely unnecessary in the case of an object designed to protect other objects from UV radiation. As...

Claims

1. A cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials comprising:a deformable flat sheet generally symmetric about a central axis in the shape of an arch having an inner edge defined by a first arc measured from a center point that is offset to one side of a transverse, perpendicular axis, a set of flat edges extending parallel to the transverse, perpendicular axis on either side of the inner edge and planar with the transverse, perpendicular axis, and an outer arcuate edge defined by a second arc measured from the center point and greater than the first arc and extends from each one of the flat edges;at least one locking tab extending from one of the flat edges, wherein for each locking tab a corresponding coaxially aligned aperture is disposed adjacent to the opposing flat edge;a plurality of bores equally disposed on either side of the inner edge and adjacent to the set of flat edges, wherein each one of the bores corresponds coaxially with an opposing bore; andat least one of perforated guideline defining at least predetermined first and second arcs spanning between the set of flat edges.

2. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 1 wherein the sheet is configurable from a substantially flat configuration to an assembled configuration by overlapping the set of flat edges together.

3. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 2 wherein the inner edge defines a first opening configured to encircle the penetration and the outer arcuate edge defines a second opening configured to rest atop and be coplanar with a rooftop, the second opening increasing in cross-sectional dimension from the first opening toward the second opening.

4. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 3 wherein the first arc corresponds to variably dimensioned penetrations.

5. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 3 wherein the outer arcuate edge is non-concentric with respect to the center point such that when the sheet is formed into the assembled configuration, the second opening in a plane oblique to the central axis corresponding to a pitch in the rooftop.

6. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 5 wherein the plane oblique to the central axis corresponds to the pitch in the rooftop between 7:12 and 16:12.

7. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 3 wherein the second opening is coplanar with the rooftop having a pitch between 0:12 and 6:12.

8. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 1 wherein each of the plurality of bores is configured to receive a fastener selected one of a cable tie, hook-and-loop, metallic bands, wire ties, twist ties, elastic bands, grommets, clips, screws, punches, rivets, clamps, or adhesive-backed straps to maintain the sheet in the assembled configuration.

9. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 1 where the plurality of locking apertures are configured to releasably engage the corresponding plurality of locking tabs.

10. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 1 wherein the cover is formed by a polymer material selected from the group consisting of: high-density polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and polyphenylene ether.

11. A cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials comprising:a substantially flat deformable sheet having a body defined by an inner edge with a first arc measured from a center point that is offset from a perpendicular axis, two opposing lateral edges spaced apart by the inner edge and planar with the perpendicular axis, and an outer arcuate edge with a second arc measured from the center point, the second arc is greater than the first arc extending from the opposing lateral edges;at least one locking tab extending from one of the lateral edges, wherein for each locking tab a corresponding coaxially aligned aperture is disposed adjacent to the opposing lateral edge;a plurality of bores equally disposed on either side of the inner edge and adjacent to the set of flat edges, wherein each one of the bores corresponds coaxially with an opposing bore; anda first perforated guideline defining a first internal edge along a third arc larger than the first arc; anda second perforated guideline defining a second internal edge along a fourth arc larger than the third arc;wherein areas outside the first and second perforated guideline define a selectively removable portion such that removal of the removable portion reduces a dimension of the body.

12. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 11 wherein the substantially flat deformable sheet is configurable into an assembled configuration by joining the two opposing lateral edges together, the inner edge defining a first opening configured to encircle the penetration and the outer arcuate edge defining a second opening configured to rest atop and be coplanar with a rooftop, the second opening increases in cross-sectional dimension from the first opening toward the second opening.

13. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 11 wherein each of the plurality of bores is configured to receive a fastener selected one of a cable tie, hook-and-loop, metallic bands, wire ties, twist ties, elastic bands, grommets, clips, screws, punches, rivets, clamps, or adhesive-backed straps to maintain the sheet in the assembled configuration.

14. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 11 wherein the second perforated guideline corresponds to variably pitched rooftops.

15. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 14 wherein the pitch in the rooftop is between 0-16:12.

16. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 11 wherein the body is formed by a polymer material selected from the group consisting of: high-density polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and polyphenylene ether.

17. A method for using the cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 11, the method comprising the steps of:determining a rooftop pitch between 0-16:12, wherein the second arc corresponding to the rooftop pitch;determining the dimensional sizing of a rooftop penetration, wherein the first arc corresponding to the dimensional sizing of the rooftop penetration;selectively removing portions of the body via the first and second at least one perforated guidelines corresponding to determined rooftop pitch and dimensional sizing of the rooftop penetration;inserting the at least one locking tab to a corresponding coaxially aligned aperture; andthreading a fastener selected one of a cable tie, hook-and-loop, metallic bands, wire ties, twist ties, elastic bands, grommets, clips, screws, punches, rivets, clamps, or adhesive-backed straps to maintain the sheet in the assembled configuration through the plurality of bores to secure the cover in place.

18. The method of claim 15 further including the steps of sealing or resealing a seam between the penetration and a flashing of the penetration.

19. A cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials comprising:a substantially flat deformable sheet having an inner edge with a first arc measured from a center point that is offset from a perpendicular axis, two opposing lateral edges spaced apart by the inner edge and planar with the perpendicular axis, and an outer arcuate edge with a second arc measured from the center point, the second arc is greater than the first arc extending from the opposing lateral edges;at least one locking tab extending from one of the lateral edges, wherein for each locking tab a corresponding coaxially aligned aperture is disposed adjacent to the opposing lateral edge;a plurality of bores equally disposed on either side of the inner edge and adjacent to the set of flat edges, wherein each one of the bores corresponds coaxially with an opposing bore and configured to receive a fastener selected one of a cable tie, hook-and-loop, metallic bands, wire ties, twist ties, elastic bands, grommets, clips, screws, punches, rivets, clamps, or adhesive-backed straps; andat least two perforated guidelines arranged in a path conforming to the contour of the inner and outer arcuate edge respectively and defining an increasingly incremental first and second arcs; andwherein the at least two perforated guidelines defining a selectively removable portion whereby the removal of the portion reduces a dimension of the body;wherein the perforated guidelines conforming to the outer arcuate edge is configured to coplanar with a rooftop pitch between 0-16:12.

20. The cover for UV-sensitive penetration materials of claim 11 wherein the body is formed by a polymer material selected from the group consisting of: high-density polyethylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and polyphenylene ether.

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