A support structure for use in mounting a roof window in a roof structure of a building, a support frame, and a method for mounting a roof window

Abstract

A support structure for use in mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building is disclosed. The support structure (3, 30, 300) comprises a load-bearing element (4) and an insulating element (5). The load-bearing element comprises a body member (41) extending along a height direction and a roof abutment member (42) extending along a width direction. The insulating element is attached to the body member of the load-bearing element at the inner side. The load-bearing element comprises an exterior part (43) extending in the height direction away from the interior side and located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member. A method for mounting a roof window is also disclosed.

Description

[0001] Title of Invention

[0002] A SUPPORT STRUCTURE FOR USE IN MOUNTING A ROOF WINDOW IN A ROOF STRUCTURE OF A BUILDING, A SUPPORT FRAME, AND A METHOD FOR MOUNTING A ROOF WINDOW

[0003] Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to a support structure for use in mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building, said support structure having an inner side configured for facing the roof opening in a mounted state, an outer side opposite the inner side and configured for abutting the roof structure in the mounted state, an interior side configured for facing an interior of the building in the mounted state, and an exterior side opposite the interior side and configured for facing an exterior in the mounted state, and said support structure comprising a load-bearing element and an insulating element. Such a support structure may form part of a support frame and the invention further relates to a method for mounting a roof window in a roof structure of a building.

[0005] Background Art

[0006] When mounting a roof window in a roof structure of a building, an opening must be formed in the roof structure, thereby potentially interrupting load-bearing element of the roof structure. This is especially so if two or more windows are to be mounted closely adjacent to each other. Trimming is used to compensate for this interruption but requires specialist knowledge and sometimes substantive work on the roof structure. Support structures, for use when mounting single roof windows, are known in the form of insulating frames with reinforcement allowing them to transfer the load of the roof window to the roof structure are known, but these insulating frames are not designed for eliminating the need for trimming. It is therefore desired to provide an alternative solution for strengthening a roof structure surrounding a roof opening. Summary of Invention

[0007] With this background, it is an object of the invention to provide a support structure for a for use in mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building.

[0008] This and further objects are achieved with a support structure of the kind mentioned in the introduction, where the load-bearing element comprises a body member extending along a height direction, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, and a roof abutment member extending along a width direction, said width direction extending from the inner side to the outer side; where the insulating element is attached to the load-bearing element at the inner side; and where an exterior part of the load-bearing element extends in the height direction away from the interior side and is located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member.

[0009] With the body member, the roof abutment member, and the exterior part of the load-bearing element has sufficient strength to not only carry the weight of a roof window, but also to compensate for the removal of parts of the roof structure. The body member extends along an outer side of the window frame of the roof window, carrying the insulating element, the roof abutment member extends over the roof structure, resting on it, and may be used for attachment of the support structure to the roof structure. The exterior part may serve several purposes in addition to providing strength to the loadbearing element including serving as a support for mounting brackets of the roof window in mounted. In one embodiment, the exterior part comprises an exterior surface with openings suitable for receiving fasteners, such as screws, penetrating through mounting bracket of the roof window.

[0010] The exterior part may be a part of the body member or formed as an exterior member, which may be located on opposites side of the roof abutment member relative to the body member. The exterior part or exterior member may extend in the height direction from a level defined by the roof abutment member away from the interior side.

[0011] The insulating element may be attached to the body member, such as to an inner side of the body member.

[0012] The insulating element may form part of or define the inner side of the support structure.

[0013] The insulating element is preferably arranged so that it is located close to the window frame of the roof window in the mounted state, preferably forming at least a part of the inner side of the support structure. This eliminates the need for a traditional insulating frame.

[0014] The insulating element may hinder or reduce thermal bridges in the support structure.

[0015] It is presently preferred that the load-bearing member is made from metal, for example by bending, roll-forming, or extrusion, but polymers, wood, or composites may also be used. Making at least the body member from a material with a low thermal conductivity, such as wood, may help to hinder or reduce thermal bridging. Making the exterior part from metal may provide strength and stiffness and possible weather resistance if choosing an noncorroding metal such as aluminium or stainless steel.

[0016] The body member, the roof abutment member, exterior part or member and interior member (if present) may be composed of separate, interconnected elements, possibly made from different materials, but are fixed in relation to each other.

[0017] In one embodiment, the load-bearing element comprises an interior member extending in the width direction at the interior side, said interior member and said roof abutment member being located on opposites side of the insulating element. The interior member provides further strength and stiffness to the support structure.

[0018] The interior member may be used for attachment of the support structure to a rafter or other load-bearing element of the roof structure, for example by receiving fastener penetrating through an L-shaped bracket on the rafter.

[0019] In one embodiment, the support structure comprises a roof window support ledge at the inner side. Such a ledge may be used for supporting a roof window during installation, allowing for example a bottom window frame member of the roof window to rest on the ledge while the roof window is swung into position in the roof opening, rotation about a length axis of the support structure.

[0020] In one embodiment, the support structure comprises a centre indication or a measure attachment point. These may be used in alignment of the support structure relative to the roof structure or to other support structures, and / or in alignment of the roof window relative to the support structure. As an example, a measure attachment point may be used for attachment of a tape measure allowing a precise diagonal measurement, particularly in comparison with what can be achieved by holding both ends of the tape measure manually.

[0021] In one embodiment, the support structure comprising one or more connectors for connection to another support structure. This may be used for forming a longer support structure, for example for use along the top frame members of roof windows mounted side-by-side, by may also be used for the formation of a support frame enclosing a roof window or a group of roof windows, or extending along three out of four sides as will be described below.

[0022] A second aspect of the invention relates to a support assembly for use in mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building and comprising at least one support structure according to the first aspect and at least one further support structure, said support structure and said further support structure being configured for extending along opposite sides of a roof opening in a roof structure of a building. The support structure may then be used for supporting one end or side of a roof window, while the further support structure supports an opposite end or side of the roof window. The support structure and the further support structure may for example be used to strengthen the roof structure and may be particularly useful when two or more roof windows are to be installed in the same opening in a roof structure.

[0023] In one embodiment, the further support structure has an inner side configured for facing the roof opening in a mounted state, an outer side opposite the inner side and configured for abutting the roof structure in the mounted state, an interior side configured for facing an interior of the building in the mounted state, and an exterior side opposite the interior side and configured for facing an exterior in the mounted state, and said further support structure comprises a load-bearing element comprising a body member extending along a height direction, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, a roof abutment member extending along a width direction, said width direction extending from the inner side to the outer side, and an exterior part extending in the height direction away from the interior side and located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member; said support assembly further comprising an insulating element configured for being arranged between the further support structure and a roof window.

[0024] The provision of a separate insulating element may allow the insulating element to be installed after the roof window or roof window frame, thereby facilitating installation by providing better room for the roof window or roof window frame during installation. The separate insulating element may supplement one or more insulating elements forming part of the further support structure, or it may be the only insulating element at the further support structure. It is also possible to supplement the insulating element of the support structure with a separate insulating element and / or to use two or more separate insulating elements at the support structure or at the further support structure.

[0025] In one embodiment, one of the support structure and the further support structure is forming a top support frame member and the other forming a bottom support frame member, and said support assembly further comprising two side support frame members, each having two ends, where one end is connected to the top support frame member and the other end is connected to the bottom support frame member thereby forming a support frame. Thereby the roof window may be surrounded entirely, providing insulation and / or strengthening the roof structure along all sides of the roof window. In one embodiment, the support structure and / or the further support structure is provided with one or more roof window supports, allowing the window frame of the roof window or a bracket provided thereon to rest on the support structure and / or the further support structure while swinging the roof window into position in the roof opening.

[0026] In one embodiment, a first set of roof window supports is provided on the support structure and a second set of roof window supports is provided on the further support structure, the first set of roof window supports comprising receiving brackets configured for receiving and supporting engagement members of mounting brackets of a roof window, and the second set of roof window supports comprising yield brackets each having a first arm, a second arm, an adjustment member allowing the second arm to be moved between a passive position and an active position where the second arm projects in the width direction at the inner side, and a spring forcing the second arm towards the active position.

[0027] The first set of roof window supports comprising receiving brackets configured for receiving and supporting engagement members of mounting brackets of a roof window, said receiving brackets comprising an opening, a recess or a ledge configured for receiving and supporting a projection, an end or an edge of a mounting bracket of the roof window.

[0028] The roof window support may for example comprise one or more male members cooperating with openings or female members on the window frame. As an example, the roof window support may be a flange projecting from a bottom support frame member, extending over the entire length of the load-bearing element or only a part of the length, or local projections on the bottom support frame member. Alternatively, or additionally, the roof window support may comprise one or more female members cooperating with male members on the bottom window frame member. As an example, one or more openings, grooves or recesses may be provided in the bottom support frame member or in one or more brackets thereon.

[0029] One or more roof window supports may be provided on a support structure, not forming a frame. As an example, the roof window may be hung from a support structure or support frame member at the top of the roof opening and the bottom of the roof window may then be swung into place. This, however, will usually be more difficult due to the influence of gravity than supporting the roof window or window frame on a bottom support frame member first.

[0030] In one embodiment, one or more roof window supports comprise(s) a reception section configured for receiving a fastener, such as a screw, projecting through an opening in a mounting bracket of a roof window in a direction substantially parallel to the height direction. This may allow attachment to the support structure rather than directly to the roof structure while still allowing the support structure to be relatively slim seen in the plane of the roof structure. A third aspect of the invention relates to a method for mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building, said roof window comprising a window frame, a pane, and a plurality of mounting brackets, said window frame comprising a bottom frame member, a top frame member, and two side frame members together delimiting a frame opening covered by the pane, each window frame member having a length axis extending in parallel with a side of the window frame opening, and said mounting bracket being attached to the window frame, said method comprising the steps of:

[0031] A) arranging a support structure to extend along an edge of the roof opening with an inner side facing the roof opening, an outer side opposite the inner side abutting the roof structure, an interior side facing an interior of the building, an exterior side opposite the interior side facing an exterior, and a roof abutment member extending over the roof structure, said roof abutment member extending along a width direction, said width direction extending from the inner side to the outer side, said support structure further comprising a load-bearing element and an insulating element, where the load-bearing element comprises a body member extending along a height direction, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, where the insulating element is attached to the body member of the load-bearing element at the inner side, and where an exterior part of the load-bearing element extends in the height direction away from the interior side and is located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member,

[0032] B) arranging at least the window frame of the roof window in the roof opening, thereby arranging the mounting brackets on the exterior member.

[0033] The mounting brackets of the roof window thus come to rest on the exterior member under the influence of gravity and be supported by the support structure, which will transfer loads to the roof structure.

[0034] The method may further comprise one or more of the steps of:

[0035] C) connecting the support structure to the roof structure,

[0036] D) connecting the mounting brackets to the load-bearing element,

[0037] E) connecting the mounting brackets to the roof structure,

[0038] F) arranging one or more insulating elements between the support structure and the roof window,

[0039] EG attaching an underroof collar to the exterior member,

[0040] H) arranging one or more flashing members in abutment with the load-bearing element.

[0041] Using the exterior member and / or the roof abutment member as a point of attachment for an underroof collar and / or a flashing will allow these to be mounted before mounting the roof window. This in turn means that this work can be done through the roof opening, which is larger than the frame opening, thereby potentially facilitating this work. Furthermore, the fact that this work can be done before mounting the roof window or window frame means that the risk of damaging the window frame is reduced. It is a well- known problem in traditional installation methods that the window frame is scratched when flashing members etc. are passed through the roof window opening for installation after the installation of the window frame.

[0042] Step D) may for example include that a fastener is passed through an opening in the mounting bracket and into a reception section of a roof window support of the load-bearing element in a direction substantially parallel to the height direction.

[0043] The method may further comprise arranging a further support structure to extend along another edge of the roof opening, such that two support structures are provided at opposite edges of the roof opening. Thereby, support for both ends or sides of a roof window is provided, and the support structure and the further support structure may further be interconnected by two support frame members to constitute support frame members of a support frame surrounding the roof window entirely.

[0044] To facilitate connection to the roof window or window frame a first set of roof window supports may be provided on the support structure and a second set of roof window supports may be provided on the further support structure, and step B) may then comprise:

[0045] B1 ) arranging first mounting brackets of a roof window on the first set of roof window supports, thereby supporting at least the window frame of the roof window, and

[0046] B2) swinging at least the window frame of the roof window about an axis extending in parallel to a length axis of the support structure, and

[0047] B3) arranging second mounting brackets of the roof window on the second set of roof window supports.

[0048] The step B2) may comprise passing a part of the window frame comprising at least one window frame member through the roof opening, and a foldable mounting bracket on the roof window and / or a yield bracket on the further support structure may then move between an active and a passive position as the window frame passes through the roof opening. This may facilitate installation as the foldable mounting bracket and / or the yield bracket can be pre-mounted and will not be in the way during installation of the roof window or window frame.

[0049] All embodiment and advantages described above with reference to one aspect of the invention also applies to the other aspects of the invention, but may not have described separately for each aspect to avoid undue repetition.

[0050] Brief Description of Drawing

[0051] In the following description embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings, in which Fig. 1 is a perspective view of three roof windows mounted in two roof openings in an inclined roof structure;

[0052] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of two roof openings in an inclined roof structure;

[0053] Fig. 3 is a cross sectional side view of a roof window taken along the line Ill-Ill of Fig. 1 ;

[0054] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b are details of the roof window of Fig. 3;

[0055] Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 show detail V of Fig. 2 from two different angles;

[0056] Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 show detail V of Fig. 2 from two different angles with mounting bracket and insulation added;

[0057] Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 show detail IX of Fig. 2 from two different angles;

[0058] Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 show detail IX of Fig. 2 from two different angles with mounting bracket added;

[0059] Fig. 13 and Fig. 14 are perspective views of a top mounting bracket;

[0060] Fig. 15 and Fig. 16 are perspective views of a bottom mounting bracket;

[0061] Fig. 17 and Fig. 18 show detail XVII of Fig. 2 from two different angles;

[0062] Fig. 19 and Fig. 20 show detail XIX of Fig. 2 from two different angles;

[0063] Fig. 21 shows detail XXI of Fig. 2 from inside the roof opening;

[0064] Fig. 22a-22d are cross-sectional views showing the top of a roof window during an installation sequence;

[0065] Fig. 23-25 are cross-sectional views showing the bottom of a roof window during an installation sequence;

[0066] Fig. 26-28 show perspective view of three different roof window supports;

[0067] Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a load-bearing element and batten;

[0068] Fig. 30 is a cross-sectional view of a load-bearing element and batten;

[0069] Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view at the bottom of an installed roof window frame;

[0070] Fig. 32 and Fig. 33 are cross sectional side views of a roof window taken along the line Ill-Ill of Fig. 1 , showing the bottom and the top, respectively;

[0071] Figs 34-36 are cross-sectional views showing the top of a roof window during an installation sequence;

[0072] Fig. 37 shows a perspective view of details of an embodiment corresponding to that in Fig. 36;

[0073] Fig. 38a and 38b are further cross-sectional views showing the top of a roof window during an installation sequence;

[0074] Fig. 39 and Fig. 40 are cross sectional views along the line XXVI- XXVI in Fig. 2; and

[0075] Fig. 41 and Fig. 42 show possible mounting sequences for mounting roof windows side-by-side.

[0076] Description of Embodiments

[0077] In the following detailed description, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described. However, it is to be understood that features of the different embodiments are exchangeable between the embodiments and may be combined in different ways, unless anything else is specifically indicated. It may also be noted that, for the sake of clarity, the dimensions of certain components illustrated in the drawings may differ from the corresponding dimensions in real-life implementations.

[0078] It is noted that terms such as “up”, “down”, “left-hand”, “right-hand”, “exterior”, “interior”, “outer”, “inner” are relative and refers to the viewpoint in question. In general, when referred to an exterior side, this relates to a side of a roof window in the mounted condition facing the outdoors or external side of the building. Conversely, an interior side refers to a side facing the internal side of the building, i.e. typically a subjacent room including any light shaft. Terms such as “outwards” and “inwards” are directions generally perpendicular to an interior-exterior direction, taking as its base point a centre of the roof window. In the following, the same reference numbers will be used for all features having substantially the same function, even if they are not identical. Unless otherwise stated, it is to be understood that functions and advantages described with reference to one embodiment of a feature also apply to other embodiments.

[0079] Referring initially to Fig. 1 , three roof windows 1 are shown mounted in two roof openings in an inclined roof structure 2, two roof windows being mounted closely side-by-side in the left-hand opening and a single roof window being mounted in the right-hand opening. Each roof window comprises a pane 11 covering a window frame opening formed by a bottom window frame member, a top window frame member, and two side window frame members of a window frame, each window frame member having a length axis L extending in parallel with a side of the window frame opening. In this embodiment the pane is carried by a sash connected to the window frame, and frame and sash covered by covering and cladding members 12.

[0080] Fig. 2 shows the roof structure without the roof windows, and it is seen that the roof openings 20 are here lined with support frames 30, 300, each composed of a bottom support frame member 31 , a top support frame member 32, and two side support frame members. The support frames support the roof windows as will be described in further detail below, connecting them to the roof structure, and further have thermal insulating properties.

[0081] In Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 the roof structure comprises rafters 22 and battens 23 suitable for supporting tiles. It is, however, to be understood that the roof structure may be embodied differently, depending on the choice of roof material and national practice, the latter for example resulting in the use of battens of different dimension than what is shown in the drawing. As seen in Fig. 2, the support frames 30, 300 are supported on auxiliary battens not forming part of the original roof structure, but it is so to understood that the existing battens could be used if positioned appropriately in relation to the roof opening 20.

[0082] Fig. 3 shows a roof window in a cross section corresponding to that marked Ill-Ill in Fig. 1. The roof window 1 comprises a pane 11 , covering members 12, a window frame 13, and a sash 14. A bottom window frame member 131 of the window frame is supported at a bottom edge of the roof structure 2 on a flange 311 projecting from a bottom support structure 31 , which may be a bottom support frame member of a support frame 3 or a separate support structure. The mounting bracket at the top window frame member 132 rests on a top support structure 32, which may be a top support frame member of a support frame 3, under the influence of gravity. The mounting bracket 7 is attached to the top support frame member 32 at a top edge of the roof structure 2 and thereby indirectly connected to the roof structure.

[0083] The mounting bracket 7 and the top support structure 32 are shown in more detail in Fig. 4a, corresponding to the detail marked IV in Fig. 3.

[0084] The mounting bracket 7 comprises a first member 71 extending along an outer side of the top window frame member 132 and a second member 72 connected to the first member via a hinge 73, serving an adjustment member allowing the second member to be moved in relation to the first member between an active position and a passive position as will be described in further detail below.

[0085] The top support structure 32 comprises a load-bearing element 4 comprises a body member 41 extending along a height direction H, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, and a roof abutment member 42 extending along a width direction W, said width direction extending from the inner side to the outer side. The exterior part of the load-bearing element is here formed by an exterior member 43 extending in the height direction H away from the interior side and located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member. The exterior member 43 and the body member 41 are located on opposites side of the roof abutment member 42, so that the exterior part extends in the height direction from a level defined by the roof abutment member away from the interior side.

[0086] The insulating element 51 shown in Fig. 4a is attached to the exterior member 43 and the roof abutment member 42, but an insulating element could also be attached to the body member 41 at the inner side, facing the roof opening 20, for example being provided as a separate member for subsequent attachment.

[0087] The bottom support structure 31 , which is shown in Fig. 4b also comprises a load-bearing element 4 having a body member 41 extending along the height direction H, a roof abutment member 42 extending along the width direction W, and an exterior member 43, and an insulating element 5 is here attached to the body member 41 of the load-bearing element at the inner side, facing the roof opening 20.

[0088] The load-bearing element 4 of the bottom support structure 31 further comprises the flange 311 and an additional insulating member 52 on the interior side of this flange, and both the bottom support structure 31 and top support structure 32 comprise an interior member 45. The interior members 45 are here configured for engaging with lining panels, but may also serve other purposes as will be described below. Both load-bearing elements are made from a single piece of sheet metal, which has been bent into shape.

[0089] Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 show the detail marked V in Fig. 2 when seen towards and away from the roof opening 20, respectively, while Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 show the detail marked VII in Fig. 2 when seen towards and away from the roof opening 20, respectively, including also a mounting bracket 7 and an insulating element 17 of a roof window.

[0090] This top support structure 32 too comprises a load-bearing element 4 having a body member 41 extending along the height direction H, a roof abutment member 42 extending along the width direction W, and an exterior member 43, and an insulating element 5 is here attached to the body member 41 of the load-bearing element at the inner side, facing the roof opening 20. The roof abutment member 42, however, is embodied differently from the previous embodiment in that the section of bent sheet metal member between the body member 41 and the exterior member 43 does not project over the roof structure but provides points of attachment for attachment member 61 resting on a batten 23, which is in turn attached to rafters 22 at both sides of the roof opening 20 as seen in Fig. 2. The attachment member 61 are here in the form of metal brackets, which are provided with openings 611 allowing fasteners to pass through the attachment member and into the batten 23. Similar openings 421 are found in the roof abutment member 42 and may be used for attachment to the roof structure, but are here used for connecting the attachment member 61 .

[0091] The attachment members 61 in Figs. 5-8 form part of brackets also having an upper support member 63 for receiving and supporting a mounting bracket 7 of the roof window, thus serving as a roof window support. As shown in Figs. 7-8 the mounting bracket 7 rests on top of the support member 63 and is thus not in direct contact with the exterior member 43 as in the embodiment in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4a. This means that local loads on the exterior member are reduced, and that the loads of the roof window are transferred directly to the roof structure, so that the exterior member 43 and the body member 41 will primarily be supporting the roof structure, when the roof window has reached the mounted state.

[0092] In the embodiment shown, the support member 63 has a flange 631 projecting in the width direction W, providing a support surface for the mounting bracket, and an opening 632 is provided for attachment of the mounting bracket 7 by aligning with an opening 722 in the mounting bracket so that a fastener may project through both openings 632, 722.

[0093] The mounting bracket 7 shown in Figs. 7-8 is a foldable mounting bracket allowing the roof window 1 to be swung into position in the roof openings 20, for example by arranging the bottom frame member on the flange 311 shown in Fig. 3 and then swinging the top of the roof window into position, rotating an axis defined by the free edge of the flange 311. The mounting bracket 7, which is shown in more detail in Figs. 13-14, is spring loaded and will yield and move into a passive position when coming into contact with the top support structure 32 and revert to the active position shown in Figs. 7-8 when having passed the top support structure. If the roof window is swung sightly beyond the intended mounted position, the mounting bracket will thus automatically come into position, and will come to rest on the support member 63 when the roof window is moving back to the intended mounted position under the influence of gravity.

[0094] The additional insulating member 17, which is shown in Figs. 7-8 and which is intended to be provided on the roof window frame 13, is provided with slits 531 , allowing it to yield when passing into the gap marked 21 in Fig. 4a. This additional insulating member 17 could alternatively be provided on the top support structure 32.

[0095] The top support frame member 32 further comprises a connector 44 for connection to the side support frame member 33. The connector is here a flap 441 with two openings matching two flat projections 333 on the side support frame member. In Fig. 5 the flap and the projections are shown in their undeformed state, but in the mounted state they are folded back onto side support frame member 33 to lock them to each other. This folding may take place at in-situ when mounting the support frame, so that each support frame member can be delivered separate, which may save space.

[0096] Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 show the detail marked IX in Fig. 2 when seen towards and away from the roof opening 20, respectively, while Fig. 11 and Fig. 12 show the detail marked XI in Fig. 2 when seen from outside and from inside the roof opening 20, respectively, including also a mounting bracket 8.

[0097] This bottom support structure 31 too comprises a load-bearing element 4 having a body member 41 extending along the height direction H, a roof abutment member 42 extending along the width direction W, and an exterior member 43, and an insulating element 5 is here attached to the body member 41 of the load-bearing element at the inner side, facing the roof opening 20. As described with reference to Figs. 5-8, the roof abutment member 42 is formed by attachment members 61 attached to and projecting from the section of material between the body member 41 and exterior member 43, said attachment members being bracket and resting on a batten 23.

[0098] On the inner side of the bottom support structure 31 , a receiving bracket 62 for connection of the roof window to the bottom support frame member 31 and serving as a roof window support is provided. The receiving bracket 62 has an opening 621 which is configured for receiving a projection 81 on a bottom mounting bracket 8 of the roof window as shown in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. The insulating element 5 is here shown as transparent to make the projection 81 visible, and an opening may be provided in the insulating element to accommodate the projection. Alternatively, the insulating element may be made from a material, which can be pierced or compressed by the projection. It is also possible for the projection to be smaller than shown.

[0099] The receiving bracket further has an upper support member 623 corresponding to the support member found at the top and configured for supporting an upper flange 82 of the bottom mounting bracket 8 as shown in Fig. 11 and Fig. 12. As is best seen in Fig. 10, the support member 623 here projects into a groove formed by a folded edge 431 on the exterior member 43, so that the support member provides additional stability to the exterior member. The support member 623 could, however, also project above the exterior member as it does at the top.

[0100] The attachment member 61 may form part of the receiving bracket 62 or be a separate element.

[0101] When mounting the roof window, the engagement between the receiving bracket 62 and the projection 81 may serve the same purpose as the engagement between the flange 311 shown in Fig. 3 and the bottom frame member, allowing the roof window to be swung into place, rotating about an axis C extending from the opening 621 at one side of the roof window and a corresponding opening at the other side of the roof window. As a consequence of the rotation, the upper flange 82 of the bottom mounting bracket 8 will move in over the support member 623 and the exterior edge of the exterior member 43 in a direction substantially parallel to the width direction W. In the mounted state of the roof window, the load of the roof window may be transferred both via the projection 81 and the upper flange 82.

[0102] The mounting bracket 7 used at the top of the roof window is shown in more detail in Figs. 13-14 and the mounting bracket used at the bottom of the roof window is shown in more detail in Figs. 15-16. It is noted, that these brackets are only examples of bracket suitable for use when mounting the roof window by rotation, and that other types of mounting brackets may also be used, including traditional L-shaped mounting bracket is the roof window is mounted by being lower into the roof opening in the traditional way.

[0103] As described above with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4a, the top mounting bracket 7 comprises a first member 71 extending along an outer side of the top window frame member 132. The first member is here somewhat shorter, providing a simpler design with lower production cost. The first member 71 is provided with openings 712 for attachment to the window frame, and is connected to the second member 72 via a hinge 73. The hinge is formed by bent sections 713, 723 of the two members 71 , 72 accommodating a hinge pin 731 and a spring 75 forces the mounting bracket towards the active position shown.

[0104] The second section 72 is provided with openings 722 for attachment to a support structure or a support frame, and an extension 725 is configured for projecting over the top window frame member 13 in the mounted state as seen in Fig. 4a, thus transmitting fore directly from the second member to the window frame and serving as a stop member delimiting movement of the mounting bracket from passive position to active position.

[0105] In most embodiments, two mounting brackets 7, 8 will be used at the top and bottom of each roof window, but depending on the design of the mounting brackets, one or more than two may be preferred. As an example, the first member 71 and the second member 72 may be made wider than shown in Figs. 13-14 so that one mounting bracket provide sufficient strength to carry the roof window at the top.

[0106] The bottom mounting bracket 8 shown in Figs. 15-16 comprises openings 831 for attachment to the frame of the roof window, and an elongate opening 832 aligns with markings on the support member 623 as seen in Fig. 12. An opening 821 in the upper flange 82 is intended for use in connecting the mounting bracket 8 to the exterior member 43 of the load-bearing element or to the upper flange 82 or both. As seen in Figs. 9-10 the folded edge 431 of the exterior member 43 has an interruption 433 at the support member allowing such a connection.

[0107] Details of the support frame 300 for two roof windows are shown in Figs. 17-21. Only differences in relation to the support frames described above will be mentioned, and it is to be understood that details described with reference to one will apply to the others unless explicitly stated.

[0108] The detail in Figs. 17-18 is marked XVII in Fig. 2 and corresponds to that in Figs. 5-6 except for the attachment member 61 and the support member 63 not being provided by a bracket but being formed by the folded metal part of the load-bearing element 4. The support surface provided by the flange 631 of the support member 63 in Figs. 5-6 is here formed by a bent edge 432 of the exterior member 43 and the attachment to the batten 23 is provided by the roof abutment member 42 directly.

[0109] The detail in Fig. 19, showing the bottom and marked XIX in Fig. 2, is identical to that in Fig. 9, except for the roof abutment member 42 being bigger so that in connect directly to the batten, eliminating the need for an attachment member.

[0110] The detail in Fig. 20, showing the bottom from the inner side, is identical to that in Fig. 10, except for the receiving bracket being shorter, not reaching up to the exterior edge of the exterior member 43. The exterior member thus carries the load of the roof window in the mounted state.

[0111] Fig. 21 shows the detail marked XXI in Fig. 2, ie. the centre of the support frame 300 for two roof windows. To allow the mounting of two roof windows closely side-by-side as in Fig. 1 , a double receiving bracket 620 is provided. It corresponds to two of the receiving brackets 62 in Fig. 20 being mounted side-by-side, which would be an alternative, but by using one bracket, proper alignment is secured and the bracket itself may contribute to load-distributing and stability of the support frame 300.

[0112] Interruptions 433 and markings below on the exterior member 43 may be used for making diagonal measurement for frame alignment, possibly serving as measure attachment point, for example for a tape measure. The centre indication 434, which is also an interruption of the bent edge, can also be used for this purpose, or for alignment of the roof windows based on a visual check if the centre indication aligns with the joint between the two windows.

[0113] Figs. 22a-22d show a sequence of mounting a roof window in a cross section corresponding to that marked Ill-Ill in Fig. 1 , but showing only the top of the roof window. The roof window 1 here comprises a pane 11 , a window frame 13, and a sash 14 and a bottom window frame member of the window frame (not shown) is supported at a bottom edge of the roof structure as shown in Fig 3. For installation, the roof window is swung about an axis extending in parallel to the length axis L of the bottom window frame member 131 as also described with reference to Figs 7-8.

[0114] The mounting bracket 70 is here a simple, L-shaped bracket comprises a first leg 701 extending along an outer side of the frame 13 and a second leg 702 extending perpendicular to the first leg.

[0115] The top frame support member is here represented only by the roof abutment member 42 and the exterior member 43 and here further comprises a yield bracket 46 attached to an upper distal end of the exterior member. The yield bracket comprises a first arm 461 extending along the exterior member 43 in the active position shown in Fig. 22a and a second arm 462 extending perpendicular to the first arm, away from the exterior member in a direction opposite the roof abutment member 42, towards the roof window 1 . The yield bracket is connected to the exterior member 43 via a hinge 463, allowing the yield bracket to be moved in relation to the exterior member. The hinge is spring-loaded so that the yield bracket will be forced towards the active position shown in Fig. 22a at all times.

[0116] When the roof window is moved from the interior of the building covered by the roof structure towards the interior, moving from the position shown in Fig. 22a to the position shown in Fig. 22b, the second leg 702 of the mounting bracket 70 comes into contact with the second arm 462 of the yield bracket 46, forcing it aside as shown in Fig. 22b.

[0117] As the swinging movement is continued to the position of the roof window shown in Fig. 22c, the second leg 702 of the mounting bracket comes out of contact with the second arm 462 of the yield bracket and the spring- loading of the hinge 463 forces the yield bracket back into its original active position.

[0118] When the roof window is then lower to the position in Fig. 22d by reversing the swinging movement, the second leg 702 of the mounting bracket comes to rest on the second arm 462 of the yield bracket under the influence of gravity. The first arm 461 of the yield bracket engages with the exterior member 43 of the load-bearing element and prevent the yield bracket from moving beyond the position shown in Fig. 22a, c, and d, and the yield bracket it thus capable of supporting the roof window.

[0119] The second leg 702 of the mounting bracket may be connected to the second arm of the yield bracket to secure the roof window to the roof structure, for example by passing screws or like fasteners through openings in the mounting bracket and the yield bracket aligning when the roof window is positioned correctly.

[0120] The yield bracket may also be arranged on or form part of a support member 63 as described above with reference to Figs 5-8.

[0121] While an entire roof window 1 is shown in Fig. 22 it is to be understood that it is also possible to mount only the window frame 13 of the roof window in this way and to mount the sash 14 carrying the pane 11 afterwards. If mounting only the window frame, the window frame opening 10 will give easy access to the exterior, which may be advantageous when needing to connect the mounting brackets to the roof structure, as the work can then be done from the interior of the building. If mounting the entire roof window, the window can be opened to provide access to the exterior. This applies to all embodiments.

[0122] Fig. 23 shows a cross section of a support structure 3 attached to a roof structure here represented by a batten 23 and a counter-batten 25 and comprising a roof window support in form of a receiving bracket 64. The receiving bracket comprises a ledge 641 and an upper support member 643 configured for receiving and supporting a mounting bracket of the roof window. The support member 643 corresponds to the support member 623 in Fig. 9-12, whereas the ledge 641 replaces the opening 621 in Fig. 9-12. As seen in Fig. 24a and Fig. 24b a mounting bracket 8 on the roof window 1 here comprises a rounded lower end 84 configured for resting on the ledge 641 and an upper flange 82 corresponding essentially to that in Figs 11-12.

[0123] Fig. 24a show installation of the roof window from the from interior side, where the rounded end 84 of the mounting bracket is first arranged on the ledge and where the roof window is then swung about an axis extending in parallel to a length axis of the support structure. In this embodiment the force applied to the roof window for affecting the swinging movement with result in that the rounded end of the mounting bracket becomes located at the corner where the ledge meets the main body of the receiving bracket and the axis will thus be located at this corner. The slight inclination of the ledge shown in Figs 23-25 may help the mounting bracket slide into place and a bent edge 642 present the mounting bracket from sliding off the ledge. Towards the end of the swinging movement, the upper flange 82 comes in over the support member 643 and when roof window is released, the upper flange may come to rest on the support member as shown in Fig. 25. The distal end 822 of the upper flange is bent slight upwards to help guide the upper flange over the support member.

[0124] Fig. 24b show installation of the roof window from the from exterior side. Here the upper flange 82 is first arranged on the support member 643 and the roof window is then swung about an axis extending in parallel to a length axis of the support structure, said axis now being located at free distal edge of the support member 643. A recess 823 at the corner between the upper flange 82 and the main body of the mounting bracket 8 is configured for accommodating the edge of the support member during the swinging movement to ensure a secure engagement. Towards the end of the swinging movement, the rounded end 84 of the mounting bracket comes over the bent edge 642 and onto the ledge 641 , and when roof window is released the rounded end may come to rest on the ledge as shown in Fig. 25.

[0125] Regardless if performing the installation from the interior side or from the interior side, the end result is a shown in Fig. 25, and the same set of a receiving bracket 64 and a mounting bracket 8 may be used for establishing both an axis of rotation during the swinging movement and a point of support reached at the end of the swinging movement.

[0126] Insulating elements shown as being arranged between the mounting bracket 8 and the receiving bracket 64 are made from a soft material, which can be compressed as the roof window is swung into place.

[0127] Three different embodiments of receiving brackets 641 of the type shown in Figs 24-26 are shown in Fig. 26. All include a ledge 641 with a bent edge 642 and an support member 643 as described with reference to Figs 23-25, and an attachment member 61 as described with reference to Figs 9- 12. The main bodies of the three receiving brackets here have the overall shape of the letter C and in Fig. 27 and Fig. 28 it is provided with a recess 644, but other design are also possible. Furthermore, all three receiving brackets comprise a reception section 65 configured for receiving a fastener, such as a screw, projecting through an opening in the upper flange 82 of the mounting bracket in a direction substantially parallel to the height direction H, to allow attachment of the roof window to the support structure.

[0128] In Fig. 26 the reception section 65 is formed by horizontal cuts being provided in the plate material from which the receiving bracket is formed and the sections between the cuts being bent out. Here every other section is bent inwards and the upmost section is bent outwards so that they together form a passage for the fastener (not shown). The number of bent section mays may be larger or smaller than shown and all sections may possibly be bent. The bent sections may be formed by deformation if the receiving bracket is made for example from steel, but could also be formed by moulding, and this also applies to the embodiments in Fig. 27 and Fig. 28.

[0129] In Fig. 27 and Fig. 28 the reception sections 65 are formed by the combination of folded flaps of material and a bent sections. In Fig. 27 one flap is folded over approximately 270 degrees and one bent section has a rectangular shape. In Fig. 28 two flaps are each folded over approximately 180 degrees towards each other and one bent section has a semicircular shape as in Fig. 26. Alternative embodiment of a bottom support structure 31 and a top support structure 32 are shown in Figs. 29-33, Figs. 29-30 showing only the load-bearing elements 4.

[0130] The load-bearing element 4 in Fig. 29 is for a bottom support structure and resembles that in Fig. 4b except for being made from two pieces of sheet metal. One piece forms the roof abutment member 42, the exterior member 43, the body member 41 , and the interior member 45, while the other piece forms the flange 311 and extends along the body member 41 , thereby providing additional strength and stability to the body member. Furthermore, the interior member 45 is here simpler, extending only in the width direction.

[0131] The load-bearing element 4 in Fig. 30 is for a top support structure and resembles that in Fig. 4a except the interior member 45 extending only in the width direction and for there being more space for an insulating member on the inner side of the body member 41 .

[0132] A still further embodiment of a support structure 3 used as the bottom of a roof window 1 is shown in Fig. 31 , where the roof window is connected to the support structure using a mounting bracket 8 and a receiving bracket 64 as described with reference to Figs 23-25.

[0133] The body member 41 and an interior member 45 are here made of wood, while the roof abutment member 42 is formed by a metal member attached to an exterior part 43’ of the body member by hooking over it. In this embodiment an exterior member 43 is thus formed by a combination of the exterior part of the body member and the part of the metal member attached to it.

[0134] An insulating element 5 is attached to the load-bearing element at the inner side of the body member 41. Only a lower part of the insulating element is clearly visible in Fig. 31 . An upper part is sandwich between the roof window 1 and the body member 41 , thus being compressed and hidden behind the receiving bracket 64 and the mounting bracket 8. It is to be understood that at least the upper part of the insulating element may be locally interrupted at receiving brackets to make room for them.

[0135] The bottom support structure 31 in Fig. 32 differs from those previously shown and described in that the body member 41 and the interior member 45 are made from wood. The use of wood not only reduces the risk of thermal bridging, not may also facilitate the attachment of other items to the load-bearing element 4. As is seen, an L-shaped bracket 24 is here attached to a rafter 22 of the roof structure 2 and to the interior member 45, thereby connecting the bottom support structure to the roof structure. With the use of wood for the interior member, fasteners, such as screws, can easily be inserted into the interior member for attachment of the bracket 24.

[0136] The same principles are applied in the top support structure 32 in Fig. 33, where the body member 41 and the interior member 45 are also made from wood, and where an L-shaped bracket 24 is also use for attachment to the rafter 22. The top support structure 32 is here also provided with an additional insulating member 5, which is flexible in the same way as described with reference to the additional insulating member 17 shown in Fig. 7-8, but here provided on the support structure.

[0137] Turning now to Figs 34-38, four different embodiments of an insulating element 54 of a support structure 3 are shown.

[0138] In Fig. 34a the insulating element 54 of a support structure 3 is shown in a collapsed state and located in a space 90 between a top roof window frame member 132 of a roof window 1 and an auxiliary batten 23 of a roof structure. The load-bearing element 4 rests on the auxiliary batten.

[0139] The insulating element 54 may be an integrated part of the support structure 3 or a separate insulating element, which is inserted in the space 90 after the installation of at least the frame of the roof window 1 . If using a separate insulating element it may be provided with means for attachment to the load-bearing element 4 and / or to the roof structure. Such attachment means may for example be embodied as a pressure sensitive adhesive. The separate insulating element may, however, also simply be sandwiched between the roof window 1 and the roof structure and kept in place by friction in the installed state.

[0140] In Fig. 34b the insulating element 54 has been expanded to fill out the space 90. Even though the insulating element is here shown with a slight distance to the auxiliary batten 23, it will be understood that a contact between them may result in improved insulating properties and will therefore usually be preferred. Such a contact may also serve to keep a separate insulating element in place by friction or the insulating element may be attached to the auxiliary batten or another element of the roof structure.

[0141] The insulating element 54 here supplements an insulating element 17 of the roof window 1 , being in contact with it is the expanded state. Instead of this insulating element, the support structure 3 could be provided with an insulating element attached to the load-bearing element 4.

[0142] The insulating element 54 is here a bistable pop-up structure, i.e. allowing the insulating element to stay either in the collapsed state shown in Fig. 34a or in the expanded state in Fig. 34b without the use of retainers, but automatically deforming into the expanded state when triggered to do so, for example by pushing a tool into one or more of the openings 543 in the material. Retainers may, however, be used as a security measure to avoid unintentional I premature expansion.

[0143] The gap existing between the insulating element 54 and the top roof window frame member 132 in the compressed state in Fig. 34a may facilitate installation of a roof window frame or an entire roof window 1 , by allowing it to be swung into the opening 20 in the roof structure 2 from the interior side as also explained with reference to Figs 7-8 and 22a-22d. If the insulating element is a separate insulating element not attached to the load-bearing element 4 in the state of delivery, the entire space 90 between the top roof window frame member 132 of a roof window and the auxiliary batten 23 may be available during installation of the roof window I roof window frame.

[0144] The installation of a roof window 1 by swinging about a horizontal axis located at and extending in parallel with a length axis of a bottom support structure (not shown) is shown in Fig. 35a and 35b, where the top support structure is represented only by the insulating element 54.

[0145] The insulating element 54 is here made from an elastic material, such as an elastic polymer foam, and provided with slits 544 facilitating deformation of the insulating element. A bevelling 545 is provided to guide the roof window 1 during installation. When the roof window is swung into place, it comes into contact with and deforms the insulating member 54 as shown in Fig. 35a. Here it is an insulating element 17 on the top roof window frame member 132 which causes the deformation, but it might as well have been another part of the roof window. When the roof window 1 has reached the intended installed position shown in Fig. 35b, the insulating element 54 is free to move back towards its original shape and comes into contact with both the top roof window frame member 132 and the insulating element 17.

[0146] It would also be possible to provide the insulating element 54 in Fig. 35a and Fig. 35b as a separate insulating element, which could be inserted in a space between the top roof window frame member 132 and the roof structure (not shown) from the interior side after installation of the roof window 1. In that case, the insulating element could advantageously be turned 180 degrees compared to what is shown, so that the slits 544 and the bevelling 545 would facilitate insertion.

[0147] An effect similar to that of the slits 544 could be achieved by composing the insulating element of two sub-parts, one made from a soft material which will easily yield and another of a more stable material carrying the soft material. It would also be possible to combine the two embodiments by providing slits in a soft sub-part.

[0148] Fig. 36a and Fig. 36b show the attachment of a separate insulating element 54 to a roof window 1 . Even though not shown, it is to be understood that the roof window is supported by a support structure as in Fig. 34a and Fig. 34b.

[0149] The separate insulating element 54 is here provided with a projection 546, which is inserted between the top roof window frame member 132 and the insulating element 17. The insulating element is here part of the roof window 1 , but it could as well have been part of the support structure.

[0150] As is better seen in Fig. 37, which shows a slightly different embodiment of the roof window 1 , the projection 546 has a small hook 547 at the end. When the projection is inserted, the hook may serve as a barb digging into the relatively soft material of the insulating element 17, thereby contributing to keeping the insulating element 54 in place.

[0151] As is also seen in Fig. 37, the projection 546 is only local and a slit 171 is provided between the insulating element 17 and top roof window frame member 132 to facilitate insertion of the projection. The slit is here formed by a local interruption of the adhesive used for attaching the insulating element to the top roof window frame member, but it could also be formed as a recess in the insulating element.

[0152] The fourth embodiment is shown in Fig. 38. Here the insulating element 54 is attached to the load-bearing element 4 by a hinge 548, which allows the insulating element to move aside during installation of the roof window 1 as shown in Fig. 38a. This in combination with compression of the insulating element, which is further facilitated by slit 549, makes room for the installation of the roof window. When the roof window is in place, the insulating element is moved into contact with the roof window 1 , either manually or by elasticity in the materials and may for example be kept in place by being attached to the roof window using an adhesive and / or by providing the insulating element with a projection as described above.

[0153] The hinge 548 may be a traditional hinge comprising two parts interconnected by a hinge pin, but it is presently considered to use a less complex structure providing a hinge function, such as a thin elastic material attached at one end or side to the load-bearing element 4 and at the other end or side to the insulating element 54. An adhesive tape may be used for this purpose.

[0154] This embodiment may be combined with the use of a soft material, slits and / or a bevelling as described above.

[0155] The embodiments in Figs 34-38 show only top roof window frame members 132, but it is to be understood that the principles described with reference to these figures may also be applied at the bottom and / or at the sides of a roof window, depending on the installation situation, the design of the roof window, and / or the nature of the roof structure. It is also noted that the support structure does not need to be supported by an auxiliary batten 23, but could be supported by one or more other elements of a roof structure. It is further noted that features of the different embodiments may be combined.

[0156] Some insulating members and insulating elements have been shown in the drawing as reverting to an original shape after having been compressed. It is to be understood that the such insulating members and insulating elements may still be slightly compressed in the final mounted state and that such a compression may be advantageous in that it will ensure a good contact with a neighbouring member or element, such as frame of a roof window.

[0157] The side support frame member 33 is shown in cross-section in Fig. 39 and Fig. 40. As for the bottom support frame member 31 and the top support frame member 32 it comprises a load-bearing element 4 and an insulating element 5, but it does not in itself constitute a support structure, as the load-bearing element does not comprise a body member.

[0158] The insulating member of the side support frame member 33 is a sandwich structure of three layers, where the centre layer 331 is made from a softer material than the outer layers 332. This allows the insulating member to have a relatively strong and stable outer surface, while still being able to yield during mounting by compression of the centre layer. The centre layer may be slightly over-size in the state of delivery as shown in the drawing to ensure at tight contact with the roof window.

[0159] As shown in Fig. 40, the roof abutment member 42 and the exterior member 43 serve to support an underroof collar 91 and a flashing member 92 and the underroof collar 91 may be adhering to the exterior member 43. In a traditional roof window installation, the underroof collar would be attached to the frame 13 of the roof window and could thus only be mounted after the mounting of the roof window. The presence of the exterior member 43 thus allows the underroof collar to be mounted earlier than what have traditionally been the case.

[0160] Example of mounting sequences, which are possible using the support structure and support frames described above are shown in Fig. 41 and Fig. 42.

[0161] Fig. 41 shows a mounting sequence, where two roof windows are mounted in a roof opening from the exterior. It comprises the following sequence of steps:

[0162] • Cut opening in roof structure

[0163] • Mount support frame

[0164] • Mount first roof window

[0165] • Mount second roof window

[0166] • Mount underroof collar and flashing

[0167] • Mount cladding

[0168] • Mount roofing material

[0169] • Final adjustment from inside

[0170] Fig. 42 shows a mounting sequence, where two roof windows are mounted in a roof opening from the interior. It comprises the following sequence of steps:

[0171] • Cut opening in roof structure

[0172] • Mount support frame

[0173] • Mount underroof collar and flashing

[0174] • Mount roofing material

[0175] • Mount first roof window

[0176] • Mount second roof window

[0177] • Mount cladding

[0178] • Final adjustment from inside

[0179] As is seen by comparing Fig. 41 and Fig. 42, the steps of the two mounting sequences are the same, only in a slightly different order, but with the installation from the interior, much of the work can be done by installers standing inside the building. This makes the installation process easier and safer, as the installers are more protected from wind and other weather factors and are less likely to fall. Further, any dropped items, such as tools, are likely to land inside the building, making the installation process safer also for the people on the ground below the building.

[0180] With the sequence in Fig. 42, the roof windows are mounted after the flashing. This reduces the risk of damages to the window frame, as the mounting of flashing member after mounting of the roof window frame have been known to result in scratching of the window frame.

[0181] While Figs. 41-42 show that the roof windows 1 are mounted in an assembled state, it is to be understood that it is also possible to initially mount only the window frames 13 of the roof windows and to mount the sash 14 carrying the pane 11 afterwards. If mounting only the window frame, the window frame opening 10 will give easy access to the exterior, which may advantageous for example when connecting the mounting brackets to the support structure, as the work can then be done from the interior of the building. If mounting the entire roof window, the window can be opened to provide access to the exterior as shown in the second last image in Fig. 42.

[0182] List of reference numerals

[0183] 1 Roof window

[0184] 10 Window frame opening

[0185] 11 Pane

[0186] 12 Covering and cladding member

[0187] 13 Frame

[0188] 131 Bottom window frame member

[0189] 132 Top window frame member

[0190] 14 Sash

[0191] 17 Insulating element

[0192] 171 Slit

[0193] 2 Roof structure

[0194] 20 Roof opening

[0195] 21 Gap

[0196] 22 Rafter

[0197] 23 Batten

[0198] 24 Bracket

[0199] 25 Counter-batten

[0200] 3 Support structure

[0201] 30 Support frame

[0202] 32 Top support frame member

[0203] 33 Support frame member

[0204] 300 Support frame

[0205] 31 Bottom support structure

[0206] 311 Flange

[0207] 32 Top support structure

[0208] 33 Side support frame member

[0209] 333 Projection

[0210] 4 Load-bearing element

[0211] 41 Body member

[0212] 42 Roof abutment member

[0213] 421 Opening

[0214] 43 Exterior member

[0215] 431 Folded edge

[0216] 433 Interruption

[0217] 434 Centre indication

[0218] 44 Connector

[0219] 441 Flap

[0220] 45 Interior member

[0221] 5 Insulating element

[0222] 51 Insulating element

[0223] 52 Additional insulating member

[0224] 531 Slit

[0225] 54 Separate insulating element

[0226] 543 Opening Slit

[0227] Bevelling

[0228] Projection

[0229] Hook

[0230] Hinge

[0231] Slit

[0232] Attachment member

[0233] Receiving bracket

[0234] Opening

[0235] Support member

[0236] Support member

[0237] Flange

[0238] Opening

[0239] Receiving bracket

[0240] Ledge

[0241] Top mounting bracket

[0242] First member

[0243] Opening

[0244] Bent section

[0245] Second member

[0246] Opening

[0247] Bent section

[0248] Extension

[0249] Hinge

[0250] Hinge pin

[0251] Spring

[0252] Bottom mounting bracket

[0253] Projection

[0254] Upper flange

[0255] Opening

[0256] Opening

[0257] Elongate opening

[0258] Rounded lower end

[0259] Space

[0260] Underroof collar

[0261] Flashing

Claims

C L A I M S1 . A support structure for use in mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building, said support structure having an inner side configured for facing the roof opening in a mounted state, an outer side opposite the inner side and configured for abutting the roof structure in the mounted state, an interior side configured for facing an interior of the building in the mounted state, and an exterior side opposite the interior side and configured for facing an exterior in the mounted state, and said support structure comprising a load-bearing element and an insulating element, where the load-bearing element comprises a body member extending along a height direction, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, and a roof abutment member extending along a width direction, said width direction extending from the inner side to the outer side, where the insulating element is attached to the load-bearing element at the inner side, and where an exterior part of the load-bearing element extends in the height direction away from the interior side and is located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member.

2. A support structure according to claim 1 , where the exterior part extends in the height direction from a level defined by the roof abutment member away from the interior side.

3. A support structure according to claim 1 or 2, where the exterior part is formed by an exterior member extending in the height direction at the exterior side, said exterior member and said body member being located on opposites side of the roof abutment member.

4. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, further comprising attachment members for attachment of the support structure to the roof structure and / or to the roof window.

5. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, where at least the body member is made from wood.

6. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, where the exterior part is made from metal.

7. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, where the load-bearing element further comprises an interior member extending in the width direction at the interior side, said interior member and said roof abutment member being located on opposites side of the insulating element.

8. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, further comprising a roof window support ledge at the inner side.

9. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, further comprising a centre indication or a measure attachment point.

10. A support structure according to one or more of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more connectors for connection to another support structure or a support frame member.

11. A support assembly for use in mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building and comprising at least one support structure according to one or more of claims 1-7 and at least one further support structure, said support structure and said further support structure being configured for extending along opposite sides of a roof opening in a roof structure of a building.

12. A support assembly according to claim 11 , where the further support structure having an inner side configured for facing the roof openingin a mounted state, an outer side opposite the inner side and configured for abutting the roof structure in the mounted state, an interior side configured for facing an interior of the building in the mounted state, and an exterior side opposite the interior side and configured for facing an exterior in the mounted state, and said further support structure comprising a load-bearing element comprising a body member extending along a height direction, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, a roof abutment member extending along a width direction, said width direction extending from the inner side to the outer side, and an exterior part extending in the height direction away from the interior side and located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member; said support assembly further comprising an insulating element configured for being arranged between the further support structure and a roof window.

13. A support assembly according to claim 11 or 12, where one of the support structure and the further support structure forms a top support frame member and the other forms a bottom support frame member, and where the support assembly further comprising two side support frame members, each having two ends, where one end is connected to the top support frame member and the other end is connected to the bottom support frame member thereby forming a support frame.

14. A support assembly according to one or more of claims 11-13, where the support structure and / or the further support structure is provided with one or more roof window supports.

15. A support assembly according to claim 14, where a first set of roof window supports is provided on the support structure and a second set of roof window supports is provided on the further support structure, the first set of roof window supports comprising receiving brackets configured for receiving and supporting engagement members of mounting brackets of a roof window, and the second set of roof window supports comprising yieldbrackets each having a first arm, a second arm, an adjustment member allowing the second arm to be moved between a passive position and an active position where the second arm projects in the width direction at the inner side, and a spring forcing the second arm towards the active position.

16. A support assembly according to claim 14 or 15, where the first set of roof window supports comprising receiving brackets configured for receiving and supporting engagement members of mounting brackets of a roof window, said receiving brackets comprising an opening, a recess or a ledge configured for receiving and supporting a projection, an end or an edge of a mounting bracket of the roof window.

17. A support assembly according to one or more of claims 14-16, where one or more roof window supports comprise(s) a reception section configured for receiving a fastener, such as a screw, projecting through an opening in a mounting bracket of a roof window in a direction substantially parallel to the height direction.

18. A method for mounting a roof window in a roof opening in a roof structure of a building, said roof window comprising a window frame, a pane, and a plurality of mounting brackets, said window frame comprising a bottom frame member, a top frame member, and two side frame members together delimiting a frame opening covered by the pane, each window frame member having a length axis extending in parallel with a side of the window frame opening, and said mounting brackets being attached to the window frame, said method comprising the steps of:A) arranging a support structure to extend along an edge of the roof opening with an inner side facing the roof opening, an outer side opposite the inner side abutting the roof structure, an interior side facing an interior of the building, an exterior side opposite the interior side facing an exterior, and a roof abutment member extending over the roof structure, said roof abutment member extending along a width direction, said width direction extending fromthe inner side to the outer side, said support structure further comprising a load-bearing element and an insulating element, where the load-bearing element comprises a body member extending along a height direction, said height direction extending from the interior side to the exterior side, where the insulating element is attached to the body member of the load-bearing element at the inner side, and where an exterior part of the load-bearing element extends in the height direction away from the interior side and is located further towards the exterior side than the roof abutment member,B) arranging at least the window frame of the roof window in the roof opening, thereby arranging the mounting brackets on the exterior member.

19. A method according to claim 18, further comprising one or more of the step of:C) connecting the support structure to the roof structure,D) connecting the mounting brackets to the load-bearing element,E) connecting the mounting brackets to the roof structure,F) arranging one or more insulating elements between the support structure and the roof window,G) attaching an underroof collar to the roof abutment member and / or to the exterior member,H) arranging one or more flashing members in abutment with the load-bearing element.

20. A method according to claim 19, where, during step D), a fastener is passed through an opening in the mounting bracket and into a reception section of a roof window support of the load-bearing element in a direction substantially parallel to the height direction.

21. A method according to one or more of claims 18-20, comprising arranging a further support structure to extend along another edge of the roof opening, such that two support structures are provided at opposite edges of the roof opening.

22. A method according to claim 21 , where the support structure and the further support structure are interconnected by two support frame members and constitute support frame members of a support frame.

23. A method according to claim 21 or 22, where a first set of roof window supports is provided on the support structure and a second set of roof window supports is provided on the further support structure, and where step B) comprises:B1 ) arranging first mounting brackets of a roof window on the first set of roof window supports, thereby supporting at least the window frame of the roof window, andB2) swinging at least the window frame of the roof window about an axis extending in parallel to a length axis of the support structure, andB3) arranging second mounting brackets of the roof window on the second set of roof window supports.

24. A method according to claim 23, where step B2) comprises passing a part of the window frame comprising at least one window frame member through the roof opening, and where a foldable mounting bracket on the roof window and / or a yield bracket on the further support structure move between an active and a passive position as the window frame passes through the roof opening.

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