Roof collar assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a roof collar assembly for sealing the flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas. The roof collar includes a gland formation in a base formation that are composed of a non-combustible flexible material. The invention further relates to a sealing layer for sealing the flue pipe extending to a roof and a high-risk area including a shaped composite layer of a non-combustible flexible material and a preferably malleable heat resistant mesh layer that defines an aperture for receiving the flue pipe. The invention further relates to a sealing arrangement including a noncombustible sealing layer and a non-combustible adhesive sealing strip. Both the sealing layer and the adhesive sealing strip includes heat resistant flexible material layer and a mesh layer that is composed of one or more selected from metal, mineral and glass.

Description

ROOF COLLAR ASSEMBLYField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a roof collar assembly and in particular to a roof collar assembly for use with flues in bush fire prone areas.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in the with the flues of residential dwellings having fireplaces and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.Background of the Invention

[0003] Chimneys work by creating a draft that draws out smoke and gases from a fireplace or stove, allowing proper ventilation. A key component in the chimney is a flue, a passage inside the chimney that directs the smoke upwards and out of the building. It acts as a pathway for the smoke to exit while preventing it from re-entering the interior. The draft in the chimney is created either by the temperature difference between the inside and outside air (natural draft) or with the help of a mechanical system (mechanical draft). The flue is crucial for efficient smoke removal and preventing buildup of dangerous gases inside the home.

[0004] A roof collar at the roof end of a chimney helps secure the flue where it extends through the roof of a building. This collar is typically a metal flashing or collar designed to create a weatherproof seal around the chimney where it exits through the roof. By forming a tight seal, the collar protects against potential water damage or leaks that could occur around the flue penetration point on the roof. It helps direct precipitation away from the flue and ensures that the area where the flue meets and extends through the roof remains watertight and weather-resistant.

[0005] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such background art is prior art, nor that such background art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the field in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Invention

[0006] The invention seeks to provide a roof collar assembly which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a roof collar for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the roof collar comprising: a. a gland formation including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough, and b. a base formation configured for being secured to the roof; c. wherein the gland formation and base formation are composed of a fire- retardant flexible material, and d. wherein the fire-retardant flexible material includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0008] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a roof collar for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the roof collar comprising: a. a gland formation including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough, and b. a base formation configured for being secured to the roof; c. wherein the gland formation and base formation are composed of a noncombustible flexible material, and

[0009] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0010] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is a fire resistant polymer.

[0011] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is a fire resistant rubber.

[0012] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation comprises one or more selected from: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0013] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of a halogen free material.

[0014] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of one or more selected from:a. silicone; b. synthetic rubber, including Hypalon®; c. a flouroelastomer, inlcuding Viton®; d. hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; e. ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber; f. polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubber g. natural rubber; h. nitrile; i. neoprene; and j. an ethylene acrylic elastomer.

[0015] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a layer of one or more selected from a. woven fiberglass; b. woven wool; c. woven cotton.

[0016] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation is one or more selected from: a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.

[0017] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a metallic edging formation, the metallic edging formation configured for being superimposed on an outer edge of the base formation, and secured to the roof.

[0018] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a sealing layer for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the seal comprising: a layer of flexible material impregnated with a heat resistant mesh.

[0019] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a sealing layer for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the seal comprising a. a shaped composite layer of non-combustible flexible material and a heat resistant mesh layer; b. wherein the shaped layer defines an aperture for receiving the flue pipe.

[0020] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0021] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is a fire resistant polymer.

[0022] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is a fire resistant rubber.

[0023] In one embodiment, the layer of flexible material is shaped.

[0024] In one embodiment, the layer of flexible material defines an aperture for receiving the flue pipe therethrough in use.

[0025] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an adhesive backing.

[0026] In one embodiment, the flexible material comprises a pair of layers of flexible material with a heat resistant mesh extending between them.

[0027] In one embodiment, the mesh is composed from one or more selected from metal, glass and mineral.

[0028] In one embodiment, the mesh is composed of one or more selected from: a. aluminium; b. steel, c. copper, d. brass, e. glassfibre, f. basalt fibre; and g. any other suitable heat resistant material.

[0029] In one embodiment, the mesh is thermally insulative.

[0030] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a peel away strip on the adhesive backing.

[0031] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is square or rectangularly shaped.

[0032] In one embodiment, the sealing layer defines one or more selected from an ellipsoid and a circular aperture.

[0033] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is impregnated with a fire resistant compound.

[0034] In one embodiment, the fire retardant flexible material layer is composed of one or more selected from: a. natural rubber; b. synthetic polymer; c. silicone; and d. EPDM rubber.

[0035] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a roof collar assembly for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the roof collar comprising: a. a roof collar; and b. a sealing layer, wherein c. the sealing layer is composed of a non-combustible flexible material, the sealing layer including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough.

[0036] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0037] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is a fire resistant polymer.

[0038] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material is a fire resistant rubber.

[0039] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly includes a metallic mesh layer extending between the roof collar and the sealing layer.

[0040] In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer includes an aperture for receiving the flue pipe.

[0041] In one embodiment, the roof collar is the roof collar as described above.

[0042] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is the sealing layer as described above.

[0043] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly includes an adhesive sealing strip for sealing the inner edges of the aperture in the sealing layer to the flue pipe.

[0044] In one embodiment, the adhesive sealing strip is composed of one or more selected from a non-combustible polymer and a non-combustible rubber.

[0045] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0046] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an impregnated mesh.

[0047] In one embodiment, the mesh is malleable.

[0048] In one embodiment, the mesh is flexible.

[0049] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an impregnated metallic mesh.

[0050] In one embodiment, the impregnated metallic mesh is composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel.

[0051] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a gland formation including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough.

[0052] In one embodiment, the mesh is insulative.

[0053] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a base formation configured for being secured to the roof.

[0054] In one embodiment, the gland formation and base formation are composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer.

[0055] In one embodiment, the gland formation and base formation of composed of a noncombustible rubber or non-combustible polymer.

[0056] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the gland formation and base formation includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0057] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the gland formation and base formation is a fire resistant polymer.

[0058] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the gland formation and the base formation is a fire resistant rubber.

[0059] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation comprises one or more selected from: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0060] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of a halogen free material.

[0061] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of one or more selected from: a. silicone; b. synthetic rubber, including Hypalon®; c. a flouroelastomer, inlcuding Viton®; d. hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; e. ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber; f. polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubber g. natural rubber; h. nitrile; i. neoprene; and j. an ethylene acrylic elastomer.

[0062] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a layer of one or more selected from a. woven fiberglass; b. woven wool; c. woven cotton.

[0063] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation is one or more selected from:a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.

[0064] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer including a fire retardant formulation.

[0065] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation comprises one or more selected from: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0066] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of a halogen free material.

[0067] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of one or more selected from: a. silicone; b. synthetic rubber, including Hypalon®; c. a flouroelastomer, inlcuding Viton®; d. hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; e. ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber; f. polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubber g. natural rubber; h. nitrile; i. neoprene; and j. an ethylene acrylic elastomer.

[0068] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a layer of one or more selected from a. woven fiberglass; b. woven wool; c. woven cotton.

[0069] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation is one or more selected from: a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.

[0070] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an adhesive backing.

[0071] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a peel away strip on the adhesive backing.

[0072] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly includes at least one or more metallic edging strips configured for extending around the base of the roof collar.

[0073] In one embodiment, the metallic edging strips are securable to the roof by fasteners extending through one or more selected from the roof collar, the metallic mesh layer and the sealing layer.

[0074] In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer is composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel.

[0075] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a roof collar assembly kit for assembly into a roof collar assembly for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the roof collar assembly kit including: a. a roof collar including a gland formation and a base formation, the gland formation including an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe; and b. a fire resistant sealing layer, the sealing layer including an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe.

[0076] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of a non-combustible flexible material.

[0077] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of a noncombustible flexible material that includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0078] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the sealing layer is a fire resistant polymer.

[0079] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the sealing layer is a fire resistant rubber.

[0080] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly kit includes a metallic mesh layer.

[0081] In one embodiment, the metallic mesh includes an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe.

[0082] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly kit includes securing fasteners for securing the metallic edging strips to the roof through one or more selected from the roof collar, the metallic mesh layer, and the sealing layer.

[0083] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly includes an adhesive sealing strip for sealing the inner edges of the aperture in the sealing layer to the flue pipe.

[0084] In one embodiment, the adhesive sealing strip is composed of a non-combustible flexible material.

[0085] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0086] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip is a fire resistant polymer.

[0087] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip is a fire resistant rubber.

[0088] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a heat resistant mesh.

[0089] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a malleable mesh.

[0090] In one embodiment, the malleable mesh is metallic.

[0091] In one embodiment, the malleable mesh is heat resistant.

[0092] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an impregnated mesh.

[0093] In one embodiment, the impregnated metallic mesh is composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel.

[0094] In one embodiment, the gland formation and base formation are composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer.

[0095] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the roof collar includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0096] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the roof collar is a fire resistant polymer.

[0097] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the roof collar is a fire resistant rubber.

[0098] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation comprises one or more selected from: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0099] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of a halogen free material.

[0100] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of one or more selected from: a. silicone; b. synthetic rubber, including Hypalon®;c. a flouroelastomer, inlcuding Viton®; d. hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; e. ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber; f. polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubber g. natural rubber; h. nitrile; i. neoprene; and j. an ethylene acrylic elastomer.

[0101] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a layer of one or more selected from a. woven fiberglass; b. woven wool; c. woven basalt fibre; d. woven cotton.

[0102] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation is one or more selected from: a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.

[0103] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer including a fire retardant formulation.

[0104] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation comprises one or more selected from: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0105] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of a halogen free material.

[0106] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is composed of one or more selected from: a. silicone; b. synthetic rubber, including Hypalon®; c. a flouroelastomer, inlcuding Viton®; d. hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; e. ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber; f. polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubberg. natural rubber; h. nitrile; i. neoprene; and j. an ethylene acrylic elastomer.

[0107] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a layer of one or more selected from a. woven fiberglass; b. woven wool; c. woven cotton.

[0108] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation is one or more selected from: a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.

[0109] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an adhesive backing.

[0110] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a peel away strip on the adhesive backing.

[0111] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly includes at least one or more metallic edging strips configured for extending around the base of the roof collar.

[0112] In one embodiment, the metallic edging strips are securable to the roof by fasteners extending through one or more selected from the roof collar, the metallic mesh layer and the sealing layer.

[0113] In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer is composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel.

[0114] In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer, the base formation and the sealing layer are similarly sized and shaped.

[0115] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a sealing arrangement for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the sealing arrangement comprising: a. a non-combustible sealing layer defining an aperture configured for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough, wherein the sealing layer is composed of a flexible material and a heat resistant mesh; andb. an non-combustible flexible adhesive sealing strip configured for sealing the inner edges of the aperture in the sealing layer to the flue pipe in use.

[0116] In one embodiment the flexible material of the non-combustible sealing layer is fire resistant.

[0117] In one embodiment, the non-combustible sealing layer is flexible.

[0118] In one embodiment, the flexible material of the non-combustible sealing layer includes a fire retardant.

[0119] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the sealing layer includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0120] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the sealing layer is a fire resistant polymer.

[0121] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the sealing layer is a fire resistant rubber.

[0122] In one embodiment, the non-combustible adhesive sealing strip is flexible.

[0123] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the s adhesive sealing strip includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0124] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip is a fire resistant polymer.

[0125] In one embodiment, the non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip is a fire resistant rubber.

[0126] In one embodiment the flexible material is a polymeric material.

[0127] In one embodiment, the fire-retardant flexible material includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0128] In one embodiment, the adhesive sealing strip includes a fire resistant mesh.

[0129] In one embodiment, the mesh of the adhesive sealing strip is composed of a metallic and / or mineral composition.

[0130] In one embodiment, the sealing arrangement includes a roof collar including a gland formation, the gland formation defining an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough.

[0131] In one embodiment, the gland formation is at least partly composed of a fire retardant flexible material.

[0132] In one embodiment, the fire retardant flexible material of the gland formation includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0133] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation comprises one or more selected from: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0134] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of a halogen free material.

[0135] In one embodiment, the roof collar is composed of one or more selected from: a. silicone; b. synthetic rubber, including Hypalon®; c. a flouroelastomer, inlcuding Viton®; d. hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; e. ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber; f. polymerized Styrene-Butadiene Rubber g. natural rubber; h. nitrile; i. neoprene; and j. an ethylene acrylic elastomer.

[0136] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a layer of one or more selected from a. woven fiberglass; b. woven wool; c. basalt fibre; d. woven cotton.

[0137] In one embodiment, the fire retardant formulation is one or more selected from: a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.

[0138] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a metallic edging formation, the metallic edging formation configured for being superimposed on an outer edge of the base formation, and secured to the roof.

[0139] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an adhesive backing.

[0140] In one embodiment, the flexible material comprises a pair of layers of flexible material with a metallic mesh extending between them.

[0141] In one embodiment, the flexible material of the sealing layer comprises a layer of fire retardant flexible material impregnated with the fire resistant mesh.

[0142] In one embodiment, the fire resistant mesh is metallic mesh.

[0143] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes a peel away strip on the adhesive backing.

[0144] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is square or rectangularly shaped.

[0145] In one embodiment, the sealing layer defines a circular aperture.

[0146] In one embodiment, the sealing layer defines an ellipsoid aperture.

[0147] In one embodiment, the fire retardant flexible material is one or more selected from: natural rubber; synthetic polymer; silicone; and EPDM rubber.

[0148] In one embodiment, the fire resistant mesh is composed of one more selected from: a. steel; b. copper; c. brass; d. basalt fibre; and e. aluminium.

[0149] In one embodiment, the roof collar assembly includes a fire resistant mesh layer extending between the roof collar and the sealing layer.

[0150] In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer includes an aperture for receiving the flue pipe.

[0151] In one embodiment, the roof collar includes a base formation configured for being secured to the roof.

[0152] In one embodiment, the gland formation and base formation are composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer.

[0153] In one embodiment, the gland formation and base formation of composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer including a fire retardant formulation.

[0154] In one embodiment, the adhesive sealing strip includes a mesh composed of one or more selected from a metal and a mineral.

[0155] In one embodiment, the mesh of the sealing layer is composed of one or more selected from a metal and a mineral.

[0156] In one embodiment, the mesh of the sealing layer is a textile.

[0157] In one embodiment, the mesh of the sealing layer is thermally insulative.

[0158] In one embodiment, the mesh of the adhesive sealing strip is a textile.

[0159] In one embodiment, the mesh of the adhesives sealing strip is thermally insulative.

[0160] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a method of assembling a roof collar assembly for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the method comprising: a. placing a precut sealing layer including an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe over the flue pipe; b. placing a roof collar including a gland formation and a base formation, wherein the gland formation includes an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe therethrough, over the flue pipe.

[0161] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an adhesive backing and the method includes the step of sticking the sealing layer to the roof.

[0162] In one embodiment, the sealing layer includes an impregnated metallic mesh, and the method includes the step of: bending the sealing layer to match the profile of the roof.

[0163] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: a. placing a metallic mesh layer defining an aperture that is configured for receiving the flue pipe therethrough, over the flue pipe.

[0164] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: placing one or more metallic edging strips along the outer edges of the base formation of the roof collar; and fastening the one or more metallic edging strips to the roof using fasteners through the metallic edging strip and one or more selected from the roof collar, the metallic mesh layer, and the sealing layer.

[0165] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: taping the precut sealing layer to the pipe flue with heat resistant tape.

[0166] According to a further aspect, the present invention may be said to involve a method of assembling a roof collar assembly for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the method comprising: a. providing a sealing arrangement as described above; b. fitting the sealing layer over the flue pipe, c. adhering the sealing layer to the roof; d. applying the adhesive sealing strip to seal a gap between the roof and the flue pipe.

[0167] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of removing an adhesive backing from the sealing layer.

[0168] In one embodiment, the method includes the step of removing an adhesive backing from the adhesive sealing strip.

[0169] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0170] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, a preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0171] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a sealing layer with aluminium mesh sandwiched between a layer of EPDM rubber with a butyl adhesive backing being placed over the top of a flue;

[0172] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the sealing layer with aluminium mesh with the peel away strip being removed;

[0173] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the steel mesh being put over the top of the sealing layer and the flue;

[0174] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the steel mesh attached sealing layer to the flue;

[0175] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the roof collar being placed on top of the flue;

[0176] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the roof collar screwed down on the roof;

[0177] Figure 7 shows an exploded view of the roof collar assembly of figure 6; and

[0178] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a sealing arrangement.Description of Embodiments

[0179] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0180] According to one embodiment and referring to the Figures, there is shown a roof collar 1000 for sealing a flue pipe 1100 extending through a roof 1200 in high-risk fire areas. The roof collar 1000 comprises a gland formation 1300 including an aperture 1350 for snugly receiving the flue pipe 1100 therethrough and a base formation 1400 configured for being secured to the roof 1200. The gland formation 1300 and base formation 1400 may be at least partly composed of a fire retardant flexible material. The roof collar 1000 may be at least partly composed of one or more selected from silicone;synthetic rubber, such as Hypalon®; a flouroelastomer such as Viton®; hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber; polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber; natural rubber; nitrile; neoprene; and an ethylene acrylic elastomer. Alternative suitable natural and synthetic polymers are also envisaged. The fire-retardant flexible material or rubber preferably includes a fire retardant formulation.

[0181] The fire retardant formulation may comprise one or more selected from compounds containing phosphorous, compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0182] Preferably the gland formation 1300 and / or base formation 1400 of the roof collar may be at least partly composed of a halogen free material.

[0183] In one embodiment (not shown), it is envisaged that the gland formation 1300 and / or base formation 1400 of the roof collar may include a layer of one or more selected from woven fiberglass; woven wool; woven basalt fibre and woven cotton (not shown).

[0184] It is further envisaged that the fire retardant formulation may be one or more selected from magnesium hydroxide, aluminium hydroxide, ammonium polyphosphate; antimony trioxide; and decabromodiphenyl, although alternative suitable fire retardant formulations are also envisaged.

[0185] The roof collar 1000 includes a metallic edging formation 1450, the metallic edging formation configured for being superimposed on an outer edge of the base formation 1400, and secured to the roof 1200. The metallic edging formation 1450 may be secured to the roof by fasteners 1900.

[0186] The roof collar 1000 may further include a sealing layer 1500. The sealing layer 1500 comprises at least one layer of flexible material 1550 which may be impregnated with a fire resistant, preferably aluminium, mesh 1600. The sealing layer 1500 is preferably composed of a non-combustible flexible material. The non-combustible flexible material of the sealing layer 1500 may be a non-combustible rubber and / or a non- combustible polymer. The sealing layer 1500 is preferably fire resistant. Alternative materials are also envisaged for the mesh 1600, such as metallic materials, basalt fiber or the like. Preferably the sealing layer 1500 is comprised of a pair of layers of flexible material 1550 with the mesh 1600 enclosed or sandwiched between them. The sealing layer 1500 includes an adhesive backing 1650 which may be butyl adhesive. The sealing layer may include a peel away strip 1700 that is removable to reveal the butyl adhesive backing 1650.

[0187] The layers of flexible material 1550 may be preferably at least partly composed of one or more selected from silicone; synthetic rubber, such as Hypalon®; a flouroelastomer such as Viton®; hydrogenated acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber; ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber; polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber; natural rubber; nitrile; neoprene; and an ethylene acrylic elastomer. Alternative flexible materials are also envisaged. The layers of flexible material 1550 preferably also may include a fire retardant formulation such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminium hydroxide, ammonium polyphosphate; antimony trioxide; and decabromodiphenyl. Alternative fire retardant fomulations are also envisaged. Additionally, the layers of flexible material may also include an additive or compound mixed in to the polymer and / or rubber that makes it non-combustible and / or fire resistant.

[0188] In one embodiment as shown in the figures, the sealing layer 1500 is rectangularly shaped and layer defines an ellipsoid and / or circular aperture 1750. It would be understood the specific shape is not limited and the sealing layer could be any shape to suit the particular use. The mesh 1600 is preferably composed of one more selected from: steel; copper, brass and aluminium, or any other suitable metallic or fire resistant mesh or textile material such as basalt fibre.

[0189] According to another preferred embodiment there is provided a roof collar assembly 2000 for sealing a flue pipe 1100 extending through an aperture in a roof in high-risk fire areas. The roof collar assembly 2000 comprises a roof collar 1000 and a sealing layer 1500 wherein the sealing layer is composed of a flexible EPDM rubber, the sealing layer including an aperture 1750 for snugly receiving a flue pipe 1100 therethrough. The roof collar assembly 2000 includes a metallic mesh layer 1625 extending between the roof collar 1000 and the sealing layer 1500. The metallic mesh layer 1625 includes an aperture 1450 for receiving the flue pipe 1100. The roof collar assembly 2000 includes an adhesive sealing strip 1850 for sealing the inner edges of the aperture 1750 in the sealing layer 1500 to the flue pipe 1100.

[0190] The adhesive sealing strip 1850 is preferably composed of a non-combustible flexible material. The non-combustible flexible material of the adhesive sealing strip 1850 may be a non-combustible rubber and / or a non-combustible polymer. The adhesive sealing strip 1850 is preferably fire resistant. The adhesive sealing strip 1850 may be composed of the same material as mentioned with reference to the sealing layer 1500.

[0191] Preferably, the sealing layer 1500 has metallic mesh 1600 impregnated therein, the impregnated metallic mesh being composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel. The sealing layer 1500 is composed of EPDM rubber.

[0192] The roof collar includes a gland formation 1300 including an aperture 1350 for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough. In one embodiment, the roof collar 1000 includes a base formation 1400 configured for being secured to the roof 1200. The gland formation and base formation are composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer.

[0193] The roof collar 1000 is preferably composed of a non-combustible flexible material. The non-combustible flexible material of the roof collar 1000 may be a non-combustible rubber and / or a non-combustible polymer. The roof collar 1000 is preferably fire resistant. The roof collar 1000 may be composed of similar materials mentioned with reference to the sealing layer 1500.

[0194] The sealing layer 1500 is composed EPDM rubber. The sealing layer 1500 includes an adhesive backing and sealing layer 1650 having a peel away strip 1700. The roof collar assembly 2000 includes at least one or more metallic edging strips 1475 configured for extending around the base of the roof collar 1000. Preferably the edging strips 1475 are flexible aluminium strips. The metallic edging strips 1475 are securable to the roof by fasteners 1900 extending through one or more selected from the roof collar 1000, the metallic mesh layer 1625 and the sealing layer 1500. The metallic mesh layer may preferably be composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel, although other fire resistant mesh materials are also envisaged such as copper, brass, basalt fiber, or any other suitable material. In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer 1625, the base formation 1400 and the sealing layer 1500 are similarly sized.

[0195] According to another preferred embodiment there is provided a roof collar assembly kit for assembly into a roof collar assembly 2000 for sealing a flue pipe 1100 extending through a roof 1200 in high-risk fire areas. The roof collar assembly kit includes a roof collar 1000 including a gland formation 1300 and a base formation 1400. The gland formation 1300 includes an aperture 1350 configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe 1100. The roof collar assembly kit further including a fire retardant sealing layer 1500, the sealing layer including an aperture 1750 configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe. The roof collar assembly kit includes a metallic mesh layer 1625. The metallic mesh layer includes 1625 an aperture 1450 configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe. The roof collar assembly kit includes securing fasteners 1900 for securing the metallic edging strips to the roof through one or more selected from the roof collar, the metallic meshlayer, and the sealing layer. The roof collar assembly kit includes an adhesive sealing strip 1850 for sealing the inner edges of the aperture 1750 in the sealing layer 1500 to the flue pipe 1100. The sealing layer includes an impregnated metallic mesh 1600 composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel. The sealing layer 1500 may be composed of rubber impregnated with fire retardant or any material as described above. The gland formation 1300 and base formation 1400 are composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer. The gland formation 1300 and base formation 1400 are composed of a fire retardant rubber or polymer including a fire retardant formulation as described above. The sealing layer 1500 includes an adhesive backing and sealing layer 1650 having a peel away strip 1700. The roof collar 1000 includes at least one or more metallic edging strips 1475 configured for extending around the base of the roof collar. The metallic edging strips are securable to the roof by fasteners 1900 extending through one or more selected from the roof collar 1000, the metallic mesh layer 1600 and the sealing layer 1500. The metallic mesh layer may be composed of one or more selected from aluminium and steel or any o the material as described above. In one embodiment, the metallic mesh layer, the base formation and the sealing layer are similarly sized.

[0196] According to another preferred embodiment there is provided a method of assembling a roof collar assembly 2000 for sealing a flue pipe 1100 extending through an aperture in a roof 1200 in high-risk fire areas. The method may include placing a preferably precut sealing layer 1500 including an aperture 1750 configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe over the flue pipe. This is followed by placing a roof collar 1000 including a gland formation 1300 and a base formation 1400, wherein the gland formation includes an aperture 1350 configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe 1100 therethrough, over the flue pipe. The sealing layer 1500 includes an adhesive backing 1650 and the method includes the step of removing the adhesive backing and sticking the sealing layer to the roof 1200. In one embodiment the sealing layer 1500 includes a malleable mesh 1600, which may be metallic, and the method includes the step of bending the sealing layer 1500 to match the profile of the roof. In one embodiment the method includes the step of placing a metallic mesh layer 1625 defining an aperture 1450 that is configured for receiving the flue pipe 1100 therethrough, over the flue pipe.

[0197] The method may include the step of placing one or more metallic edging strips 1475 along the outer edges of the base formation 1400 of the roof collar 1000 and fastening the one or more metallic edging strips to the roof using fasteners 1900 through the metallic edging strip 1475 and one or more selected from the roof collar 1000, themetallic mesh layer 1600, and the sealing layer 1500. It is envisaged that the metallic edging strips may be previously fixed to the edges of the roof collar as pat of the production process of the roof collar. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of: taping the precut sealing layer to the pipe flue with an adhesive sealing strip in the form of heat resistant tape 1850.

[0198] In a very preferred embodiment, the sealing layer 1500 is provided in pre-cut sheets suited to the pipe size of the flue onto which it is installed. The sealing layer 1500 most preferably consists of 2 layers of EPDM rubber sandwiching a layer of aluminium mesh with a butyl adhesive backing 1650 which has a perforated peel off layer 1700 for easy installation.

[0199] In a very preferred embodiment, the metallic mesh layer 1625 is made of a flexible stainless steel mesh with black epoxy resin coating having holes with an approximate size of 1.41 mm and an approximate thickness of 0.18mm.

[0200] In a very preferred embodiment, the sealing layer 1500 and the metallic mesh layer 1625 forms a neck around the pipe which is then sealed off with an adhesive sealing strip 1850 in the form of heat resistant flashing tape which is a 25mm wide strip of flashing tape. This attaches the sealing layer 1500 and metallic mesh layer 1600 to the flue 1100 to get rid of any gaps. Preferably, the adhesive sealing strip 1850 comprises a membrane material containing polymer made of isobutylene EPDM rubber (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber) embedded with aluminium mesh having the same malleability as lead and sold under the brand name ProFlash® having an approximate thickness of 2.1mm and a service temperature of -40°C to 90°C. Preferably, the sealing layer 1500 comprises a membrane material containing polymer made of isobutylene EPDM rubber (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber) embedded with aluminium mesh having the same malleability as lead and sold under the brand name ProFlash® having an approximate thickness of 2.1mm and a service temperature of -40°C to 90°C.

[0201] In a preferred embodiment, roof collar 1000 and gland formation 1300 may be made of polymers or a mix of polymers with a fire retardant material. Preferably, metallic edging strip 1475 is composed of aluminium, although alternative fire proof malleable materials are also envisaged.

[0202] In a preferred embodiment, fasteners 1900 may be heat treated screws.

[0203] In a further embodiment shown in figure 8, an example is shown of a sealing arrangement 3000 for sealing a flue pipe that extends through a roof in high-risk fire areas.

[0204] The sealing arrangement 3000 includes sealing layer 1500 similar to the sealing layer described above, and an adhesive sealing strip 1850.

[0205] The sealing layer 1500 may be as described above, and may be at least partly composed of a layer of flexible material 1550 impregnated with a fire retardant mesh 1600. The mesh 1600 may be a malleable mesh. The mesh 1600 may be in the form of a metallic mesh such as aluminium, copper, brass, steel, or other metallic materials, or in the form of a mineral composition mesh such as basalt fibre. Preferably the sealing layer 1500 is comprised of a pair of layers of flexible material 1550 with the mesh 1600 enclosed or sandwiched between them.

[0206] Alternatively, it is envisaged that the sealing layer could be comprised of a single layer of flexible material into which the fire resistant mesh is impregnated.

[0207] The sealing layer 1500 includes an adhesive backing 1650 and a peel away strip 1700 that is removed to reveal the butyl adhesive backing.

[0208] The layers of flexible material 1550 may be composed of flexible materials with heat resistance. Possible materials include one or more selected from silicone; synthetic rubber, such as Hypalon®; a flouroelastomer such as Viton®; hydrogenated acrylonitrilebutadiene rubber; ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber; polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber; natural rubber; nitrile; neoprene; and an ethylene acrylic elastomer, although alternative materials are also envisaged. The layers of flexible material 1550 may also include a fire retardant formulation such as magnesium hydroxide, aluminium hydroxide, ammonium polyphosphate; antimony trioxide; and decabromodiphenyl, although alternative fire retardant formulations are also envisaged.

[0209] In one example as shown in the figures, the sealing layer 1500 may be rectangularly shaped and the sealing layer may define a circular aperture 1750. Alternatively, the aperture 1750 may be ellipsoid in shape. Alternatively, the aperture may be precut to fit the shape of the flue. It would be understood the specific shape is not limited and the sealing layer could be any shape to suit the particular use. The mesh 1550 is preferably composed of one more selected from: steel; copper, brass and aluminium, or any other suitable metallic or fire resistant mesh or textile material such as basalt fibre.

[0210] The adhesive sealing strip 1850 is configured for sealing the inner edges of the aperture 1750 in the sealing layer 1500 to the flue pipe 1100. The adhesive sealing strip is preferably impregnated with a fire resistant mesh (not shown). The adhesive sealing strip 1850 may be composed of the same material as the sealing layer 1500. The adhesive sealing strip 1850 preferably includes a fire-retardant flexible material includesa fire retardant formulation similar to those described above. The adhesive sealing strip 1850 preferably includes a fire-resistant mesh similar to those described above. The adhesive sealing strip 1850 may include an adhesive backing with a pillow strip (not shown). The mesh of the adhesive sealing strip may be composed of a metallic and / or mineral composition.

[0211] The fire retardant formulation may include any one or more of: a. compounds containing phosphorous, b. compounds generating unsaturated chemical bond; and c. compounds generating cross linking structures.

[0212] The fire retardant formulation may include one or more selected from: a. magnesium hydroxide, b. aluminium hydroxide, and c. ammonium polyphosphate; d. antimony trioxide; and e. decabromodiphenyl.Installation

[0213] It is envisaged that the roof collar assembly will be used as described below with reference to the figures.

[0214] Now described with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2, there is provided roof 1200 having flue 1100 protruding therethrough. Sealing layer 1500 is provided and is cut to size to fit the size of the flue. Sealing layer 1500 may be precut to the desired size. In one embodiment the sealing layer 1500 comprises a flexible material 1550 impregnated with a metallic mesh 1600. The sealing layer 1500 includes an adhesive backing 1650 and a peel away strip 1700 that is removed to reveal the adhesive backing. Once the sealing layer is cut to size and correctly oriented, peel away strip 1700 is removed to expose the adhesive backing 1650 allowing the sealing layer 1500 to be secured to the roof 1200 surrounding the flue 1100. In one preferred embodiment the sealing layer 1500 is pre-cut and may comprise two layers of EPDM rubber sandwiching a layer of preferably aluminium mesh with a butyl adhesive backing which has a perforated peel off layer for easy installation.

[0215] Referring to Figure 3 there is shown metallic mesh 1625 which placed over the flue 1100 through aperture 1450 and placed on top of the sealing layer 1500. This step is optional. In one preferred embodiment the metallic mesh 1625 is flexible stainless steelmesh with black coating and having holes with a size of about 1.41 mm. Alternative fire resistant materials such as steel, brass, copper, and basalt fiber are envisaged.

[0216] Referring to Figure 4, adhesive sealing strip or flashing tape 1850 may be placed around the flue 1100 ensuring there are no gaps between the sealing layer 1500, the metallic mesh 1625 and the flue.

[0217] Referring to Figure 5, roof collar 1000 including gland formation 1300 and a base formation 1400 is placed over the flue 1100. If required, the gland formation can be trimmed or cut prior to being installed so as to snugly fit the flue.

[0218] Referring to Figure 6 there is shown the roof collar 1000 secured to the roof 1200. During this step the user applies sealant and forms the sealing layer 1500 to the roof profile as required. Fasteners 1900, which may be in the form of heat treated screws, are then used to secure the roofing collar assembly by way of metallic edging strips 1475 to the roof. The user starts with screwing down one vertical edge and then moves across with the screws being between the valleys of the metallic edging strips. If required, the user trims off any excess metallic mesh. Installation is then complete.

[0219] Referring to Figure 7 there is shown an exploded view of a roofing collar assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0220] It will be understood that the embodiments of the invention as disclosed are advantageous in preventing penetration of the roof by embers and fire in bushfire prone areas.Interpretation

[0221] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. For the purposes of the present invention, additional terms are defined below. Furthermore, all definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms unless there is doubt as to the meaning of a particular term, in which case the common dictionary definition and / or common usage of the term will prevail.

[0222] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular articles “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise and thus are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e. to “at least one”) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, the phrase “an element” refers to one element or more than one element.

[0223] The term “about” is used herein to refer to quantities that vary by as much as 30%, preferably by as much as 20%, and more preferably by as much as 10% to a reference quantity. The use of the word ‘about’ to qualify a number is merely an express indication that the number is not to be construed as a precise value.

[0224] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated step or element or group of steps or elements but not the exclusion of any other step or element or group of steps or elements.

[0225] The term “real-time” for example “displaying real-time data,” refers to the display of the data without intentional delay, given the processing limitations of the system and the time required to accurately measure the data.

[0226] As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used in the sense of providing examples, as opposed to indicating quality. That is, an “exemplary embodiment” is an embodiment provided as an example, as opposed to necessarily being an embodiment of exemplary quality for example serving as a desirable model or representing the best of its kind.

[0227] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and / or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

[0228] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separatingitems in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of’ will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0229] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and / or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.Embodiments:

[0230] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0231] Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0232] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.Specific Details

[0233] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[0234] It will be appreciated that the methods / apparatus / devices / systems described / illustrated above at least substantially provide a roof collar assembly.

[0235] The roof collar assembly described herein, and / or shown in the drawings, are presented by way of example only and are not limiting as to the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise specifically stated, individual aspects and components of the roof collar assembly may be modified, or may have been substituted therefore known equivalents, or as yet unknown substitutes such as may be developed in the future or such as may be found to be acceptable substitutes in the future. The roof collar assembly may also be modified for a variety of applications while remaining within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention, since the range of potential applications is great, and since it is intended that the present invention be adaptable to many such variations.Terminology

[0236] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.Different Instances of Objects

[0237] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.Combinations of features in embodiments

[0238] Different features are described in different embodiments in this specification, however it is envisaged that any features shown in any embodiment described may be used with any other features in any other embodiment in any combination, unless this is not logically possible.Comprising and Including

[0239] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[0240] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements / features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising.Scope of Invention

[0241] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[0242] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.Chronological order

[0243] For the purpose of this specification, where method steps are described in sequence, the sequence does not necessarily mean that the steps are to be carried out in chronological order in that sequence, unless there is no other logical manner of interpreting the sequence.Industrial Applicability

[0244] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the roofing and construction industries.

Claims

Claims1) A roof collar for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the roof collar comprising: a) a gland formation including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough, and b) a base formation configured for being secured to the roof; a. wherein the gland formation and base formation are composed of a noncombustible flexible material.2) The roof collar of claim 1 wherein the roof collar includes a metallic edging formation, the metallic edging formation configured for being superimposed on an outer edge of the base formation, and secured to the roof.3) The roof collar of either one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the non-combustible flexible material includes a fire retardant formulation.4) A sealing layer for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the seal comprising a) a shaped composite layer of non-combustible flexible material and a heat resistant mesh layer; b) wherein the shaped layer defines an aperture for receiving the flue pipe.5) The sealing layer of claim 4 wherein the flexible material comprises a pair of layers of flexible material with a mesh extending between them.6) The sealing layer of any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein the mesh is a malleable mesh.7) The sealing layer of any one of claim 4 to 6, wherein the mesh is a heat resistant mesh.8) The sealing layer of any one of claims 4 to 7 wherein the mesh is at least partly composed of one or more selected from: a) a metal mesh; and b) a mineral.9) The sealing layer of any one of claims 4 to 8 wherein the sealing layer includes an adhesive backing.10)A roof collar assembly for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high- risk fire areas, the roof collar comprising: a) a roof collar; andb) a sealing layer, wherein the sealing layer is composed of a non-combustible flexible sealing material, the sealing layer including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough.11)The roof collar assembly according to claim 10, wherein the roof collar assembly includes a metallic mesh layer extending between the roof collar and the sealing layer, the metallic mesh layer including an aperture for receiving the flue pipe.12)The roof collar assembly according to any one of claims 10 - 11 wherein the roof collar assembly includes an adhesive sealing strip for sealing the inner edges of the aperture of the sealing layer to the flue pipe in use.13)The roof collar assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 12 wherein the sealing layer includes a heat resistant mesh.14)The roof collar assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein the roof collar includes a gland formation including an aperture for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough.15) The roof collar assembly according to any one of claims 10 to 14 wherein the roof collar includes a base formation configured for being secured to the roof.16) The roof collar assembly according to either of claims 14 or 15 wherein one or more selected from the gland formation and the base formation are composed of a fire- retardant rubber or polymer.17)The roof collar assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein one or more selected from the gland formation and the base formation include a fire- retardant formulation.18)A roof collar assembly kit for assembly into a roof collar assembly for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high-risk fire areas, the roof collar assembly kit including: a) a roof collar including a gland formation and a base formation, the gland formation including an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe; and b) a non-combustible sealing layer, the sealing layer including an aperture configured for snugly receiving the flue pipe.19)A sealing arrangement for sealing a flue pipe extending through a roof in high- risk fire areas, the sealing arrangement comprising: a) a non-combustible sealing layer defining an aperture configured for snugly receiving a flue pipe therethrough, wherein the sealing layer includes at least one layer of a flexible material and a heat resistant mesh; andb) a non-combustible adhesive sealing strip configured for sealing the inner edges of the aperture in the sealing layer to the flue pipe in use.20)The sealing arrangement as claimed in claim 19, wherein one or more selected from the non-combustible sealing layer and a non-combustible adhesive sealing strip are composed of one or more selected from a) a non-combustible rubber; and b) a non-combustible polymer.21)The sealing arrangement as claimed in either of claims 19 or 20, wherein the adhesive sealing strip includes a mesh composed of one or more selected from a metal, glass and a mineral.22)The sealing arrangement as claimed in claim any one of claims 19 to 21 , wherein the heat resistant mesh of the sealing layer is composed from one or more selected from a metal, glass and a mineral. END

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