Drip Edge Gutter Guard Support via Stacked Ledges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gutter systems face challenges in high wind areas where local building codes require shingles to be permanently fastened to the fascia, making it impossible to install traditional gutter guards without compromising the integrity of the roof.
Innovation Solution
A drip edge with gutter guard support device is designed as a single piece that combines the functions of a drip edge and a gutter guard attachment system. This device features a longitudinal sheet of waterproof material with an angled upper member and a vertical lower member, along with vertically stacked ledges that form receiving channels for the gutter guard, allowing for secure attachment without compromising the roof's integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional gutter guards are installed by inserting the back of the gutter guard under the shingles, then the gutter guard can be securely attached, but this method cannot be used in high wind areas where shingles must be permanently fastened to the fascia
Solution Approach 1:
A metal support bracket is introduced as an intermediary component between the drip edge and the gutter guard. The bracket attaches to the drip edge (which is fastened to the fascia) and provides a mounting surface for the gutter guard, eliminating the need to insert the gutter guard under the shingles while maintaining secure attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: the drip edge (attached to fascia), the metal support bracket (attached to drip edge), and the gutter guard (attached to bracket). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and enables installation that complies with high wind codes
2Reliability
If the back of the gutter guard is inserted under the fastened shingles for attachment, then secure mounting is achieved, but the roof integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The metal support bracket serves as an intermediary that transfers the loading from the gutter guard to the drip edge and fascia system, eliminating the need to penetrate or lift the shingles. This maintains the weather barrier integrity of the roof while providing secure gutter guard attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The drip edge and metal support bracket are pre-installed and secured to the fascia before the gutter guard is attached. This preliminary action creates a secure mounting structure that eliminates the need to compromise the shingles during gutter guard installation
Data Source
AI summary
A drip edge with gutter guard support device is formed from a longitudinal sheet of waterproof material. An angled upper first member integrally joined to a vertical lower second member form an angled structure. The first member is configured for placement on a roof edge and under a roof shingle and the second member is a configured for placement to a fascia, the lower portion of the second member being configured for placement over a gutter's back end. Vertically stacked ledges extend outwardly from the second member into an opening of the gutter. Separations between adjacent ledges form varying height receiving channels for placement of a roof-side end of a gutter guard. The device is a single piece drip edge and gutter guard fascia-side attachment device.