AU2022200665A1

AU2022200665A1 - Lintel cover

Info

Publication number: AU2022200665A1
Application number: AU2022200665A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Nino Campoli; Michael Circosta; Giuseppe Prizzi
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Campoli Nino
Priority date: 2021-07-21
Filing date: 2022-02-02
Publication date: 2023-02-09
Anticipated expiration: 2042-02-02
Also published as: CA217890S; AU2022200665B2; CA217896S; CA217894S; CA217893S; CA217895S; US20230022415A1; CA209029S; CA217898S; CA217900S; CA217901S; CA208612S; CA217897S; CA3146865A1; CA217899S; CA217892S; CA217891S

Abstract

A lintel cover is disclosed. The cover comprises a front surface-concealing portion for concealing the front surface of the lintel, an upper surface engager defining an upper surface-engaging member for engaging the upper surface of the lintel, a lower surface engager defining a lower 5 surface-engaging member for engaging the lower surface of the lintel, a lower surface-concealing portion that defines at least one drain port. Engagement of the upper surface engaging member and the lower surface engaging member to the lintel effect coupling of the cover to the lintel to obtain an assembled configuration. In the assembled configuration, the front surface-concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the front surface, and the lower surface-concealing .0 portion is concealing at least a portion of the lower surface, and the at least one drain port is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel. 20 12 33 30 32 104 102 10100 108 114 36 34 130 112 FIG. 3

Description

12 33

30 32 104

102

10100 108 114 36

34 130

112

FIG. 3

Lintel Cover FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cover for a lintel, in particular, to a cover for a lintel that is configured to facilitate egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Steel lintels, for example, L-shaped lintels, are typically used in the construction of residential and commercial building. The lintel is installed above an opening in which a window or a door is to be installed. The lintel is a structural component of the building, and functions to .0 support the weight of construction materials, for example, bricks and mortar, that are disposed above the lintel. In this respect, the weight of the construction materials disposed above the lintel are supported by the lintel rather than the window or door that is installed in the opening below the lintel. While the lintel is installed, at least a portion of the lintel may be exposed to the environment. Typically, a rust-proof coating is painted over the lintel to mitigate oxidation of the .5 lintel. Nevertheless, over time, said exposed portion of the lintel may oxidize, resulting in an unsightly appearance. A lintel cover may be installed on the lintel to cover up the exposed portions of the lintel, such that the oxidation of the lintel may be concealed. The cover may also have an ornamental function, as the cover may be a colour that matches or is complementary to the colour of the window or door that is installed below the lintel.

.0 [0003] Unfortunately, liquid between the bricks or between the walls may flow into the space between the lintel and the cover. Existing covers are unable to egress said liquid that accumulates between the lintel and the cover.

SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, there is provided a cover for a lintel, wherein the lintel includes a horizontally-extending member, the horizontally-extending member includes an upper surface, a lower surface disposed on an opposite side of the horizontally-extending member relative to the upper surface, and a front surface extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, wherein the upper surface includes a load-receiving portion for receiving a load for supporting by the lintel, wherein the cover comprises: a front surface-concealing portion for concealing at least a portion of the front surface; an upper surface engager defining an upper surface engaging member for engaging the upper surface of the lintel; a lower surface engager defining a lower surface-engaging member for engaging the lower surface of the lintel; a lower surface concealing portion; and at least one drain port defined within the lower surface-concealing portion; wherein: the cover is configured for co-operating with the lintel such that: engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of the lintel and engagement of the lower surface-engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel co-operate for effecting coupling of the cover to the lintel such that an assembled configuration is obtained; in the assembled configuration: the front surface-concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of .0 the front surface; and the lower surface-concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the lower surface; and the at least one drain port is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel.

[0005] In another aspect, there is provided an assembly, comprising: a lintel, wherein the lintel includes a horizontally-extending member, the horizontally-extending member includes an upper .5 surface, a lower surface disposed on an opposite side of the horizontally-extending member relative to the upper surface, and a front surface extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, wherein the upper surface includes a load-receiving portion for receiving a load for supporting by the lintel; and a cover for the lintel, wherein the cover includes: a front surface concealing portion for concealing at least a portion of the front surface; an upper surface .0 engager defining an upper surface-engaging member for engaging the upper surface of the lintel; a lower surface engager defining a lower surface-engaging member for engaging the lower surface of the lintel; a lower surface-concealing portion; and at least one drain port defined within the lower surface-concealing portion; wherein: the cover is configured for co operating with the lintel such that: engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of the lintel and engagement of the lower surface-engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel co-operate for effecting anchoring of the cover to the lintel such that an assembled configuration is obtained; in the assembled configuration: the front surface concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the front surface; and the lower surface concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the lower surface; and the at least one drain port is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel.

[0006] Other aspects will be apparent from the description and drawings provided herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] In the figures, which illustrate example embodiments,

[0008] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a lintel supported by construction materials;

[0009] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a lintel cover;

[0010] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cover of Figure 2, coupled to a lintel;

[0011] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the cover of Figure 2, coupled to the lintel;

[0012] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 2;

[0013] Figure 6 is a schematic of the cover of Figure 2, coupled to the lintel;

.0 [0014] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cover coupled to a lintel;

[0015] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 7;

[0016] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cover coupled to a lintel;

[0017] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 9;

[0018] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the cover of Figure 7, with openings in the spacer;

.5 [0019] Figure 12 is a schematic of a lintel installed as part of a wall;

[0020] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a cover coupled to a lintel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] A cover for a lintel is disclosed. The cover includes at least one drain port. The cover is configured to couple with the lintel. While the cover is covered to the lintel, the cover conceals at least a portion of the front surface and at least a portion of the lower surface of the horizontally-extending member of the lintel, and the at least one drain port is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel.

[0022] Figure 1 and Figure 12 depict an example embodiment of a wall of a building that includes a lintel 12. As depicted, the lintel 12 is an L-shaped lintel, and is made of steel. The lintel 12 includes a vertically-extending member 20 and a horizontally-extending member 30. The horizontally-extending member 30 includes an upper surface 32, includes a load receiving portion 33 for receiving a load for supporting by the lintel 10, a lower surface 34 that is disposed on an opposite side of the horizontally-extending member 30 relative to the upper surface 32, a front surface 36 that extends between the upper surface 32 and the lower surface 34, and a rear surface 38 that faces a direction opposite the front surface 36.

[0023] As depicted in Figure 1 and Figure 12, while the lintel 12 is installed as part of the wall .0 10, the ends of the lintel 12 are supported by construction materials 14, for example, bricks, disposed below the lintel 12, and construction materials 14, for example, bricks, are supported on the load receiving portion 33 of the upper surface 32. In this respect, in some embodiments, for example, the weight of the construction materials 14 that are supported by the lintel 12 are distributed, via the lintel 12, to the construction materials 14 that are supporting the lintel 12.

.5 [0024] As depicted in Figure 12, while the lintel 12 is installed as part of the wall 10, construction materials 14, such as bricks and mortar, and components of the wall, such as a window 50 or a door, conceal at least a portion of the lintel 12, such that an exposed portion 362 of the front surface 36, and an exposed portion 342 of the lower surface 34, are defined. In some embodiments, for example, the exposed portion 362 of the front surface 36 defines at .0 least 50% of the front surface 36. That is, in some embodiments, for example, while the lintel 12 is installed as part of the wall 10, at least 50% of the surface area of the front surface 36 is exposed. In some embodiments, for example, the exposed portion 362 of the front surface 36 defines at least 80% of the front surface 36. That is, in some embodiments, for example, while the lintel 12 is installed as part of the wall 10, at least 80% of the surface area of the front surface 36 is exposed. In some embodiments, for example, the exposed portion 342 of the lower surface 34 defines at least 50% of the lower surface 34. That is, in some embodiments, for example, while the lintel 12 is installed as part of the wall 10, at least 50% of the surface area of the lower surface 34 is exposed. In some embodiments, for example, the exposed portion 342 of the lower surface 34 defines at least 80% of the lower surface 34. That is, in some embodiments, for example, while the lintel 12 is installed as part of the wall 10, at least 80% of the surface area of the lower surface 34 is exposed.

[0025] Figure 2 to Figure 5 depict an example embodiment of a cover 100 for the lintel 12. The cover includes a front surface-concealing portion 102 for concealing at least a portion of the front surface 36 of the lintel 10, an upper surface engager 104 defining an upper surface engaging member 106 for engaging the upper surface 32 of the lintel 10, a lower surface engager 108 defining a lower surface-engaging member 110 for engaging the lower surface 34 of the lintel 10, and a lower surface-concealing portion 112 for concealing at least a portion of the lower surface 34 of the lintel 10. In some embodiments, for example, the lower surface engager 108 defines the lower surface-concealing portion 112. As depicted, in some embodiments, for example, relative to the lower surface-engaging member 110, the lower .0 surface-concealing portion 112 is disposed more proximately to the front surface-concealing portion 102. In some embodiments, for example, the lower surface-concealing portion 112 is interposed between the front surface-concealing portion 102 and the lower surface-engaging member 110.

[0026] The cover 100 includes at least one drain port 114 defined within the lower surface .5 concealing portion 112. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one drain port 114 has a minimum cross-sectional area of at least 0.012 inches squared for flow of liquid therethrough. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one drain port 114 has a round shape, such as a circular shape. In such embodiments, for example, the at least one drain port 114 has a minimum diameter of at least 0.125 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one .0 drain port 114 has more than one side, for example, three sides, four sides, or more than four sides. As depicted in Figure 5, in some embodiments, for example, the at least one drain port 114 has a rectangular shape. In such embodiments, for example, the at least one drain port 114 has a minimum length of at least 0.125 inches and a minimum width of at least 0.125 inches. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one drain port 114 is a plurality of drain ports 114. As depicted in Figure 5, in some embodiments, for example, the lower surface concealing portion 112 defines two drain ports 114, wherein a first drain port 114 is defined at a first end of the lower surface-concealing portion 112, and a second drain port 114 is defined at a second end of the lower surface-concealing portion 112 that is opposite the first end.

[0027] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 2 to Figure 4, the lower surface engager 108 is disposed at an angle relative to the upper surface engager 104. In some embodiments, for example, the upper surface engager 104 includes a surface 116 that defines a first normal axis 120, and the lower surface engager 108 includes a surface 118 that defines a second normal axis 122. As depicted in Figure 4, in some embodiments, for example, an acute angle 124 is defined between the first normal axis 120 and the second normal axis 122. In some embodiments, for example, a minimum value for the angle 124 is at least 3 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, a maximum value for the angle 124 is 10 degrees.

[0028] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is resiliently deformable for transitioning from a coupling-ready configuration, as depicted in Figure 2, to a coupling-effective configuration, as depicted in Figure 3 and Figure 4. In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the cover 100 from the coupling-ready configuration to the coupling-effective configuration is with effect that spacing between the upper surface-engaging member 106 and .0 the lower surface-engaging member 110 is increased. In some embodiments, for example, the transitioning of the cover 100 from the coupling-ready configuration to the coupling-effective configuration is with effect that the lower surface-engaging member 110 and the upper surface engaging member 106 become further spread apart. In some embodiments, for example, in the coupling-effective configuration, relative to its disposition in the coupling-ready configuration, the .5 lower surface-engaging member 110 is disposed further from the upper surface-engaging member106. In some embodiments, for example, the lower-engaging member 110 is biased for effecting reversion of the cover from the coupling-effective configuration to the coupling ready configuration.

[0029] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is configured to be coupled to the .0 lintel 12 for concealing at least a portion of the lintel 12. In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is configured for co-operating with the lintel 12 such that engagement of the upper surface-engaging member 106 to the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12 and engagement of the lower surface-engaging member 110 to the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12 co-operate for effecting coupling of the cover 100 to the lintel 12 such that an assembled configuration is obtained, as depicted in Figure 3, Figure 4, and Figure 6. In the assembled configuration, the front surface-concealing portion 102 is concealing at least a portion of the front surface 36 of the lintel 12, the lower surface-concealing portion 112 is concealing at least a portion of the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12, and the at least one drain port 114 is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover 100 and the lintel 12.

[0030] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is further configured for co-operating with the lintel 12 such that, in the assembled configuration, the cover 100 is disposed in the coupling-effective configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the engagement of the upper surface-engaging member 106 to the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12 is with effect that the upper surface-engaging member 106 is bearing on the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12. In some embodiments, for example, the engagement of the lower surface-engaging member 110 to the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12 is with effect that the lower surface-engaging member 110 is bearing on the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12. In some embodiments, for example, the bias of the lower-engaging member 110 for effecting reversion of the cover 100 from the coupling-effective configuration to the coupling-ready configuration effects the bearing of the upper surface-engaging member 106 on the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12 and the bearing of the lower surface-engaging member 110 on the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12, respectively.

.0 [0031] In some embodiments, for example, the bearing of the upper surface-engaging member 106 on the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12 and the bearing of the lower surface-engaging member 110 on the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12 co-operate with effect that the cover 100 is clamped to the lintel 12.

[0032] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 3, Figure 4, and Figure 6, in .5 the assembled configuration, the concealing of the at least a portion of the front surface 36 by the front surface-concealing portion 102 and the concealing of the at least a portion of the lower surface 34 by the lower surface-concealing portion 112 co-operate with effect that the lintel 12 is continuously concealed from the at least a portion of the front surface 36 to the at least a portion of the lower surface 34.

.0 [0033] In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface 36 defines at least 80% of the front surface 36. That is, in some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, at least 80% of the surface area of the front surface 36 is concealed. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the front surface-concealing portion 102 completely conceals the front surface 36. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface 36 defines the entirety of the front surface 36. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface 36 has a surface area of at least 6 square inches. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface 36 defines at least 80% of the exposed portion 362 of the front surface 36. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface 36 defines at least 90% of the exposed portion 362 of the front surface 36. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface 36 defines the entirety of the exposed portion 362 of the front surface 36.

[0034] In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 defines at least 50% of the lower surface 34. That is, in some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, at least 50% of the surface area of the lower surface 34 is concealed. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 defines at least 80% of the lower surface 34. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the lower surface-concealing portion 112 completely conceals the lower surface 34. In some .0 embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 defines the entirety of the lower surface 34. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 has a surface area of at least 60 square inches. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 defines at least 80% of the exposed .5 portion 342 of the lower surface 34. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 defines at least 90% of the exposed portion 342 of the lower surface 34. In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface 34 defines the entirety of the exposed portion 342 of the lower surface 34.

.0 [0035] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 3, Figure 7, and Figure 9, in the assembled configuration, the front surface-concealing portion 102 and the lower surface engager 108 are co-operatively configured to define a liquid-receiving space 130 for receiving liquid that ingresses between the lintel 12 and the cover 100. In some embodiments, for example, liquid that ingresses between the lintel 12 and the cover 100 collects in the liquid receiving space 130, and then drains out through the at least one drain port 114.

[0036] In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the lower surface engager 108 is sufficiently sloped in a downward direction such that, while liquid is disposed between the horizontally-extending member 30 of the lintel 12 and the lower surface engager 108, the liquid is encouraged to flow towards the drain port 114 in response to urging by gravitational forces.

[0037] In some embodiments, for example, the front surface-concealing portion 102, the upper surface engager 104, and the lower surface engager 108 are co-operatively configured to define a cavity 132, as depicted in Figure 5, Figure 8, and Figure 10. The cavity 132 is configured to receive a coupling portion of the lintel 12, said coupling portion including the front surface 36. In response to the receiving of the coupling portion of the lintel 12 in the cavity 132, for example, by displacement of the cover 100 towards the lintel 12 such that the coupling portion is inserted in the cavity 132, engagement of the upper surface-engaging member 106 to the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12 and engagement of the lower surface-engaging member 110 to the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12 is effected, such that the cover 100 is coupled to the lintel 12. In some .0 embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is coupled to the lintel 12 by pressing the cover 100 towards the lintel 12 while the coupling portion of the lintel 12 is received in the cavity 132. In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is coupled to the lintel 12 via press fit.

[0038] In some embodiments, for example, while constructing a new wall, the cover 100 is coupled to the lintel 12, and the assembly, comprising the lintel 12 and cover 100, is supported .5 on the construction materials 14, for example, bricks. Then, with the assembly supported by the construction materials 14, additional construction materials 14 are disposed above the lintel 12. In some embodiments, for example, to retrofit an existing wall, a cut, for example, a saw cut, is made between the existing lintel 12 and the construction materials 14 disposed above, adjacent to, and below the lintel 12. With the cut made, the cover 100 is displaced towards the lintel 12 .0 such that the coupling portion is inserted in the cavity 132 to couple the lintel 12 and the cover 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 7 to Figure 10, the cover 100 includes a spacer 140 that extends from the lower surface engager 108. In some embodiments, for example, the spacer 140 extends perpendicularly from the lower surface engager 108. In some embodiments, for example, the spacer 140 extends from a first end to a second end of the lower surface engager 108, in a direction that is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cover 100. As depicted in Figure 7 and Figure 8, in some embodiments, for example, the spacer 140 is disposed offset from the at least one drain port 140. As depicted in Figure 9 and Figure 10, in some embodiments, for example, the spacer 140 is disposed in alignment with the at least one drain port 140.

[0040] As depicted, in the assembled configuration, the spacer 140 is engaged with the lower surface 34 of the horizontal-extending member 30 of the lintel 12 for effecting spacing of the lower surface engager 108 relative to the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12.

[0041] In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, the spacer 140 is engaged with the lower surface 34 of the horizontal-extending member 30 of the lintel 12 with effect that inclination of the lower surface engager 108 is effected, such that the liquid that is disposed between the horizontal-extending member 30 of the lintel 12 and the lower surface engager 108 is urged by gravitational forces to flow towards the at least one drain port 114.

[0042] In some embodiments, for example, at least one opening 141 is defined on the spacer .0 140 for facilitating flow of liquid across the spacer 140, as depicted in Figure 11. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one opening 141 includes a slot, a channel, an aperture, a notch, and the like. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one opening has a minimum cross-sectional area of at least 0.012 square inches for flow of liquid therethrough. In some embodiments, for example, the at least one opening is punched through the spacer 140 to .5 define the at least one opening on the spacer 140.

[0043] In some embodiments, for example, in the assembled configuration, with the spacer 140 engaged with the lower surface 34 of the horizontal-extending member 30 of the lintel 12, the horizontal-extending member 30, the lower surface 34, and the spacer 140 define a first liquid receiving space 142 and a second liquid-receiving space 144, wherein the second liquid .0 receiving space 144 includes the at least one drain port 114, as depicted in Figure 7 and Figure 9. In some embodiments, for example, the liquid that ingresses between the lintel 12 and the cover 100 flows into the first liquid-receiving space 142 and a second liquid-receiving space 144. In some embodiments, for example, fluid communication is established between the first liquid-receiving space 142 and the second liquid-receiving space 144 via the at least one opening 141 defined within the spacer 140, such that liquid that is disposed in the first liquid receiving space 142 is urged by gravitational forces to flow through the at least one opening 141 and towards the drain port 114.

[0044] In some embodiments, for example, the at least one opening is a plurality of openings, for example, two openings 141, as depicted in Figure 11.

[0045] In some embodiments, for example, as depicted in Figure 13, the cover 100 includes a rear surface engager 150 defining a rear surface-engaging member 152 for engaging the rear surface 38 of the lintel 10. In some embodiments, for example, the rear surface engager 150 extends from the lower surface engager 108. In some embodiments, for example, the front surface concealing portion 102 and the rear surface engager 150 extend from opposite ends of the lower surface engager 108. In some embodiments, for example, an angle defined between the lower surface engager 108 and the rear surface engager 150 has a minimum value of at least 90 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the angle defined between the lower surface engager 108 and the rear surface engager 150 has a minimum value of greater than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, for example, the upper surface engager 104 and the rear surface engager 150 are co-operatively configured such that the cover 100 is couplable to the .0 lintel 12 via snap fit.

[0046] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is configured for co-operating with the lintel 12 such that engagement of the upper surface-engaging member 106 to the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12, engagement of the lower surface-engaging member 110 to the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12, and engagement of the rear surface-engaging member 152 to the rear .5 surface 38 of the lintel 12 co-operate for effecting coupling of the cover 100 to the lintel 12 such that an assembled configuration is obtained, as depicted in Figure 13. In the assembled configuration, the front surface-concealing portion 102 is concealing at least a portion of the front surface 36 of the lintel 12, the lower surface-concealing portion 112 is concealing at least a portion of the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12, and the at least one drain port 114 is operative .0 for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover 100 and the lintel 12.

[0047] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is further configured for co-operating with the lintel 12 such that, in the assembled configuration, the cover 100 is disposed in the coupling-effective configuration. In some embodiments, for example, the engagement of the rear surface-engaging member 152 to the rear surface 38 of the lintel 12 is with effect that the rear surface-engaging member 152 is bearing on the rear surface 38 of the lintel 12. In some embodiments, for example, the bias of the lower-engaging member 110 for effecting reversion of the cover 100 from the coupling-effective configuration to the coupling-ready configuration effects the bearing of the rear surface-engaging member 152 on the rear surface 38 of the lintel 12.

[0048] In some embodiments, for example, the bearing of the upper surface-engaging member 106 on the upper surface 32 of the lintel 12, the bearing of the lower surface-engaging member 110 on the lower surface 34 of the lintel 12, and the bearing of the rear surface-engaging member 152 on the rear surface 38 of the lintel 12 co-operate with effect that the cover 100 is clamped to the lintel 12.

[0049] To couple the cover 100 of Figure 13 to the lintel 12, the coupling portion of the lintel 12 is received in the cavity 132 of the cover 100. At this point, the rear surface engager 150 is disposed in opposing relationship to the lower surface 34. The cover 100 is displaced further towards the lintel 12 until the rear surface engager 150 is no longer disposed in opposing relationship with the lower surface 34. At this point, due to the bias of the lower-engaging member 110 for effecting reversion of the cover 100 from the coupling-effective configuration to the coupling-ready configuration, the lower engaging member 110 is displaced towards the .0 lower surface 34, and effect snap fitting of the cover 100 on the lintel 12, with the rear surface engaging member 152 bearing against the rear surface 38 of the lintel 12.

[0050] In some embodiments, for example, the front surface-concealing portion 102, the upper surface engager 104, the lower surface engager 108, and the lower surface-concealing portion 112 are integrally formed, such that the cover 100 is of unitary one-piece construction.

.5 [0051] In some embodiments, for example, the cover 100 is manufactured by extrusion.

[0052] In some embodiments, for example, the material of manufacture of the cover 100 includes plastic, aluminum, or steel. In some embodiments, for example, the material of manufacture of the cover 100 includes polyvinyl chloride. In some embodiments, for example, the material of manufacture of the cover 100 includes roll form galvanized steel.

.0 [0053] The preceding discussion provides many example embodiments. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, other examples may include all suitable combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, may also be used.

[0054] The term "connected" or "coupled to" may include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements).

[0055] Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein.

[0056] Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

.0 [0057] As can be understood, the examples described above and illustrated are intended to be examples only. The invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0058] In the claims which follow, and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the .5 presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the apparatus and method as disclosed herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A cover for a lintel, wherein the lintel includes a horizontally-extending member, the horizontally-extending member includes an upper surface, a lower surface disposed on an opposite side of the horizontally-extending member relative to the upper surface, and a front surface extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, wherein the upper surface includes a load-receiving portion for receiving a load for supporting by the lintel, wherein the cover comprises:

a front surface-concealing portion for concealing at least a portion of the front surface;

an upper surface engager defining an upper surface-engaging member for engaging the .0 upper surface of the lintel;

a lower surface engager defining a lower surface-engaging member for engaging the lower surface of the lintel;

a lower surface-concealing portion; and

at least one drain port defined within the lower surface-concealing portion;

.5 wherein:

the cover is configured for co-operating with the lintel such that:

engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of the lintel and engagement of the lower surface-engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel co-operate for effecting coupling of the cover to the lintel such that an assembled configuration is obtained;

in the assembled configuration:

the front surface-concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the front surface; and

the lower surface-concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the lower surface; and the at least one drain port is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel.

2. The cover as claimed in claim 1;

wherein:

the cover is resiliently deformable for transitioning from a coupling-ready configuration to a coupling-effective configuration, with effect that:

spacing between the upper surface-engaging member and the lower surface-engaging member is increased; and

the lower-engaging member is biased for effecting reversion of the cover .0 to the coupling-ready configuration;

the cover is further configured for co-operating with the lintel such that, in the assembled configuration, the cover is disposed in the coupling-effective configuration;

the engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of .5 the lintel is with effect that the upper surface-engaging member is bearing on the upper surface of the lintel;

and

the engagement of the lower surface-engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel is with effect that the lower surface-engaging member is bearing on the lower surface of the lintel.

3. The cover as claimed in claim 1;

wherein:

the lower surface-engaging member and the upper surface-engaging member become further spread apart; and the lower-engaging member is biased for effecting reversion of the cover to the coupling-ready configuration; the cover is further configured for co-operating with the lintel such that, in the assembled configuration, the cover is disposed in the coupling-effective configuration; the engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of the lintel is with effect that the upper surface-engaging member is bearing on the upper surface of the lintel; and

.0 the engagement of the lower surface-engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel is with effect that the lower surface-engaging member is bearing on the lower surface of the lintel.

4. The cover as claimed in claim 1;

wherein:

.5 the cover is resiliently deformable for transitioning from a coupling-ready configuration to a coupling-effective configuration, wherein:

in the coupling-effective configuration, relative to its disposition in the coupling-ready configuration, the lower surface-engaging member is disposed further from the upper surface-engaging member; and

the lower-engaging member is biased for effecting reversion of the cover to the coupling-ready configuration;

the engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of the lintel is with effect that the upper surface-engaging member is bearing on the upper surface of the lintel; and the engagement of the lower surface-engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel is with effect that the lower surface-engaging member is bearing on the lower surface of the lintel.

5. The cover as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4;

wherein:

the bearing of the upper surface-engaging member on the upper surface of the lintel and the bearing of the lower surface-engaging member on the lower surface of the lintel co-operate with effect that the cover is clamped to the lintel.

.0

6. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealing of the at least a portion of the front surface by the front surface-concealing portion and the concealing of the at least a portion of the lower surface by the lower surface-concealing portion co-operate with effect that the lintel is continuously concealed from the at least a portion of the front surface to the at least a portion of the lower surface.

.5

7. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the front surface-concealing portion, the upper surface engager, the lower surface engager, and the lower surface-concealing portion are integrally formed, such that the cover is of unitary one-piece construction.

8. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface defines at least 80% of the front surface.

9. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface has a surface area of at least 6 square inches.

10. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the front surface defines the entirety of the front surface.

11. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the front surface-concealing portion completely conceals the front surface.

12. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface defines at least 80% of the lower surface.

13. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface has a surface area of at least 60 square inches.

14. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the concealed portion of the lower surface defines the entirety of the lower surface.

15. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the lower surface-concealing portion completely conceals the lower surface.

16. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the lower surface engager includes the lower surface-concealing portion.

17. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the front .0 surface-concealing portion and the lower surface engager are co-operatively configured to define a liquid-receiving space for receiving liquid that ingresses between the lintel and the cover.

18. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, in the assembled configuration, the lower surface engager is sufficiently sloped in a downward direction such that, while liquid is disposed .5 between the horizontally-extending member of the lintel and the lower surface engager, the liquid is encouraged to flow towards the drain port in response to urging by gravitational forces.

19. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein:

the upper surface engager includes a surface that defines a first normal axis;

the lower surface engager includes a surface that defines a second normal axis;

wherein an acute angle is defined between the first normal axis and the second normal axis.

20. The cover of claim 19, wherein a minimum value for the angle is 3 degrees.

21. The cover of claim 19 or claim 20, wherein a maximum value for the angle is 10 degrees.

22. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising a spacer that extends from the lower surface engager, wherein: in the assembled configuration, the spacer is engaged with the lower surface of the horizontal-extending member of the lintel for effecting spacing of the lower surface engager relative to the lower surface of the lintel.

23. The cover of claim 22, wherein at least one opening is defined within the spacer for facilitating flow of liquid across the spacer.

24. The cover of claim 23, wherein the at least one opening is a plurality of openings.

25. The cover of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the at least one drain port is a plurality of drain ports.

26. An assembly, comprising:

.0 a lintel, wherein the lintel includes a horizontally-extending member, the horizontally extending member includes an upper surface, a lower surface disposed on an opposite side of the horizontally-extending member relative to the upper surface, and a front surface extending between the upper surface and the lower surface, wherein the upper surface includes a load-receiving portion for receiving a load for supporting by the lintel; .5 and

a cover for the lintel, wherein the cover includes:

an upper surface engager defining an upper surface-engaging member for engaging the upper surface of the lintel;

a lower surface-concealing portion; and

at least one drain port defined within the lower surface-concealing portion;

wherein:

the cover is configured for co-operating with the lintel such that: engagement of the upper surface-engaging member to the upper surface of the lintel and engagement of the lower surface engaging member to the lower surface of the lintel co-operate for effecting anchoring of the cover to the lintel such that an assembled configuration is obtained; in the assembled configuration: the front surface-concealing portion is concealing at least a portion of the front surface; and the lower surface-concealing portion is concealing at least .0 a portion of the lower surface; and the at least one drain port is operative for facilitating egress of liquid that has accumulated between the cover and the lintel.