GB2468066A

GB2468066A - Roof dry verge unit and roofing system

Info

Publication number: GB2468066A
Application number: GB1008724A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Christopher Hodgson; Jorgen Jenson; Palle Skyldal; Jesper Klavsen; Graham John Mercer
Original assignee: Sandtoft Roof Tiles Ltd
Current assignee: Sandtoft Roof Tiles Ltd
Priority date: 2005-10-31
Filing date: 2005-10-31
Publication date: 2010-08-25
Anticipated expiration: 2025-10-31
Also published as: GB2468066B; GB201008724D0

Abstract

The roof dry verge unit 2 has a receiving part for receiving an engaging member on an adjacent unit. The receiving part comprises a locating portion 72 which is also associated with a securing portion 74. The receiving part can be provided as a through hole in the verge unit and may have the locating and securing portions formed as rounded and elongate portions of a single aperture. The unit may have an engaging member at an opposite end of a wall in the unit. The engaging member may have a projection with an enlarged head which has one dimension which is larger than the securing member to prevent the head being removed in a direction perpendicular to the direction it was introduced. Also claimed is a roofing dry verge system including at least two of said verge units.

Description

-1.

ROOFING UNITS

The present invention is concerned with dry verge roofing units that can be attached to the verge of a roof to close the gap under the verge tiles and mechanically fix the verge tiles to the roof. It is especially concerned with roofing units for dry verge roof systems that interljnk along the roof verge to follow the contours of the roof tiles, particularly tiles that have larger profiles and step heights.

Traditionally, the tiles at the verge, or Sloping edge of a pitched roof, are sealed against the elements with mortar. However, there are a number of drawbacks associated with the use of mortar, for example, cracking as a result of movement and the action of frost and rainwater. The use of mechanical, as opposed to mortar, fixing and sealing of the verge is therefore an attractive alternative. Mechanical fixing using a "dry" system usually involves fixing plastic verge units to the verge of the roof to cover the exposed side edges of the tiles.

Currently available plastic dry verge systems for use with roofing tiles fall into one of two categories.

The first type is the continuous system in which long plastic verge units are attached to the verge to cover the edges of a large number of tiles. The length of each verge unit is several times the length of a single tile. 4.

For example, a plastic verge Unit of 3 to 5 metres may be fixed to the verge to provide protection for the edges of ten or more tiles. These long verge Units are generally made as a Continuous extrusion and do not conform to the tile shape from tile to tile. They are therefore used for lower profile tiles, i.e. tiles that are not particularly thick, or slates.

The second type of dry verge system includes smaller individual verge Units which are designed to fit over just one tile. This arrangement means that the verge units more closely follow the contours of the tiling and are therefore better suited to tiles with larger profiles and step heights (the step height is the Visible depth of the tile at its tail, where it overlaps the tile below) This arrangement also provides a more visually appealing finish since the smaller individual verge units will have a profile that closely reflects the underlying profile of the roof tiles. Clearly, the long continuous verge units are not interchangeable with the much shorter individual verge units. Indeed the large continuous units are not appropriate for use with many types of tile, Particularly tiles with larger profiles and step heights.

Individual units of the second type are nailed into the end grain of the tile batten associated with each verge tile. For example, a verge unit is secured to the roof by hammering a nail through a hole in the verge unit into the end of the tile batten. This IS repeated for each verge unit and each tile batten. An advantage of this arrangement is that the verge units can be Positioned after the tiles have been laid.

Nevertheless, the present inventors have found that the fixing into the end of the tile batten can be weak or unreliable. They have also noted that once the verge unit has been nailed to the tile batten no further adjustment of the position of the verge unit is possible.

The present invention seeks to address these drawbacks.

At its most general a first part of the present inventors' proposals is that the verge unit should be attached to the roof via a fixing bracket, rather than being nailed directly to the tile batten.

The present inventors have found that a verge unit can be fixed more securely to the roof by fixing the fixing bracket to the roof and then connecting the verge unit to the fixing bracket (rather than directly to the roof) In a first aspect the present invention provides a dry verge roofing kit for covering the verge of a pitched roof, the dry verge roofing kit including a dry verge unit that has head and tail ends which, in use, overlap with respective tail and head ends on adjacent verge units, and fixing member connecting means; and a fixing member, wherein the fixing member has a roof fixing portion that can be fastened to the roof and verge unit connecting means for connecting the fixing member to the fixing member connecting means on the verge unit.

Preferably the roof fixing portion can be fastened to the top of a tile batten. This provides a stronger more reliable fixing than nailing into the end of the tile batten.

Suitably in use the verge unit connecting means is associated with a different part of the roof to the roof fixing portion, e.g. the roof engaging portion is fixed to the upper surface of a tile batten and the verge unit connecting means extends beyond the end of the tile batten. Suitably in use the verge unit connecting means extends from the verge, Preferably at least partially overlying the end of a tile batten.

Preferably the fixing member connecting means can be connected to the verge unit Connecting means after the fixing member has been fastened to the roof.

With this arrangement the verge unit is securely fixed to the roof because the roof fixing portion of the fixing member can be firmly secured to the roof, e.g. nailed to an Upper surface of a tile batten, and the verge unit connecting means performs the function of connecting the verge unit to the fixing member, Preferably after the fixing member has been nailed to the top of the tile batten. In contrast, the known arrangement of nailing the verge unit directly into the end of the tile batten requires the nail to perform the dual functions of locating the verge unit at the appropriate place on the verge and also Providing a secure long term fixing.

Thus, by attaching the verge unit to the roof via the fixing member, rather than directly with a nail, the fixing member can itself be fixed to an appropriate part of the roof that need not be the end of the tile batten.

In the preferred arrangement where the fixing member is secured, preferably flailed, to the upper side of a tile batten the present inventors have found that a more secure robust fixing to the tile batten can be achieved, compared to fixing directly into the end grain of the tile batten. It also has the advantage that multiple fixing points into the tile batten can be used, e.g. multiple nails. Preferably the roof fixing portion of the fixing member includes two or more holes through which nails can be driven into the roof, e.g. tile batten. Preferably at least four such holes are provided, to provide flexibi1it as to where the nails are driven into the tile batten. Preferably the roof fixing portion includes a substantially planar member that can be placed against a flat part of the roof, typically the top of a tile batten.

Preferably the fixing member is a bracket. Suitably the verge unit connecting means is arranged so that in use it extends from the verge in the plane of the roof. In some preferred embodiments the fixing member, e.g. fixing bracket, has the roof fixing and verge unit connecting means arranged substantially perpendicular to each other.

For example( in use the roof fixing portion extends along the upper surface of a tile batten and the verge unit engaging portion is Positioned over at least part of the end of the tile batten.

Preferably the fixing member is made from a plastics material. Suitably it is injection moulded.

It is preferred that the verge unit connecting means includes a projection for connecting to the fixing member connecting means on the verge unit. Suitably the fixing member connecting means on the verge unit includes a slot or aperture for receiving the verge unit Connecting means (e.g. projection) . However, the projection and the slot or aperture can be reversed so that the fixing member includes the slot or aperture and the verge unit includes the projection.

Preferably the projection is elongate, for example having the form of a bar. Preferably the projection is substantially rectangular. Preferably the projection is substantially planar.

In some embodiments the verge unit Connecting means includes two or more limbs, each of which engages or connects to a Corresponding part of the fixing member connecting means (or vice versa) . For example, it may include an "H" shaped body, wherein each of the limbs or upright members of the "H" connect to (engage with) corresponding parts of the fixing member connecting means.

Suitably the slot or aperture is also elongate. The present inventors have found that an elongate shape helps to minimise rotation of the verge unit with respect to the fixing member.

Preferably the slot comprises two tracks or runners that in use retain the verge unit engaging portion (e.g. the elongate projection) . For example, the slot may include two substantially parallel walls each having Opposing in-turned upper portions that provide an overhang, wherein the projection can be inserted under the in-turned portions at one end of the walls, and is retained under the in-turned walls.

Preferably the verge unit includes at least two fixing member connecting means (e.g. two elongate slots) . The present inventors have found that by providing at least two alternative locations for connecting the verge unit to the fixing member the relative height of the verge unit with respect to the tiles can be adjusted. This can be useful for accommodating different tile heights. A further advantage of providing two different fixing member connecting means left/right + p9 Preferably the verge unit connecting means of the fixing member is offset with respect to the roof fixing portion, e.g. is unsymmetrical with respect to the plane of the roof fixing portion. Suitably the verge unit connecting means is cranked with respect to the roof fixing portion.

The present inventors have found that by providing an offset or cranked connecting means the relative Iieight of the verge units with respect to the roof, when connected to the fixing member, can be adjusted simply be turning the fixing member upside down and fastening the fixing member to the roof. As discussed above, the roof fixing portion typically includes a substantially planar member (preferably with a plurality of holes as discussed above) and so stable and secure fixing to the roof, e.g. the tile batten, can be achieved by placing either side of the roof fixing portion against the roof and fastening it e.g. with nails, to the roof.

In particularly preferred embodiments the fixing member includes an offset verge unit engaging portion and the verge unit includes at least two fixing member connecting means, thereby providing two ways in which the height of the verge unit can be selected by an installer.

It is particularly preferred that the verge unit connecting means and fixing member connecting means are adapted to provide sliding engagement. For example, this can be achieved by using a projection and elongate slot on respective components. The present inventors have found that it can be useful when assembling the dry verge system for the verge unit to be moveable, i.e. adjustable, with respect to the roof. Since the fixing member is designed to be fastened to the roof (e.g. to the upper surface of the tile batten) a sliding engagement between the fixing member and verge unit provides this adjustability.

Preferably the verge unit connecting means and the fixing member connecting means are adapted to provide resistance to sliding when they are mutually engaged. The present inventors have found that although sliding is desirable it should only occur when it is needed by the roofing installer and not as a result of e.g. wind or gravity.

Thus, it is preferred that one or both of the verge unit connecting means and the fixing member connecting means includes resistance means to impart a resistance to sliding. Preferably both of the verge unit engaging portion and the fixing member engaging means are adapted to provide a ratcheted engagement.

In particular preferred embodiments one or both of the verge unit connecting means and fixing member connecting means includes at least one tooth to provide a ratcheted engagement between the two components. Suitably one includes teeth and the other one includes a plurality of recesses or detents. The recesses or detents may themselves be formed by the gaps between neighbouring teeth.

Thus, the present invention provides not only a more secure and robust attachment to the roof but also provides two mechanisms by which the relative height of those verge units can be adjusted (the alternative fixing member Connecting means and the offset or cranked verge unit connecting means) and a further mechanism by which the position of the verge unit alongside the verge tile can be adjusted (i.e. the sliding engagement between the fixing member and verge unit, preferably ratcheted) Preferably the fixing member includes spacer means to assist the installer in ensuring that the verge unit engaging portion is spaced from the edge of the verge (e.g. from the end of the tile batten) . Suitably the spacer member is upstanding from the roof fixing portion so that the spacer member can be located adjacent the tile batten. Preferably in use the spacer member provides a gap between the fixing portion and the verge connecting means. This can make it easier for the fixing member engaging means on the verge unit to engage with the verge unit connecting means on the fixing member, e.g. without interfering with the end of the tile batten or the tiles.

Suitably the verge unit can cover the edge of only a single tile in use. The verge unit preferably has a length in the range 20cm to 70cm, more preferably 25cm to 50cm. Typically the verge unit has head and tail ends which, in use, overlap with respective tail and head ends on adjacent verge units. Suitably the tail end is larger than the head end so that a head end can be inserted therein.

The present invention also includes a kit comprising the verge unit and fixing member described above, together with at least one fastening member for securing the fixing member to the roof. Preferably the fastening member is a nail. Suitably there are a plurality of fastening members. Preferably the kit comprises a plurality of verge units and a plurality of fixing members.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a roof verge unit for use in a roofing dry verge kit according to the first aspect, said verge unit having head and tail ends which, in use, overlap with respective tail and head ends on adjacent verge units, and fixing member Connecting means for connecting the verge unit to a fixing member that is fixed to a roof.

Preferably the fixing member connecting means provides a sliding engagement with the fixing member. In this way the relative position of the verge unit with respect to the fixing member (and hence the roof tiles) can be slidably adjusted.

Preferably the fixing member connecting means is adapted to provide a resistance to relative sliding with the fixing member so that sliding, i.e. adjustment, does not Occur accidentally. Preferably the resistance to sliding is provided by ratchet means associated with the connecting means. For example, the ratchet means may comprise a one or a plurality of teeth, e.g. resilient teeth.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a roof dry verge unit fixing member for use in a roofing dry verge kit according to the first aspect, wherein the fixing member includes a roof fixing portion that can be fastened to the roof and verge unit connecting means for Connecting the fixing member to the verge unit.

The optional and preferred features described above, also apply to this aspect.

In a related aspect the present invention provides a use of a fixing member described herein for securing a roof dry verge unit to a roof verge.

The optional and preferred features described above, also apply to this aspect.

In addition to the drawbacks associated with known methods of fixing verge units to roofs, the present inventors have also identified drawbacks associated with the way that conventional verge units are placed into overlapping relationship with each other (for example in head to tail relationship as discussed above) Overlapping relationship is desirable to prevent ingress of rainwater, thereby avoiding the need for a seal, but the present inventors have noted that it can be difficult to obtain the desired amount of overlap or to ensure that variations in tile height are accommodated when the verge Units are arranged in serial overlapping arrangement.

At its most general our second proposal is that a verge unit should be provided with a connector for connecting the verge unit with an adjacent verge unit, wherein the height of the verge unit can be adjusted with respect to an adjacent verge unit to accommodate e.g. a change from a left to right handed arrangement (i.e. fixing the verge unit to respective left and right verges) . The inventors have found that by providing a connector that when connected to an adjacent verge unit permits adjustment of the height of the verge unit with respect to the adjacent verge unit, there is no need to provide multiple connectors at different locations.

Accordingly, in a further aspect the present invention provides a roof dry verge unit for covering the verge of a pitched roof, the verge unit having height adjusting connecting means for connecting the verge unit to an adjacent verge unit, wherein the height adjusting connecting means can be connected to an adjacent verge unit to provide a plurality of different relative orientations between the verge units.

Preferably in use when the height adjusting connecting means is Connected to second height adjusting connecting means on an adjacent verge unit, the height adjusting connecting means can move with respect to the adjacent verge unit in a direction substantially perpendicular to the pitch of the roof, so that the height of the verge unit with respect to the adjacent verge unit can be adjusted.

Thus, the present invention provides a way of attaching adjacent verge units to each other whilst providing for the possibility of selecting the height of the verge unit with respect to an adjacent verge unit, for example to accommodate changes in going from a left handed to a right handed installation (i.e. installing the Units on the left hand verge of the pitched roof or the right hand verge of the pitched roof) Since the verge units are intended to be connected in a head to tail series relationship it is preferred that the verge unit also includes a second height adjusting connecting means, typically for engagement with a height adjusting connecting means of a further adjacent verge unit. Suitably the height adjusting connecting means and the second height adjusting connecting means are located at respective head and tail ends of the verge unit.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the height adjusting connecting means and the second height adjusting connecting means are located on opposite sides of the verge unit, e.g. one on the inside and the other on the outside. For example the height adjusting connecting means and second height adjusting connecting means are located on opposite sides of a wall of the verge unit.

Preferably the height adjusting connecting means interlocks with the second height adjusting connecting means on the adjacent verge unit. Preferably the height adjusting connecting means and second height adjusting connecting means provided on the verge unit are each one half of an interlocking unit.

Preferably, the height adjusting connecting means includes a projection, more preferably a tongue.

Preferably the projection extends parallel to a wall of the verge unit. Preferably the second height adjusting connecting means includes a socket for receiving the height adjusting connecting means, e.g. tongue.

Alternatively the height adjusting connecting means may include a socket and the second height adjusting connecting means includes a projection.

Preferably, the socket is formed by a [i-shaped member that is attached to a wall of the verge unit to provide an aperture for receiving the height adjusting connecting means e.g. the tongue. Suitably the height adjusting connecting means is inserted under this [I-shaped "strap".

Preferably, in order to achieve the adjustability in the relative heights of adjacent verge units, the height adjusting connecting means (e.g. tongue) has at least one dimension (e.g. width) that is narrower than the corresponding dimension (e.g. width) of the socket. For example, the width of the tongue is narrower than the width of the aperture formed by the U-shaped member.

Preferably, the height adjusting connecting means has at least one dimension (e.g. width of the tongue) that is no more than 90% of the width of the second connecting member (e.g. socket), more preferably no more than 80%, and most preferably no more than 70%.

Preferably the height adjusting connecting means are spaced from the body of the verge unit. In the case of a tongue, this may be achieved by providing a spacer member between the tongue and the wall of the verge unit.

Preferably the height adjusting connecting means are flexible to make it easier for height adjusting connecting means and the second height adjusting connecting means to be brought together.

Preferably the height adjusting connecting means are formed from a plastics material. Suitably the second height adjusting connecting means are formed from a plastics material.

The verge unit may be provided as part of a kit comprising two or more such verge units. In which case it is preferred that each verge unit includes a height adjusting connecting means and second height adjusting connecting means.

In a further aspect the present invention provides an eaves closure unit for attachment to an end of a verge unit according to the previous aspect, wherein the eaves closure unit includes height adjusting connecting means as defined in the previous aspect.

Suitably the eaves closure unit includes a roof fixing portion which can be fastened to the roof. Typically the eaves closure unit is fastened to a bargeboard, fascia or wall. Preferably the roof fixing means include at least one hole through which a nail can be driven into a roof member (e.g. bargeboard) to secure the eaves closure unit to the verge.

The present invention also includes a kit including at least two verge units and an eaves closure unit as defined above.

In addition to the drawbacks with conventional verge units discussed above, the present inventors have also noted that it can be difficult to align adjacent verge units so that the tail end of one can be placed over the head end of another and they have found that there is no guidance or tactile feedback for the installer to judge when correct alignment and a reliable connection has been achieved.

In a further development the present inventors propose that a verge unit is provided with a "keyhole" slot into which a lug can be inserted, wherein the keyhole slot has a first portion that is larger than the lug for locating" the lug and a second portion for actually retaining the lug. The idea is that the lug can be "located" in the first portion to partially restrict the movement of the lug and then the lug can be moved into the second portion, which is attached to or a continuation of the first portion.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a roof dry verge unit having receiving means for receiving an engaging member on an adjacent verge unit, the receiving means having a securing portion for securing the verge unit to the adjacent verge unit, and a locating portion associated with the securing portion for guiding the engaging member into the securing portion.

Preferably the locating portion is larger (suitably wider) than the securing portion.

Suitably the locating portion is larger than the engaging member so that the engaging member can be easily introduced into the location portion. Preferably the securing portion has at least one dimension that is smaller than a corresponding dimension of the engaging member so that the engaging member can be held securely by the securing portion.

Suitably, the width of the securing portion is narrower than a corresponding dimension of the engaging member.

Suitably the receiving means includes a slot.

Suitably the engaging member on the adjacent verge unit is a projection, e.g. a lug or peg.

Preferably the verge unit also includes such a projection, e.g. a lug or peg, for engagement with the receiving means (e.g. "keyhole" slot) on an adjacent verge unit.

Preferably the projection is a peg or lug having an enlarged head. It is preferred that the enlarged head has at least one dimension that is larger than the width of the securing portion of the receiving means (e.g. "keyhole" slot) . In this way, once the peg or lug has been introduced (e.g. slid) into the securing portion of the slot it cannot be pulled out of the slot in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which it was introduced (e.g. slid) . In other words, the enlarged head prevents the projection from being pulled out sideways from the securing portion.

Preferably the keyhole" slot is located at either the head end or tail end of the verge unit. Where an engaging member (e.g. projection) is also present it is preferred that this [s located at the opposite end to the slot.

Preferably the verge unit includes upper and lower walls that are located above and below a verge tile in use, which upper and lower walls are separated by a verge wall that covers the edge of the tile in use.

Preferably the receiving means (e.g. slot) is provided as a through hole in one of the walls of the verge unit (e.g. the upper, lower or verge walls) . Preferably the locating portion comprises a curved or rounded aperture, e.g. a substantially circular aperture. Preferably the securing portion is an elongate aperture (e.g. substantially rectangular) . Suitably the securing portion is a continuation of the locating portion.

Preferably the securing portion includes an elongate slot. Preferably the locating means includes a rounded aperture. Suitably the rounded aperture is wider than the width of the elongate slot.

In some embodiments a second locating portion is located at the opposite end of the securing portion to the first locating portion, i.e. so that there are locating portions at either end of the securing portion.

The receiving means (e.g. "keyhole" slot) may be provided as a blind hole or as a though hole in a member that is attached to a wall of the verge unit.

The verge unit may be provided as a kit comprising two or more such verge units. In which case it is preferred that the verge units include both receiving means (e.g. a "keyhole" slot) and an engaging member (e.g. a peg or lug) In a further aspect the present invention provides an eaves closure unit for attachment to an end of a verge unit according to the previous aspect, wherein the eaves closure unit includes receiving means or an engaging member as defined in the previous aspect.

The present inventors have noted a further drawback of existing verge units. Specifically, they have found that it is undesirable for the verge units to abut or press against the wall or bargeboards of the building to which they are attached. They have found that this can lead to trapping of water or moist air between the verge units and the wall or bargeboards and furthermore causes staining.

To address this problem, the present inventors propose that a verge unit should be provided with spacers to ensure that there is a sufficient gap between the verge unit and the wall or other surface of the building to which they are attached.

In a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a roof dry verge Unit for attachment to the roof verge of a building, wherein the verge unit includes at least one spacer member extending from the body of the verge unit so as to provide in use a gap between the verge unit and a surface of the building adjacent to the verge unit.

Preferably the verge unit includes at least two, more preferably at least four such spacer members.

Suitably the verge unit includes upper and lower walls which are located on top of and underneath the verge roof tiles in use, and it is preferred that one or more spacer members extend from each of one or both of these upper and lower walls. It is preferred that spacer members extend from each of the upper and lower walls so that the verge unit can be used on both the left and right hand side of a roof (i.e. the spacing effect is provided whichever way up the verge unit is positioned) Suitably the spacer members have the form of teeth or fingers extending from the verge Unit.

It is preferred that the spacer members are formed as an integral unit (e.g. injection moulded) with the rest of the verge unit, because this increases the strength of the connection between the spacer members and the verge unit and also helps to keep production costs down.

Preferably the spacer members provide a gap between the verge unit and the adjacent building surface of about 3mm to 10mm, preferably about 4mm to 6mm, most preferably about 5mm. Suitably the spacer members extend 3mm to 10mm, preferably 4mm to 6mm and most preferably about 5mm from the body of the verge unit Suitably the spacer members are formed as a unitary member with the rest of the fixing member.

Preferably at least some of the spacer members are detachable, suitably frangible, from the verge unit. In this way unused spacer members, e.g. those not in contact with a bargeboarcj or wall, such as those on the upper wall of a verge unit, can be removed.

The present inventors have also noted that rainwater can collect on the inside of the verge units, particularly in arrangements where the verge unit is not spaced from the side of the roof or wall.

Therefore it is preferred that the verge units described herein are provided with drainage means to allow rainwater to exit the verge unit when it is attached to the roof verge.

Preferably the drainage means include a through hole in a wall of the verge closure body. Preferably the verge unit includes at least two drainage holes.

Preferably the drainage means are provided at the tail end of the verge unit. Suitably the drainage means are located at a corner portion of the verge closure body because the present inventors have found that this is likely to be where rainwater collects.

Preferably the verge closure body has upper and lower walls which are located respectively above and below the roof tiles in use, and wherein both the upper and lower walls have drainage means associated therewith.

The present inventors have noted that it can be difficult to attach conventional eaves closure units to certain roofs where the shape of the roof and/or the presence of overhanging tiles means that the eaves closure unit cannot easily be placed against and nailed to a suitable roof member (typically to a bargeboard, fascia or wall) In other words there can be a gap between the eaves closure unit and the bargeboard so secure connection is riot possible.

In a further part of their proposals, the present inventors propose that the eaves closure unit should be connected to the roof with a bracket, rather than nailed directly to the roof.

Accordingly, in a further aspect the present invention provides an eaves closure kit including an eaves closure unit and a bracket for connecting the eaves closure unit to the roof.

The bracket can provide a way of bridging the gap between the eaves closure unit and the roof (e.g. bargeboard) Preferably the shape of the bracket can be selected so as to provide the desired spacing between the roof and the eaves closure unit.

Preferably the bracket is connectable to the eaves closure unit in a plurality of different orientations, so that different bracket positions with respect to the eaves closure unit can be selected.

Preferably the bracket includes connecting means for connecting the bracket to the eaves closure Unit so that the position of the bracket with respect to the eaves closure unit can be adjusted after connection.

In addition to providing a way of spacing the eaves closure unit from the roof, the present inventors have found that it is advantageous to provide for different orientations of the bracket with respect to the eaves closure unit. This has particular advantages when the eaves closure device is being installed -for example, the installer can attach the bracket to the roof and then connect the eaves closure unit to the bracket at a desired orientation so that the eaves closure unit is aligned correctly for connection with the verge unit and does the job of closing the tail end of the verge unit.

Preferably the connecting means allows the eaves closure unit to be rotated with respect to the bracket after Connection.

By providing an adjustable connection between the bracket and the eaves closure unit such that a change in the relative orientation of the eaves closure unit with respect to the bracket is possible after the two components have been Connected, an installer can adjust the position of the eaves closure unit after it has been connected to the roof via the bracket. This means that the installer isn't required to correctly judge the proper orientation prior to Connection.

Preferably the connecting means includes a rounded member, which in use is received in a correspondingly shaped receiving means in the eaves closure unit, to provide relative rotation.

The relative movement between the bracket and eaves closure unit is preferably provided by the movement of a rounded or curved surface of the connecting means against the rounded or curved surface of receiving means on the eaves closure unit.

Of course, the connecting means and receiving means can be reversed so that the connecting means is provided on the eaves Closure unit and the receiving means is provided on the bracket.

By providing relative rotation, the orientation of the eaves closure unit can be readily adjusted, e.g. to match the pitch of the roof.

Preferably the rounded member is cylindrical. Suitably the receiving means includes a substantially cylindrical aperture or recess. Relative rotation can then be achieved by the cylindrical member rotating within the aperture or recess.

Preferably the connecting means includes interlocking means to provide an interlocking connection between the bracket and the eaves closure unit. An interlocking connection ensures that the eaves closure unit remains securely attached to the bracket, and hence the roof, during installation and for an extended period after installation.

Preferably the connecting means includes at least one projection, which in use engages with the eaves closure unit to prevent the bracket from being detached from the eaves closure unit. Suitably the interlocking means include a projection that interlocks with a surface on the eaves closure unit.

For example, the bracket can be connected to the eaves closure unit so that the projection is retained behind a wall of the eaves closure unit. This could be achieved by rotating or sliding the bracket or eaves closure unit.

Once the projection has been located behind the wall, or other suitable feature of the eaves closure unit, the bracket and eaves closure unit cannot be separated by simply pulling them apart. Preferably separation is only possible by rotating or sliding the bracket with respect to the eaves closure unit.

Preferably the Connecting means includes at least two projections. Suitably this arrangement provides a more secure interlocking connection. Preferably the projections are arranged on opposite sides of the connecting means, to more evenly distribute the forces acting on the projections when connected to the eaves closure unit.

Preferably the projection(s) includes a lug or peg.

Suitably the connecting means includes a cylindrical member having two lugs projecting from an upper part of the cylindrical member. With this arrangement the cylindrical member can be inserted into a corresponding aperture or recess in the eaves closure unit to proved relative rotation, and the lugs can engage with suitable surfaces or detents to prevent the connecting means from being withdrawn from the aperture or recess.

Preferably the eaves closure unit includes an aperture for receiving the connecting means. Suitably, as discussed above, the aperture has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the connecting means.

Preferably the aperture is provided in a wall of the eaves closure unit, which wall suitably extends substantially perpendicular to the end wall of the eaves closure unit that closes the tail end of the verge unit to which it is attached in use.

Suitably the aperture is a circular aperture.

Preferably the aperture includes at least one cutaway portion (or recess) for receiving the at least one projection of the Connecting means. Suitable the connecting means, including the projection, is inserted into the receiving means by aligning the projection(s) with the cutaway portion(s) and then rotated so that the projection(s) move out of alignment with the cutaway portion(s) so that the connecting member cannot be withdrawn from the receiving means.

Suitably the bracket includes a roof fixing portion for fixing the bracket to the roof. Typically the roof fixing portion includes a substantially planar member. In use the planar member can be placed against a fascia, bargeboard or wall and fixed thereto.

Suitably the roof fixing portion includes at least one hole for nailing the bracket to the roof (fascia, bargeboard, wall etc) Preferably one or both of the bracket and eaves closure unit are made from a plastics material. Preferably they are each formed by injection moulding, typically using a single action injection process.

It is preferred that the eaves closure unit includes verge unit connecting means for connecting to the eaves closure unit to a verge unit. This ensures a strong connection between the verge unit (the tail end of which the eaves closure unit is designed to close) and the eaves Closure unit. For example, the verge unit connecting means can include a slot, or other means described herein for connecting adjacent verge units.

The bracket and eaves closure unit may be supplied separately or pre-connected.

The bracket can be supplied independently of the eaves closure unit and so in a further aspect, the present invention provides a bracket for use in an eaves closure kit according to the previous aspect, wherein the bracket is as defined in the previous aspect.

Similarly, the eaves closure unit may be supplied separately from the bracket and so in a further aspect the present invention provides an eaves closure unit for use in an eaves closure kit according the aspect above, wherein the eaves closure unit is as defined in the aspect above.

The present inventors have found that it can be difficult to close the gap between two verge Units that are located either side of the ridge of the roof verge. It is desirable to prevent birds and bats from gaining access to the inside of the verge units and the roof space. A ridge cover can be attached to the ridge part of the verge to cover the side of the ridge, but that can still leaves a gap on Lhe underside of the ridge, e.g. between the respective lower walls of the two verge units.

The size of the ridge gap can vary from roof to roof, and depends at least in part of the type of tile and type of verge unit that have been used.

In a further part of their proposals, the present inventors propose that a flexible "comb" closure unit should be located between the verge units, the closure unit suitably having a length sufficient to cover a range of different ridge gap sizes.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a ridge closure device having closure means for covering at least part of a ridge gap and attachment means for attaching the device to a verge unit.

Suitably the device includes a flexible elongate body.

Preferably the closure means includes a Plurality of fingers. Suitably the plurality of fingers extend from the elongate flexible body.

Suitably the device has a "comb" form.

Preferably the device has at least 10 fingers, more preferably art least 15 fingers.

Preferably the attachment means includes two sets of fingers wherein respective sets are offset along the elongate body to provide a gap between the two sets, so that a wall of a verge unit can be accomiiiocja in the gap. Preferably alternate fingers are offset, i.e. every other finger is part of the first set and the intervening fingers are part of the second set. Suitably the fingers are offset in a transverse direction with respect to the elongate body.

Preferably the ridge closure unit has a length in the range 5cm to 70cm, more Preferably 10cm to 50cm.

Suitably each finger has a length in the range 2cm to 20cm, more Preferably 4cm to 15cm.

Any one of the aspect described herein may be used in combination with one or more of any of the other aspects described herein. Furthermore, any of the optional and preferred features described in relation to any one of the aspects can also apply to any of the other aspects defined herein.

The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying figures in which: Figures 1A to 1D show a verge unit, being an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 2A to 2E show a fixing member, being an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 3A and 3B show another verge unit, being a further embodiment of the present invention; Figures 4A to 4C show another fixing member, being an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 shows the fixing member of Figure 4 and the verge unit of figure 3; Figures 6A and 6B show an eaves closure unit, being an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 7A and 7B show another eaves closure unit, being a further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 shows another verge unit, being a further embodiment of the present invention; Figures 9A and 9B show a ridge closure unit, being an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 shows an eaves closure unit and bracket, being an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 11 shows the eaves closure unit and bracket of Figure 10 connected together.

The verge unit 2 shown in Figures 1A to 1D has a verge wall 4, which in use is placed so as to cover the verge, i.e. edge, of the pitched roof. Upper wall 6 and lower wall 8 lie above and below the verge tiles in use.

The verge unit 2 is designed to be arranged in a head to tail relationship with adjacent verge units to provide a Continuous cover for the roof verge. Verge unit 2 has head end 10 and tail end 12. Head end 10 is smaller than tail end 12 and is designed to fit inside the tail end.

Figure 2e shows this head to tail relationship.

The head end 10 of the verge unit 2 includes fixing member connecting means 14, which enables the verge unit to be connected to a fixing member that is in turn connected (e.g. nailed) to the roof. These connecting means 14 have the form of a slot, formed by two parallel walls extending in the longitudinal direction of the verge unit. The parallel walls each have upper in-turned overhanging portion, which define the slot. The elongate verge unit connecting means 20 of fixing member 22 (see Figures 2a to 2e) can be inserted, suitably by sliding, into the slot 14. This provides a connection between the verge unit and fixing member (bracket) 22.

Verge unit 2 includes two such slots 14. This provides two alternatives points at which the fixing bracket 22 * can be connected to the verge unit. Since the fixing bracket 22 is fixed with respect to the tiles on the roof, the provision of two alternative slots 14 provides a mechanism by which the height of the verge unit with respect to the tiles can be adjusted.

The underside of the in-turned portions of the parallel walls which make up each of slots 14 include a plurality of teeth (not shown) which engage corresponding teeth on the elongate connecting means 20 of fixing bracket 22 (not Shown) . The teeth (which could also be a serrated portion or high friction surface) provide a "ratcheted" engagement between the elongate connecting means 20 and the verge unit 2. Thus it is possible to slide the fixing bracket 22 into the slot 14 but there is a certain resistance to the sliding such that sliding only occurs when deliberately Selected by the roof installer. This helps to prevent sliding after installation and makes it easier for the installer to adjust the relationship between the fixing bracket 22 and the verge unit 2.

Of course, the teeth (or other ratcheting means) could be provided on alternative or additional surfaces of the slot 14 and/or elongate connecting means 20.

Figures 2C and 2D show the fixing bracket 22 located in upper slot 14.

Fixing bracket 22 also includes a roof fixing portion 24, which in this example is a planer rectangular body having a plurality of holes 26. The roof fixing portion 24 is designed to be placed on the upper surface of a tile baton and nailed into the top of the tile batten through one or more of the holes 26. The planer arrangement of the roof fixing portion 24 means it is possible for the fixing member 22 to be flipped over or inverted so that the planer member 24 can be nailed to the batten from the other side. In other words, both upper and lower surfaces of the planer fixing portion 24 can be in contact with the upper surface of a tile batten.

The plurality of holes 26 enables more than one nail to be Used to secure the fixing member 22 to the tile batten (or other suitable roof member) . The present inventors have found that fixing to the top of the tile batten, rather than to the end grain, provides a more secure and reliable attachment.

The elongate connecting means 20 is also a substantially planar rectangular member. It extends substantially perpendicular to the roof fixing portion 24. Spacing members 28 extend from the roof fixing portion 24 to the elongate connecting means 20. These spacer members are moved up against (i.e. so that they abut) the end of the tile batten during installation The spacer members ensure that there is a gap between the inside of the elongate connecting means 20 and the end of the tile batten. By including integral spacer members 28 the installer is not required to measure or judge the optimum distance -it is "built-jo" to the fixing bracket.

As mentioned above, the fixing bracket 22 can be attached to the tile batten (or other roof member) in two orientations -i.e. with either the upper or lower surface of the roof fixing portion 24 being in contact with the tile batten. Therefore, spacing members 28 are provided on both sides of the roof fixing portion 24.

Both verge unit 2 and fixing bracket 22 are made of a plastics material and are made using a single movement injection mould process.

Figures 3A and 38 show a second verge unit 50. Like the previously discussed verge unit 2, verge unit 50 has upper and lower walls separated by a verge wall which covers the edges of the verge tiles in use. Verge unit also has head and tail ends so that a Plurality of identical verge units can be arranged in overlapping head to tail relationship. Verge unit 50 also includes fixing member connecting means in the form of slots 52 which perform the same function as slot 14 described with respect to Figure 1. Again, there are two slots 52 to provide alternative locations for attachment to the fixing member.

Slots 52 are designed to connect to verge unit connecting means 54 on fixing bracket 56, as shown in Figures 4a to 4c. Fixing bracket 56 provides the same function as fixing bracket 22 described with respect to Figure 2.

The fixing bracket 56 includes a roof fixing portion Containing a plurality of holes through which the fixing bracket 56 can be secured to the roof (e.g. the top surface of the tile batten) Connecting means 54 extends substantially perpendicular to the roof fixing portion 60. Connecting means 54 has an "H" shape, wherein each upright arm of the "H" includes two prongs or teeth 58. Figure 4C shows one such upright portion of the "H" Connecting means (the other is obscured by the roof fixing portion 60) When the "H" shaped Connecting means 54 is inserted into slots 52 in the verge unit 50, the teeth 58 engage with corresponding teeth 62 (i.e. with the recesses between corresponding teeth 62) formed in the walls of the slot, to provide a ratcheted engagement. The limbs 57 of the "H" connecting means 54 preferably have a resilient action so that the teeth 58 are biased into engagement with the recesses between teeth 62 and the verge unit 50.

Figure 5 shows fixing bracket 56 located in the lower of the two slots 52. As described above, this ratcheted engagement permits sliding between the fixing member 56 and verge unit 50 but only when sufficient force is applied to one or both of the components. This helps to avoid accidental movement between the two components. It also provides the installer with tactile feedback when a change has been made.

Both verge unit 50 and fixing bracket 56 are made from a plastics material. They are made using an injection moulding technique, specifically using a single movement injection mould tool.

Figures 1A to 1D also illustrate a further aspect of the present invention. The verge unit 2, specifically the head end 10, includes receiving means 70. Receiving means 70 includes a wider, substantially circular, locating aperture 72 and an elongate securing aperture 74. The locating aperture and securing aperture form a Continuous opening though the head end 10. A further substantially circular locating aperture is located at the opposite end of elongate securing aperture 74. This provides the receiving means 70 with a "dumbbell" shape.

The purpose of aperture (receiving means) 70 is to engage with peg 76 on the tail end of an adjacent verge unit.

Since this verge units are designed to be arranged in a head to tail series relationship, verge unit 2 is provided with a aperture 70 at the head end and peg 76 at the tail end.

Peg 76 is substantially Cylindrical and has an enlarged head located on top of the cylindrical portion. The enlarged head can nevertheless be passed into locating aperture 72 because the diameter of locating aperture 72 is larger than the enlarged head of peg 76. The enlarged head can then be moved through the aperture so that it protrudes on the other side of the wall of the verge unit at the head end 10. This enlarged locating aperture assists the installer in locating the peg 76 in preparation for securing it to the tail end of the verge unit. Thus, the installer experiences tactile feedback when aligning the respective head and tail ends of adjacent verge units because he is aware of when the peg has passed into the locating aperture 72. Furthermore, once the peg 76 is located in the locating aperture 72, the movement of the peg is Constrained so that correct alignment is maintained.

The elongate securing aperture is narrower than the enlarged head of the peg but can nevertheless accommodate the "neck" or cylindrical portion of the peg (i.e. the bit below the enlarged head) . Thus, once the enlarged head has been passed through the locating aperture 72 the whole peg can be slid into the elongate securing aperture 74. Since the enlarged head is now on the other side of the narrower elongate aperture 74 it cannot be pulled out of the receiving means 70 other than in the direction in which it was inserted. Thus, Once the peg has been moved into the securing aperture 74 the head and tail portions of adjacent verge units cannot be pulled apart in a sideways direction. This ensures a robust and reliable connection between adjacent verge units when installed on the verge of a roof.

A further advantage of the elongate securing aperture 74 is that it provides some freedom for the installer to adjust the relative position of adjacent verge units. In other words, the peg 76 (or other projection from the adjacent verge unit) can be moved within the elongate securing aperture 74 to move the verge units closer together or further apart (to adjust for tile length or batten gauge), whilst still providing a interlocking connection.

Generally the verge units 2, 50 are supplied in a kit comprising a corresponding number of fixing brackets 22, 56. In order to ensure that both the fixing bracket and verge unit are on-hand when the installer comes to use them, the fixing bracket 22, 56 is provided with a storage aperture 78, which like the aperture 70 on the verge unit 2 includes an enlarged lobe through which peg 76 can be passed and a smaller aperture, this time a smaller lobe, into which the peg can be moved so as to secure the fixing bracket 22 against the verge unit 2 during transit.

En addition to the interlocking verge units 2 the present invention also provides an eaves closure unit 80 which can be used to close the tail end of the verge unit that is fixed to the verge at the lowest end of the pitched roof. In the absence of an eaves closure unit the tail end of the verge unit 2 would remain open, permitting birds and bats to gain access to the roof space.

Figures 6A and 6B show eaves closure unit 80, which includes a roof fixing portion 82 comprising a plurality of nail holes. The roof fixing portion 82 can be secured to the verge just below the verge tiles. Typically this includes fixing the roof fixing portion 82 to the bargeboard that extends beneath the tiles.

The eaves closure unit 80 includes two wings or fins 84 which help locate the closure unit against the inside of the upper and lower walls 6, 8 of verge unit 2. The eaves closure unit 80 and verge unit 2 are connected together using receiving slot 86 and peg 76. After the eaves closure unit 80 has been fixed to the roof, verge unit 2 can be attached to the eaves closure unit by sliding peg 76 into slot 86.

The present invention also provides verge units and eaves closure units in which connection between the adjacent verge units and eaves closure unit is achieved by a tongue and socket interlocking arrangement. For example, figures 7a and 7b show an eaves closure unit 90, which includes a roof fixing portion 92 and end wall 94 to block the end of the adjacent verge unit. The eaves closure unit 90 includes a slot 96 for receiving tongue 98 on verge unit 50 (Figures 3A and 3B) As well as providing a means of connecting the verge unit to the eaves closure unit 90, tongue 98 also engages with corresponding sockets 100 on adjacent verge units, so that verge units can be arranged in head to tail relationship. The tongue (or other connecting means) are provided on the inside of the verge unit at the tail end, whereas the socket (or other connecting means) is provided on the outside of the verge unit at the head end. This is shown more clearly in Figure 8. The socket is formed by a U-shaped member formed on the wall of the verge unit. In use the tongue is inserted under the U-shaped member (i.e. into the socket) to provide a connection between the respective verge units.

The tongue 98 and socket 100 are designed so that they have dimensions which permit the tongue 98 to move within the socket 100 in such a way that the relative heights of the adjacent verge members can be independently adjusted, for example to permit installation on left and right verges. This is achieved by making the width of the tongue (i.e. the distance across the tongue going from the direction of the upper wall to the lower wall) is less than the corresponding width of the socket 100.

Thus, when the tongue is engaged in the socket there is some "play" in the respective heights of the respective head and tail ends of the adjacent verge units. This allows differences in the relative orientation of the adjacent units, specifically different relative heights, to be accommodated more easily. This height adjustability is preferably provided without compromising the secureness of the engagement between the adjacent verge units in the sense that the tongue and socket prevent the adjacent verge units from being pulled apart in a sideways direction (e.g. pulling them away from the verge) . A further development described herein is the provision of spacer members 102 (see Figures 1C and 1D) on the upper and lower walls 6, 8 of verge unit 2. These spacer members are integral with the verge unit and are rectangular shaped projections extending from the upper and lower walls. They extend from respective walls for a distance of about 5mm. When the verge units are assembled on the roof verge these spacer members 102 ensure that the verge units are spaced from the nearest surface of the building (e.g. the bargeboards) . This not Only helps to ensure that rainwater and moist air is not trapped within the verge unit but prevents rainwater from running or trickling down the side of the roof (e.g. bargeboard, fascia or wall) . Instead, the spacer members permit the rainwater to exit the verge unit along the entire length of the verge unit, which helps to reduce staining. By providing spacer members 102 the roof installer is no longer required to engineer an appropriate gap himself (something which can be very difficult to achieve) and the installer can be confident of achieving the same reproduceable gap for each installation.

In this embodiment some of the spacer members 102 are frangible and can be detached from the verge unit by simply snapping them off. This enables spacer members on e.g. the upper wall of the verge unit to be detached if they are not needed.

Figures 9A and 9B show an embodiment of a further development defined herein. Ridge closure unit 112 comprises an elongate flexible body 113. A plurality of fingers 114 extends from the elongate body 113. In use, the ridge closure "comb" is attached to the lower walls of the two verge units adjacent the ridge portion of the roof (Figure 9B) . The fingers 114 close the space between the two verge units to prevent e.g. birds and bats from gaining access to the roof space or the inside of the verge units.

The fingers 114 actually comprise two groups of fingers.

The first group of fingers 116 is offset or staggered from the second group of fingers 118. Alternating fingers are part of the first and second groups, respectively. The first and second groups of fingers are spaced apart in the transverse direction with respect to the elongate member 113, to provide a gap between the two sets of fingers. This gap is used to receive the lower walls of the verge units when the ridge closure unit is inserted into position (figure 9B) . Thus, in Figure 9B fingers from Only one of the groups 116 are visible on the underside of the lower wall of the verge units. The fingers from the other group are located on the upper side (inside) of the lower wall and are therefore not visible in Figure 9B. This arrangement provides a "gripping" action on the verge units and helps to secure the ridge closure unit in position.

The ridge closure unit is injection moulded from a plastics material.

Figures 10 and 11 show an eaves closure device 200 for closing (i.e. covering) the opening in the tail end of a verge unit that is located at the lowermost end of the pitched roof verge. The eaves closure device 200 includes an eaves closure unit 202 and a bracket 204.

In use the eaves closure unit 202 is attached to the roof (typically to a bargeboard or fascia) via bracket 204.

The bracket 204 enables the eaves closure unit 202 to be spaced from the bargeboard or fascia, e.g. because overhanging tiles make it difficult or impossible for the eaves closure unit to be placed directly against the bargeboard or fascia.

The eaves closure unit 202 includes an end wall 206, which in use covers the opening at the tail end of the verge unit.

The eaves closure unit 202 also includes a wall 208 that extends substantially perpendicular to the end wall 206.

The wall 208 includes a rounded aperture 210. The rounded (circular) aperture includes two cutaway portions 212, which take the form of lobes, in this example substantially semi-circular lobes.

The bracket includes a planar roof fixing portion 214 that includes a plurality of holes 216, through which nails or screws can be inserted to secure the bracket to a bargeboard or fascia, etc. The bracket also includes cylindrical connecting means 218 that extends substantially perpendicularly from the roof fixing portion 214. The cylindrical connecting means has substantially the same diameter as aperture 210.

The connecting means 218 includes two lugs 220, located on opposite sides of the cylindrical member 218 (i.e. substantially 1800 apart) In order to connect the bracket 204 to the eaves closure unit 202, the cylindrical connecting means 218, with its two lugs 220, is inserted into aperture 210. This is achieved by aligning the lugs 220 with the corresponding cutaway portions 212, or lobes, on the eaves closure unit. When aligned in this way the cy�=indrical connecting means 218 can pass into the aperture 210 so that the lugs are located on the opposite side of wall 208 to the roof fixing portion 214. The lugs 220 are then moved out of alignment with the cutaway portions 212 by rotating the eaves closure unit with respect to the bracket. This rotation also allows the installer to align the eaves closure unit 202 as desired, e.g. to align it with the pitch of the roof.

Normally the bracket will be nailed or screwed to the bargeboard or fascia prior to connecting the eaves closure unit. Thus, rotation in the direction indicated by arrow 222 provides the installer with a convenient way of aligning the eaves closure unit Without having to adjust the connection of the bracket to the bargeboard or fascia, i.e. the nails or screws do not have to be loosened or removed.

Once the lugs 220 are out of alignment with cutaway portions 212, the lugs are retained behind wall 208 so that the bracket and eaves closure unit cannot be pulled apart. This interlocking arrangement provides a secure and reliable connection. The bracket and eaves closure unit can only be separated by realigning the lugs 220 and cutaway portions 212 and then withdrawing the cylindrical connecting means 210 from the aperture 210. Other interlocking arrangements are possible.

The eaves closure unit 202 also includes a slot 224 for receiving a projection, e.g. a tongue 98 as shown in fig 3A, on the verge unit with which it will be associated.

These preferred embodiments have been described by way of example and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many alterations can be made that are still within the scope of the invention.

The following numbered paragraphs provide further aspects and optional features that may be combined with any of the other optional or preferred features as herein described.

1. A dry verge roofing kit for covering the verge of a pitched roof, the dry verge roofing kit including a dry verge unit that has head and tail ends which, in use, overlap with respective tail and head ends on adjacent verge units, and fixing member connecting means; and a fixing member, wherein the fixing member has a roof fixing portion that can be fastened to the roof and verge unit connecting means for connecting the fixing member to the fixing member connecting means on the verge unit.

2. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 1, wherein the roof fixing portion of the verge unit is adapted to be fastened to the top of a tile batten.

3. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 2, wherein the roof fixing portion includes a substantially planar member that can be placed against the top of a tile batten.

4. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the roof fixing portion includes at least one hole through which the fixing member can be nailed to the roof.

5. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein in use the verge unit connecting means extends sideways from the verge.

6. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the fixing member is a bracket.

7. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the fixing member is made from a plastics material.

8. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit connecting means includes an elongate projection.

9. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 8, wherein in use the elongate projection is aligned substantially at the angle of the pitch of the roof.

10. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit includes at least two fixing member connecting means.

11. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the fixing member connecting means on the verge unit includes a slot.

12. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 11, wherein the slot is formed by two substantially parallel walls each having opposing in-turned upper portions that provide an overhang, wherein the verge unit connecting means of the fixing member can be inserted under the in-turned portions at one end of the walls, and is retained by the in-turned walls.

13. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit connecting means of the fixing member is offset with respect to the roof fixing portion.

14. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 13, wherein the verge unit connecting means is cranked with respect to the roof fixing portion.

15. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit connecting means and fixing member connecting means are adapted to provide sliding engagement in use.

16. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 15, wherein the verge unit connecting means and the fixing member connecting means are adapted to provide resistance to sliding when they are mutually engaged.

17. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 16, wherein one or both of the verge unit connecting means and the fixing member connecting means include ratcheting means to provide a ratcheted engagement.

18. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 17, wherein one or both of the verge unit connecting means and fixing member connecting means includes at least one tooth to provide a ratcheted engagement between the two components.

19. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the fixing member includes spacer means to space the verge unit connecting means from the edge of the verge in use.

20. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 19, wherein the spacer means are upstanding from the roof fixing portion so that the spacer means can be located adjacent a tile batten in use.

21. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit has a length in the range 5cm to 70cm.

22. A dry verge roofing kit according to paragraph 20, wherein the verge unit has a length in the range 25cm to 50cm.

23. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the tail end is larger than the head end so that a head end can be inserted therein.

24. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the kit includes at least one fastening member for securing the fixing member to the roof.

25. A dry verge roofing system according to paragraph 24, wherein the fastening member is selected from a nail and a screw.

26. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, including a plurality of verge units and a plurality of fixing members.

27. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit includes a height adjusting connecting member as defined in any one of paragraphs 42 to 55.

28. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit includes a receiving means as defined in any one of paragraphs 62 to 76.

29. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the verge unit includes spacer means as defined in any one of paragraphs 79 to 87.

30. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the kit includes a ridge closure unit as defined in any one of paragraphs 88 to 91.

31. A dry verge roofing kit according to any one of the previous paragraphs, wherein the kit includes an eaves closure unit as defined in any one of paragraphs 92 to 109.

32. A roof verge unit for use in a roofing dry verge kit according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 31, said verge unit having head and tail ends which, in use, overlap with respective tail and head ends on adjacent verge units, and fixing member connecting means for connecting the verge unit to a fixing member that is fixed to a roof.

33. A roof verge unit according to paragraph 32, wherein the fixing member connecting means can be moved with respect to the fixing member without disconnecting the fixing member connecting means from the fixing member.

34. A roof verge unit according to paragraph 32 or paragraph 33, wherein the fixing member connecting means provides a sliding connection with the fixing member in use.

35. A roof verge unit according to paragraph 34, wherein the fixing member connecting means is adapted to provide a resistance to relative sliding with the fixing member in use.

36. A roof verge unit according to paragraph 35, wherein the resistance to sliding is provided by ratchet means associated with the fixing member connecting means to provide a ratcheted connection between the verge unit and fixing member.

37. A roof verge unit according to paragraph 36, wherein the ratchet means includes at least one recess for engaging with a tooth on the fixing member.

38. A roof verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 32 to 37, wherein the verge unit is as defined in any one of paragraphs 1 to 29.

39. A roof dry verge unit fixing member for use in a roofing dry verge kit according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 31, wherein the fixing member includes a roof fixing portion that can be fastened to the roof and verge unit connecting means for connecting the fixing member to the verge unit.

40. A roof dry verge unit fixing member according to paragraph 39, wherein the fixing member is as defined in any one of paragraphs 1 to 20.

41. Use of a fixing member as defined in paragraph 39 or paragraph 40, for securing a roof dry verge unit to a roof verge.

42. A roof dry verge unit for covering the verge of a pitched roof, the verge unit having height adjusting

S

connecting means for connecting the verge unit to an adjacent verge unit, wherein the height adjusting connecting means can be connected to an adjacent verge unit to provide a plurality of different relative orientations between the verge units.

43. A verge unit according to paragraph 42, wherein the verge unit includes a second height adjusting connecting means for connection to a height adjusting connecting means of a further adjacent verge unit.

44. A verge unit according to paragraph 43, wherein at least one dimension of the height adjusting connecting means is no more than 90% of the size of the corresponding dimension of the second height adjusting connecting means.

45. A verge unit according to paragraph 44, wherein the at least one dimension of the height adjusting connecting means is no more than 80% of the size of the corresponding dimension of the second height adjusting connecting means.

46. A verge unit according to paragraph 45, wherein the at least one dimension of the height adjusting connecting means is no more than 70% of the size of the corresponding dimension of the second height adjusting connecting means.

47. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 43 to 46, wherein the height adjusting connecting means and the second height adjusting connecting means are located at respective head and tail ends of the verge unit.

48. A verge unit according to paragraph 43 or paragraph 47, wherein the height adjusting connecting means and second height adjusting connecting means are located on opposite sides of a wall of the verge unit.

49. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 48, wherein the height adjusting connecting means includes a projection.

50. A verge unit according to paragraph 49, wherein the projection is a tongue.

51. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 43 to 50, wherein the second height adjusting connecting means includes a socket for receiving the height adjusting connecting means.

52. A verge unit according to paragraph 51, wherein the socket is formed by a U-shaped member that is attached to a wall of the verge unit to provide an aperture for receiving the height adjusting connecting means.

53. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 52, wherein the height adjusting connecting means is spaced from the body of the verge unit.

54. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 53, wherein the height adjusting connecting means is flexible.

55. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 54, wherein the height adjusting connecting means is formed from a plastics material.

56. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 55, wherein the verge unit includes fixing member connecting means as defined in any one of paragraphs 1 to 23.

57. A roof verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 56, wherein the verge unit includes receiving means as defined in any one of paragraphs 62 to 76.

58. A roof verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 57, wherein the verge unit includes spacer means as defined in any one of paragraphs 79 to 87.

59. A dry verge roofing kit including at least two verge units according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 58.

60. An eaves closure unit for attachment to an end of a verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 42 to 59, wherein the eaves closure unit includes height adjusting connecting means as defined in any one of paragraphs 42 to 59.

61. An eaves closure kit including an eaves closure unit according to paragraph 60, wherein the eaves closure unit includes height adjusting connecting means as defined in any one of paragraphs 94 to 109, and the eaves closure kit includes a bracket as defined in any one of paragraphs 92 to 109.

62. A roof dry verge unit having receiving means for receiving an engaging member on an adjacent verge unit, the receiving means having a securing portion for securing the verge unit to the adjacent verge unit, and a locating portion associated with the securing portion for guiding the engaging member into the securing portion.

63. A roof dry verge unit according to paragraph 62, wherein the locating portion is larger than the securing portion.

64. A roof dry verge unit according to paragraph 62 or paragraph 63, wherein the receiving means includes a slot.

65. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 62 to 64, wherein the receiving means is provided as a through hole in the verge unit.

66. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 62 to 65, wherein the locating portion includes a rounded aperture.

67. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 62 to 66, wherein the securing portion is an elongate aperture.

68. A verge unit according to any one of paragraph 62 to 67, wherein a second locating portion is located at the opposite end of the securing portion to the first locating portion.

69. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 62 to 68, wherein the verge unit includes an engaging member for engagement with a receiving means on an adjacent verge unit.

70. A verge unit according to paragraph 72, wherein the engaging member includes a projection.

71. A verge unit according to paragraph 70, wherein the projection is a lug or peg.

72. A verge unit according to paragraph 70 or paragraph 71 wherein the projection has an enlarged head.

73. A verge unit according to paragraph 72, wherein the enlarged head has at least one dimension that is larger than the corresponding dimension of the securing portion of the receiving means so that when the projection has been introduced into the securing portion of the receiving means it cannot be pulled out of the securing portion in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which it was introduced.

74. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 69 to 73, wherein the receiving means and engaging member are located at opposite ends of the verge unit.

75. A verge unit according to paragraph 74, wherein the receiving means and engaging member are located on opposite sides of a wall of the verge unit.

76. A roofing dry verge system, including at least two verge units according to any one of paragraphs 62 to 75.

77. An eaves closure unit for attachment to an end of a verge unit according to any oneof paragraphs 62 to 75, wherein the eaves closure unit includes receiving means or an engaging member as defined in any one of paragraphs 62 to 75.

78. An eaves closure kit including an eaves closure unit according to paragraph 77, wherein the eaves closure unit includes connecting means as defined in any one of paragraphs 94 to 109, and the eaves closure kit includes a bracket as defined in any one of paragraphs 92 to 109.

79. A roof dry verge unit for attachment to the roof verge of a building, wherein the verge unit includes at least one spacer member extending from the body of the verge unit so as to provide in use a gap between the verge unit and a surface of the building adjacent to the verge unit.

80. A verge unit according to paragraph 79, wherein the verge unit includes at least two spacer members.

81. A verge unit according to paragraph 80, wherein the verge unit includes at least four spacer members.

82. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 79 to 81, wherein the verge unit includes upper and lower walls which are located on top of and underneath the verge roof tiles in use, and one or more spacer members extend from each of the upper and lower walls.

83. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 79 to 82, wherein the spacer members have the form of teeth or fingers extending from the verge unit.

84. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 79 to 83, wherein the spacer members are formed integrally with the body of the verge unit.

85. A verge unit according to any one of paragraphs 79 to 84, wherein in use the spacer members provide a gap between the verge unit and the adjacent building surface of about 3mm to 10mm.

86. A verge unit according to paragraph 85, wherein in use the spacer members provide a gap between the verge unit and the adjacent building surface of about 4mm to 6mm.

87. A verge unit according to paragraph 86, wherein at least some of the spacer members are frangible from the verge unit.

88. A ridge closure device having closure means for covering at least part of a ridge gap and attachment means for attaching the device to a verge unit.

89. A ridge closure device according to paragraph 88, wherein the device includes a flexible elongate body and the closure means includes a plurality of fingers extending from the elongate body.

90. A ridge closure device according to paragraph 88 or paragraph 89, wherein the device has at least 10 fingers.

91. A ridge closure device according to any one of paragraphs 88 to paragraph 90, wherein the attachment means includes two sets of fingers wherein respective sets are offset along the elongate body to provide a gap between the two sets, so that a wall of a verge unit can be held in the gap.

92. An eaves closure kit including an eaves closure unit and a bracket for connecting the eaves closure body to a roof.

93. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 92, wherein the bracket is connectable to the eaves closure unit in a plurality of different orientations, so that different bracket positions with respect to the eaves closure unit can be selected.

94. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 92 or paragraph 93, wherein the bracket includes connecting means for connecting the bracket to the eaves closure unit so that the position of the bracket with respect to the eaves closure unit can be adjusted after connection. I.

95. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 94, wherein the connecting means allows the eaves closure unit to be rotated with respect to the bracket after connection.

96. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 94 or paragraph 95, wherein the connecting means includes a substantially circular member, which in use is received in a correspondingly shaped receiving means in the eaves closure unit, to provide relative rotation.

97. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 94 to 96, wherein the connecting means includes interlocking means to provide an interlocking connection between the bracket and the eaves closure unit.

98. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 94 to 97, wherein the connecting means includes at least one projection, which in use engages with the eaves closure unit to prevent the bracket from being detached from the eaves closure unit.

99. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 98, wherein the connecting means includes at least two projections.

100. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 98 or paragraph 99, wherein the projection includes a lug.

101. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 94 to 100, wherein the connecting means includes a cylindrical member having two lugs projecting from an upper part of the cylindrical member.

102. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 94 to 101, wherein the eaves closure unit includes an aperture for receiving the connecting means.

103. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 102, wherein the aperture includes a circular portion.

104. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 102 or paragraph 103, wherein the aperture includes at least one cutaway portion for receiving the at least one projection of the connecting means.

105. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 92 to 104, wherein the bracket includes a roof fixing portion for fixing the bracket to the roof.

106. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 105, wherein the roof fixing portion includes a substantially planar member.

107. An eaves closure kit according to paragraph 105 or paragraph 106, wherein the roof fixing portion includes at least one hole for nailing the bracket to the roof.

108. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 92 to 107, wherein one or both of the bracket and eaves closure unit are made from a plastics material.

109. An eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 92 to 108, wherein the eaves closure unit includes verge unit connecting means for connecting to the eaves closure unit to a verge unit.

110. A bracket for use in an eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 92 to 109, wherein the bracket is as defined in any one of paragraphs 93 to 108.

111. An eaves closure unit for use in an eaves closure kit according to any one of paragraphs 92 to 109, wherein the eaves closure unit is as defined in any one of paragraphs 93 to 108. S.

Claims

CLAIMS: 1. A roof dry verge unit having receiving means for receiving an engaging member on an adjacent verge unit, the receiving means having a securing portion for securing the verge unit to the adjacent verge unit, and a locating portion associated with the securing portion for guiding the engaging member into the securing portion.
2. A roof dry verge unit according to claim 1, wherein the locating portion is larger than the securing portion.
3. A roof dry verge unit according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the receiving means includes a slot.
4. A verge unit according to any one of c]aims 1 to 3, wherein the receiving means is provided as a through hole in the verge unit.
5. A verge unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locating portion includes a rounded aperture.
6. A verge unit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the securing portion is an elongate aperture.
7. A verge unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein a second locating portion is located at the opposite end of the securing portion to the first locating portion.
8. A verge unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the verge unit includes an engaging member for engagement with a receiving means on an adjacent verge unit.
9. A verge unit according to claim 8, wherein the engaging member includes a projection.
10. A verge unit according to claim 9, wherein the projection is a lug or peg.
11. A verge unit according to claim 9 or claim 10 wherein the projection has an enlarged head.
12. A verge unit according to claim 11, wherein the enlarged head has at least one dimension that is larger than the corresponding dimension of the securing portion of the receiving means so that when the projection has been introduced into the securing portion of the receiving means it cannot be pulled out of the securing portion in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which it was introduced.
13. A verge unit according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the receiving means and engaging member are located at opposite ends of the verge unit.
14. A verge unit according to claim 13, wherein the receiving means and engaging member are located on opposite sides of a wall of the verge unit.
15. A roofing dry verge system, including at least two verge units according to any one of claims 1 to 14.