GB2536406A - Sill - Google Patents

Abstract

A sill fascia 1 comprises an elongate profile 2 with a support portion 3 for resting on a wall, a flange 4 depending from a first edge 30 of the support portion for engaging a rear surface of said wall and an overhang portion 5 depending from a second edge 31 of the support portion 3, wherein the flange 4 is connected to the support portion 3 by a frangible joint 40. Frangible joint 40 may comprise a weakened line formed at least partly by a thinned region. The support portion may comprise a flat section 61 for supporting a frame and a sloped shelf 72 suitable for diverting rainwater. The support portion may comprise an elongate recess extending along an upper side between abutments 4 and 54 for receiving a wall cavity enclosure. Other forms of sill fascia are disclosed as are a method of manufacture and a computer program element for use with 3-D printing.

Description

SILL

This invention relates generally to a sill and more particularly to sill fascia for use in buildings and fixed structures. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to sills for use at the base of window and/or door cavities for shedding rainwater away from the underlying wall structure.

It is well known to install a window frame in the wall of a building above a sill having a width similar to that of the window frame in order to form a ledge. Traditional window sills to provide a stable base on which the window frame is mounted, divert rainwater away from the wall to which they are mounted and, in many cases, are designed to improve the appearance of the installation.

Traditional window sills are generally made from heavy materials, such as stone, concrete or wood and are often built into brick walls by replacing brick courses. These materials present manufacturing, transportation and installation issues that will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

GB2508634 seeks to mitigate these issues by providing an overlap sill with a longitudinal profile manufactured in a glass reinforced polymer composite. The profile is configured to hook securely the over a course of bricks in a wall to provide a platform overlapping the wall, on which a window frame is mounted. The profile also includes a portion hanging pendant over the external wall surface to form a casement or protruding fascia attached along one edge of the flat section. The other edge of the flat section is turned down through ninety degrees to hang on an opposite side of the wall to the casement, which serves to guide the sill profile into position and hold it in position while the mortar sets.

Whilst this arrangement functions very well, the applicants have observed that the design of the profile can be improved, particularly in terms of manufacturability, flexibility and effectiveness.

It is therefore a first non-exclusive object of the invention to provide an improved sill. It is a further non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a sill that at mitigates one or more issues associated with known designs.

Accordingly, one aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall, a flange depending from a first edge of the support portion for engaging a rear surface of the wall and an overhang portion depending from a second edge of the support portion, wherein the flange is connected to the support portion by a frangible joint.

The provision of a frangible joint between the flange and the support portion enables the same sill fascia to be used with walls of different sizes.

o The frangible joint may comprise a frangible or weakened line. The frangible joint may comprise or be formed at least in part by a thinned or otherwise weakened region or line, for example the frangible joint may comprise a series of rebates or perforations, e.g. a perforated line. Preferably, the thinned region or line extends between the support portion and the flange. The flange may depend from the support portion, for example at a substantially right angle or orthogonal thereto.

The support portion may comprise a flat surface that may extend along a first side, e.g. lateral side, thereof and/or be suitable for supporting a frame. The support portion may comprise a sloped shelf that may extend along a second side, e.g. lateral side, thereof.

The overhang portion may comprise an upper surface that may extend from the second side and/or from the sloped shelf, for example at an incline and/or for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

Another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the support portion comprising a flat surface along a first side, e.g. lateral side, thereof for supporting a frame and a sloped shelf along a second side, e.g. lateral side, thereof, the overhang portion having an upper surface extending from the sloped shelf, e.g. at an incline, for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

The provision of a sloped shelf comprised in the support portion facilitates drainage, thereby inhibiting rainwater seepage into the cavity of a wall to which the sill is mounted in use.

The support portion may comprise a recess, e.g. an elongate recess, extending therealong, which may be suitable for receiving a wall cavity closure element. The recess may extend along the first side of the support portion. Additionally or alternatively, the recess may extend along an intended upper or top side or surface of the support portion.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, wherein the support portion comprises a recess, e.g. an elongate recess, extending along a first side, e.g. lateral side, thereof for receiving a wall cavity closure to element and a second side, e.g. lateral side, from which the overhang portion extends for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

The provision of a recess for receiving a wall cavity closure element enables enhanced sealing characteristics between the window and the cavity of a wall to which the sill is is mounted in use.

The recess may comprise the flat surface, for example wherein the flat surface receives, in use, a wall cavity closure and/or supports a frame. Preferably, the recess and/or flat surface comprises an intended upper or top surface.

The support portion may further comprise a rebate, e.g. elongate rebate, which may be suitable for receiving mortar. The rebate may extend along the second side of the support portion. Additionally or alternatively, the rebate may extend along an intended lower side or surface of the support portion.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the support portion comprising a rebate, e.g. an elongate rebate, extending along an intended lower surface thereof for receiving mortar, the overhang portion having an upper surface extending from the support portion at an incline for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

The provision of a rebate extending along the intended lower surface enhances adhesion between the sill fascia and a wall to which the sill is mounted in use, e.g. without the need for holes in the support portion.

The support portion may comprise a first part, e.g. on the first side thereof, which first part may comprise the first edge. In some embodiments, the first part comprises a flat section, e.g. a flat wall section, that includes flat upper and/or lower surfaces. The flat upper surface of the flat section may comprise the flat surface for receiving the wall cavity closure and/or that supports, in use, the frame.

The support portion may comprise a second part, e.g. on the second side thereof, which second part may comprise the second edge and/or the sloped shelf. The second part or io sloped shelf may comprise a sloped surface, which is preferably an intended upper or top surface thereof or of the support portion. The second part or sloped shelf may comprise a sloped wall section or a wall section with the sloped surface and/or a sloped or flat or straight intended lower or bottom surface. The intended lower or bottom surface of the wall section may comprise the rebate for receiving mortar.

The first part may be connected or fixed to or formed integrally with the second part, e.g. along a common edge or join or connection or connecting line. The first edge may be on an opposite side of the first part to the connection with the second part. The second edge may be on an opposite side of the first part to the connection with the first part. The overhang portion may depend from the second part, e.g. the second edge, of the support portion.

In embodiments, the connection between first part and the second part of the support portion may comprise a bend, e.g. a dogleg or turn. The bend may form or be formed at least in part by the recess of the first part and/or the rebate of the second part. The support portion may comprise a straight wall section on a first lateral side thereof and a sloped wall section on a second lateral side thereof. The straight wall section may be connected to the sloped wall section by a bend or dogleg or turn to provide a recess on an intended upper surface of the straight wall section, e.g. for receiving a wall cavity closure element, and/or a rebate on an intended lower side of the sloped wall section, e.g. for receiving mortar.

The overhang portion may comprise a drip groove. In some embodiments, the overhang portion comprises a channel section. Additionally or alternatively, the overhang portion may comprise a vertical wall and/or an intended a lower wall, which may extend from the vertical wall, e.g. toward the support portion or a wall, in use. The intended lower wall may comprise a drip groove along its length and/or spaced from the vertical wall.

Another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the overhang portion comprising a channel section with a vertical wall and an intended a lower wall having a drip groove along its length and spaced from the vertical wall.

o By positioning the drip groove in a portion of the lower wall that is spaced from the vertical wall, the thickness of the wall section of the lower portion can be kept substantially constant to avoid any stress risers.

Preferably, a lower wall comprises a recess on an intended lower side thereof providing the drip groove. More preferably, the lower wall comprises a corresponding projection on the intended upper side thereof, for example such that the thickness of the lower wall is substantially constant in the region of the drip groove.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the overhang portion comprising a channel section with a lower wall having a drip groove along its length, wherein the lower wall comprises a recess on an intended lower side thereof providing the drip groove and a corresponding projection on the intended upper side thereof such that the thickness of the lower wall is substantially constant in the region of the drip groove.

The sill fascia, e.g. the overhang portion, may have a textured surface, for example a textured outer surface.

Another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall, an overhang portion depending from the support portion and a textured surface, e.g. outer surface.

The sill fascia may further comprise a coating or outer layer, e.g. a protective coating or outer layer, which may be pigmented. The coating or layer may cover or be over the textured surface and/or may comprise a gloss or matt finish. The coating or layer may comprise a varnish, which may be resistant to ultraviolet (UV) light or UV-stable. The coating or layer may comprise an acrylic or polyurethane material or any other suitable material.

The textured surface may cover all or only a portion of the surface or outer surface of the sill fascia or overhang portion. The textured surface may comprise surface deformations, such as projections and/or depressions. The surface deformations are preferably along its length and/or arranged in a regular or irregular array. In some embodiments, the surface deformations have a height or depth, which may be an average height or depth, of between 0.1mm and 5mm, preferably between 0.3mm and 4mm, more preferably between 0.5mm and 2mm, for example between 0.8mm and 1.2mm or about 1 mm. The textured surface may be formed by removing a detachable layer, e.g. thereby to create and/or reveal a textured surface, which may provide a stone-like appearance, for example together with the coating. Alternatively, the texture and/or coating may be configured to provide the appearance of a different material.

A further aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising a support portion for resting on a wall, an overhang portion depending from the support portion and a detachable layer that is removable to create and/or reveal a textured surface, e.g. outer surface.

The detachable layer may comprise a flexible and/or fabric material, e.g. a peel ply, which may be embedded in an external surface thereof. The detachable layer may be embedded and/or cover all or only a portion of the surface or outer surface of the sill fascia or overhang portion. In embodiments, the flexible and/or fabric material comprises an open weave fabric that may be formed from glass fibres or from Terylene. The flexible and/or fabric material may comprise between 2 and 24 threads per centimetre or between 5 and 60 threads per inch, e.g. in the warp and/or weft. Preferably, the flexible and/or fabric material comprises between 4 and 12 threads per centimetre or between 10 and 30 threads per inch, e.g. in the warp and/or weft. More preferably, the flexible and/or fabric material comprises between 6 and 10 threads per centimetre or between 15 and 25 threads per inch, e.g. in the warp and/or weft. Most preferably, the flexible and/or fabric material comprises about 8 threads per centimetre or about 20 threads per inch, e.g. in the warp and/or weft.

The overhang portion may further comprise an inclined wall, for example joining the support portion, e.g. the second side or part or sloped shelf thereof, to the vertical wall. One or more or each of the inclined wall, vertical wall and/or lower wall may comprise a substantially constant thickness. The thickness of two or more or all of the inclined wall, vertical wall and/or lower wall may be similar or the same or substantially the same.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the io support portion, wherein the overhang portion includes an adhering means for adhering, in use, to a wall.

Adhering a lower part of the overhang portion to the wall provides a more rigid structure.

The adhering means may comprise an adhesive feature or structure or material, for example an adhesive pad or other suitable means of adhesion.

The lower part of the overhang portion may comprise a flange, e.g. a further or second flange, which may extend, e.g. upwardly, from the lower wall of the overhang portion, for example from a free end thereof. The or the further or second flange may extend from the lower wall at a substantially right angle or orthogonal thereto. The wall-facing side of the flange, e.g. opposite the vertical wall of the overhang portion, preferably includes an adhering means for adhering, in use, to a wall.

In some embodiments, the overhang portion comprises a vertical wall, an inclined wall joining the support portion or second edge or second side or part to the vertical wall, a lower wall extending from the vertical wall and a flange or further or second flange extending from the lower wall. The wall-facing side of the further flange may comprising an adhesive pad or other means for adherence to a wall.

The sill fascia may comprise a yet further or third flange, for example extending or depending from the second edge or side or part or sloped shelf. The third flange may extend from the connection or joint between the support portion or second edge or second side or part and the inclined wall.

The overhang portion may be at least partially hollow and/or at least partially filled with a thermally insulative material.

Another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and a hollow overhang portion depending from the support portion, wherein the overhang portion is at least partially filled with a thermally insulative material.

The thermally insulative material is preferably less thermally conductive than the material o from which the profile is formed. The profile may be formed of plastics material, for example a fibre-reinforced plastics material, such as a glass-reinforced polymer material or a carbon fibre-reinforced polymer material and/or any one or more of vinyl ester, polyester, phenolic or epoxy resin. The thermally insulative material may comprise polystyrene or any other thermally insulative material.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion and an overhang portion depending from one side of the support portion, the support portion comprising an open bottom with facing walls between which an upper part of the wall of a building is receivable and a top wall for resting on a wall so-received. One of the facing walls, e.g. a wall on a side opposite the overhang portion, may be connected to the top wall by a frangible joint. The top wall may comprise a sloped upper surface, preferably on a side adjacent the overhang portion and may be sloped to divert water theretoward. The top wall may comprise a flat upper surface, preferably on a side opposite the overhang portion. The top wall may comprise a recess in an upper side or surface thereof, which preferably includes the flat upper surface. The top wall may comprise a rebate in a lower side or surface thereof, preferably below the sloped upper surface.

The sill fascia may, but need not, comprise an end portion or end cover or cap, e.g. for closing an end of the overhang portion.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising and/or describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design for use with a three-dimensional printing means or printer or additive manufacturing means or device, the three-dimensional design comprising an embodiment of the sill fascia or profile described above.

Another aspect of the invention provide a sill assembly comprising a sill fascia as described above and, for example, a frame and/or window or door. The sill assembly may comprise a window or door sill assembly that may include any one or more features io of such assemblies that are known in the art.

Yet another aspect of the invention provide a wall comprising a sill fascia and/or a sill assembly as described above, which may comprise a cavity wall.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a building comprising a sill fascia and/or a sill assembly and/or a wall as described above.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of installing a sill fascia, for example a sill fascia as described above. The method may comprise providing a sill fascia with a support portion having a flange connected thereto by a frangible joint and breaking or severing the flange from the support portion in preparation for installing the sill fascia. Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise placing the support portion of a sill fascia on a wall such that a flat surface along a first side thereof is adjacent an internal side of the wall and a sloped shelf along a second side thereof is adjacent an external side of the wall. Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise placing the support portion of a sill fascia on a wall such that a recess extending along a first side thereof is adjacent an internal side of the wall for receiving a wall cavity closure element and an overhang portion extending from a second side thereof hangs over an external side of the wall. Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise placing the support portion of a sill fascia on a wall such that a rebate extending along an intended lower surface thereof faces a top surface of the wall to receive mortar therein and an overhang portion of the sill fascia hangs over an external side of the wall, wherein the overhang portion comprises an upper surface extending from the support portion at an incline for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall. Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise placing the support portion of a sill fascia on a wall such an overhang portion of the sill fascia hangs over an external side of the wall and adhering a lower part of the overhang portion to a facing, external surface of the wall. Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise placing the support portion of a sill fascia on a wall such that an overhang portion of the sill fascia hangs over an external side of the wall, wherein the overhang portion comprises a hollow section at least partially filled with a thermally insulative material.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a sill fascia, for example a sill fascia with one or more of the features described above, the method io comprising forming a textured surface, e.g. outer surface, on an elongate profile having a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion.

The method may comprise forming the elongate profile with a detachable layer. The method may comprise embedding the detachable layer in or on the profile, e.g. the surface to be textured. The method may comprise embedding the detachable layer in a molten or semi-molten material and forming the profile, e.g. such that or whereby the detachable layer is embedded in and/or covers a surface of the formed profile, e.g. in a region where it is intended to provide a textured surface.

The method may comprise co-pultruding or co-extruding a material, which may be a plastics or polymer material, with the detachable layer. The method may comprise moulding, for example resin transfer moulding (RTM) or any other suitable moulding or forming technique, the material, e.g. plastics or polymer material, with the detachable layer.

The method may comprise removing the detachable layer to create and/or reveal the textured surface. The method may comprise coating or covering the textured surface, for example with a coating or outer layer, e.g. a protective coating or outer layer.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of manufacturing a sill fascia, the method comprising using a computer program element describing and/or defining a three-dimensional design to produce, e.g. by extrusion or pultrusion or three-dimensional printing or additive manufacturing, an embodiment of the sill fascia or profile described above.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one aspect or embodiment of the invention are applicable to all aspects or embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "may" and any similar term as used herein should be io interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present.

Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a section view of a sill fascia according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a section view of part of a wall according to a first embodiment of the invention within which the sill fascia of Figure 1 is incorporated; Figure 3 is a perspective section view of part of the window assembly of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a section view of part of a wall according to a second embodiment of the invention within which the sill fascia of Figure 1 is incorporated; and Figure 5 is a section view of a sill fascia according to another embodiment of the invention prior to removal of a detachable layer.

Referring now to Figures 1 to 3, there is shown a sill fascia 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention incorporated into a sill assembly 10 making up part of a window 11 fitted in a wall 12 in a building (not shown). The sill fascia 1 includes an elongate profile 2, formed of glass-reinforced polymer material by a pultrusion or extrusion process. The wall 12 includes an outer layer 13 of bricks and an inner layer 14 of breeze blocks, between which is defined a cavity housing insulation 15 and sealed by a closure element 16. The closure element 16 includes a honeycomb block 16a depending from a closure plate 16b.

The profile 2 includes a support portion 3 for resting on a wall, an inner flange 4 depending from a first, inner edge 30 of the support portion 3 for engaging a rear surface 13a of the outer wall layer 13 and an overhang portion 5 depending from a second edge 31 of the support portion 3 for engaging an outer surface 13b of the wall 12. The profile 2 is shown most clearly in Figure 1.

The support portion 3 includes a straight wall section 6 on a first, inner lateral side thereof and a sloped wall section 7 on a second, outer lateral side thereof. The straight wall section 6 is connected to the sloped wall section 7 by a dogleg 8 to define a recess 60 on an upper surface 61 of the straight wall section 6 and a rebate 70 on a lower side 71 of the sloped wall section 7. The straight wall section 6 provides a platform of receiving and supporting the closure element 16 on which is supported a window sill 17 and window frame 18. The sloped wall section 7 provides a sloped drainage shelf 72.

The inner flange 4 has a substantially constant thickness and depends orthogonally from the straight wall section 6. The inner flange 4 in this embodiment is formed integrally with the straight wall section 6 and is joined thereto by a weakened line 40 formed by a thinned joining region to enable it to be snapped off to accommodate a wider outer wall layer 13.

The overhang portion 5 includes an inclined wall 50, a vertical wall 51, a lower wall 52, a lower flange 53 and an outer flange 54. The inclined wall 50 and outer flange 54 are both formed integrally with the second edge 31 of the support portion 3, but the inclined wall 50 depends therefrom at an obtuse angle, while the outer flange 54 depends therefrom at a right angle. The vertical wall 51 depends vertically from a lower end of the inclined wall 50 and the lower wall 52 extends orthogonally from a lower end of the vertical wall 51, back toward the wall 12, thereby creating a channel-section. The lower flange 53 extends upwardly from the inner or free edge of the lower wall 52 along substantially the same plane as the outer flange 54 and includes an adhesive pad 53a for securing the overhang portion 5 to a facing portion of the outer wall surface 13b.

In this embodiment, the lower wall 52 of the overhang portion 5 includes a recess 55 on its lower side that provides a drip groove 55. The lower wall 52 also includes a corresponding projection 56 on an upper side such that the thickness of the lower wall 52 is substantially constant in the region of the drip groove 55.

The sill fascia 1 also includes a pair of end caps 9 for covering the ends of the overhang portion 5 of the sill fascia profile 2. Each end cap 9 includes a plate 90 with a periphery matching substantially the outer periphery of the overhang portion 5 and an interface rib 91 protruding from one side of the plate 90, inboard of its periphery. The rib 91 has an outer peripheral surface 92 that is substantially the same as the inner cavity defined by the profile of the overhang portion 5 such that, when inserted therein the rib 91 is in interference fit with the overhang portion 5 to hold it in place. Preferably, an adhesive is applied to the outer surface 92 of the rib 91 and adjacent surface of the plate 90 prior to assembly in order to ensure that the end caps 9 are permanently affixed to the overhang portion 5.

In use, the outer, brick layer 13 of the wall 12 is covered with mortar (not shown) and the sill fascia 1 is placed thereover such that the top of the upper course of bricks is captivated between the inner flange 4 and the outer flange 54. If, however, the depth of the outer layer 13 is too wide, then the inner flange 4 is removed by snapping it off at the weakened line 40. The sill fascia 1 is then forced down onto the outer layer 13 such that the mortar (not shown) is urged into the rebate 70. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the provision of the rebate 70 precludes the need for holes through the support portion 3 that would otherwise be necessary or at least desirable to ensure proper adhesion. This reduces the complexity of manufacture using an extrusion or pultrusion process for reasons that would also be apparent to the skilled person.

With the sill fascia 1 in place, the closure element 16 is then placed on the wall 12 such that the honeycomb block 16a is received within the cavity of the wall 12 and the plate 16b rests on top of the inner layer 14 and is received in the recess 60 of the straight wall section 6. Preferably, packing material (not shown) is provided between the plate 16b and the recess 60. A window sill 17 is then placed onto the plate 16b of the closure element 16 and a window frame 18 is then placed onto the sill 17 and the assembly is secured in place in the normal way. Packing material (not shown) may also be provided between the window sill 17 and the plate 16b of the closure element 16.

In use, rainwater impacting the window and its frame 18 runs down and onto the sill 17, drips down onto the inclined wall 50 of the overhang portion 5, down the vertical wall 51 and to the ground. The drip groove 55 functions in a similar manner to a drip groove incorporated into known sills or sill fascia, but its position enables a stronger profile 2 to be manufactured.

Any rainwater ingress between the window sill 17 and sloped shelf 72 drains down the shelf 72 and onto the inclined wall 50 by gravity. It will be appreciated by the skilled io person that this arrangement facilitates a reliable seal between the sill 17, closure element 16 and straight wall section 6 on an inner side of the outer layer 13 of the wall 12, whilst effectively diverting any rainwater ingress down the sill fascia 1.

It is envisaged that the overhang portion 5 may, but need not, include an insulative block of material made of, for example, polystyrene.

Referring now to Figure 4, there is shown a window 111 according to a second embodiment similar to that of the first embodiment, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further herein. The window 111 according to this embodiment differs from the window 11 according to the first embodiment in that window sill 17 is omitted. Rather, the window frame 18 is mounted on the closure plate 16b of the closure element 16 directly, or with only packing material therebetween. Other arrangements are also envisaged.

In this embodiment, the front edge of the lower part of the frame 18 rests on the dogleg 18, slightly proud of the corner edge at the interface between the sloped drainage shelf 72 and the recess 60. Thus, the sill fascia 1 provides both the functional and aesthetic functions of a traditional window sill 17. The aforementioned corner also functions as a location feature, enabling the installer to align the window frame 18 accurately within the opening in the wall 12 thus ensuring proper placement of the window 111. In embodiments, the top of the dogleg 18 may include a projection spaced at a predetermined distance from the aforementioned corner edge along which the front edge of the lower part of the frame 18 is to be aligned. Additionally or alternatively, the dogleg 18 may include a flat surface leading from the corner edge to a predetermined distance therefrom on which the front edge of the lower part of the frame 18 rests. In such embodiments, the interface between the flat surface and the sloped drainage shelf 72 may provide a line along which the front edge of the lower part of the frame 18 is to be aligned.

Referring now to Figure 5, there is shown a sill fascia 100 according to another embodiment similar to that of the first embodiment, wherein like references depict like features that will not be described further herein. The sill fascia 100 according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that it is configured to incorporate a textured surface. The sill fascia 100 as shown in Figure 5 incorporates a peel ply 157 o covering the outer surfaces of the inclined wall 150 and the vertical wall 151 of the overhang portion 105 and the sloped wall section 107, with a slight overlap onto adjacent surfaces. In this embodiment, the detachable layer is formed of an open weave fabric of glass fibres with about 8 threads per centimetre (about 20 threads per inch) in the warp and weft.

The sill fascia 100 in this embodiment was formed by co-pultruding a GRP material with the peel ply 157 such that it is embedded in and covers the aforementioned surfaces. The peel ply 157 is then removed to create a textured surface having surface deformations with an average depth or height of approximately 1mm. The textured surface is then covered with a UV-stable pigmented varnish having a matt finish to provide a stone-like appearance.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, whilst the drawings illustrate a profile with a substantially constant wall thickness, this need not be the case. Any suitable profile and/or construction is expressly envisaged.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims (1)

1. CLAIMSA sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall, a flange depending from a first edge of the support portion for engaging a rear surface of the wall and an overhang portion depending from a second edge of the support portion, wherein the flange is connected to the support portion by a frangible joint.

   2. A sill fascia according to claim 1, wherein the frangible joint comprises a weakened to line formed at least in part by a thinned region.

   3. A sill fascia according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the support portion comprises a flat surface along a first lateral side thereof for supporting a frame and a sloped shelf along a second lateral side thereof from which an upper surface of the overhang portion extends at an incline for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the support portion

   CDcomprises an elongate recess extending along an intended upper side thereof for O20 receiving a wall cavity closure element.

   A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the support portion comprises an elongate rebate extending along an intended lower side thereof for receiving mortar.

   6. A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the support portion comprises a straight wall section on a first lateral side thereof and a sloped wall section on a second lateral side thereof, the straight wall section being connected to the sloped wall section by a dogleg to provide a recess on an intended upper side of the straight wall section for receiving a wall cavity closure element and a rebate on an intended lower side of the sloped wall section for receiving mortar.

   7. A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the overhang portion comprises a channel section with vertical and lower walls, the lower wall comprising a drip groove along its length and spaced from the vertical wall.

   A sill fascia according to claim 7, wherein the lower wall comprises a recess on an intended lower side thereof providing the drip groove and a corresponding projection on an intended upper side thereof such that the thickness of the lower wall is substantially constant in the region of the drip groove.

   A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the overhang portion includes a lower part comprising an adhering means for adhering, in use, to a wall.

   10. A sill fascia according to claim 9, wherein the overhang portion comprises a vertical wall, an inclined wall joining the second edge to the vertical wall, a lower wall extending from the vertical wall and a further flange extending from the lower wall, the wall-facing side of the further flange comprising an adhering means for adhering, in use, to a wall.A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the overhang portion is at least partially hollow and at least partially filled with a thermally insulative material.A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the thermally insulative material comprises polystyrene.

   A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the profile comprises a glass-reinforced plastics material.

   A sill fascia according to any preceding claim, wherein the profile is formed by an extrusion or pultrusion process.

   A sill fascia according to any preceding claim further comprising a textured outer surface.

   A sill fascia according to claim 15 further comprising a coating over the textured surface.

   A sill fascia according to claim 16, wherein the coating comprises a UV-stable varnish. 11. 12.

   O 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22.

   A sill fascia according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the coating comprises an acrylic or polyurethane material.

   A sill fascia according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the textured surface comprises surface deformations arranged in a regular or irregular array along its length, the surface deformations having a height or depth of between 0.1mm and 5mm.

   A sill fascia according to claim 19, wherein the surface deformations have a height or depth of between 0.5mm and 2mm.

   A sill fascia according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the textured surface was formed by removing a detachable layer, thereby to create and/or reveal a textured surface.

   A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the support

   CDportion comprising a flat surface along a first lateral side thereof for supporting a frame and a sloped shelf along a second lateral side thereof, the overhang portion CD having an upper surface extending from the sloped shelf at an incline for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

   23. A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, wherein the support portion comprises a recess extending along a first lateral side thereof for receiving a wall cavity closure element and a second lateral side from which the overhang portion extends for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

   24. A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the support portion comprising a rebate extending along an intended lower surface thereof for receiving mortar, the overhang portion having an upper surface extending from the support portion at an incline for diverting, in use, rainwater away from the wall.

   25. A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the overhang portion comprising a channel section with a vertical wall and an intended a lower wall having a drip groove along its length and spaced from the vertical wall.

   26. A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, the overhang portion comprising a channel section with a lower wall having a drip groove along its length, wherein the lower wall comprises a recess on an intended lower side thereof io providing the drip groove and a corresponding projection on the intended upper side thereof such that the thickness of the lower wall is substantially constant in the region of the drip groove. 27. 28.

   CD 29. 30. 31. 32.

   A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall, an overhang portion depending from the support portion and a textured outer surface.

   A sill fascia comprising a support portion for resting on a wall, an overhang portion depending from the support portion and a detachable layer that is removable to create and/or reveal a textured outer surface.

   A sill fascia according to claim 28, wherein the detachable layer comprises a fabric material embedded in an external surface thereof A sill fascia according to claim 29, wherein the fabric material comprises an open weave fabric formed from glass fibres or from Terylene.

   A sill fascia according to claim 29 or claim 30, wherein the fabric material comprises between 4 and 12 threads per centimetre in both the warp and weft.

   A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion, wherein the overhang portion includes a lower part comprising an adhering means for adhering, in use, to a wall.

   33. A sill fascia comprising an elongate profile with a support portion for resting on a wall and a hollow overhang portion depending from the support portion, wherein the overhang portion is at least partially filled with a thermally insulative material.

   34. A sill fascia substantially as described herein and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.

   35. A computer program element describing a three-dimensional design for use with a three-dimensional printing or additive manufacturing means, the three-dimensional to design comprising an embodiment of a sill fascia according to any preceding claim.

   36. A sill assembly comprising a sill fascia according to any one of claims 1 to 35.

   37. A window sill assembly comprising a sill fascia according to any one of claims 1 to 35.

   38. A wall comprising a sill fascia according to any one of claims 1 to 35 or a sill O assembly according to claim 36 or claim 37.

   O 20 39. A building comprising a wall according to claim 38.

   40. A method of manufacturing a sill fascia comprising forming a textured outer surface on an elongate profile having a support portion for resting on a wall and an overhang portion depending from the support portion.

   41. A method according to claim 40 comprising forming the elongate profile with a detachable layer embedded therein.

   42. A method according to claim 41 comprising embedding the detachable layer in a molten or semi-molten material and forming the profile, whereby the detachable layer is embedded in and/or covers a surface of the formed profile in a region where it is intended to provide a textured surface.

   43. A method according to claim 41 or claim 42 comprising co-pultruding or co-extruding a plastics material with the detachable layer.

   44. A method according to claim 41 or claim 42 comprising resin transfer moulding a plastics material with the detachable layer.

   45. A method according to any one of claims 41 to 44 comprising removing the detachable layer to create and/or reveal the textured surface.

   46. A method according to any one of claims 41 to 44 comprising coating the textured surface with a coating or outer layer.

   47. A method of manufacturing a sill fascia substantially as described herein and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.O