IE20210218A2 - Stop end - Google Patents

Abstract

A non-combustible stop end for a structural support, wherein the stop end is retrofittable to a structural support. This enables easy installation of stop ends and associated structural 5 supports.

Description

STOP END /12/2021 The present invention relates to building components. In particular, the present invention relates to stop ends.

A cavity wall is a type of wall consisting of an inner leaf and an outer leaf with a cavity therebetween. The two leaves of the cavity wall are typically formed of masonry but may also be formed of any other suitable material. In order to maintain the structural integrity of a cavity wall, various structural supports may be used to ensure reinforcement of the two to leaves and to distribute the weight of the building between the two leaves as evenly as possible. For example, it is important to support the wall above an opening such as a door or window opening otherwise the stability and structural integrity of the building may be compromised. Typically, a lintel is used to support the wall above the opening. A lintel is an elongate structure which transfers the weight of the wall directly above the opening to the 15 parts of the wall at either side of the opening and between both leaves of the cavity wall.

One problem associated with structural supports in the cavity of the cavity wall, such as lintels, is that moisture on the structural supports may cascade over the ends of the structural supports, into the cavity. Overtime, this ingress of moisture in the cavity may result in internal dampness within the building. In order to avoid this problem, a stop end may be 20 installed at the ends of structural supports such as lintels. However, current stop ends are formed from combustible materials which catch fire and burn easily. Due to recent regulations, it is required that non-combustible materials be used, where possible, in building construction. It is also advisable that existing combustible materials in cavity walls be replaced, where possible.

In addition, stop ends must align with a perp joint between adjacent bricks of a wall above an opening over which the structural support is to be installed. The structural support must also extend beyond both sides of an opening by an adequate length to enable stability of the structural support and the building. Therefore, complexities may arise during installation as the design around an opening in a wall is not always formed perfectly. Often, 30 half brick bonds are required around the opening in the wall and the structural support must be moved laterally to one side more than the other to ensure that the structural support is properly supported and to align the stop ends within a perp joint. If moving the structural support does not allow the structural support to rest an adequate distance away from both sides of the opening, then a new structural support much be purchased and/or fabricated.

With multiple openings in each building, this can be costly, time consuming and frustrating for onsite operators and consumers. Furthermore, this can result in stop ends being damaged or forced into position such that the integrity of the stop end is compromised. /12/2021 It is therefore advantageous to provide an alternative and a replacement to combustible stop ends.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome the above-mentioned 5 problems.

It is also an object of the present invention to improve the fire safety of building constructions.

It is also an object of the present invention to prevent moisture cascading over the ends of structural supports without the use of combustible stop ends.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide an easy solution to replace combustible stop ends currently installed in cavity walls.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a non-combustible stop end for a structural support.

Advantageously, in the event of a fire the stop end will not burn.

Further advantageously, in the event of a fire the stop end will not release vapors which contribute to combustion.

By structural support we mean any structural support and/or combination of structural supports installed in and/or extending into the cavity of a cavity wall such as a lintel or a 20 combined lintel and cavity tray.

Preferably, the stop end is formed from at least an A2 rated material.

Ideally, the stop end is formed from an A1 rated material.

Preferably, the stop end is impervious to moisture.

Ideally, the stop end is formed from a rigid material.

Alternatively, the stop end may be formed from a flexible material.

Preferably, the stop end is formed from a malleable material.

Preferably, the stop end is formed from steel.

Ideally, the stop end is formed from stainless steel.

Alternatively, the stop end may be formed from any other, non-pervious, non30 combustible, rigid material and/or A2 or A1 rated material.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to engage with one or more surfaces of a structural support to provide a water tight seal between the stop end and the structural support.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be placed on a surface of a structural 35 support.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be fitted onto a structural support.

Preferably, the stop end comprises a base. /12/2021 Preferably, the stop end comprises an upstand.

Preferably, the upstand extends upwardly from the base of the stop end.

Ideally, the upstand extends upright or substantially upright from the base of the stop end.

Preferably, the upstand extends arcuately from the base.

Ideally, the upstand extends arcuately and then subsequently upwardly/upright or substantially upright from the base.

Preferably, the stop end comprises an engagement portion which is configurable to engage with and/or fix onto a surface of a structural support. to Preferably, the engagement portion of the stop end is configurable to form a watertight seal with a surface of a structural support with which the engagement portion engages.

Ideally, the engagement portion of the stop end is configurable to form a watertight seal at the joint of the stop end with a surface of a structural support with which the 15 engagement portion engages.

Ideally, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on a surface of the stop end that engages with a surface of a structural support, in use.

Preferably, each surface of the stop end that engages with a structural support upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted, in use, comprises an engagement portion.

Advantageously, this prevents a gap forming between the stop end and the structural support upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted. Thereby, this prevents moisture on the surface of the structural support from by passing the stop end through a gap between the stop end and the structural support.

Ideally, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on the base of the stop 25 end.

Ideally, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on a surface of the base that engages with a base portion or horizontal portion of a structural support, in use.

Ideally, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on an underside of the base of the stop end.

Preferably, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on the upstand of the stop end.

Ideally, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on a surface of the upstand that engages with an upstanding portion of a structural support, in use.

Ideally, at least part of the engagement portion is locatable on a surface of the 35 upstand that engages with an upstanding portion of a structural support such as the trailing edge portion of the upstand of the stop end. /12/2021 By trailing edge portion, we mean the portion of the stop end located adjacent to the upstanding or sloping portion of the structural support, in use, opposite to a leading edge portion located adjacent to the outer surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall, in use.

Preferably, the upstand comprises a main planar element.

Preferably, in one embodiment, the base extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the main planar element of the upstand of the stop end.

Preferably, the base extends arcuately from the upstand.

Ideally, the base extends arcuately and then subsequently perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the upstand.

Preferably, in one embodiment, the trailing edge portion of the stop end extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the main planar element of the upstand.

Preferably, the trailing edge portion extends arcuately from the upstand.

Ideally, the trailing edge portion extends arcuately and then subsequently perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the upstand.

Preferably, in one embodiment, at least part of the engagement portion extends perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the main planar element of the stop end.

Preferably, the engagement portion extends arcuately from the upstand.

Ideally, the engagement portion extends arcuately and then subsequently 20 perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the upstand.

Advantageously, this increases the surface area of the engagement portion. Thereby, this increases the integrity of the joint of the stop end on the surface of the structural support to ensure that the stop end provides a watertight seal. Further advantageously, bricks can be placed on and/or against the extended base, engagement portion, trailing edge portion and/or upstand of the stop end. This will compress the stop end against the surface of the structural support and further increase the integrity of the joint of the stop end on the surface of the structural support to ensure that the stop end provides a watertight seal.

Preferably, the engagement portion extends across at least part of the length of the stop end.

Preferably, the engagement portion extends across the entire length of the stop end.

By length, we mean the measurement of the stop end from the leading edge of the stop end locatable adjacent to the front surface of the outer leaf of a cavity wall to the trailing edge portion of the stop end locatable adjacent to or beyond the back surface of the outer leaf of a cavity wall and/or opposing to the leading edge.

Preferably, the engagement portion extends across at least part of the height of the stop end.

Preferably, the engagement portion extends the entire height of the stop end. /12/2021 By height, we mean the measurement of the stop end from the base of the stop end to the opposing end of the base.

Preferably, the engagement portion extends at least partially across the width of the stop end.

Ideally, the engagement portion extends entirely across the width of the stop end.

By width, we mean the measurement between the lateral ends and/or sides of the stop end and/or of the base and/or of the upstand.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to correspond to the shape of a structural support upon which it is to be placed and/or fixed. to Preferably, the trailing edge portion of the stop end extends upwardly from the base.

Preferably, the trailing edge portion extends arcuately from the base.

Preferably, the trailing edge portion of the stop end extends vertically upright from the base of the stop end.

Ideally, the trailing edge portion extends arcuately and then subsequently 15 upwardly/upright or substantially upright from the base.

Alternatively, the trailing edge portion of the stop end extends upwardly from the base of the stop end at a slope and/or angle.

Preferably, the degree of slope and/or angle of the trailing edge portion corresponds to a sloping portion on the structural support with which the stop end engages.

Preferably, where the structural support comprises a sloping portion extending upwardly from an outer leaf of a cavity wall to an inner leaf of a cavity wall, the stop end comprises a corresponding sloping portion to engage with the sloping portion of the structural support and form a watertight seal therebetween.

Preferably, where the structural support comprises a sloping portion extending 25 upwardly from an outer leaf of a cavity wall to an inner leaf of a cavity wall, the trailing edge portion of the stop end slopes upwardly from the base of the stop end at an angle corresponding to the sloping portion of the structural support to engage with the sloping portion of the structural support and form a watertight seal therebetween.

Preferably, the stop end is locatable on a lateral end of a structural support to prevent 30 lateral movement of moisture across the structural support.

By lateral movement of moisture we mean from one lateral end to another of the structural support.

Preferably, in use, the stop end is configurable to prevent moisture cascading over the end of the structural support.

Preferably, in use, the stop end is configurable to prevent moisture cascading over the end of the structural support into the cavity. /12/2021 Preferably, the stop end is configurable to maintain internal moisture on a structural support.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to maintain internal moisture on a structural support installed in a cavity of a cavity wall so that the moisture can be drained to the 5 external surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall via an opening or weep.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to direct moisture on a structural support installed in a cavity of a cavity wall so that the moisture can be drained to the external surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall via an opening or weep.

Preferably, the stop end comprises a gasket which is configurable to seal a gap 10 between the stop end and a structural support on which the stop end engages.

Preferably, the gasket is applied on-site.

Alternatively, the gasket may be pre-fitted to the stop end in a factory environment.

Preferably, the stop end comprises one or more gaskets such as mastic sealant, sealing tape and/or any other suitable mechanical seal.

Preferably, the gasket is formable from a mastic type material.

Ideally, the gasket is formable from a mastic material.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to adhere to a surface of the stop end.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to adhere the stop end to the structural support.

Ideally, the gasket is configurable to fix the stop end to the structural support.

Ideally, the gasket is locatable on the engagement portion of the stop end.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to extend partially or entirely along the engagement portion.

Ideally, the gasket is configurable to extend partially or entirely along the trailing edge portion of the stop end.

Ideally, the gasket is configurable to extend partially or entirely along the base of the stop end.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to form a seal between the stop end and the structural support.

Ideally, when the stop end comprises a gasket, a portion of the gasket forms the 30 engagement portion of the stop end.

Advantageously, locating on the gasket on the engagement portion and/or forming the engagement portion of a gasket means that a seal will be formed between the stop end and the structural support on which it is placed and/or fitted. This thereby prevents a gap forming between the two, through which moisture might ingress into.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to extend below the underside of the base of the stop end. /12/2021 Ideally, the gasket is configurable to be sandwiched between the base of the stop end and the structural support.

Preferably, in use, the gasket is sandwiched between the base of the end and the structural support.

Preferably the gasket is configurable to extend behind the back side of the stop end.

Preferably the gasket is configurable to extend behind the trailing edge portion of the stop end.

Ideally, the gasket is configurable to be sandwiched between the trailing edge portion of the stop end and the structural support. to Preferably, in use, the gasket is sandwiched between the trailing edge portion and the structural support.

Ideally, the gasket is compressible between at least a portion of the stop end and the structural support.

Advantageously, this means that the gasket will engage with and/or abut against a 15 surface of a structural support upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted and will compress under the weight of the stop end and/or under the weight of a fitting means and/or under the weight of the masonry above to form a seal between the stop end and the surface of the structural support.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to prevent the lateral movement of moisture 20 across a surface of a structural support and/or over the end of a structural support with which the stop end engages.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to prevent the lateral movement of moisture across a surface of a structural support and/or over the end of a structural support upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted.

Preferably, in one embodiment, the stop end comprises a mortar engaging means.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means is configurable to ensure a good mortar bond with mortar and/or any other suitable masonry adhesive applied to the stop end.

Ideally, the mortar engaging means comprises a turned-out/folded portion of the stop end for engaging mortar on the upper surface of the base.

Preferably, the stop end comprises a turned-out/folded portion.

Alternatively, the mortar engaging means comprises one or more ribs, indents, perforations, deformations and/or any other means suitable for engaging with mortar.

Ideally, the mortar engaging means comprises a turned-out/folded portion of the base for engaging with mortar.

Preferably, the turned-out/folded portion is configurable to ensure a good mortar bond. /12/2021 Preferably, the mortar engaging means of the stop end is configurable to receive bricks thereon.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means of the stop end is configurable to receive mortar thereon.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means of the stop end is configurable to ensure secure engagement between the stop end and mortar.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means of the stop end is configurable to ensure secure engagement between the stop end and bricks or other masonry placed on the mortar.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means is configurable to prevent relative movement to and/or slippage between the stop end and mortar.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means is configurable to prevent relative movement and/ or slippage between the stop end and the bricks placed on top of the base of the stop end.

Advantageously, bricks can be placed on the base of the stop end which is 15 configurable to engage with a gasket and to put compression onto the gasket.

Preferably, the turned-out/folded/portion is configurable to compress the gasket. Ideally, the turned-out/folded is configurable to put the gasket into compression. Preferably, the mortar engaging means is locatable on the base of the stop end. Ideally, the turned-out/folded portion is locatable on the base of the stop end.

Preferably, the mortar engaging means is locatable on the trailing edge portion of the stop end.

Ideally, the turned-out/folded portion is locatable on the trailing edge portion of the stop end.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to adhere the stop end to a surface of a 25 structural support.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to level out the turned-out portion to prevent a gap forming between the stop end and the structural support.

Ideally, the gasket is configurable to provide depth to level out the turned-out portion relative to the rest of the base and/or trailing edge portion to prevent a gap forming between 30 the stop end and the structural support.

Advantageously, this prevents moisture escaping through a gap between the stop end and the structural support which may be created due the turned-out/folded portion. This is in comparison to the stop end having a turned-out/folded and/or other projecting portion without a gasket which would result in the remaining base portion sitting higher above the 35 structural support such that a gap is created through which moisture could ingress.

Preferably, the stop end extends partially or entirely over the width of a structural support upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted. /12/2021 By width we mean in the direction from the leading edge of the structural support locatable adjacent to the front surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall in a direction to the trailing edge portion of the structural support locatable adjacent to the front surface of the inner leaf of the cavity wall.

Preferably, at least part of the stop end is locatable between masonry on the outer leaf of a cavity wall.

Preferably, at least part of the stop end is locatable between adjacent bricks of a wall.

Ideally, at least part of the stop end is locatable in the perp joint between adjacent bricks of a wall. to Preferably, at least part of the upstand is locatable between masonry on the outer leaf of a cavity wall.

Preferably, at least part of the upstand is locatable between adjacent bricks of a wall.

Ideally, at least part of the upstand is locatable in the perp joint between adjacent bricks of a wall.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be pre-fitted or pre-placed onto a structural support in a factory environment.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be retro-fitted onto a structural support.

Advantageously, this mitigates the requirement of cutting bricks to fit onto the structural support and/or around the stop end. Further advantageously, this prevents damage 20 to the stop end due to the stop end being forced into position to align with a perpendicular joint in a wall (i.e. a joint between two masonry components such as bricks). Further advantageously, this increases the ease of installation of the structural support. This is in comparison to stop ends that are mechanically pre-fixed in a factory environment.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be retrofitted or retro-placed onto a 25 structural support outside a factory environment.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be retrofitted or retro-placed onto a structural support already installed in a cavity wall.

Advantageously, this enables replacement of current combustible stop ends with the non-combustible stop end. Thereby, this improves fire safety measures in building 30 constructions.

Preferably, the stop end is a retrofittable stop end.

Preferably, the stop end is retrofittable onto a structural support.

Ideally, the stop end is retrofittable onto a structural support already installed in a cavity wall.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be fitted/fixed onto a structural support on- site. /12/2021 Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be fitted/fixed onto a structural support outside a factory environment.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be mechanically fixed to a surface of a structural support via riveting, welding, spot welding, tack welding, adhering, gluing, mastic, a 5 gasket or by any other suitable means.

Advantageously, mechanically fixing the stop end to a surface of a structural support ensures integrity of the joint of the stop end on the surface of the structural support to ensure that the stop end provides a water tight seal.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to engage with and/or be fixed onto an upper 10 surface of the structural support.

Ideally, the stop end is configurable to engage with and/or fixed onto a brick tray of the structural support.

Preferably, the stop end is configurable to be fixed by the weight of bricks, masonry and/or any other building components placed on top of the stop end.

Preferably, the stop end comprises an interlocking means to interlock with a surface of a structural support.

Preferably, the interlocking means is configurable to fit the stop end onto a surface of a structural support to provide a watertight seal between the stop end and the structural support.

Ideally, the interlocking means is configurable to fit the stop end to a surface of a structural support.

Preferably, the interlocking means comprises male and female interlocking means.

Preferably, the stop end is fitted to a surface of a structural support via male and female interlocking means.

Preferably, the stop end comprises a male interlocking means configurable to interlock with a female interlocking means on a surface of a structural support and/or vice versa.

Preferably, the stop end interlocking means mutually opposes interlocking means on a surface of a structural support.

Ideally, the stop end interlocking means are complementary in shape in size to an interlocking means on a surface of a structural support.

Advantageously, having the stop end interlocking means as mutually opposing and complementary to interlocking means on a surface of a structural support mitigates against incorrect fixing of the stop end to the surface of the structural support. This ensures integrity 35 of the joint of the stop end on the surface of the structural support to ensure that the stop end provides a watertight seal. /12/2021 Ideally, an example of the male and female interlocking means comprises one or more projections such as tongues or teeth on one of the stop end or a structural support configurable to slot into and interlock with mutually opposing receiving slots and/or grooves on the other of the stop end or the structural support.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a structural support comprising a non-combustible stop end according to a first aspect of the invention.

Preferably, in one embodiment, the structural support comprises an interlocking means configurable to engage with and/or interlock with a portion and/or surface of the stop 10 end.

Preferably, the structural support and stop end are configurable to engage with and/or interlock as described in a first aspect of the invention.

Preferably, in one embodiment, the structural support comprises a gasket configurable to engage with a portion and/or surface of the stop end.

Preferably, the gasket is configurable to engage with the stop end as described in the first aspect of the invention.

Ideally, the gasket is configurable to engage with a gasket securing means of the stop end.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a building comprising a stop end according to the first aspect of the invention and/or a structural support according to a second aspect of the invention.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings: 25 Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the stop end according to the present invention located on a structural support in a cavity wall.

Figure 2 is an explosive view of figure 1 illustrating an embodiment of the stop end according to the present invention.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a stop end according to the present invention.

Figure 4 is a second perspective view of an embodiment of the stop end according to the present invention located on a structural support.

Figure 5 is a sectional view of a structural support in use having a stop end according 35 to an embodiment the present invention.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a stop end according to an embodiment of the present invention. /12/2021 Figure 7 is a second perspective view of a stop end according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a third perspective view of a stop end to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the drawings there is provided a non-combustible stop end generally indicated by reference numeral 1 for a structural support 2. This means that in the event of a fire the stop end 1 will not burn and will not release vapors which contribute to combustion. By structural support we mean any structural support and/or combination of structural supports installed in and/or extending into the cavity of a cavity wall such as a lintel. The structural support illustrated in figures 1-4 is a lintel. The stop end 1 is impervious to moisture. In this embodiment, the stop end 1 is formed from stainless steel. However, the stop end may be formed from any other, non-pervious, non-combustible, rigid material. The stop end 1 is configurable to be placed on, fitted and/or fixed to a surface of a structural support 2.

The stop end 1 has a base 3 and an upstand 4 which extends arcuately and then subsequently upwardly from the base 3 of the stop end 1. The stop end 1 has an engagement portion 5 which is configurable to engage with and/or fix onto a surface of a structural support 2. The engagement portion 5 of the stop end 1 is configurable to form a watertight seal with a surface of a structural support 2 with which the engagement portion 5 engages. The engagement portion 5 of the stop end is configurable to form a watertight seal at the joint of the stop end 1 with a surface of a structural support 2 with which the engagement portion 5 engages. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on a surface of the stop end 1 that engages with a surface of a structural support 2, in use. Each surface of the stop end 1 that engages with a structural support 2 upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted, in use, has an engagement portion 5. This prevents a gap forming between the stop end and the structural support upon which the stop end is placed and/or fitted. Thereby, this prevents moisture on the surface of the structural support from by passing the stop end through a gap between the stop end and the structural support. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on the base 3 of the stop end 1. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on a surface of the base 3 that engages with a base portion or horizontal portion of a structural support 2, in use, for example surface 10 of the structural support 2 as illustrated in figure 1. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on an underside of the base 3 of the stop end 1. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on the upstand 4 of the stop end 1. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on a surface of the upstand that engages with an upstanding portion of a structural support 2, in use, for example surface 11 of the structural support 2 as illustrated in figure 1. At least part of the engagement portion 5 is locatable on a surface of the upstand /12/2021 that engages with an upstanding portion of a structural support 2 such as the trailing edge portion 6 of the upstand 4 of the stop end 1.

In one embodiment illustrated in figures 6-7, the base 3 and the trailing edge portion 6 extends arcuately and then subsequently perpendicularly from the main planar element 7 of 5 the upstand 4 of the stop end 1. The engagement portion 5 is a substantially L-shaped portion that extends arcuately and then subsequently perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly from the upstand 4. This increases the surface area of the engagement portion 5. Thereby, this increases the integrity of the joint of the stop end 1 on the surface of the structural support 2, for example surfaces 10 and 11, to ensure that the stop end 10 provides a watertight seal.

In the embodiment illustrated in figures 1-5, the engagement portion 5 extends across the entire width (W) of the stop end 1 and the entire height (H) of the stop end and entirely across the length (L) of the stop end 1.

The stop end 1 is configurable to correspond to the shape of a structural support 2 15 upon which it is to be placed and/or fixed. In the embodiments illustrated in figures 6-8, the trailing edge portion 6 of the stop end 1 extends arcuately and then subsequently upwardly from the base 3 of the stop end 1. However, where the structural support has a sloping portion extending upwardly from surface 10 of the structural support towards an inner leaf of a cavity wall, the stop end may have a corresponding sloping portion to engage with the 20 sloping portion of the structural support and form a watertight seal therebetween.

The stop end is locatable on a lateral end 12 of a structural support 2 to prevent lateral movement of moisture across the structural support 2 and to prevent moisture from cascading over the end 12 of the structural support 2. The stop end 1 is configurable to maintain internal moisture on a structural support 2 installed in a cavity of a cavity wall so 25 that the moisture can be drained to the external surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall via an opening or weep. The stop end is also configurable to direct moisture on a structural support 2 installed in a cavity of a cavity wall so that the moisture can be drained to the external surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall via an opening or weep.

The stop end 1 extends partially or entirely over the width of a structural support 2 30 upon which the stop end 1 is placed and/or fitted. By width we mean in the direction from the leading edge of the structural support locatable adjacent to the front surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall in a direction to the trailing edge portion of the structural support locatable adjacent to the front surface of the inner leaf of the cavity wall.

At least part of the stop end 1 is locatable between masonry on the outer leaf 14 of a 35 cavity wall. At least part of the stop end 1 is locatable between adjacent bricks of a wall. At least part of the stop end 1 is locatable in the perp joint 13 between adjacent bricks of a wall. In particular, at least part of the upstand 4 is locatable between masonry on the outer leaf 14 /12/2021 of a cavity wall. At least part of the upstand is locatable between adjacent bricks of a wall. At least part of the upstand 4 is locatable in the perp joint 13 between adjacent bricks of a wall.

The stop end 1 is configurable to be pre-fitted or pre-placed onto a structural support 2 in a factory environment or is configurable to be retrofitted or retro-placed onto a structural 5 support 2 outside a factory environment or onsite and/or retrofitted or retro-placed onto a structural support 2 already installed in a cavity wall. This enables replacement of current combustible stop ends with the non-combustible stop end 1. Thereby, this improves fire safety measures in building constructions. The stop end 1 is configurable to be mechanically fixed to a surface of a structural support 2 via riveting, welding, spot welding, tack welding, 10 adhering, gluing or by any other suitable means. Mechanically fixing the stop end to a surface of a structural support ensures integrity of the joint of the stop end on the surface of the structural support to ensure that the stop end 1 provides a water tight seal. The stop end 1 is also configurable to be placed onto the structural support without being fixed. The stop end is configurable to be held in place in sealing arrangement on the structural support by 15 the masonry surrounding it and/or placed/installed on the base of the stop end.

Figure 5 illustrates an embodiment of the stop end 1 according to the present invention, in use on a structural support 2 installed above a window 17 in a cavity wall having an outer leaf 14, an inner leaf 15 and insulation 16.

The stop end 1 may have a gasket (not illustrated) to seal a gap between the stop 20 end 1 and the structural support 2. In use, the gasket is sandwiched between the trailing edge portion 6 of the stop end 1 and the structural support 2 and/or is sandwiched between the base 3 of the stop end 1 and the structural support 2. The gasket is compressible between the trailing edge portion 6 and the structural support 2 and/or between the base 3 and the structural support 2.

Figures 6-8 show an embodiment of the stop end 1 having a mortar engaging arrangement 20. The stop end has a turned-out/folded portion 21 of the stop end for engaging mortar on the upper surface of the base 3 which is configured to ensure a good bond with mortar and/or any other masonry adhesive. The mortar engaging arrangement 20 of the stop end is configurable to receive bricks thereon. The mortar engaging arrangement 30 20 of the stop end is configurable to receive mortar thereon. The turned-out/folded portion 21 of the stop end is configurable to ensure secure engagement with mortar and/or the bricks placed on the mortar. The turned-out/folded portion 21 is configured to prevent slippage between mortar and/or the bricks placed on the mortar. This means that bricks can be placed on the base 3 which engages with a gasket to put compression onto the gasket. The base 3 35 and/or turned-out/folded portion 21 is configured to compress the gasket/ put the gasket into compression. The mortar engaging arrangement 20 is locatable on the base 3 of the stop /12/2021 end 1. The mortar engaging arrangement 20 is locatable on the trailing edge portion 6 of the stop end 1.

In use, the gasket is configured provide depth to level out the turned-out portion 21 relative to the rest of the base 3 and/or trailing edge portion 6. Advantageously, this prevents 5 a gap forming between the stop end 1 and the structural support 2 or between the structural support and the portion of the base 3 and/or trailing edge portion 6 that is not turnedout/folded.

The skilled man will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be 10 applied to all aspects of the invention.

It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent 15 claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a 20 person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or 25 in any combination of such features be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims (25)

1. A non-combustible stop end for a structural support, wherein the stop end is 5 retrofittable to a structural support.

2. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 1, wherein the stop end comprises a base and an upstand which extends upwardly from the base.

3. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop end is configurable to engage with one or more surfaces of the structural support to 10 provide a water tight seal between the stop end and the structural support.

4. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop end comprises an engagement portion which is configurable to engage with and/or fix onto a surface of a structural support.

5. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein each surface 15 of the stop end that engages with a structural support, in use, comprises an engagement portion.

6. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 2, wherein the upstand comprises a main planar element and the base of the stop end and/or a trailing edge portion of the upstand extends arcuately and subsequently perpendicularly from the main planar 20 element of the upstand.

7. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 2 or 6, wherein the trailing edge portion of the stop end extends upwardly from the base of the stop end.

8. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 2, 6 or 7, wherein the trailing edge portion of the stop end extends upwardly from the base of the stop end at a slope 25 and/or angle.

9. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop end is locatable on a lateral end of a structural support to prevent lateral movement of 20/12/2021 moisture across the structural support and/or to prevent moisture cascading over an end of the structural support.

10. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop end is configurable to direct moisture on a structural support installed in a cavity of a 5 cavity wall so that the moisture can be drained to the external surface of the outer leaf of the cavity wall via an opening or weep.

11. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop end comprises a gasket which is configurable to seal a gap between the stop end and a structural support with which the stop end engages. 10

12. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 11 when dependent on claim 4, wherein a portion of the gasket forms the engagement portion of the stop end.

13. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 11 or 12 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the gasket is configurable to extend below the underside of the base of the stop end. 15

14. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 13 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the gasket is configurable to be sandwiched between the base of the stop end and the structural support.

15. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the gasket is configurable to extend behind the trailing edge portion of the stop end. 20

16. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the gasket is configurable to be sandwiched between the trailing edge portion of the stop end and the structural support.

17. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the gasket is compressible between at least a portion of the stop end and the structural 25 support.

18. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the gasket is configurable to be sandwiched between at least a portion of the stop end and the structural support. 20/12/2021

19. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein the gasket is configurable to prevent the lateral movement of moisture across a surface of a structural support and/or over the end of a structural support with which the stop end engages. 5

20. A non-combustible stop end according to any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein the gasket is formable from a mastic material.

21. A non-combustible stop end according to any preceding claim, wherein the stop end comprises a mortar engaging means.

22. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 21 when dependent on claim 2, 10 wherein the mortar engaging means comprises a turned-out/folded portion of the stop end to ensure a good mortar bond with mortar on the upper surface of the base.

23. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the mortar engaging means is configurable to prevent relative movement between the stop end and mortar applied on the stop end and/or between the stop end and bricks or other 15 masonry placed on top of the base of the stop end.

24. A non-combustible stop end according to claim 22 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the turned-out/folded portion is locatable on the base and/or trailing edge portion of the stop end.

25. A structural support comprising a retrofittable and non-combustible stop end 20 according to any one of claims 1 to 24.