Roof Supporting System for a Structure

Abstract

This present application relates to a novel roof supporting system for use with outbuildings, such as gazebos, rotundas, and the like. The roof supporting system of the present invention eliminates the need for unsightly and architecturally limiting internal roof joists to account for the horizontal component of the live and dead roof loads transferred by the roofing rafters, and also eliminates the need for rafter tails to extend over the perimeter joist or wall members to create a roof with a clean edge appearance.

Claims

1. An outbuilding comprising: a foundation; a plurality of support posts positioned in spaced apart fashion along a perimeter of the outbuilding, wherein the plurality of support posts are supported by the foundation; a plurality of rim joists attached to and supported by the plurality of support posts, wherein each of the plurality of rim joists is comprised of an outside surface; a roof comprised of a plurality of rafters and a roofing material, wherein the plurality of rafters are positioned in spaced apart fashion along, and supported by, the plurality of rim joists; and at least one supporting band extending around, and positioned adjacent to, the outside surface of the plurality of rim joists to provide a compressive force there against.

2. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1 further comprising a second supporting band extending around, and positioned adjacent to, the outside surface of the plurality of rim joists to provide an additional compressive force there against

3. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one supporting band is comprised of a metal.

4. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1 further comprising a fascia for concealing each of the plurality of rim joists and the at least one supporting band extending around.

5. The outbuilding as recited in claim 4, wherein the fascia is comprised of a wood or a metal.

6. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1, wherein the roofing material is comprised of one or more of a plank, a board, a shingle, a panel, a roll paper, a drip edge, or a combination thereof.

7. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1, wherein the roof further comprises an opening therein near an apex.

8. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1 further comprising an architectural component that extends from each of the plurality of support posts to each of the plurality of rim joists.

9. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1, wherein a shape of the outbuilding is one of a circle, a octagon or a hexagon.

10. The outbuilding as recited in claim 1, wherein the at least one supporting band is a reinforcing rod.

11. A gazebo comprising: a plurality of support posts each having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end terminates at a foundation and the second end terminates at a select one of a plurality of rim joists; a plurality of roof rafters; a roofing material covering the plurality of roof rafters to form a roof, wherein the plurality of roof rafters are attached to the plurality of rim joists; and a plurality of support bands positioned along an outer surface of each of the plurality of rim joists and providing a compressive force there against to counter-balance the weight of the roof.

12. The gazebo as recited in claim 11, wherein the plurality of support bands are comprised of one or more of a steel, an aluminum, a plastic, and a combination thereof.

13. The gazebo as recited in claim 11, wherein the roofing material is comprised of a plurality of inter-locking panels.

14. The gazebo as recited in claim 11, wherein the plurality of support bands are concealed from view by a fascia.

15. The gazebo as recited in claim 11, wherein the roof comprises an opening therein near an apex.

16. The gazebo as recited in claim 11 further comprising a light.

17. A roof support system for an outbuilding, the roof support system further comprising: a foundation; a plurality of support columns supported by the foundation; a plurality of rim joists supported by the plurality of support columns; and a plurality of support bands applying a compressive force against an outer surface of each of the plurality of rim joists.

18. The roof support system for an outbuilding as recited in claim 17 further comprising a fascia for covering the plurality of support bands.

19. The roof support system for an outbuilding as recited in claim 17 further comprising an architectural component that extends from each of the plurality of support columns to each of the plurality of rim joists.

20. The roof support for an outbuilding as recited in claim 17, wherein the plurality of support bands are comprised of a steel.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an outbuilding that utilizes the improved roof supporting system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0016] FIG. 2A illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the internal elements of a roof of an outbuilding that utilizes the improved roof supporting system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0017] FIG. 2B illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the supporting bands of the present invention being used to support the roof of the outbuilding in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the fascia board has been removed to expose the presence of the supporting bands;

[0018] FIG. 2C illustrates a top perspective view of one potential embodiment of the supporting band of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the supporting band is generally circular in shape;

[0019] FIG. 2D illustrates a top perspective view of one potential embodiment of the supporting band of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the supporting band is generally octagonal in shape;

[0020] FIG. 2E illustrates a top perspective view of one potential embodiment of the supporting band of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the supporting band is generally hexagonal in shape;

[0021] FIG. 2F illustrates a partial side elevational view of one potential embodiment of the supporting structure of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the interior portion of the roof of the outbuilding of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the interior portion of the roof of the outbuilding of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the roof has an opening therein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are neither intended as an exhaustive description of the invention, nor do they limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0025] The improved roof supporting system of the present invention eliminates the need for unsightly and costly ceiling joists that have long been associated with obstructing the interior view of an otherwise aesthetically pleasing structure, such as a gazebo, rotunda, or similar outbuilding, all without compromising structural integrity. Additionally, by providing a clean or unobstructive edge, individuals inside the structure can enjoy their surroundings while those outside the outbuilding can watch performers and other activities within the structure. As used herein, the term “clean edge” refers to the roof line without any additional supporting material extending outwardly from under the roofing material, such as rafters, studs or other extensions, thereby allowing the roof to sit essentially cleanly on the rim or perimeter joist of the frame.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of an outbuilding, such as a gazebo 100, that utilizes the improved roof supporting system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. While a gazebo 100 is shown in the FIGS., it should be understood that the invention is equally applicable to a number of other outbuildings such as arbors, bandstands, and rotundas. The gazebo 100 is comprised of a foundation 110, a plurality of spaced apart support posts 120, and a roof 130. More specifically, the foundation 110 supports the support posts 120 which, in turn and with the assistance of the rafters, rim joints and bands discussed below, support the roof 130. In alternative embodiments, the gazebo 100 may include comprise other decorative or functional elements including, without limitation, fencing 125 and gates 127 to control access to the gazebo 100.

[0027] The roof 130 preferably has conventional roofing materials 132 to cover and protect the structure 100. For example, the roofing materials may be comprised of planks, boards, roll paper, ice guards, shingles, panels, or combinations thereof, and the materials may be interlocking with one another, such as through the use of tongue and groove, biscuits, as well as fasteners and the like. The roof 130 and associated roofing materials 132 are intended to protect the structure 100, as well as those therein. FIG. 1 also illustrates the various facia boards 140 that are used to conceal the presence of the supporting bands 212 that will be discussed in connection with the later Figures below. Facia 140 may be comprised of a wooden or synthetic board, a metal or any other suitable material.

[0028] FIG. 2A illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the internal elements of a roof 230 of an outbuilding 100 that utilizes the improved roof supporting system of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The underside of the roof 230 is comprised of a plurality of boards 232 supported by a plurality of rafters 210 that extend downwardly at an angle or pitch from the apex or summit of the roof 230 to a plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235, as best shown in FIG. 2A. In one embodiment, the orientation of the boards 232 is roughly perpendicular to the orientation of the rafters 210, and may be secured thereto by any fastening means known in the art, such as nails, screws or the like. In a similar fashion, the orientation of the rafters 210 is roughly perpendicular to the orientation of the rim joists 235, and may also be secured thereto by any fastening means known in the art, such as nails, screws or the like. As noted above, the exterior side of the roof 130 preferably has conventional roofing materials 132 to cover and protect the structure 100.

[0029] The live and dead loads associated with the roof 230 are transferred from the plurality of boards 232 to the plurality of rafters 210 that transfer both a horizontal load component and a vertical load component to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235. In traditional structures, the horizontal load component is accounted for via the presence of a plurality of internal roof joists (not shown) that suffer from the limitations described above. However, in the unique design of the roof supporting system of the present invention, the horizontal load component is accounted for and addressed by the presence of one or more continuous support bands 212 positioned along the outside face of the rim or perimeter joists 235, as described more fully below. In short, the one or more continuous support bands 212 that surround the perimeter of the structure 100 counter-balance the horizontal load component of the roof 230 (both the live and dead loads) and prevent the rim or perimeter joists 235 from buckling outward and failing.

[0030] In traditional structures and with structure 100, the vertical load component of the roof 230 is transferred from the rafters 210 to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235. The plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235 are, in turn, attached to the plurality of support posts 120 that are positioned around the perimeter of the structure 100 in spaced apart fashion by any common fastening means known in the art, such as nails, screws, bolts and the like. The plurality of support posts 120 are, in turn, supported by the foundation 110. In this manner, the entire load associated with the roof 230, including both live loads (e.g., wind, snow, etc.) and dead loads (e.g., the weight of the roofing materials 132, etc.) is efficient and safely transferred to the foundation 110.

[0031] FIG. 2B illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the supporting bands 212 of the present invention being used to support the roof 230 of the outbuilding 100 in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein a fascia board 240 has not yet been installed over the exterior surface of the rim joists 235 to conceal the presence of the supporting bands 212 from view. More specifically, the horizontal load component of the roof 230 is accounted for and addressed by the presence of one or more continuous support bands 212 positioned along the outside face of the rim or perimeter joists 235 and that surround the entire perimeter of the structure 100.

[0032] The supporting bands 212 are not required to be an actual band, and may also be in the form of a tube, rod, or the like. For example, if reinforcing rods or tubes are used, the rods or tubes may be bent or configured to form the particular shape that the parties are interested in. Then, the ends of the reinforcing rod or tube can be secured to one another to form a continuous loop or band capable of withstanding the necessary tensile forces. Supporting bands 212 may be comprised of any suitable plastic, steel, aluminum, metal alloys, or combinations thereof, provided that they are capable of exhibiting the necessary tensile strength properties without failing. More specifically, and regardless of their form or configuration, the continuous support bands 212 must be capable of counter-balancing the horizontal load component of the roof 230 (both the live and dead loads) and preventing the rim or perimeter joists 235 and the support posts 120 that support the same from buckling outward and failing. It is also contemplated that when selecting the appropriate size of supporting band 212 and/or the number of bands 212 for a particular application, an appropriate factor of safety will also be employed in accordance with sound engineering practice.

[0033] In traditional structures and with structure 100, the vertical load component of the roof 230 is transferred from the rafters 210 to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235. The plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235 are, in turn, attached to the plurality of support posts 120 that are positioned around the perimeter of the structure 100 in spaced apart fashion by any common fastening means known in the art, such as nails, screws, bolts and the like. The plurality of support posts 120 are, in turn, supported by the foundation 110. In this manner, the entire load associated with the roof 230, including both live loads (e.g., wind, snow, etc.) and dead loads (e.g., the weight of the roofing materials 132, etc.) is efficient and safely transferred to the foundation 110.

[0034] FIG. 2C illustrates a top perspective view of one potential embodiment of the supporting band 212 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the supporting band 212 is generally circular 205 in shape, and FIG. 2D illustrates a top perspective view of another potential embodiment of the supporting band 212 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the supporting band 212 is generally octagonal 207 in shape. Additionally, FIG. 2E illustrates a top perspective view of yet another potential embodiment of the supporting band 212 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture, wherein the supporting band 212 is generally hexagonal 209 in shape. Other shapes are of course possible and would then depend on the shape of the roof line of the particular structure for which the present invention is to be utilized with.

[0035] FIG. 2F illustrates a partial side elevational view of one potential embodiment of the roof supporting structure of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. More specifically, the roof 230 is comprised of a plurality of boards 232 supported by a plurality of rafters 210 that extend downwardly at an angle or pitch 214 from the apex or summit of the roof 230 to a plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235. As noted above, the exterior or top side of the roof 130 is preferably covered by conventional roofing materials 132, such as roll paper, ice guard, shingles, and the like, to cover and protect the structure 100 and those inside the same.

[0036] The live and dead loads associated with the roof 230 are transferred from the plurality of boards 232 to the plurality of rafters 210 that transfer both a horizontal load component and a vertical load component to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235. In this instance, the vertical load component of the roof 230 is transferred from the rafters 210 to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235, which are, in turn, attached to the plurality of support posts 120. The plurality of support posts 120 are positioned around the perimeter of the structure 100 in spaced apart fashion by any common fastening means known in the art, such as nails, screws, bolts and the like. The plurality of support posts 120 are, in turn, supported by the foundation 110.

[0037] However in this instance, and unlike prior art structures, the horizontal load component is counter-balanced by the presence of one or more continuous support bands 212 positioned along the outside face of the rim or perimeter joists 235, as best shown in FIGS. 2B and 2F. More specifically, the one or more continuous support bands 212 are positioned immediately adjacent to the outside surface of the perimeter joists and tightened against the same until a sufficient tension is achieved to prevent the rim or perimeter joists 235 and the support posts 120 supporting the same from buckling outwardly and failing. Stated differently, when properly installed, the supporting band 212 apply a compressive force against the outer surface of the rim joists 235. Further, once properly installed, a decorative fascia 240 may be placed over the exterior surface of both the perimeter joists 235 and the supporting bands 212 to conceal the same from view. In this manner, the roof supporting system of the present invention eliminates the need for unsightly and architecturally limiting internal roof joists to account for the horizontal component of the live and dead roof loads transferred by the roofing rafters 210, and also eliminates the need for rafter tails to extend over the perimeter joist 235 to create a roof 230 with a clean edge appearance.

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the interior portion of the roof 230 of the outbuilding 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture and having architectural components 320 and a centralized roof opening 350 therein. In this particular embodiment, the roof 230 and the roof supporting system are essentially the same and function in substantially the same manner. More specifically, the live and dead loads associated with the roof 230 are transferred from the plurality of boards 232 to the plurality of rafters 210 that transfer both a horizontal load component and a vertical load component to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235. The horizontal load component is then counterbalanced by one or more continuous support bands 212 positioned along the outside face of the rim or perimeter joists 235 and concealed by facia boards 140, and the vertical load component of the roof 230 is transferred from the rafters 210 to the plurality of rim or perimeter joists 235 which are attached to and supported by the plurality of support posts 120 that are positioned around the perimeter of the structure 100. The plurality of support posts 120 are, in turn, supported by the foundation 110.

[0039] However, as best shown in FIG. 3, a centralized roof opening 350 is formed by a plurality of joists 352 and a plurality of secondary rafters 354. More specifically, the plurality of joists 352 form an octagonal shape and are supported by the plurality of rafters 210 described above on a first or lower side. On an opposite or upper side, the plurality of joists 352 also supports a plurality of secondary rafters 354 that extend upwardly to an apex where they support a downwardly extending post 356 that may be used to support, for example, a light 358, ceiling fan, etc.

[0040] Further, the structure 100 may further comprise one or more architectural components 320 positioned at each of the support posts 120, as best shown in FIG. 3. More specifically, each of the architectural components 320 may be in the form of a generally inverted triangle and comprised of rafter components 322 and boards 324. The rafter components 322 may extend from each side of the support post 120 to the perimeter joist 235 and are used to support 324 to give a finished appearance on both the exterior and interior of the structure 100, in this case a gazebo.

[0041] FIG. 4 illustrates a partial perspective view of one potential embodiment of the interior portion of the roof 130 of the outbuilding 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture and better illustrating the opening 350 described above. Notwithstanding the forgoing, the components of improved and of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration and material of the improved the roofing support as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes of components of the roofing support are well within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “bands” are interchangeable and refer to tubes, rings, wires, bands, strips and the like of the present invention.

[0043] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0044] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.