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Title:
DEVICE FOR THERMAL EXTERNAL FACADE INSULATION OF ROOF EDGES
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/064167
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The invention relates to a device for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges of buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface, whereby an external façade insulation is provided between a supporting wail and an external façade, whereby the roof edge may be provided with a raised part, whereby the device at the level of the roof edge comprises one or more L-shaped insulation elements consisting of a vertical leg provided for use in the space between the supporting wall (or optional raised, part) and the external façade and a horizontal leg provided for use on the supporting wall of the optional roof edge, whereby the device at the level of the top of the external facade and the one or more insulation elements comprises a roof edge profile for finishing the roof edge, whereby the roof edge profile is proportioned in such a way that it is not visible on the external façade. The invention also relates to the use of such a device and a method for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges.

Inventors:
BONNY THOMAS (BE)
Application Number:
PCT/IB2018/057383
Publication Date:
April 04, 2019
Filing Date:
September 25, 2018
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
BONNY THOMAS (BE)
International Classes:
E04D3/40; E04D13/14; E04D13/16
Foreign References:
EP1736608A12006-12-27
JPH06146509A1994-05-27
Other References:
DACHBAU MAGAZIN: "Nachhaltig Energie sparen", DACHBAU MAGAZIN, 27 May 2010 (2010-05-27), pages 1 - 1, XP055478143, Retrieved from the Internet [retrieved on 20180524]
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
VAN VARENBERG, Patrick et al. (BE)
Download PDF:
Claims:
Claims.

1. - Device for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges for buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface, whereby an external facade insulation (3) is provided between a supporting wall (1) and an external fagade (2) , whereby the roof edge is possibly provided with a raised part (5), characterized in that, at the level of the roof edge, the device comprises one or more L-shaped insulation elements (16) consisting of a vertical leg (16') for use in the space between the supporting wall (1) or optional raised part (5) and the external facade (2) and a horizontal leg (16") for use on the supporting wall (1) or the optional raised part (5) , whereby the device at the level of the top of the external fagade (2) and the one or more insulation elements (16) comprises a roof edge profile (18) for finishing the roof edge, whereby the roof edge profile (18) is proportioned in such a way that it is not visible on the external fagade (2) .

2. - Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) extends from the insulation element (16) to the external facade (2), whereby the roof edge profile (18) comprises two profiled ends (18a, 18b and 26a, 26c) , whereby the one end (18b, 26c) leans against the top of the external facade (2) to before or just up the furthest edge of the external fagade (2) and the other end (18a, 26a) at least leans against the horizontal leg (16") of the insulation element (16) .

3. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) with a third end (26b) leans against the vertical side (16') of the insulation elements (16) .

4. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is fixed on to the insulation elements (16) using a finishing layer (20) , for example a reinforcing mortar.

5. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that a roof edge profile (18) is provided for several types of external fagade finishes (2) , such as for example decorative plaster, concrete, stone strips or other masonry.

6. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) comprises a universal part (18a) and an exchangeable specific part (18b), whereby the universal part (18a) connects to the insulation elements (16) and the specific part (18b) is provided with a nose (27) against which the external facade cladding (2) connects seamlessly to the front of the facade surface.

7. - Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the length of the nose (27) of the specific part (18b) is adapted to the thickness of different types of external facade finish (2) .

8.- Device according to claim 6 of 7, characterized in that the specific part (18b) is snapped or slid onto the universal part (18a) . 9.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that two roof edge profiles (18) are attached to each other using a coupling piece (23) .

10. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is pre- mounted on the one or more insulation elements (16) .

11. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is a pultrusion profile or glass fibre reinforced polyester profile.

12. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the L-shaped insulation elements (16) consist of one part.

13. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) on the top part of the vertical side (16' ) of the external facade (2) are provided with a recess (25) for a roof edge profile (18).

14. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that, when installed, the vertical leg (16') of the insulation elements (16) connects with the external fagade insulation (3) between the supporting wall (1) and the external fagade (2), and the horizontal leg (16") spans at least the thickness of the supporting wall (1) or the optional raised part (5) . 15.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) on the top (16") are slightly sloping in order to drain rainwater towards the roof surface (4) . 16.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the vertical leg (16') of the insulation elements (16) has a thickness that is equal to the thickness of the fagade insulation (3) between the supporting wall (1) and the external facade (2) if there is no facade insulation (3) at the level of the vertical leg (16') or is smaller than said thickness if there is a narrower section of fagade insulation (3) at the level of the vertical leg (16' ) . 17.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are treated with a reinforcing mortar (20) at least on the free top (16"), preferably also on the free side (16'). 18.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are treated with a UV-resistant roof paint (21) , at least on the free top (16"), preferably also on the free side (16'). 19.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are composed of expanded polystyrene (EPS, XPS) , mineral wool (MW) , polyisocyanurate (PIR) , polyurethane (PUR) , hemp (HEMP), wood fibre (Wood wool), cellular glass. 20.- Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the roof edge provided with the insulation elements (16) and the roof edge profile (18) is further finished with a vapour barrier (7), an insulation layer (8), an EPDM sealing barrier (17), a finishing layer (20) and/or a white EPDM finishing layer (21) .

21. - Device according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the fagade cladding on the external facade (2) consists of decorative plaster, masonry, concrete or other.

22. - Use of a device according to one of the claims 1 to 21 in a roof edge construction or fagade construction. 23.- Method for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges on buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface with a device according to one of the claims 1 to 21, the roof edge comprising a supporting wall (1) , a roof panel (4) provided with an insulation layer (8), an optional raised part (5) provided with an insulation layer (8) against the inner wall, a sealing membrane (17) on both aforementioned insulation layers (8) and the optional raised part (5), a cavity wall insulation (3) between the supporting wall (1) and external fagade (2), the method comprising the following steps: a) installing an L-shaped insulation element (16) with the horizontal leg (16") on top of the sealing membrane (17) and with the vertical leg (16') in the remaining space of the cavity between the supporting wall (1) /cavity wall insulation (3) and the external fa?ade (2),

b) installing a roof edge profile (18) whereby the one end (18b, 27) leans against the top of the external fagade (2) to before or just up to the furthest edge of the external facade (2) and the other end (18a) at least leans against the horizontal side (16") of the insulation element (16) .

24.- Method according to the previous claim further comprising the following steps:

c) applying a sealing membrane (19) and a reinforcing mortar (20) on top of (16") the insulation element (16) and the free side (16')/ and

d) applying one or more layers of UV-resistant roof paint (21) on the sloping side (16") of the insulation element (16) and on the free side (16').

AMENDED CLAIMS

received bythe International Bureau on 25January2019 (25.01.2019)

1. - Roof edge system for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges for buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface, the roof edge system comprising a supporting wall (1) and an external facade (2) , wherein an external facade insulation (3) is provided between said supporting wall (1) and said external facade (2), whereby the roof edge is possibly provided with a raised part (5) above the supporting wall (1), whereby the roof edge system comprises one or more roof edge profiles (18) covering the top of the external facade (2), characterized in that, the roof edge system comprises one or more L-shaped insulation elements (16) comprising a vertical leg (16') extending in the space between the supporting wall (1) or optional raised part (5) and the external facade (2), and a horizontal leg (16") extending on the supporting wall (1) or the optional raised part (5), whereby the L-shaped insulation element (16) joins to the roof edge in the inside corner of the L-shape, the outer end of the vertical leg (16') joins the external facade insulation (3) below, and the length of the horizontal leg (16") is at least equal to the thickness of the supporting wall (1) or the optional raised part (5) .

2. - Roof edge system according to claim 1, characterized in that the L-shaped insulation element (16) consists of a single part. 3.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the thickness of the vertical leg (16' ) of the insulation element (16) corresponds with the space between the supporting wall (1) and the external facade (2) . 4. Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the thickness of the vertical leg (16') of the insulation element (16) is smaller than the space between the supporting wall (1) and the external fa ade (2), whereby an additional section of external facade insulation (3) is applied between the vertical leg (16') band the supporting wall (1).

5. - Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the vertical leg (16') of the insulation element (16) and the external facade insulation (3) located between the supporting wall (1) and the external facade (2) join up.

6. - Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation element (16) does not protrude above the external facade (2) .

7. - Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the top of the insulation element (16) reaches to just below the top of the external facade (2) .

8. - Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are joined tightly together to prevent thermal bridges.

9.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the external facade (2) is placed against the wall insulation (3) . 10.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) on the top side (16") are slightly sloping in order to drain rainwater towards the roof surface (4) . 11.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are composed of expanded polystyrene (EPS, XPS), mineral wool (MW) , polyisocyanurate (PIR), polyurethane (PUR), hemp (HEMP), wood fibre (Wood wool), cellular glass.

12.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the facade insulation (3) is in the form of stiff pre-formed panels. 13.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that the facade cladding on the external facade (2) consists of decorative plaster, masonry, concrete or other. 14.- Roof edge system according to any one of the previous claims, characterized in that said one or more roof edge profiles (18) extend from the top of the L-shaped insulation element (16) to the external facade (2) , whereby the roof edge profile (18) covers the top edge of the external facade (2) in such a way that the roof edge profile (18) does not stick out or overlap on the external facade (2) .

15. - Roof edge system according to claim 14, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is seamlessly integrated in the external facade (2) and no protruding profiles are visible.

16. - Roof edge system according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is entirely concealed and provides a profile-less appearance on the external facade (2), whereby the roof edge and the facade (2) form one single unit. 17.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) extends from the insulation element (16) to the external facade (2), whereby the roof edge profile (18) comprises two profiled ends (18a, 18b and 26a, 26c), whereby the one end (18b, 26c) leans against the top of the external facade (2) to before or just up the furthest edge of the external facade (2) and the other end (18a, 26a) leans against the horizontal leg (16") of the insulation element (16) . 18.- Device according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) comprises a third end (26b) that leans against the vertical side (16') of the insulation elements (16). 19.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) comprises two legs (26a, 26b) , a horizontal leg (26a) and a vertical leg (26b) , which connect on the top of the L- shaped insulation element (16), whereby both legs (26a, 26b) follow the lines of the insulation element (16) .

20. Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

19, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) has a specific raised part (26c, 18b) provided with a nose (27) against which the facade cladding can connect seamlessly on the front of the facade surface (2) .

21. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

20, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) comprises a universal part (18a) that forms the basis for all profiles and an exchangeable specific part (18b) .

22. - Roof edge system according to claim 21, characterized in that the universal part (18a) connects to the insulation elements (16) .

23. - Roof edge system according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that the universal part (18a) is formed in a shape that is complementary to the form of the specific part (18b) .

24. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, characterized in that in cross-section the universal part (18a) comprises two legs (26a, 26b) which connect on the top of the L-shaped insulation element (16), on the one hand to the top of the element and on the other hand to the side wall.

25.- Roof edge system according to claim 24, characterized in that the legs (26a, 26b) are preferably at an angle of less than 90°. 26.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 21 to 25, characterized in that the exchangeable specific part (18b) is adapted to the specific external facade cladding.

27. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 21 to 26, characterized in that the specific part (18b) is snapped or slid onto the universal part (18a) .

28. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 21 to 27, characterized in that the specific part (18b) is provided with a nose or protruding part (27) against which the external facade cladding (2) connects seamlessly to the front of the facade surface.

29. - Roof edge system according to claim 28, characterized in that the specific parts (18b) for different types of external facade finish differ from each other on the side of the external facade (2) in the length of the protruding part (27) that covers the external facade (2) . 30.- Roof edge system according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that the length of the nose or the protruding part (27) of the specific part (18b) is adapted to the thickness of different types of external facade finish (2), whereby depending on the thickness of the external facade finish the protruding part (27) is shorter or longer.

31.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 28 to

30, characterized in that the protruding part (27) can be provided with a strengthening attachment (28) . 32.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 28 to

31, characterized in that the tip of the protruding part (27) can also be adapted to the type of facade cladding.

33.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 21 to 32, characterized in that the universal part (18a) extends further, above the top of the L-shaped element (16), in continuation of the vertical leg (26b) that joins against the side wall (16') of the insulation element (16). 34.- Roof edge system according to claim 33, characterized in that the universal part (18a) that extends further is provided with a fastening means or third leg (26c) on to which the specific part (18b) can be snapped or slid. 35.- Roof edge system according to claim 34, characterized in that the specific part (18b) has a shape that is complementary to that of the third leg (26c) .

36.- Roof edge system according to claim 34 or 35, characterized in that the third leg (26c) extends towards the roof, away from the roof edge, preferably sloping towards the roof so that rain can run off towards the roof and not on to the external facade (2) . 37.- Roof edge system according to any one of claims 34 to 36, characterized in that the third leg (26c) is made in such a way that the specific part (18b) cannot slide forwards or backwards.

38. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to 37, characterized in that two roof edge profiles (18) are attached to each other using a coupling piece (23) .

39. - Roof edge system according to any claim 38, characterized in that the coupling piece (23) is a pultrusion coupling piece that slides between two profiles (18) on the facade side (2).

40. - Roof edge system according claim 38 or 39, characterized in that the coupling piece (23) slides into a recess of the second legs (26b) .

41. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

40, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is applied on to the insulation elements (16) using a finishing layer (20) , for example a reinforcing mortar.

42. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

41, characterized in that a different roof edge profile (18) is provided for different types of external facade finishes (2), such as for example decorative plaster, concrete, stone strips or other masonry.

43. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

42, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is partly or entirely pre-fastened to the one or more insulation elements (16) .

44. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

43, characterized in that the roof edge profile (18) is a pultrusion profile or glass fibre reinforced polyester profile.

45. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

44, characterized in that a recess (25) is provided for the roof edge profile (18) on the top external side of the insulation element (16) in continuation of the vertical leg (16').

46. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 to

45, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are treated with a reinforcing mortar (20) at least on the free top (16"), preferably also on the free side (16'), which also attaches the roof edge profile (18) firmly to the insulation elements (16) .

47. - Roof edge system according to claim 46, characterized in that the insulation elements (16) are treated with a UV- resistant roof paint (21) .

48. - Roof edge system according to any one of claims 14 or 47, characterized in that the roof edge provided with the insulation elements (16) and the roof edge profile (18) is further finished with a vapour barrier (7), an insulation layer (8), an EPDM sealing barrier (17), a finishing layer (20) and/or a white EPDM finishing layer (21) . 49.- Method for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges on buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface with a roof edge system according to one of the claims 1 to 48, the roof edge system comprising a supporting wall (1) and an external facade (2), wherein an external facade insulation (3) is provided between said supporting wall (1) and said external facade (2), whereby the roof edge is possibly provided with a raised part (5) above the supporting wall (1), whereby the roof edge system comprises one or more L-shaped insulation elements (16) and one or more roof edge profiles, the method comprising the following steps:

a) installing an L-shaped insulation element (16) with the horizontal leg (16") on top of the supporting wall

(1) or raised part (5) , and with the vertical leg (16') in the remaining space of the cavity between the supporting wall (1) /external facade insulation (3) and the external facade (2),

b) installing a roof edge profile (18) whereby one end (18b, 27) leans against the top of the external facade

(2) to before or just up to the furthest edge of the external facade (2) and another end (18a) leans against the horizontal side (16") of the insulation element (16) .

50.- Method according to claim 49 further comprising the following steps:

c) applying a sealing membrane (19) on top of (16") the insulation element (16) and the free side (16'), d) applying a reinforcing mortar (20) on top of (16") the insulation element (16) and the free side (16'), and the roof edge profile (18), and e) applying one or more layers of UV-resistant roof paint (21) on the sloping side (16") of the insulation element (16) and on the free side (16').

51. - Method according to claim 49 or 50 comprising the step of placing the external facade (2) against the external facade insulation (3) and at the top reaching as far as the roof edge profile (18), whereby the roof edge profile (18) does not overlap the external facade (2) .

52. - Method according to any of claims 49 to 51 whereby an appropriate type of roof edge profile (18) is used for each type of external facade (2), such as for example for plasterwork, tiles or facade stones.

Description:
Device for thermal external facade Insulation of roof edges .

The present invention relates to a device for thermal external facade insulation, for example an ETICS system (External Thermal Insulation Composite System) , more particularly on a roof edge system for all external facade finishes with external fagade insulation.

Fagade insulation is the application of insulation material, between the supporting wall of a building and the external wall. Insulation is available in the form of stiff pre-formed panels. The edges are provided with a groove (with an overhang) , with tongue and groove or with straight edges. The panel surface may have a profile or may be flat.

For roof edges of flat or slightly sloping roofs, there are specific requirements relating to facade insulation and the sealing of such.

The roof edge must be assembled taking into account certain rules: prevent rainwater flowing over from the roof surface towards the roof edge, guide dripping rainwater away from the fagade, prevent water penetrating the roof perimeter (the place where the seal ends) .

The finishing off of the roof edge is required to be higher than the roof surface. The roof edge must drain towards the roof surface. For this reason the roof edge of flat and slightly sloping roofs, or roofs with no overhanging roof edge, are finished with a raised part.

The term "raised part" refers to an assembly whereby the roof seal is connected in a watertight manner against a raised side, for example an ascending wall, a roof edge or a roof penetration (e.g. chimneys, domes, sills, ...) . In the case of the invention the term "raised part" is applied specifically to a roof edge, i.e. where the roof meets the wall below.

For flat roofs with a slope of 2 to 5% a raised part of minimum 150 mm above the finished roof must be realised at the roof edge. For roof slopes between 5 % and 10 % it is assumed that no water stagnation can occur at the roof edge. Also, in order to rule out overflowing water, it is sufficient to provide a small raised part (minimum 25 mm) . For roof slopes of more than 10 % water can neither overflow nor stagnate and no raised part is necessary.

Waterproofing a raised part comprises two steps: sealing the kirn, i.e. where the flat roof and the vertical wall meet, and finishing the raised part. The roof edge seal must be continued right up to the short side of the raised part.

The roof edge must always be provided with a finish, whereby it needs to be ensured that said finish can be connected in a durable manner to the roof seal. The known methods of roof edge finishing are classed into three groups of finishes.

A first group are the profiles that are connected directly with the seal, such as for example metal collars (seldom still used in new buildings) and roof edge profiles in aluminium, plastic or metal foil sheets. A disadvantage with such profiles is that they are visible on the top of the external fagade and they also require a separate seal in order to connect to the roof seal.

A second group are the composite profiles, whereby the seal or a seal strip is clamped in. These profiles have been developed for use with plastic seals. In principle the roof seal is first placed under the profile, after which the profile is fixed to the structure. Then the seal strip clamped in the profile is connected with the roof seal. The assembled fittings are screwed tight and connection to the seal is carried out according to the manufacturer' s instructions. The corners are made with pre-welded corner pieces. A disadvantage of such profiles is the complex structure and assembly.

A third group are the capstones (made from concrete or stone) or wall copings (made from metal) . In both cases the seal is continued across the entire width and length of the wall and must be wider than the wall. These are placed on the seal (regardless of the type), without being directly connected to it. A capstone is not widely recommended because there is actually no vertical protection present in the zone directly under the capstone. In addition to the seal and finish, the insulation of the roof edge is also particularly important.

In order to avoid the formation of thermal bridges, the raised part is thermally insulated. There must be no interruption in the continuity of the thermal insulation layers at the level of the roof edge. A known insulation method involves the use of an insulation sheet placed horizontally on the raised part and vertically against the raised part. A disadvantage is that this is a rather laborious method during which great care is required in connecting the insulation at the level of the raised part.

Finishing, sealing and insulating roof edges therefore poses a number of problems. In modern buildings the roof edge is mostly finished with an L-profile that stretches partly over the roof and partly over the wall. A disadvantage, however, is that this roof profile looks unattractive. Another major disadvantage is that the insulation of the roof edge is not optimum at the level of the roof profile and allows thermal bridges.

Damaged roof edges are also a major problem, with parts affected by thermal tension, corrosion, atmospheric pollution, stains, penetration of rainwater and cold penetration.

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a solution to any one of the aforementioned and other disadvantages. More particularly the present invention offers a solution to the combined problem of finishing, sealing and insulating roof edges. To this end the invention relates to a device for the thermal and watertight finishing of roof edges on buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface, whereby external fagade insulation is provided between a supporting wall and an external fagade, whereby the roof edge may be provided with a raised part, whereby the device at the level of the roof edge comprises one or more L-shaped insulation elements consisting of a vertical leg for use in the space between the supporting wall (or optional raised part) and the external fagade and a horizontal leg for use on the supporting wall or the optional roof edge, whereby the device at the level of top of the external fagade and the one or more insulation elements comprises a roof edge profile to finish the roof edge, whereby the roof edge profile is proportioned in such a way that it is not visible on the external fagade.

The one or more L-shaped insulation elements are placed adjacent to or against each other so that no thermal bridges are formed.

Advantages are: no thermal bridges, no special requirements in the construction, no intervention from a roof finishing worker even after fitting, Etics-compatible, applicable to all thicknesses of fagade, no mechanical attachment required.

The insulation elements are inserted on site and do not need to be mechanically fastened, consequently no additional thermal bridges are formed or no corrosion of screws and suchlike occurs. Once in position the vertical leg of the insulation element and the external facade insulation located between the supporting wall and the external facade join up, and the horizontal leg spans at least the thickness of the supporting wall or the optional roof edge.

By joining the insulation elements tightly together, thermal bridges are prevented. The insulation element of the invention is for example part of an all-in-one Etics system.

As, in a preferred embodiment, the length of the horizontal leg of the insulation element is at least equal to the thickness of the supporting wall or the optional raised part, the supporting wall or raised part is finished off completely. The length of the horizontal leg of the insulation element is preferably greater than the thickness of the supporting wall or the optional raised part, such that a certain seal margin is obtained.

In a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention the L-shaped insulation elements consist of a single part. In this way no thermal bridges are formed when installing the two insulation legs. This also makes installation much simpler and only one insulation block needs to be installed on the roof edge. Preferably said block joins perfectly to the roof edge in the inside corner of the L-shape. In a special embodiment of a device according to the invention the insulation elements on the top part of the vertical side of the external fagade are provided with a recess for the roof edge profile. In this way the profile is integrated even more seamlessly or less finishing is required in order for this to be achieved.

In terms of finishing the insulation elements are treated, at least on their free tops, preferably also on their free sides, with a reinforcing mortar which also attaches the roof edge profile firmly to the insulation elements.

The insulation elements are preferably treated, at least on their free tops and preferably also on their free sides, with a UV-resistant roof paint. The insulation elements are preferably slightly sloping at the top in order to drain rainwater towards the roof surface. It is possible for only part of the top to be slightly sloping. The advantage is that this encourages water to drain towards the roof surface.

When installed, the insulation element has two free sides, the top side and the outer end side of the horizontal leg.

The insulation element is provided in a number of standard sizes, but can be cut in all kinds of ways to fit into existing dimensions. The standard thickness of the vertical leg of the insulation element is 10 cm. In a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention the thickness of the vertical leg is equal to the thickness of the fagade insulation between the supporting wall and the external facade if there is no facade insulation at the level of the vertical leg, or is smaller than said thickness if there is a narrower section of facade insulation at the level of the vertical leg.

The insulation element is completely compatible with all Etics fagade systems. The thickness of the vertical leg of the insulation element can correspond with the space between the supporting wall and the external fagade. In this case the outer end of the vertical leg joins the Etics external fagade insulation below, located between the supporting wall and the external fagade.

It can also be that the thickness of the vertical leg is smaller than the space between the supporting wall and the external fagade. In this case an additional section of external fagade insulation is applied between the vertical leg and the supporting wall. The vertical leg of the insulation element preferably connects against the external fagade in order to achieve a complete finish for the space between the external fagade and the roof edge.

When installed, the top of the insulation element preferably reaches to just below the top of the external fagade. The insulation element should certainly not protrude above the external fagade. Where the insulation element of the present invention connects to other Etics insulation, a complementary recess can be provided in order to slide or snap both insulations together. This can also be the case between two connecting insulation elements where complementary recesses are provided on the short sides of the insulation element, for example tongue and groove. This can also be the case for the end of the vertical element that can be provided with complementary recesses .

The end of the horizontal element can have a straight or slanting finish.

In an alternative embodiment of an insulation element according to the invention the end of the horizontal element can have a vertical part that "hooks" over the raised part.

When a roof edge makes a angle, of for example 90°, the insulation element is mitre cut (45°) . The insulation element can also be cut at the correct angle to tightly fit against a facade at a particular angle.

In a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention the insulation elements are seamlessly treated with a reinforcing mortar at least on the tops, preferably also on the short sides.

In this way the insulation material is reinforced against external influences. In another preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention the insulation elements are treated with a UV-resistant roof paint, preferably in a shade of white, at least on the tops, preferably also on the short sides.

The roof paint is preferably applied to the reinforcing mortar.

Also, at the level of the top of the external fagade and the one or more connecting insulation elements, the device comprises a roof edge profile for finishing the roof edge, whereby the roof edge profile is proportioned such that it is not visible on the external facade. Unlike existing roof edge finishes the roof edge profile of the invention is seamlessly integrated in the external facade and no protruding profiles are visible. This means that the roof edge profile is entirely concealed and provides a profile-less appearance on the external facade, whereby the roof edge and the fagade form one single unit. This responds to the contemporary needs of modern buildings .

Other advantages are: no pollution under the profile, no noise or damage from rain or hail.

To this end, the roof edge profile extends from the insulation element to the external fagade, whereby the roof edge profile comprises two profiled ends, whereby the one end leans against the top of the external fagade to before or just up to the furthest edge of the external facade and the other end at least leans against the sloping side of the insulation element.

In a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention the roof edge profile extends from the insulation element to the external fagade, whereby the roof edge profile comprises two profiled ends, whereby the one end leans against the top of the external fagade to before or just up to the extreme edge of the external facade and the other end leans against at least the horizontal leg of the insulation element.

In another preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention the roof edge profile leans with a third end against the vertical side of the insulation elements.

The roof edge profile is preferably retained or fixed on the insulation elements using a finishing layer, for example a reinforcing mortar. Consequently the roof edge profile is firmly and seamlessly concealed on the roof edge.

In a special embodiment of a device according to the invention, the roof edge, comprising the insulation elements and the roof edge profile, is further subsequently finished with a vapour barrier (7), an insulation layer (8), an EPDM sealing barrier (17), a finishing layer (20) and/or a white EPDM finishing layer (21). In a special embodiment of a device according to the invention a roof edge profile is provided for each type of external facade finish, such as for example decorative plaster, concrete, stone strips or other masonry. To this end, the roof edge profile is narrower or wider, depending on the thickness of the external fagade finish. The purpose is that the entire top side of the external fagade finish is covered by the profile in a waterproof manner, without the roof edge profile being visible and whereby the profile is seamlessly integrated.

To this end, in a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention, the roof edge profile has a special shape comprising a universal part and an exchangeable specific part, whereby the universal part connects to the insulation elements and the specific part is provided with a nose against which the external fagade cladding connects seamlessly to the front of the fagade surface. Such a connection provides a seamless and watertight finish.

The universal part can be used for every type of roof edge and allows for the roof edge profile to be integrated or fixed against/to/on the insulation elements.

In a special embodiment of a device according to the invention the insulation elements could be equipped as standard before installation with a universal part of a roof edge profile, either in the factory or on the site (before installation) . In this case only the specific part of the roof edge profile needs to be assembled on site or when finishing. The roof edge profile can therefore be partly or entirely pre-fastened to the one or more insulation elements. In a special embodiment of a device according to the invention, the length of the nose of the specific part is adapted to the thickness of different types of external fagade finishes. The tip of the nose can also be adapted to the type of fagade cladding, such that a seamless and watertight finish is obtained.

The specific part is preferably snapped or slid onto the universal part. To this end, the universal part comprises a part that runs in parallel with the roof surface or the top of the fagade cladding and this universal part is formed in a shape that is complementary to the form of the specific part.

Two roof edge profiles are preferably fixed to each other using a coupling piece that is for example slid into the two profiles. The profiles are specially equipped for this purpose .

The roof edge profile is preferably a pultrusion or glass fibre-reinforced polyester profile. The thermal expansion of these profiles is very small, in contrast to PVC profiles. The thermal expansion coefficient of a tested profile varies from 7.707 to 7.970 μm/(m*C) in longitudinal terms. The pultrusion profiles are resistant to chemicals and corrosion. The tensile strength is comparable to that of steel and aluminium. The profiles are also transparent to radar and electromagnetic radiation and have very good electrical properties. As an option the profiles can be fire resistant.

The roof edge profiles are preferably in a specific form depending on the material of the external fagade.

The insulation elements are preferably composed of expanded polystyrene (EPS, XPS) , mineral wool (MW) , polyisocyanurate (PIR), polyurethane (PUR), hemp (HEMP), wood fibre (Wood wool), cellular glass.

The wall cladding of the external fagade preferably consists of decorative plaster, masonry, concrete or other.

The invention also relates to an L-shaped insulation element for use in a device such as described above.

The invention further relates to a roof edge profile for use in a device such as described above. The invention also relates to the use of a device such as described above for the thermal insulation and/or the seamless finish of a roof edge.

The invention also relates to a roof construction or fagade construction comprising insulation elements and/or roof edge profiles according to one of the claims 1 to 12. Finally the invention relates to a method for the thermal and watertight finish of roof edges of buildings with a flat or slightly sloping roof surface with a device such as described above, the roof edge comprising a supporting wall, a roof panel provided with an insulation layer, an optional raised part provided with an insulation layer, a sealing membrane on both aforementioned insulation layers and the optional raised part, a cavity wall insulation between the supporting wall and external fagade, the method comprising the following steps: a) installation of an L- shaped insulation element with the horizontal leg on top of the sealing membrane and with the vertical leg in the remaining space in the cavity between the supporting wall/cavity wall insulation and the external fagade, b) installation of a roof edge profile whereby the one end leans against the top of the external fagade to before or just up to the furthest edge of the external fagade (2) and the other end leans against at least the horizontal side of the insulation element.

Preferably, the method further comprises the following steps: c) installation of a sealing membrane and a reinforcing mortar on top of the insulation element and the free side, and d) installation of one or more layers of UV- resistant roof paint on the sloping side of the insulation element and on the free side.

With the intention of better showing the characteristics of the invention, a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention is described hereinafter, by way of an example without any limiting nature, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: figure 1 shows an existing embodiment for the thermal insulation of a roof edge; figure 2 shows a preferred embodiment of a device according to the invention; figure 3 shows the different phases in the installation and finish of a roof edge according to the invention; figure 4 a-b shows an L-shaped insulation element 16 according to the invention; figure 5 shows another embodiment of an L-shaped insulation element 16 according to the invention; figure 6 a-c shows some embodiments of a roof edge profile 18 according to the invention; figure 7 shows some specific embodiments of a roof edge profile 18 according to the invention.

Figure 1 shows an example of an existing embodiment for the thermal insulation of a roof edge.

In order to prevent any formation of thermal bridges, there must be no interruption in the continuity of the thermal insulation layers at the level of the roof edge. The construction of the roof edge is as follows. A raised part 5 in masonry is placed on the supporting masonry (supporting wall) 1 and the supporting floor/roof panel 4. A cavity wall insulation 3 (whose thickness must be aligned with the relevant thermal regulations) is provided in the space between, on the one hand, the supporting wall 1 and the raised part 5 and, on the other hand, the fagade masonry (external fagade) 2. On the supporting floor/roof panel 4 a sloping layer 6 is applied plus a vapour barrier 7. On top comes an insulation layer 8 in order to insulate the roof surface. The vertical wall of the raised part 5 is also provided with an insulation layer 8.

An insulation layer is applied against the vertical wall of the raised part 5. For the insulation of the top of the raised part 5 wooden rafters 9 are fixed in the raised part with spaces in-between. Between the rafters 9 comes an insulation layer 10, a cavity cover 11 and a sealing membrane 12. The sealing membrane 12 extends from the furthest outer edge of the external fagade 2 as far as the roof surface insulation 8. Subsequently the roof edge is finished with a roof edge profile 13 and an edge strip 14. The entire unit is closed off with caulk 15. Figure 2 shows an embodiment of a device according to the invention.

As already known a raised part 5 made from masonry is placed on the supporting masonry (supporting wall) 1 and the supporting floor/roof panel 4. On the supporting floor/roof panel 4 a sloping layer 6 is preferably applied plus an insulation layer 8 in order to insulate the roof surface 4. The vertical wall of the raised part 5 is also provided with an insulation layer 8. A vapour barrier can be applied underneath the insulation layer 8.

In the space between the supporting wall 1 and the facade masonry (external fagade) 2 a cavity wall insulation 3 is provided. The cavity wall insulation 3 is thinner in the space where the insulation element 16 is placed. As illustrated in the figure the insulation element 16 in the cavity is provided against the external fagade. In an alternative embodiment the cavity wall insulation 3 can be the same thickness across the entire height of the wall at the level of the roof edge (including the supporting wall 1, end of the roof surface 4 and raised part 5) .

In a further alternative embodiment the L-shaped insulation element 16 can replace the cavity wall insulation 3 at the level of the insulation element 16. On the cavity wall insulation 3 a universal sealing membrane 17 is provided that is laid all the way across the raised part 5 and the insulation layers 8 of the vertical wall of the raised part 5 as far as the roof surface. In the corner between the roof surface 4 and the raised part 5 an angled corner profile is preferably applied using a fibre-reinforced mortar. This facilitates the installation of the EPDM sealing membrane 17 in the corner.

The L-shaped insulation element 16 is provided on top of the universal sealing membrane 17 with the vertical leg in the remaining space of the cavity against the external fagade or cavity wall insulation 3.

The L-shaped insulation element 16 is preferably slightly sloping towards the roof. A roof edge profile 18 is placed on the top of the L-shaped insulation element 16, on the side of the external facade and connecting to the roof edge. The roof edge profile 18 is placed with a fibre-reinforced mortar on the front of the L-shaped insulation element 16 joining the roof edge.

When installing these special profiles it is necessary to use a laser spirit level in order to obtain a straight horizontal edge. The roof edge profile 18 can be cut to size using the appropriate cutting material.

The top surface of the insulation element 16 reaches to just under the facade masonry 2, where a roof edge profile 18 is provided.

The roof edge profile 18 covers the top edge of the external fagade 2 and reaches just as far as the furthest edge of the fagade. The roof edge profile 18 is concealed in such a way that it is invisible from the external fagade. In this way the insulation is seamlessly integrated in the facade and the whole thing appears to include no profiles, in contrast to the known roof finishes. A sealing membrane 19 and a reinforcing mortar 20 are added on top of the insulation element 16. The unit is finished with one or more layers of UV-resistant roof paint 21.

The water seal consists of a 5-stage seal. In this way water infiltration is completely prevented. A first seal stage consists of an insulation layer on the roof panel and one against the raised part (roof edge) . A second seal stage consists of an L-shaped insulation block according to the invention, integrated in a facade system, as a buffer against thermal bridges. The insulation block acts like an umbrella across the roof edge. A third seal stage comprises a glass fibre-reinforced reinforcing mortar which is applied to the free parts of the insulation block, i.e. to the top and free vertical side. A fourth seal stage comprises a roof paint, which is UV-resistant, environmentally-friendly, cold elastic, and hardly heats up (white colour) . A fifth seal stage comprises a seal of the expansion joints with for example Fugendichtband from Caparol .

Figure 3 shows in an alternative embodiment the different phases in the installation and finish of a roof edge according to the invention.

The roof edge (figure 3a) comprises a supporting wall 1 which there is a roof panel 4 which is finished with raised part 5. The supporting wall 1, roof panel 4 and raised part 5 preferably form one surface on the side where the external facade 2 is provided. The roof worker provides the following layers in sequence on the roof edge:

a) a vapour barrier 7 (figure 3b) on the roof panel 4 and the vertical wall of the raised part 5,

b) an insulation layer 8 (figure 3c) on top of the vapour barrier 7 with a triangular profile 24 (figure 3d) in the corner of the roof panel 4 and the raised part 5, c) an EPDM sealing barrier 17 (figure 3e) on the insulation layer 8 that runs all the way along the top of the raised part 5 and partly sticks out there.

The insulation worker provides the following finishing layers :

a) cavity wall insulation 3 (figure 3f) against the external wall formed by the supporting wall 1 and the raised part 5, whereby the protruding EPDM sealing barrier 17 covers the cavity wall insulation 3 at the top,

b) an L-shaped insulation element 16 (figure 3g) placed in the corner against the cavity wall insulation 3 and the raised part 5,

c) a roof edge profile 18 (figure 3h) placed on the top of the L-shaped insulation element 16,

d) a finishing layer 20 (figure 3i) on the free sides of the L-shaped element 16 which also finishes the roof edge profile 18, e) a white EPDM finishing layer 21 (figure 3j) on the top of the L-shaped element 16 and the vertical wall of the raised part 5. Figure 3k shows a cross-section of a finished roof edge 18 with decorative plaster as external facade finish 2..

The builder can then place the external facade 2 against the cavity wall insulation 3 and at the top reaching as far as the roof edge profile 18. An appropriate type of roof edge profile 18 must be used for each type of external facade 2, such as for example for plasterwork, tiles or facade stones . The roof edge profile 18 is adapted in the sense that the top of the external facade finish 2 is covered by the roof edge profile 18, but in such a way that the roof edge profile 18 does not stick out or overlap on the external fagade 2. The roof edge profile 18 is integrated in a way that is invisible on the external facade 2. The view on the roof edge 18 of the external fagade 2 is as if the external fa?ade finish continues all the way to the top of the roof edge 18. This means that the roof edge construction is very clean and modern and no pollution is possible between the roof edge 18 and the external fagade 2.

Figure 4 a and b shows an L-shaped insulation element 16 according to the invention. The top slope is preferably 8°. The vertical leg 16' has a standard thickness of 10 cm. The horizontal leg 16" is a standard of 40 cm (figure 3a) or 60 cm (figure 3b) and can be shortened according to the total thickness of the facade.

Figure 5 shows a specific preferred embodiment of an L- shaped insulation element 16 according to the invention, whereby a recess 25 is provided for the roof edge profile 18 on the top external side in continuation of the leg 16' . This allows the profile 18 to be integrated even more smoothly.

Figure 6 shows some embodiments of a roof edge profile 18 according to the invention. The roof edge profiles are preferably pultrusion profiles. The thermal expansion coefficient is very low compared to thermoplastic profiles.

The roof edge profile 18 is fixed to the insulation element with a fibre-reinforced mortar.

Figure 6a shows a simplified roof edge profile for decorative plaster, figure 6b a roof edge profile for bricks and figure 6c a roof edge profile for artificial stone .

In accordance with the insulation element 16 every roof edge profile 18 has a vertical leg 18a, 26a and a horizontal leg 26b. Both legs follow the lines of the insulation element.

A minimal amount of gluing is required on the insulation element increasing the strength of this profile and reducing the thermal linear tension between the two materials.

In addition, every roof edge profile 18 has a specific raised part provided with a nose against which the facade cladding can connect seamlessly on the front (fagade surface) .

The roof edge profile 18 can also be provided with a horizontal sealing nose against rainwater infiltration.

Between two ends of a roof edge profile 18 a pultrusion coupling piece 23 is provided that slides between two profiles on the facade side. This connection allows different profiles to be coupled to each other whereby a horizontal and level line can be achieved. An additional advantage of this coupling piece 23 is that it is placed on the front in line with the profile, whereby the top between two profiles is sealed. The coupling piece 23 also adds additional strength. Given the very limited thermal linear expansion of the profiles there is no rain water infiltration.

A pultrusion thermoprofile 22 can be used to seal the insulation element at the level of the insulation layer 8 of the raised part. This thermoprofile is installed first and then the insulation element.

Figure 7 shows some specific embodiments of a roof edge profile 18 according to the invention. Figure 7 shows three different profiles: (fig 7a) for a plastered external fagade, (fig 7b) for an external fagade finish with ceramic tiles and thin stone strips such as Meldorfer and (fig 7c) for an external facade finish with thicker stone strips or brick.

In each of the figures 7a-c the L-shaped insulation element 16 is provided with a recess 25 for the roof edge profile 18.

The roof edge profile 18 is made in two parts: a universal part 18a that forms the basis for all profiles, and a specific part 18b that is adapted to the specific external facade cladding.

A coupling piece 23 is also provided via a recess in the universal part 18a.

In cross-section the universal part 18a comprises two legs 26a, 26b which connect on the top of the L-shaped insulation element 16, on the one hand to the top of the element and on the other hand to the side wall. The legs 26a, 26b are preferably at an angle of less than 90°. The universal part extends further, above the top of the L- shaped element 16, in continuation of the leg 26b that joins against the side wall of the element 16 and is provided with a fastening means (or third leg) 26c on to which the specific part 18b can be snapped or slid. This third leg 26c extends towards the roof, away from the roof edge, preferably sloping a little towards the roof so that rain can run off towards the roof and not on to the external facade. This forms a strong support surface for the specific part 18b.

The third leg 26c is made in such a way that the specific part cannot slide forwards or backwards. It can possibly only be slid entirely onto the part.

The specific part 18b has a form that is complementary to that of the third leg 26c. The specific parts for different types of external facade finish differ from each other on the side of the external fagade in the length of the protruding part 27 that must cover the external fagade. Depending on the thickness of the external fagade finish the protruding part 27 is shorter or longer. The longer version (fig7c) can be provided with a strengthening attachment 28 at the level of the protruding part.

Two roof edge profiles are attached to each other using a coupling piece 23 that slides into a recess of the second leg 26b. The present invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described as an example and shown in the drawings, but a device according to the invention as defined by the claims can be realised in all kinds of variants without departing from the scope of the invention.