FASCIA BOARD HANGING TOOL

FIELD

This disclosure relates to systems and methods for hanging fascia boards. More specifically, the disclosed embodiments relate to fascia hanging tools for use in the fascia board hanging process.

INTRODUCTION

Fascia boards are commonly used to cap the ends of rafters on an exterior of a building, such as a residential house. In some examples, the fascia board (also referred to simply as the fascia) can be used as a mounting surface for eavestroughs. Typically, the step of building construction involving the mounting and attachment of fascia boards can be cumbersome, awkward, and require multiple workers to accomplish safely.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to fascia hanging tools.

In some examples, a fascia board hanging tool includes: a main body portion; a hook portion adjustably coupled to the main body portion, such that the hook portion is securable at two or more heights with respect to the main body portion; and a securement mechanism configured to temporarily attach the main body portion to a portion of a rafter of a building; wherein the hook portion is oriented and positioned to hold a fascia board against a distal end of the rafter when the main body portion is attached to the rafter.

In some examples, a method of hanging fascia boards includes: adjusting a first support hook of a first fascia hanging tool to accommodate an expected fascia board size; attaching the first fascia hanging tool to a first building rafter, such that the first support hook of the first fascia hanging tool is configured to hold a fascia board against a distal end of the first rafter; placing the fascia board into the first support hook of the first fascia hanging tool; fastening the fascia board to the distal end of the first rafter while the board is held in place by the first fascia hanging tool; and removing the first fascia hanging tool from the first rafter.

Features, functions, and advantages may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an illustrative fascia hanging tool in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a side view of an illustrative fascia hanging tool, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a main body portion of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a fascia support arm of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a top cap portion of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 2.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of an alternative example of the main body portion of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of two embodiments of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 2 in use holding a fascia board proximate a building's roof framing.

FIG. 9 is a close-up view of one of the embodiments of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a side view of another illustrative fascia hanging tool in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 10 having the roof securement clamp adjusted to a different angle relative to the main body portion.

FIG. 12 is a front view of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a front isometric view of an alternative version of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 10.

FIG. 14 is a front isometric view of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 13 secured to a rafter of a building's roof framing.

FIG. 15 is a side isometric view of the fascia hanging tool of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 is a front view of another illustrative fascia hanging tool in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a side view of an illustrative eavestrough mounting accessory for a fascia hanging tool in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a side view of an alternative version of the eavestrough mounting accessory of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart depicting steps of an illustrative method for hanging fascia boards utilizing fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various aspects and examples of a fascia hanging tool, as well as related methods, are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, a fascia hanging tool in accordance with the present teachings, and/or its various components, may contain at least one of the structures, components, functionalities, and/or variations described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein. Furthermore, unless specifically excluded, the process steps, structures, components, functionalities, and/or variations described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein in connection with the present teachings may be included in other similar devices and methods, including being interchangeable between disclosed embodiments. The following description of various examples is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. Additionally, the advantages provided by the examples and embodiments described below are illustrative in nature and not all examples and embodiments provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

This Detailed Description includes the following sections, which follow immediately below: (1) Definitions; (2) Overview; (3) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (4) Advantages, Features, and Benefits; and (5) Conclusion. The Examples, Components, and Alternatives section is further divided into subsections, each of which is labeled accordingly.

Definitions

The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated. “Comprising,” “including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

Terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to show serial or numerical limitation.

“AKA” means “also known as,” and may be used to indicate an alternative or corresponding term for a given element or elements.

“Elongate” or “elongated” refers to an object or aperture that has a length greater than its own width, although the width need not be uniform. For example, an elongate slot may be elliptical or stadium-shaped, and an elongate candlestick may have a height greater than its tapering diameter. As a negative example, a circular aperture would not be considered an elongate aperture.

“Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components.

“Resilient” describes a material or structure configured to respond to normal operating loads (e.g., when compressed) by deforming elastically and returning to an original shape or position when unloaded.

“Rigid” describes a material or structure configured to be stiff, non-deformable, or substantially lacking in flexibility under normal operating conditions.

“Elastic” describes a material or structure configured to spontaneously resume its former shape after being stretched or expanded.

Directional terms such as “up,” “down,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and the like should be understood in the context of the particular object in question. For example, an object may be oriented around defined X, Y, and Z axes. In those examples, the X-Y plane will define horizontal, with up being defined as the positive Z direction and down being defined as the negative Z direction.

“Providing,” in the context of a method, may include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, manufacturing, generating, processing, preprocessing, and/or the like, such that the object or material provided is in a state and configuration for other steps to be carried out.

In this disclosure, one or more publications, patents, and/or patent applications may be incorporated by reference. However, such material is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict exists between the incorporated material and the statements and drawings set forth herein. In the event of any such conflict, including any conflict in terminology, the present disclosure is controlling.

Overview

In general, fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure are configured to assist an installer when hanging a fascia board or attaching the fascia board to a rafter tail of a building's roof framing. Typical construction methods for attaching fascia boards include having one person on each end of the board: one person holds a first end of the board in place, and the other person holds a second end with one hand and uses a screw or nail to attach the second end to the building with the other hand. The fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure are configured to hold the fascia board for the installer, such that the installer is not required to hold the fascia board themselves while attaching the fascia board to the roof framing of a building. By holding the fascia board for the installer, fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure are configured to facilitate hanging of fascia boards by a single person, i.e., without the assistance of a second person, making the process safer and more cost effective.

Fascia hanging tools (AKA fascia mounting tools) of the present disclosure are configured to be coupled to a portion of a rafter tail, lookout, and/or any other suitable portion of a building's roof framing and to hold and support a fascia board (AKA fascia) proximate or adjacent to the portion of the building's roof framing. In some examples, the fascia hanging tool includes a main body portion, a fascia support arm (AKA fascia support portion, support hook, U-shaped holder) coupled to the main body portion and configured to hold and support a fascia board, and a roof securement mechanism (AKA rafter securement mechanism) configured to temporarily secure the main body portion of the fascia hanging tool to the rafter tail, lookout, and/or other portion of the roof framing.

The roof securement mechanism of the fascia hanging tool may comprise any suitable mechanism configured to temporarily secure the fascia hanging tool to the rafter tail and/or other portion of the roof framing. For example, the roof securement mechanism may comprise a clamp, a clip, screws, bolts, etc. In some examples, the roof securement mechanism comprises a screw or bolt and the main body portion of the fascia hanging tool is configured to be screwed or bolted to the rafter tail and/or other portion of the roof framing. The main body portion of the fascia hanging tool may include predrilled mounting holes configured to receive the screws or bolts. In some examples, the roof securement mechanism comprises a clamp or clip coupled to the main body portion of the fascia hanging tool, such that the tool is configured to be secured to the roof framing by the clamp or clip. The roof securement mechanism of the fascia hanging tool is configured to temporarily secure the tool to the rafter of the roof framing, such that the tool is removable from the roof framing after installation of the fascia board is completed.

The fascia hanging tool includes one or more fascia support arms configured to hold and support a fascia board proximate to the portion of the roof framing that the tool is temporarily secured to by the roof securement mechanism. The fascia support arm of the tool may comprise any suitable component configured to independently hold and support the fascia board, such that an installer does not need to hold the fascia board. For example, the fascia support arm of the tool may comprise a support hook or U-shaped holder coupled to the main body portion and configured to receive the fascia board. The U-shaped holder or support hook may have a preselected width configured to accommodate the standard thickness of a fascia board (e.g., 1″ thickness) and/or an adjustable width.

Fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure may be adjustable, such that the fascia hanging tool can accommodate rafters and fascia boards of various sizes and rafters having various pitches. In some examples, the roof securement mechanism of the tool is pivotably coupled to the main body portion of the tool by any suitable mechanism configured to facilitate pitch adjustment of the roof securement mechanism to accommodate different rafter pitches of a building's roof framing. In some examples, the fascia support arm of the tool is removably coupled to the main body portion of the tool, such that the fascia support arm may be secured to the main body portion at various preselected heights. For example, the main body portion of the tool may include predrilled holes for coupling the fascia support arm to the main body portion at preselected heights that correspond to standard fascia board sizes (e.g., 3.5″ width, 5.5″ width, 7.5″ width, 9.5″ width, etc.). The roof securement mechanism, fascia support arm, and main body portion of the tool may comprise any suitable components configured to be adjusted to accommodate various different sizes and pitches of fascia boards and rafters of a building's roof framing.

Fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure and the different components of the tools may comprise any suitable materials configured to withstand the load of independently holding a fascia board proximate to a rafter tail of a building's roof framing. For example, the roof securement mechanism, fascia support portion, and/or main body portion may comprise a metal, a wood (e.g., plywood), and/or any other suitable material.

A method of mounting fascia board in accordance with aspects of the present teachings may include: adjusting a first and a second fascia hanging tool of the present disclosure to accommodate the expected fascia board size, attaching the first fascia hanging tool to a first rafter of a building's roof framing and attaching the second fascia hanging tool to a second rafter of the building's roof framing, placing the fascia board into the fascia support portion of the first and second fascia hanging tools, securing the fascia board to the rafter tails (i.e., distal end of the rafters) of the building's roof framing, and removing the first and second fascia hanging tools from the first and second rafters. By utilizing the fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure to hold the fascia board during installation, methods of mounting the fascia board in accordance with aspects of the present teachings require only a single person to install the fascia board and do not require the installer to hold the fascia board during installation.

After the fascia board is attached to the rafter tail of a building's roof framing, it is common in building construction to utilize the fascia board as a mounting surface for an eavestrough. As such, in some examples, fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure further include an eavestrough support portion configured to be coupled to the fascia hanging tool and/or the fascia board itself and to hold an eavestrough proximate the fascia board during installation. In some examples, the eavestrough support portion of the tool includes a U-shaped holder or hook configured to hold and support the eavestrough. The eavestrough support portion further includes a securement component that is configured to secure the eavestrough support portion to the fascia support arm of the tool and/or the fascia board itself. For example, the eavestrough support portion may include a clip or clamp that is configured to secure the eavestrough support portion to the fascia support portion of the fascia hanging tool and/or the fascia board itself. The eavestrough support portion of the fascia hanging tool is configured to ease the process of mounting eavestroughs on fascia board by independently holding the eavestrough for the installer.

Examples, Components, and Alternatives

The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative fascia hanging tools as well as related systems and/or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Each section may include one or more distinct embodiments or examples, and/or contextual or related information, function, and/or structure.

A. First Illustrative Fascia Hanging Tool

As shown in FIG. 1, this section describes an illustrative fascia hanging tool 1. Fascia hanging tool 1 is an example of fascia hanging tools, described above.

Fascia hanging tool 1 is configured to be removably secured to a portion of a building's roof framing and to hold and support a fascia board proximate the roof framing. Tool 1 includes a main body portion 2, a fascia support arm 4 configured to hold and support a fascia board, and a rafter securement mechanism 6 configured to temporarily secure tool 1 to the roof framing. Fascia support arm 4 is adjustably coupled to main body portion 2 and rafter securement mechanism 6 is pivotably coupled to main body portion 2, such that tool 1 is adjustable to accommodate different sizes of fascia boards and different pitches of rafters or lookouts of the roof framing. Main body portion 2 may also be referred to as a base, a body, a mounting structure, a baseplate, and/or a plate. Fascia support arm 4 may also be referred to as a support hook, a bracket, a slotted support, a U-shaped holder, and/or the like.

Fascia support arm 4 may comprise any suitable component configured to hold and support a fascia board proximate a portion of a building's roof framing (e.g., a rafter tail). For example, fascia support arm 4 may comprise a U-shaped arm or hook configured to receive the fascia board and independently hold and support the fascia board. As shown in FIG. 1, fascia support arm 4 is adjustably coupled to main body portion 2, such that fascia support arm 4 may be positioned at different heights relative to main body portion 2. Fascia support arm 4 may be adjustably coupled to main body portion 2 in any suitable manner, such that fascia support arm 4 is securable at two or more heights relative to main body portion 2. Adjustably coupling support arm 4 to main body portion 2 facilitates tool 1 adjusting to accommodate different sizes of fascia boards.

As an example, main body portion 2 may include one or more holes or apertures each configured to receive a respective multi-use fastener (e.g., bolt or screw) to secure fascia support arm 4 to main body portion 2 at different positions relative to main body portion 2. In such examples, the one or more holes may be disposed at preselected positions of main body portion 2 that correspond with different standard fascia board sizes. In some examples, fascia support arm 4 is coupled to main body portion 2 by a prismatic or slider joint formed by an attachment portion of fascia support arm extending vertically into a slot formed in the main body portion. In such examples, an adjustable spring pin (AKA pull pin) may be mounted on the main body portion and configured to be removably inserted into an attachment aperture in the attachment portion of the support arm to secure the support arm to the main body portion. Fascia support arm 4 itself may be sized and shaped to accommodate standard fascia board thicknesses (e.g., 1″ thickness) and/or have an adjustable size to accommodate different fascia board thicknesses.

Rafter securement mechanism 6 may comprise any suitable component configured to temporarily secure fascia hanging tool 1 to a portion of a building's roof framing (e.g., rafter, lookout, etc.). For example, rafter securement mechanism 6 may comprise a clamp or a clip configured to removably secure tool 1 to the roof framing. Rafter securement mechanism 6 is configured to temporarily secure tool 1 to the roof framing, such that the tool is removable from the roof framing after the fascia board is fastened to the roof framing.

As shown in FIG. 1, roof securement mechanism 6 is pivotably coupled to a top of main body portion 2, such that an angle of roof securement mechanism 6 relative to main body portion 2 is adjustable. The angle of roof securement mechanism 6 is adjustable to accommodate different rafter pitches of a building's roof framing. Roof securement mechanism may be pivotably coupled to main body portion 2 by any suitable lockable pivot joint configured to facilitate adjustment of roof securement mechanism 6 to a desired pitch relative to main body portion 2 and locking the roof securement mechanism at the desired pitch relative to main body portion 2. For example, roof securement mechanism 6 may be pivotably coupled to main body portion 2 by a bolt and tension knob, bolt and wingnut, and/or any other suitable mechanism. Additionally or alternatively to utilizing roof securement mechanism 6, fasteners 8 may be utilized to couple main body portion 2 of tool 1 to the portion of the roof framing of the building. Fasteners 8 may comprise any suitable multi-use fastener (e.g., bolts and/or screws) configured to temporarily secure tool 1 to the roof framing.

When in use, tool 1 is temporarily secured to a portion of a building's roof framing (e.g., the bottom of a rafter, side of a rafter, a lookout) by roof securement mechanism 6 and/or fasteners 8. Prior to securing tool 1 to the portion of the building's roof framing and/or while tool 1 is secured to the building's roof framing, the positioning of fascia support arm 4 relative to main body portion 2 may be adjusted to accommodate the expected fascia board size. The fascia board may then be placed into fascia support arm 4, such that fascia support arm 4 holds and supports the fascia board proximate the portion of the building's roof framing (e.g., rafter tail and/or lookout). An individual may then fasten the fascia board to the roof framing without the individual needing to hold the fascia board. After the fascia board is fastened to the building's roof framing, fascia hanging tool 1 is removed from the roof framing. In some examples multiple instances of tool 1 are utilized in the fascia board hanging process. For example, a first and a second fascia hanging tool may be utilized, such that each tool holds a respective end of the fascia board.

B. Second Illustrative Fascia Hanging Tool

As shown in FIGS. 2-9, this section describes an illustrative fascia hanging tool 100. Fascia hanging tool 100 is an example of fascia hanging tool 1, described above.

Fascia hanging tool 100 is configured to facilitate hanging of fascia boards by a single person, i.e., without the assistance of a second person, making the process safer and more cost effective. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, Fascia hanging tool 100 includes a main body portion 102, a fascia support portion 104, and a roof securement mechanism 106. Roof securement mechanism 106 is configured to temporarily secure tool 100 to a portion of a building's roof framing (e.g., a portion of a rafter of the roof framing) and fascia support portion 104 is configured to hold and support a fascia board proximate the roof framing of the building. Main body portion 102 of tool 100 is coupled to fascia support portion 104 and is configured to be secured to the building's roof framing by roof securement mechanism 106.

Fascia support portion 104 may also be referred to as a support hook, support arm, bracket, slotted support, U-shaped holder, and/or the like. Fascia support arm 104 may comprise any suitable component configured to be coupled to the main body portion and to receive a fascia board and to hold and support the fascia board, such that an installer of the board does not need to hold the board. Fascia support arm 104 may be coupled to main body portion 102 in any suitable manner, such that fascia support arm 104 is securable to main body portion 102 at two or more heights relative to main body portion 102. The adjustable height of fascia support arm 104 relative to main body portion 102 facilitates tool 100 adjusting to accommodate different sizes of fascia boards.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, fascia support arm 104 includes pre-drilled holes or apertures 108 and main body portion 102 includes predrilled support arm mounting holes or apertures 110. In this example, fascia support arm 104 is removably coupled to main body portion 102 by aligning pre-drilled holes or apertures 108 of fascia support arm 104 with support arm mounting holes 110 of main body portion 102 and utilizing removable fasteners 112 to secure the fascia support arm to the main body portion. Support arm mounting holes 110 may be positioned at preselected heights of main body portion 102 that correspond to standard fascia board sizes, such as 3.5″ width, 5.5″ width, 7.5″ width, and/or 9.5″ width. In this example, removable fasteners 112 include bolts and wingnuts, but any suitable fastener may be utilized.

FIG. 7 schematically depicts an alternative example of main body portion 102, designated main body 102′. In this example, fascia support arm 104 is adjustable in height by way of a selectable position slot arrangement. Pins fixedly coupled to the fascia support arm pass through the slot and are slidable therein. When in the elongate, continuous portion of the slot arrangement (on the left in the drawing) the fascia support arm is free to slide up and down on its pins. The pins can be selectively moved into any given pair of the L-shaped, dead-end branches or cul-de-sacs (on the right side in the drawing), thereby securing the fascia support arm at a selected height. In some examples, the structure of the fascia support arm is disposed on one side of the main body portion, as in FIG. 2, and the sliding support pins extend sideways through the slot. In some examples, the fascia support arm has portions on either side of the main body, with the sliding support pins passing through the slot from one side to the other.

Roof securement mechanism 106 is configured to temporarily and removably secure fascia hanging tool 100 to a portion of a building's roof framing (e.g., a rafter). Roof securement mechanism 106 may comprise any suitable mechanism configured to secure tool 100 to the roof framing, such that tool 100 is able to support a fascia board proximate to the roof framing and such that tool 100 is removable from the roof framing after the installation of the fascia board is completed. In this example, roof securement mechanism 106 of fascia hanging tool 100 includes a top cap portion 114 and one or more fasteners 116. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 6, 8, and 9, main body portion 102 includes a plurality of roof frame mounting holes 118 configured to receive fasteners 116 to secure main body portion 102 to the roof framing. Fasteners 116 may include one or more screws, bolts, and/or any other suitable temporary fastener.

Additionally or alternatively to fasteners 116, roof securement mechanism 106 may include top cap portion 114 configured to provide additional securement of tool 100 to the roof framing. As shown in FIG. 6, top cap portion 114 comprises a planar structure oriented generally orthogonally to main body portion 102 and configured to be disposed over a top portion of a rafter of the roof framing when tool 100 is secured to the rafter. As depicted in FIGS. 1-2 and 6, top cap portion 114 is pivotably coupled to main body portion 102 by a hinge 115 formed by a removable bolt and wingnut. Hinge 115 pivotably coupling top cap portion 114 to main body portion 102 facilitates the adjustment of the angle of top cap portion 114 relative to main body portion 102 to accommodate different pitches of the rafters of the roof framing. The wingnut of hinge 115 may be tightened to secure top cap portion 114 at a desired pitch relative to main body portion 102. In some examples, top cap portion 114 includes one or more apertures 117 for temporarily securing tool 100 to the rafter, e.g., using a screw. In some examples, top cap portion 114 is removable from main body portion 102 and/or absent from tool 100.

FIG. 8 depicts a first and a second fascia hanging tool (100A, 100B) secured to a first and a second rafter (120A, 120B) of a building's roof framing. Fascia hanging tools (100A, 100B) are secured to a side of rafters (120A, 120B). A fascia board 122 is disposed in fascia support arms (104A, 104B) of each tool (100A, 100B) and held proximate to the rafter tail (i.e., distal end) of rafters (120A, 120B). As fascia board 122 is held proximate the tail of rafters (120A, 120B), an installer is able to fasten fascia board 122 to the tail of rafters (120A, 120B) utilizing one or more screws and/or any other suitable fastener. By holding fascia board 122 for the installer, fascia hanging tools (100A, 100B) ease the fascia board hanging process for the installer. In the example of FIG. 8, first and second fascia hanging tools (100A, 100B) are utilized to hold and support different portions of fascia board 122. However, any suitable number of fascia hanging tools 100 may be utilized during the fascia board hanging process to hold and support the fascia board proximate the building's roof framing.

FIG. 9 depicts a close-up view of fascia hanging tool 100A secured to first rafter 120A. Fascia hanging tool 100A is secured to a side of rafter 120A by roof frame mounting holes 118A and fasteners 116A. In the example of FIG. 9, top cap portion 114 is absent, but in other examples top cap portion 114 is present and configured to be disposed over a top portion of rafter 120A to provide additional securement of tool 100 to rafter 120A.

C. Third Illustrative Fascia Hanging Tool

As shown in FIGS. 10-12, this section describes an illustrative fascia hanging tool 200. FIGS. 13-15 depict an alternative version of tool 200, designated as fascia hanging tool 200′. Fascia hanging tools 200 and 200′ are each an example of fascia hanging tools 1 and 100, described above.

As shown in FIGS. 10-12, fascia hanging tool 200 includes a main body portion 202, a first and a second fascia support arm (204A, 204B), and a roof securement mechanism 206. Main body portion 202 may also be referred to as a base, a body, a mounting structure, and/or a plate or baseplate. Fascia support arms (204A, 204B) may also be referred to as support hooks, brackets, slotted supports, U-shaped holders, and/or the like. Fascia hanging tool 200 is configured to be secured to a roof framing of a building and to independently hold and a support a fascia board proximate the roof framing of the building, such that a single person can attach the fascia board to the roof framing while the fascia board is independently held by the fascia hanging tool.

Roof securement mechanism 206 may comprise any suitable mechanism configured to temporarily secure tool 200 to a rafter 210 of a building's roof framing. In the example of FIGS. 10-12, roof securement mechanism 206 comprises a clamp configured to be clamped onto a bottom portion of rafter 210. Roof securement mechanism 206 may comprise any suitable adjustable clamp configured to temporarily secure tool 200 to the bottom portion of rafter 210.

As shown in FIGS. 10-12, roof securement mechanism 206 includes a first clamp plate 205A (AKA first jaw, first clamp face, etc.) configured to be disposed on a first side of rafter 210 and a second clamp plate 205B (AKA second jaw, second clamp face, etc.) configured to be disposed on the opposite side of rafter 210. One or more threaded fasteners (207A-C) extend beneath rafter 210 and couple a bottom portion of first clamp plate 205A to a bottom portion of second clamp plate 205B. Threaded fasteners 207A-C are configured such that adjustment of the threaded fasteners adjusts a distance between the first and second clamp plates. For example, threaded fasteners 207A-C may each extend into a respective aperture in first clamp plate 205A and a respective aperture in second clamp plate 205B. First clamp plate 205A may be affixed to each threaded fastener 207A-C and second clamp plate 205B may be able to slide freely over threaded fasteners 207A-C towards and away from first clamp plate 205A. In such examples, a wingnut may be utilized to secure second clamp plate 205B at a specific distance relative to first clamp plate 205A on the threaded fasteners. Threaded fasteners 207A-C may each comprise a threaded bolt and wingnut, screw, and/or any other suitable fastener.

In some examples, roof securement mechanism 206 includes one or more clamp handles 208A-C (AKA toggle mechanisms, clamp levers, etc.) coupled to each clamp plate (205A, 205B). Each clamp handle 208A-C is coupled to a respective movable clamping pad 209A-C (clamp pad 209A is not shown) and each clamp handle 208A-C is configured to control the engagement of the respective movable clamping pad with the rafter to secure tool 200 to the rafter. Each clamp handle 208A-C may be coupled to each clamping pad 209A-C by any suitable mechanism, such that actuation of the clamp handle controls the movement of the respective clamping pad relative to the clamp plate. The clamping pads are configured to be moved relative to the clamp plates to apply a force onto the rafter 210 to secure tool 200 to rafter 210. The clamp handles and clamp pads may be included on both of the clamp plates, only the first clamp plate, or only the second clamp plate of the roof securement mechanism.

In this example, first and second clamp plates (205A and 205B) each include one or more clamp handles (208A-C) disposed on a top portion of the clamp plates. As shown in FIG. 12, Clamp handles 208B-C are each coupled to a respective clamping pad (209B-C) and are configured to control the force applied by the respective clamping pad (209B-C) on rafter 210. As depicted in FIG. 12, clamping pads (209B and 209C) apply a force on opposite sides of rafter 210 to secure clamp 206 to rafter 210. Clamp handles (208B and 208C) may be actuated to move the clamping pads towards or away from rafter 210 to increase or reduce the force applied by the clamping pads on rafter 210. In some examples, only the first clamp plate includes the clamping pads and the clamp handles and the second clamp plate does not include any clamping pads or clamp handles or vice versa.

Clamp handles 208B-C may be coupled to clamping pads (209B-C) by any suitable mechanism configured such that actuation of the clamp handles controls the force applied by the clamping pads on the rafter. For example, clamp handle 208B may be a lever connected to movable clamping pad 209B, such that actuating the lever causes the movable clamping pad to move towards or away from the rafter. In such examples, the lever may be connected to the movable clamping pad 209B by a ratchet mechanism and/or any other suitable mechanism configured to facilitate the actuation of the lever increasing the pressure applied by the clamping pad 209B on the rafter. The lever may include a release button configured to release the pressure being applied by the clamping pad onto the rafter. In another example, clamp handle 208B may be coupled to clamping pad 209B by a threaded fastener extending through an aperture in clamp plate 205A. In such examples, rotating clamp handle 208B causes clamping pad 209B to move towards or away from rafter 210 to increase or decrease the force applied by the clamping pad on the rafter. In some examples, clamp handle 208B is coupled to clamping pad 209B by a mechanical linkage to form a push-pull toggle clamp. Clamp handle 208C may be coupled to clamping pad 209C by any of the mechanisms utilized to couple clamp handle 208B to clamping pad 209B, described above. In some examples, the clamp handles and clamp pads are absent, and threaded fasteners 207A-C are utilized to tighten first and second clamp plates (205A, 205B) onto rafter 210, such that the first and second clamp plates apply a force onto rafter 210 themselves.

First and second clamp plates (205A, 205B) are pivotably coupled to main body portion 202, such that the pitch of the first and second clamp plates relative to main body portion 202 is adjustable to accommodate different rafter pitches. First and second clamp plates (205A, 205B) may each be pivotably coupled to main body portion by any suitable mechanism configured to facilitate adjusting the clamp plate to a desired angle relative to main body portion 202 and temporarily locking the clamp plate at the desired angle relative to the main body portion. For example, the clamp plate may be coupled to the main body portion by a bolt about which the clamp plate is able to rotate relative to main body portion to a desired angle, and a wingnut configured to secure the clamp plate at the desired angle relative to the main body portion.

In the example of FIGS. 10-12, main body portion 202 is generally U-shaped having a first and a second vertical arm (203A, 203B). First clamp plate 205A is pivotably coupled to first vertical arm 203A of main body portion 202 by a first tension knob and bolt 212A, and second clamp plate 205B is pivotably coupled to second vertical arm 203B of main body portion 202 by a second tension knob and bolt 212B. Bolts and tension knobs 212A and 212B provide a pivot joint about which the first and second clamp plates are rotatable relative to main body portion 202. When the first and second clamp plates are rotated to the desired pitch relative to main body portion 202, tension knobs (212A and 212B) are configured to be tightened to lock the first and second clamp plates at the desired pitch.

As shown in FIG. 12, top portions of vertical arms (203A, 203B) of main body portion 202 are disposed on opposite sides of rafter 210 and first and second clamp plates (205A, 205B) are coupled to an outside of the top portions of vertical arms (203A, 203B). The distance between vertical arms 203A and 203B of main body portion 202 may be preselected to accommodate a standard size rafter (e.g., 2×4), such that the rafter fits between vertical arms (203A, 203B) of main body portion 202. As described above, threaded fasteners 207A-C may then be adjusted to tighten clamp plates 205A and 205B onto the rafter and clamp handles 208A-C may be actuated to engage the clamp pads with the rafter.

Fascia support arms 204A-B are coupled to main body portion 202 and configured to hold and support a fascia board 216 proximate the rafter tail and/or other portion of the building's roof framing. Fascia support arms 204A-B may each comprise any suitable mechanism configured to hold and support the fascia board. For example, fascia support arms 204A-B may each comprise a U-shaped hook or holder. Fascia support arms 204A-B may be adjustably coupled to main body portion 202 by any suitable mechanism configured to facilitate height adjustment of fascia support arms 204A-B relative to main body portion 202. For example, fascia support arms 204A-B may each be coupled to main body portion 202 by a respective slip joint, sliding joint, and/or prismatic joint allowing the support arms to move up and down relative to main body portion 202.

In the example of FIGS. 10-12, fascia support arms 204A-B each include a respective attachment portion 211A-B configured to form a prismatic joint with main body portion 202 and to be releasably secured at different heights relative to the main body portion. Attachment portion 211A of fascia support arm 204A extends vertically into a slot 215A in first vertical arm 203A of U-shaped main body portion 202, and attachment portion 211B of fascia support arm 204B extends vertically into a slot 215B in second vertical arm 203B of U-shaped main body portion 202. In some examples, rather than extending into slots (204A, 204B), attachment portions (211A, 211B) are positioned proximate to the side of vertical arms (203A, 203B).

Attachment portions 211A-B of support arms 204A-B each include one or more attachment holes 213A-B. A respective adjustable spring pin (AKA adjustable pull pin) 214A-B is mounted on each vertical arm 203A-B of main body portion 202 and each of the adjustable spring pins is configured to be removably inserted into one of attachment holes 213A-B of attachment portions 211A-B. When adjustable spring pins (214A, 214B) are inserted into attachment holes 213A-B, support arms 204A-B are secured to main body portion 202. When adjustable spring pins are removed from attachment holes (213A-B), support arms 204A-B are able to move linearly up and down relative to main body portion 202. Adjustable spring pins (214A, 214B) may comprise any suitable spring-loaded pins configured to be mounted on main body portion 202 and facilitate rapidly inserting and removing the pins from the attachment holes of the attachment portions of the fascia support arms.

To adjust the height of support arm 204A relative to main body portion 202, adjustable spring pin 214A is pulled out of a respective one of attachment holes 213A, such that support arm 204A is temporarily not secured to main body portion 202. Support arm 204A is then able to be moved up and down relative to main body portion 202 and attachment portion 211A of support arm 204A is allowed to freely slide up and down within slot 215A in vertical arm 203A of main body portion 202. A different one of attachment holes 213A of attachment extension 211A may then be aligned with adjustable spring pin 214A, and adjustable spring pin 214A is reinserted into the different one of attachment holes 213A to secure fascia support arm 204A at a different height relative to main body portion 202.

For example, as shown in FIG. 10, adjustable spring pin 214A is inserted in a lowest one of attachment holes 213A of attachment portion 211A, such that support arm 204A is disposed at a first height relative to main body portion 202. In FIG. 11, adjustable spring pin 214A is inserted in the second lowest one of attachment holes 213A and support arm 204A is disposed at a second height relative to main body portion 202 that is lower than the first height depicted in FIG. 10. The height of fascia support arm 204B relative to main body portion 202 may be adjusted in an identical manner utilizing attachment portion 211B, adjustable spring pin 214B, and attachment holes 213B. The positioning of attachment holes 213A-B on attachment extensions 211A-B may be preselected to correspond to standard fascia board sizes, such that the height of fascia support arms 204A-B is adjustable to accommodate standard fascia board sizes (e.g., 3.5″ width, 5.5″ width, 7.5″ width, 9.5″ width, etc.).

FIGS. 13-15 depict an alternative version of tool 200, designated as tool 200′. Tool 200′ includes a U-shaped main body portion 202′, a first and a second fascia support hook (204A′, 204B′), and a roof securement mechanism 206′. Roof securement clamp 206′ of tool 200′ is substantially similar to roof securement mechanism 206′, described above. Roof securement clamp 206′ includes a first and a second clamp plate (205A′ and 205B′) and one or more threaded fasteners (207A′, 207B′) coupling a bottom portion of the first clamp plate to the bottom portion of the second clamp plate. Threaded fasteners 207A′ and 207B′ are configured such that adjustment of the threaded fastener adjusts a distance between the first and second clamp plates. In this example, threaded fasteners (207A′, 207B′) each extend through a respective aperture in the first clamp plate and a respective aperture in the second clamp plate. Second clamp plate 205B is affixed to threaded fasteners (207A′, 207B′) and first clamp plate is able to move on the threaded fasteners towards and away from the second clamp plate. A wingnut is utilized to tighten first clamp plate 205A′ onto rafter 210′.

Each clamp plate (205A′, 205B′) of roof securement clamp 206′ is adjustably coupled to a respective vertical arm (203A′, 203B′) of U-shaped main body portion 202′, such that a pitch of roof securement clamp 206′ is adjustable to accommodate the pitch of a rafter 210′. In the example of FIGS. 13-15, each clamp plate (205A′, 205B′) is coupled to the respective vertical arm of main body portion 202′ by a bolt and wingnut (212A′, 212B′), but any other suitable adjustable fastener may be utilized to couple the clamp plates to the main body portion. The bolt provides a pivot joint about which clamp plates (205A′, 205B′) are able to rotate to a desired angle relative to main body portion 202, and the wingnut is utilized to secure the clamp plates at the desired angle relative to main body portion 202. Tool 200′ includes first and second support hooks (204A′, 204B′) fastened to a bottom portion of each respective vertical arm (203A′, 203B′) by one or more multi-use fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.). In some examples, first and second support hooks (204A′, 204B′) have a plurality of mounting holes configured to receive the multi-use fasteners.

As shown in FIGS. 13-15, when in use, tool 200′ is temporarily secured to a portion of the building's roof framing (e.g., the bottom of rafter 210′) by roof securement clamp 206′. A pitch of each clamp plate (205A′, 205B′) is adjusted relative to main body portion 202′ to accommodate the specific pitch of rafter 210′ to which the tool is secured to. After securing tool 200′ to the roof framing, a fascia board may be placed into fascia support hooks 204A′ and 204B′. The height of each fascia support hook (204A′, 204B′) relative to main body portion 202′ may be adjusted to accommodate the specific size of the fascia board being installed. Fascia support hooks (204A′, 204B′) hold and support the fascia board, such that an installer of the fascia board does not need to hold the fascia board after the fascia board is inserted into the fascia support hook. The installer can then fasten the fascia board to a rafter tail of rafter 210′. After the fascia board is secured to the roof framing, fascia hanging tool 200′ can be removed from the roof framing by unclamping roof securement clamp 206′ (i.e., loosening width adjustment bolts 207A′ and 207B′ of clamp 206′). In some examples, multiple instances of fascia hanging tool 200′ may be utilized in the fascia hanging process, described above. For example, a first and a second fascia hanging tool may be utilized to hold and support each end of the fascia board.

D. Fourth Illustrative Fascia Hanging Tool

As shown in FIG. 16, this section describes an illustrative fascia hanging tool 300 configured to assist an installer when installing fascia board on a gable end of a house and/or other building. Fascia hanging tool 300 is an example of fascia hanging tools 1, 100, 200, and 200′ described above.

Fascia hanging tool 300 is configured to assist an installer when installing fascia board on a gable end of a house. On the gable end of a house, it is common for the fascia board to be fastened to a distal end of lookouts of the house's roof framing, rather than the tail of a rafter. Thus, fascia hanging tool 300 is configured to be secured to the lookout of the house's roof framing and to hold and support a fascia board proximate the lookout of the building's roof framing, such that the fascia board can be fastened to the distal end of the lookout. As shown in FIG. 16, fascia hanging tool 300 includes a main body portion 302 coupled to a fascia support hook 304 and a roof securement clip 306. Roof securement clip 306 is configured to secure main body portion 302 to a lookout 308 and fascia support hook 304 is configured to hold a fascia board proximate a distal end of lookout 308.

Roof securement clip 306 may comprise any suitable clip configured to be clipped onto a top portion of lookout 308 to secure tool 300 to the lookout. Roof securement clip 306 may be sized and shaped to accommodate standard lookout sizes (e.g., 2×4). In some examples, roof securement clip 306 is pivotably coupled to main body portion 302, such that roof securement clip 306 is adjustable to accommodate different pitches of lookout 308. For example, roof securement clip 306 may be pivotably coupled to main body portion 302 by a hinge and/or any other suitable mechanism configured to facilitate the pitch adjustment of clip 306. Roof securement clip 306 may comprise metal and/or any other suitable material.

Fascia support hook 304 is configured to hold and support a fascia board proximate lookout 308. Fascia support hook 304 is adjustably coupled to main body, such that the height of fascia support hook 304 relative to main body portion 302 is adjustable to accommodate different standard fascia board sizes. Fascia support hook 304 may be adjustably coupled to main body portion 302 by any suitable mechanism configured to facilitate securing the support hook at different heights relative to main body portion 302.

In the example of FIG. 16, fascia support hook 304 is adjustably coupled to main body portion 302 in a similar manner as support arms (204A, 204B) are coupled to main body portion 202 of tool 200, described above. As shown in FIG. 16, fascia support hook 304 includes an attachment portion 311 configured to extend into a slot 315 in main body portion 302. A first and a second adjustable spring pin (310A, 310B) is mounted on main body portion 302 and each adjustable spring pin is configured to be selectively inserted into a respective one of a plurality of attachment holes 313 of attachment extension 311. The height of support hook 304 may be adjusted by pulling adjustable spring pins (310A, 310B) out of attachment holes 313 of attachment extension 311, sliding attachment extension 311 up or down in slot 315 until a different one of attachment holes 313 aligns with each spring pin (310A, 310B), and reinserting the spring pins in the different attachment holes. Attachment holes 313 may be spaced and disposed at predetermined positions corresponding to standard fascia board sizes.

When in use, tool 300 is secured to lookout 308 by clipping roof securement clip 306 over a top portion of lookout 308. The height of fascia support hook 304 is adjusted to accommodate the expected fascia board size utilizing adjustable spring pins (310A, 310B). The fascia board may then be placed into support hook 304, such that the fascia board is held proximate a distal end of lookout 308. An installer can then secure fascia board to the distal end of lookout 308 utilizing one or more screws and/or any other suitable fastener. After the fascia board is secured to lookout 308, tool 300 may be removed from lookout 308. Tool 300 may be removed from lookout 308 by pulling adjustable spring pins 310A-B out of attachment holes 313 and removing attachment extension 311 of fascia support hook 304 from slot 315 and main body portion 302. After support hook 304 is removed from tool 300, roof securement clip 306 may be unclipped from lookout 308 to remove tool 300 from the lookout.

E. Illustrative Eavestrough Mounting Tool

As shown in FIGS. 17-18, this section describes an illustrative eavestrough mounting accessory 400 and alternative version of eavestrough mounting accessory 400, designated as mounting accessory 400′. Eavestrough mounting accessories 400 and 400′ are each an accessory for fascia hanging tools 1, 100, 200, 200′, and 300, described above.

It is common in building construction to utilize fascia boards installed on a building's roof framing as a mounting surface for eavestroughs. Eavestrough mounting accessory 400 is configured to assist an installer when mounting an eavestrough on the fascia boards installed utilizing the fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure.

Eavestrough mounting tool includes an eavestrough support arm 402 configured to hold and support the eavestrough proximate the fascia board and a securement mechanism 404 configured to secure eavestrough mounting tool 400 to the fascia support arm of the fascia hanging tool and/or a portion of the fascia board itself. Eavestrough support arm 402 may also be referred to as an extension, U-shaped holder, support hook, and the like.

Eavestrough support arm 402 may comprise any suitable component configured to independently hold and support an eavestrough proximate a fascia board fastened to a building's roof framing. For example, eavestrough support arm 402 may comprise a U-shaped holder or a hook configured to receive and hold the eavestrough. In some examples, eavestrough support arm 402 is sized and shaped to accommodate a standard size eavestrough. Eavestrough support arm 402 may comprise any suitable material configured to withstand the load of independently holding and supporting the eavestrough. For example, eavestrough support arm may comprise wood, metal, and/or any other suitable material.

Securement mechanism 404 of eavestrough mounting accessory 400 is configured to temporarily secure eavestrough support arm 402 to a portion of the fascia board itself and/or to the fascia support arm of a fascia hanging tool of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 17, securement mechanism 404 comprises a clip configured to be clipped onto the fascia support arms of the fascia hanging tools of the present disclosure. In some examples, securement clip 404 is configured to be clipped onto the fascia board itself. Securement clip 404 may comprise metal and/or any other suitable material.

FIG. 18 depicts an alternative version of eavestrough mounting accessory 400, designated as accessory 400′. Roof securement clamp 406′ of eavestrough mounting accessory 400′ includes a securement clamp 406′, rather than securement clip 404 of accessory 400. As shown in FIG. 18, clamp 406′ is configured to clamp onto a bottom end of a fascia board installed on a building's roof framing. Additionally or alternatively, securement mechanism 404 may include one or more fasteners (e.g., screws and/or bolts) configured to temporarily secure eavestrough support arm 402 to the fascia board installed on the roof framing.

When in use, eavestrough mounting accessory 400 may be secured to the fascia board and/or the fascia support arm of the fascia hanging tool. After the fascia board has been fastened to the roof framing of the building, the installer places the eavestrough in eavestrough support arm 402 of accessory 400. The installer may then fasten the eavestrough to the fascia board. After the eavestrough is fastened to the fascia board, the eavestrough mounting accessory may be removed. In some examples, multiple instances of the eavestrough mounting accessory are utilized to hold the eavestrough. For example, a first and a second eavestrough mounting accessory may be utilized to hold each end of the eavestrough.

F. Illustrative Method of Hanging Fascia Boards

This section describes steps of an illustrative method 500 for mounting or hanging fascia boards; see FIG. 19. Aspects of fascia hanging tools 1, 100, 200, and 300 may be utilized in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step. These references are for illustration, and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of method 500 are described below and depicted in FIG. 19, the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than the order shown.

Step 502 of method 500 includes adjusting one or more fascia hanging tools to accommodate the expected fascia board size. For example, the fascia mounting tool may be adjusted to assist with installing a 2″×8″ fascia board. Adjusting the fascia tool to accommodate the expected fascia board size may include detaching and reattaching the fascia support hook to the main body portion to a height corresponding to the expected size of the board.

Step 504 of method 500 includes attaching a first one of the fascia hanging tools to a first rafter of a building's roof framing. The fascia hanging tool includes a roof securement mechanism configured to temporarily secure the tool to the rafter of the building's roof framing. In some examples, the roof securement mechanism includes one or more screw or bolts configured to be utilized to secure the tool to the rafter of the roof framing. In some examples, the roof securement mechanism comprises a clamp configured to be clamped onto a bottom or side of the rafter to secure the tool to the rafter.

Step 506 of method 500 includes attaching a second one of the fascia hanging tools to a second rafter of the building's roof framing. The second fascia hanging tool may be attached to the second rafter in any of the manners described above in step 504 of method 500. In some examples, attachment of the first and second tools to the first and second rafters may include coupling the tools to the rafters at a desired height and/or depth relative to the rafter. In some examples steps 504 and 506 of method 500 may include placing (and/or securing) an adjustable-angle top cap of the tool over a top portion of the rafter.

Step 508 of method 500 includes placing a fascia board into the fascia support arm of the first and the second fascia hanging tools. After the fascia hanging tools are adjusted to the size of the fascia board and secured to the rafters of the roof framing, the fascia board may be inserted into the fascia support arm of the first and second fascia hanging tools. The first and second fascia hanging tools are configured to hold and support the fascia board proximate the rafter tails of the roof framing. At this point in the process, the fascia board is in position to be secured to the rafter tails and is held in that position independently by the two tools (i.e., without requiring a hand of an installer to hold the fascia board).

Step 510 of method 500 includes securing the fascia board to the rafter tail (i.e., the distal end of the rafter) while the board is held in place by the first and second fascia hanging tools. The first and second hanging tools hold the fascia board independently (i.e., without assistance from an installer of the fascia board), such that the fascia board can be installed by a single person.

Step 512 of method 500 includes removing the first and second fascia hanging tools from the first and second rafters, after the fascia board is secured to the roof framing. Removing the first and second mounting tools from the first and second rafters may be accomplished by removing the roof securement mechanism from the first and second rafters respectively.

The above steps may be repeated as many times as desired, and the fascia hanging tool(s) may be reused as needed. In the example described above, two fascia hanging tools are utilized but any suitable number of fascia hanging tools may be utilized in the fascia board hanging process.

G. Illustrative Combinations and Additional Examples

This section describes additional aspects and features of fascia hanging tools, presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be alphanumerically designated for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs, and/or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application, including the materials incorporated by reference in the Cross-References, in any suitable manner. Some of the paragraphs below expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing without limitation examples of some of the suitable combinations.

A0. A fascia board hanging tool, comprising:

a main body portion;

a hook portion adjustably coupled to the main body portion, such that the hook portion is securable at two or more heights with respect to the main body portion; and

a securement mechanism configured to temporarily attach the main body portion to a portion of a rafter of a building;

wherein the hook portion is oriented and positioned to hold a fascia board against a distal end of the rafter when the main body portion is attached to the rafter.

A1. The tool of paragraph A0, wherein the main body portion comprises a planar expanse.

A2. The tool of paragraphs A0 or A1, wherein the hook portion is coupled to the main body portion by one or more multi-use fasteners.

A3. The tool of any one of paragraphs A0-A2, wherein the securement mechanism includes one or more holes in the main body portion, each of the one or more holes configured to receive a respective fastener to secure the main body portion to the rafter.

A4. The tool of any one of paragraphs A0-A3, wherein the securement mechanism comprises a clip pivotably coupled to the main body portion and configured to secure the main body portion to a top of the rafter.

A5. The tool of any one of paragraphs A0-A3, wherein the securement mechanism comprises a clamp pivotably coupled to the main body portion and configured to secure the main body portion to the rafter.

A6. The tool of paragraph A5, wherein the roof securement clamp includes a first clamp plate and a second clamp plate configured to be disposed on opposing sides of the rafter.

A7. The tool of paragraph A6, wherein the main body portion is U-shaped having a first vertical arm and a second vertical arm, wherein the first clamp plate is pivotably coupled to the first vertical arm of the main body portion by a first pivot joint, and the second clamp plate is pivotably coupled to the second vertical arm of the main body portion by a second pivot joint.

A8. The tool of paragraph A6 or A7, further comprising one or more threaded fasteners coupling the first clamp plate to the second clamp plate, wherein the one or more threaded fasteners are configured such that adjustment of the one or more threaded fasteners adjusts a distance between the first clamp plate and the second clamp plate.

A9. The tool of any one of paragraphs A6-A8, wherein the first clamp plate includes a movable clamping pad configured to move relative to the first clamp plate and apply a force on the rafter.

A10. The tool of paragraph A9, further comprising a handle coupled to the movable clamping pad such that actuation of the handle is configured to control the force applied by the movable clamping pad on the rafter.

A11. The tool of paragraph A9 or A10, wherein the second clamp plate includes a second movable clamping pad configured to move relative to the second clamp plate and apply a force on the rafter.

A12. The tool of paragraph A11, further comprising a second handle coupled to the second movable clamping pad such that actuation of the second handle is configured to control the force applied by the second movable clamping pad on the rafter.

A13. The tool of paragraph A11 or A12, wherein the movable clamping pad of the first clamp plate is configured to apply the force on a first side of the rafter and the second movable clamping pad of the second clamp plate is configured to apply the force on a second side of the rafter opposite the first side.

A14. The tool of any one of paragraphs A0-A13, wherein the support hook is adjustably coupled to the main body portion by a prismatic joint formed by an attachment portion of the support hook extending vertically into a slot formed in the main body portion, such that the attachment portion of the support hook is configured to slide in the slot to adjust a height of the support hook relative to the main body portion.

A15. The tool of paragraph A14, wherein the attachment portion of the support hook includes two or more apertures, and the main body portion includes a pin configured to be removably inserted in one of the two or more apertures to secure the support hook to the main body portion at one of the two or more heights relative to the main body portion.

A16. The tool of any one of paragraphs A0-A15, further comprising an extension coupled to the support hook and configured to hold an eavestrough proximate the fascia board held by the support hook.

A17. The tool of paragraph A16, wherein the extension is coupled to the support hook by a clip.

A18. The tool of paragraph A16, wherein the extension is coupled to the support hook by a clamp.

B0. A tool comprising:

a U-shaped main body portion having a first and a second vertical arm;

a first support hook adjustably coupled to the first vertical arm of the main body portion, such that the first support hook is securable at two or more heights with respect to the main body portion;

a second support hook adjustably coupled to the second vertical arm of the main body portion, such that the second support hook is securable at two or more heights with respect to the main body portion; and

a clamp pivotably coupled to the main body portion and configured to temporarily attach the main body portion to a portion of a rafter of a building, wherein the first and second support hooks are each oriented and positioned to hold a fascia board against a distal end of the rafter when the main body portion is attached to the rafter.

B1. The tool of paragraph B0, wherein the clamp includes:

- a first clamp plate pivotably coupled to a top portion of the first vertical arm of the main body portion;
- a second clamp plate pivotably coupled to the second vertical arm of the main body portion; and
- wherein the first and second clamp plates are configured to be disposed on opposing sides of the rafter to secure the main body portion to the rafter.

B2. The tool of paragraph B1, further comprising one or more threaded fasteners coupling the first clamp plate to the second clamp plate, wherein the one or more threaded fasteners are configured such that adjustment of the one or more threaded fasteners adjusts a distance between the first clamp plate and the second clamp plate and tightens the clamp onto the rafter.

B3. The tool of any one of paragraphs B0-B2, wherein each clamp plate includes one or more clamp handles configured to control the engagement of one or more clamp pads with the rafter, wherein the clamp is secured to the rafter when the one or more clamp pads are engaged with the rafter.

B4. The tool of any one of paragraphs B0-B3, wherein the first support hook is coupled to the main body portion by a first prismatic joint formed by an attachment portion of the first support hook extending vertically into a slot in the first vertical arm of the main body portion, such that the attachment portion of the first support hook is configured to slide in the slot relative to the main body portion to adjust the height of the first support hook relative to the main body portion.

B5. The tool of any one of paragraphs B0-B4, further comprising a first adjustable pull pin mounted on the first vertical arm of the main body portion, wherein the attachment portion of the first support hook includes two or more apertures, and wherein the first adjustable pull pin is configured to be removably inserted into one of the two or more apertures of the attachment portion to secure the support a hook at one of the two or more heights relative to the main body portion.

C0. A method of hanging fascia boards, the method comprising:

adjusting two instances of the tool of any one of paragraphs A0-A18 or B0-B5 to accommodate the expected fascia board size;

attaching a first one of the tools to a first building rafter such that the fascia support arm of the first tool is configured to hold the fascia board against an end of the first rafter;

attaching a second one of the tools to a second building rafter such that the fascia support arm of the second tool is configured to hold the fascia board against an end of the second rafter;

placing the fascia board into the fascia support arm of the first and second tools;

fastening the fascia board to the end of the first rafter while the board is held in place only by the first and second tools;

removing the first and second tools from the first and second rafters.

C1. The method of C0, further comprising fastening the fascia board to the end of the second rafter before removing the tools.

C2. The method of C0 or C1, wherein the tools are attached to the sides of the rafters using removable screws.

C3. The method of any one of paragraphs C0 or C1, wherein the tools are attached to the rafters using one or more clamps.

D0. A method of hanging fascia boards, the method comprising:

adjusting a first support hook of a first fascia hanging tool to accommodate an expected fascia board size;

attaching the first fascia hanging tool to a first building rafter, such that the first support hook of the first fascia hanging tool is configured to hold a fascia board against a distal end of the first rafter;

placing the fascia board into the first support hook of the first fascia hanging tool;

fastening the fascia board to the distal end of the first rafter while the board is held in place by the first fascia hanging tool; and

removing the first fascia hanging tool from the first rafter.

D1. The method of paragraph D0, further comprising:

adjusting a second support hook of a second fascia hanging tool to accommodate the expected fascia board size;

attaching the second fascia hanging tool to a second building rafter, such that the second support hook of the second fascia hanging tool is configured to hold the fascia board against a distal end of the second rafter;

placing the fascia board into the first support hook of the first fascia hanging tool and the second support hook of the second fascia hanging tool;

fastening the fascia board to the distal end of the first rafter and the second rafter while the board is held in place by the first fascia hanging tool and the second fascia hanging tool; and

removing the second fascia hanging tool from the second rafter.

D2. The method of paragraph D0 or D1, wherein attaching the first hanging tool to the first rafter includes attaching the first fascia hanging tool to the side of the first rafter utilizing one or more multi-use fasteners.

D3. The method of any one of paragraphs D0-D2, wherein the first fascia hanging tool includes a clamp, and wherein attaching the first fascia hanging tool to the first rafter includes securing the clamp to the rafter.

D4. The method of paragraph D3, further comprising adjusting a pitch of the clamp to accommodate the pitch of the first rafter.

D5. The method of any one of paragraphs D0-D4, further comprising:

attaching an extension to a portion of the first support hook;

placing an eavestrough in the extension; and

fastening the eavestrough to the fascia board while the eavestrough is held in place by the extension.

Advantages, Features, and Benefits

The different embodiments and examples of the fascia hanging tools described herein provide several advantages over known solutions for mounting fascia board on a building's roof framing. For example, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow for a tool to be attached to a portion of the building's roof framing (e.g., rafters) and independently hold and support a fascia board proximate the roof framing. Independently holding and supporting the fascia board proximate the roof framing by the tool eases the fascia board installation process for an installer and enables a single person to install the fascia board on their own.

Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow for an adjustable fascia hanging tool that is configured to be adjusted to accommodate various different rafter sizes and pitches and various different sizes of fascia boards.

Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow a fascia hanging tool including a eavestrough mounting accessory configured to independently hold and support an eavestrough while mounting the eavestrough on the fascia board.

No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all embodiments and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantage.

Conclusion

The disclosure set forth above may encompass multiple distinct examples with independent utility. Although each of these has been disclosed in its preferred form(s), the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. To the extent that section headings are used within this disclosure, such headings are for organizational purposes only. The subject matter of the disclosure includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and/or properties disclosed herein. The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and nonobvious. Other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a related application. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the present disclosure.

FASCIA BOARD HANGING TOOL

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