SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WALL PANEL TRIM INSTALLATION

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an improved system and method for wall panel trim installation.

BACKGROUND

Wall panel trim systems and methods for installing wall panels are a relatively economic way of cladding the surfaces of buildings. However, prior wall panel trim systems and methods often require significant time and skill to install, as the trim pieces may need to be cut to fine tolerances in order to avoid unsightly gaps and to avoid sharp edges. Prior wall panel systems may also experience problems with the building settling over time, which may cause installed trim pieces to become misaligned or distressed, causing siding to buckle, or windows to crack under pressure.

In addition, prior wall panel systems may experience problems with trapped moisture, which may cause damage to the installed panels and underlying wall surfaces with mold and other issues related to trapped moisture, shortening their life. Prior wall systems may also require offsite assembly, or may consist of only a few types of trim pieces, limiting the ability to measure accurately, and place panels quickly and without compromised finished appearances, such as unsightly visible gaps. Poor installation can also impact wind load and water performance. Prior wall systems may also require a long learning curve to understand the installation process, often limiting installation to specialty labor, causing high installation costs.

What is needed is an improved wall panel trim reveal system and method for cladding the exterior of buildings with exterior wall panels which overcomes at least some of the drawbacks and limitations as described above.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a system and method for wall panel trim installation.

In an aspect, there is disclosed a plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles having a back plate adapted to receive a top cap within a bracket. The bracket includes a mounting base and walls extending up from either side of the base. At least one flange formed on the outside of the walls extends outwardly, and forms a shallow channel for receiving an adhesive or a sealant. Inwardly extending protrusions formed near the top of the walls are adapted to engage corresponding protrusions formed on a top cap which is received within the bracket formed in the mounting base.

In use, an adhesive is applied within the shallow channel of the laterally extending flange prior to a wall panel being placed into position for mounting. The adhesive is also applied inside the adapted walls under the inwardly extruding protrusions, and thereby removing chatter caused by wind and movement between the back plate and corresponding top cap. A corresponding top cap with one or more extending flanges is then hammered along its length into the mounting base to secure the wall panel between the at least one flange with the shallow channel and a flange portion of the top cap.

In an embodiment, each top cap is adapted to be received within the bracket of the mounting only part way, with clearance between the bottom of the top cap and the bottom of the mounting base. This clearance is provided in order for fasteners, such as brad nails and weather sealed screws, to be used to install a mounting base on a wall. This space may also be used as a channel for wiring, for lighting and solar panels, for example.

In an embodiment, the mounting base includes a center line or a screw set line which assists an installer to properly position the mounting base on a grid line drawn prior to installation. One or more pre-drilled apertures along the length of the mounting base which allows uniform spacing for the brad nails and weather sealed screws when installing a mounting base.

In another embodiment, the top cap includes at least one flange which includes a bent portion which is positioned generally parallel to one wall of the mounting base. This allows the top cap to be used at an edge of the wall where a transition is needed for another type of wall covering.

In another embodiment, the mounting base includes a lateral extension of the mounting base to at least one side in order to provide a wider mounting base which engages a wall.

In another embodiment, a pair of mounting bases are coupled at an interlocking pivot point adapted to permit the pair of mounting bases to be rotated at least partially relative to each other. This rotation allows the pair of mounting bases to be used at an inside corner or an outside corner which forms a range of angles, including a right angle at 90 degrees, and a range of acute or obtuse angles on either side of 90 degrees.

In another embodiment, an integral profile forms an inside corner which may receive the edges of two wall panels at a right angle.

In another embodiment, a two-piece inside corner allows for open access to measure and place a panel. This two-piece inside corner is also used to accommodate building movement and building compression between floors.

In another embodiment, an outside corner profile includes mounting bases formed at right angles which each mount to a wall with fasteners. A corresponding outside corner top cap includes extending protrusions adapted to engage a corresponding locking channel formed on the outside corner profile.

In another embodiment, there is an outside corner mounting base and top cap with a float to allow for building movement and building compression between floors.

In another embodiment, at least one shallow channel extending from a wall of the mounting base forms a channel which is at least partially parallel to the wall. This permits the profile to be used at a corner, or at a transition point between the wall panels and another type of wall covering.

In another embodiment, the trim piece back plates are color coded, such that correct installation of the pieces is simplified. By uniquely color coding each type of trim piece, incorrect installation of the pieces in the wrong location can be avoided.

In another embodiment, the wall panel trim system provides continuous airflow behind the installed panels via airflow gaps provided between all installed pieces.

In another embodiment, the wall panel trim system provides a built in thermal break which minimizes any inward deflection or warping of panels.

In another embodiment, one or more of the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles include leveling guides to assist in leveling and squaring the profiles as they are installed.

In another aspect, one or more of the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles are adapted to be installed with suitable gaps to allow for vertical compression of a wall, particularly between floors of a building.

In an embodiment, the horizontal trim profiles include a horizontal compression top cap with an extended lower flange which initially covers any gap with a lower panel, and also allows a vertical trim compression piece to be positioned atop the extended lower flange of the horizontal compression top cap.

In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applications to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or the examples provided therein, or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1(i) to 1(xxx) show various trim pieces that may be used for wall panel trim installation in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 1(xxxi) shows a caulk used during installation of wall panels.

FIG. 1(xxxii) shows a system tape used during installation of the wall panels.

FIG. 1(xxxiii) shows a screw for installing the trim pieces during installation of the wall panels.

FIGS. 1(xxxiv)-1(xxxvii) show a hammer block for protecting trim pieces during installation.

FIGS. 1(xxxviii)-1(xxxxiii) show a panel clip for temporarily holding panels in position during installation of the wall panels.

FIGS. 1(xxxxiv) and 1(xxxxv) show the panel clip of FIGS. 1(xxxviii)-1(xxxxiii) in use to temporarily hold a panel P in position.

FIGS. 2(i) to 2(xxxiv) show step-by-step installation steps for installing wall panels in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIGS. 3(i) and 3(ii) show a partially installed wall and a fully installed wall, respectively.

FIGS. 4(i) to 4(xvi) show cross-sectional views of trim and wall panel installations in accordance with various illustrative embodiments.

FIGS. 5(i) to 5(iii) show perspective views of a compression system which allows a degree of vertical compression between stages of the wall.

FIG. 6 shows a detailed partial cut-out view showing how the vertical trim pieces and the horizontal piece are arranged in the compression system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As noted above, the present disclosure relates to a system and method for wall panel trim installation.

Various illustrative embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings.

Referring to FIGS. 1(i) to 1(xviii), shown are various trim pieces that may be used for wall panel trim installation in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. For ease of reference, the profiles are identified as “QP1” through “QP21”, and a description of each profile is provided in Table 1 below:

TABLE 120

Identi-

FIG.
fication
Description

FIG. 1(i)
QP0
Window Drip Cap Flashing

FIG. 1(ii)
QP1
Continuous Perforated Vented Flashing

FIG. 1(iii)
QP2
Arrow Outside Corner Assembly

FIG. 1(iv)
QP3
Inside Corner

FIG. 1(v)
QP4
Perimeter Starter Trim Assembly

FIG. 1(vi)
QP5
Vertical Main Body Assembly

FIG. 1(vii)
QP6
Rain Screen Furring Spacers

FIG. 1(viii)
QP7
Continuous Metal Flashing

FIG. 1(ix)
QP8
Horizontal Main Body Assembly

FIG. 1(x)
QP9
Soffit Termination Assembly

FIG. 1(xi)
QP10
Horizontal Window Sill Assembly

FIG. 1(xii)
QP11
Vertical Window Sides Assembly

FIG. 1(xiii)
QP12
Wall Penetration Assembly

FIG. 1(xiv)
QP13
Multi-Angle Inside Corner Assembly

FIG. 1(xv)
QP14
Multi-Angle Outside Corner Assembly

FIG. 1(xvi)
QP15
Perforated Vented Soffit Plate

FIG. 1(xvii)
QP16
Vertical Termination Assembly

FIG. 1(xviii)
QP17
Corner Termination Assembly

FIG. 1(xix)
QP18
Continuous Compression Metal Flashing

FIG. 1(xx)
QP19-T
Horizontal Compression Assembly - Top

FIG. 1(xxi)
QP19-B
Horizontal Compression Assembly - Back

FIG. 1(xxii)
QP20-T
Outside Corner Compression Assembly - Top

FIG. 1(xxiii)
QP20-B
Outside Corner Compression Assembly - Back

FIG. 1(xxix)
QP21-T
Inside Corner Compression Assembly - Top

FIG. 1(xxx)
QP21-B
Inside Corner Compression Assembly - Back

In an embodiment, each of the profiles listed in Table 1 may be color coded, either by entirely, or by using color coded paint or labels, in order to uniquely identify each profile. The color coding may be used to quickly identify a part during installation, and avoid incorrect installation in the wrong location. Corresponding color coding may also be used in an accompanying installation manual, showing where each profile is installed, and the order in which installation should take place. The color coding may be unique, or grouped by type as long as they are visually distinctive and can be easily identified by shape. Color coding on one location or one side of the profiles may also be used to identify correct orientation for installation.

As shown in profile view in FIG. 1(ii), and as installed in FIG. 2(iii), Continuous Perforated Vented Flashing QP1 provides a starting base with a drip edge, which provides a laterally extending ledge to ensure that any vertical or corner top caps do not slide down beyond this point. The Continuous Perforated Vented Flashing QP1 also includes perforations which allow moisture to flow through the Flashing QP1, and also allow ventilation to pass into the wall assembly from below. By installing this Continuous Perforated Vented Flashing QP1 accurately in a perfectly horizontal position, installation of additional pieces on top of the Continuous Perforated Vented Flashing QP1 becomes significantly easier.

FIG. 1(iii) and FIG. 2(iv) show an Arrow Outside Corner Assembly QP2 in a profile view, and as installed over the Continuous Perforated Vented Flashing QP1, respectively. FIG. 1(iv) and FIG. 2(v) show an Inside Corner QP3 in a profile view and as installed.

FIG. 1(v) and FIG. 2(vi) show a Perimeter Starter Trim Assembly QP4 in a profile view, and as installed. The Perimeter Starter Trim Assembly QP4 includes an extending panel platform area for supporting a panel plated on the The Perimeter Starter Trim Assembly QP4. The top cap of the Perimeter Starter Trim Assembly QP4 includes sloped sidewalls that form an angle of between about 2 degrees to 45 degrees from a more typical 90 degree angle formed by the side walls. The sloped sidewalls allow the top cap to provide better drainage of moisture when the top cap is installed in a horizontal orientation. The top cap of the Perimeter Starter Trim Assembly QP4 also includes a base drip edge which extends outwardly to allow moisture to drip off away from the wall. The sloped side walls also improves the aesthetics of the reveal adding more shadow and reflection surfaces.

FIG. 1(vi) and FIG. 2(vii) show a Vertical Main Body Assembly QP5 in a profile view, and as installed.

FIG. 1(vii) and FIG. 2(viii) show a Rain Screen Furring Spacer QP6 in a profile view, and as installed. This Rain Screen Furring Spacer QP6 prevents an installed panel from deflecting or warping too far inwardly, while allowing air to pass and circulate between the wall and any installed panels.

FIG. 1(viii) and FIG. 2(xiv) show a Continuous Metal Flashing QP7 in a profile view, and as installed. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 2(xv), weather tape 410 may be used to seal the top of the Flashing QP7. Also, as shown in FIG. 2(xix), a silicon adhesive may be used to seal each edge of the Continuous Metal Flashing QP7 to prevent entry of moisture through the sides.

FIG. 1(ix) and FIG. 2(xvi) show a Horizontal Main Body Assembly QP8 in a profile view, and as installed. The Horizontal Main Body Assembly QP8 is installed over the Continuous Metal Flashing QP7, and provides a panel platform area for supporting a panel installed thereon.

With reference to all of the above figures, the trim profiles have a number of features in common.

In use, an adhesive is applied within the shallow channel of the laterally extending flange prior to a wall panel being placed into position for mounting. A corresponding top cap with one or more extending flanges is then hammered along its length into the mounting base to secure the wall panel between the at least one flange with the shallow channel and a flange portion of the top cap.

In an embodiment, each top cap is adapted to be received within the bracket of the mounting only part way, with clearance between the bottom of the top cap and the mounting base. This clearance is provided in order for fasteners, such as brad nails and weather sealed screws, to be used to install a mounting base on a wall. This clearance space can also run wiring in the channels, protected from the weather.

In an embodiment, the mounting base includes a center line which assists an installer to properly position the mounting base on a grid line drawn prior to installation. One or more pre-drilled apertures along the length of the mounting base allows uniform spacing for the brad nails and weather sealed screws when installing a mounting base.

In another embodiment, the mounting base includes a lateral extension of the mounting base to at least one side in order to provide a wider mounting base which engages a wall.

In another embodiment, an integral profile forms an inside corner which may receive the edges of two wall panels at a right angle. There is also a two-piece inside corner that allows for open access to measure and place a panel. The two-piece inside corner is also used to accommodate building movement and building compression between floors.

In another embodiment there is an outside corner mounting base and top cap with a float to allow for building movement and building compression between floors.

In another embodiment, the trim pieces are color coded, such that correct installation of the pieces is simplified. By uniquely color coding each type of trim piece, incorrect installation of the pieces in the wrong location can be avoided.

In another embodiment, the wall panel trim system provides continuous airflow behind the installed panels via airflow gaps provided between all installed pieces.

In another embodiment, the wall panel trim system provides a built in thermal break which minimizes any inward deflection or warping of panels.

In another embodiment, one or more of the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles include leveling guides to assist in leveling and squaring the profiles as they are installed.

Now referring to FIGS. 1(xix) to 1(xxi), shown are various fasteners for fastening the trim pieces and wall panels in accordance with an illustrative embodiment, including an adhesive, weather tape, and sealed screws, respectively.

Various specialty tools may be used during installation, including panel holders, hammer blocks, pump style suction cups, a track saw, an impact driver for fastening the sealed screws, and an adhesive applicator for applying adhesive.

Various general installation tools may also be used during installation, including a tape measure, utility knife, building pencil, permanent marker, extension cords, hammer tacker, chalk line, compound mitre saw, table saw, air compressor/air hoses, 18 gauge brad nailer/finish nailer, angle grinder with zip disk, jigsaw and metal drill bit. Additional general installation tools may include 2′ level, 4′ level, 8′ level, mini speed square, framer square, laser level, many pry bar, needle nose pliers, hammer, rubber mallet, metal file, tin snips, and a portable panel track saw.

Now referring to FIG. 1(ii), referring to drawings for the architectural elevation design ridgelines, chalk lines or a laser level guide should be used to mark out horizontal and vertical grid lines which are level and plumb. Centre guide line markers provided on all trim assembly back plates may be used to improve alignments accuracy and efficiency.

FIG. 2(i) shows an illustrative completed wall panel installation, which will now be described in more detail.

Starting with FIG. 2(ii), chalk lines are used to mark out a desired wall grid pattern with horizontal and vertical lines.

Now referring to FIG. 2(iiii), the first trim piece to be installed is a QP1 continuous perforated vented flashing which is mounted 2¼″ from an inside corner. The QP1 is levelled and fastened with brad nails along the top edge.

Now referring to FIG. 2(iv), a QP2 arrow outside corner back plate is placed vertically on top of the QP1 continuous perforated vented flashing. The QP2 back plates is aligned and fastened with brad nails. In addition, the QP2 back plates is fastened with sealed screws every 12″ alternating on each side of the nailing flange with a 6″ offset. This alternating screw spacing method is used throughout the installation of subsequent corner trim assemblies.

Now referring to FIG. 2(v), a QP3 inside corner is fastened with bard nails. In addition, the QP3 profile is fastened with sealed screws every 12″ alternating on each side of the nailing flange with a 6″ offset.

Now referring to FIG. 2(vi), a plurality of QP4 perimeter starter trim back plates (in this example three QP 4 pieces) are positioned horizontally, approximately ⅛″ above the QP1 continuous perforated vented flashing. These are fastened with brad nails, followed by sealed screws.

Now referring to FIG. 2(vii), in a plurality of QP5 vertical main body back plates (in this example two QP5 vertical main body back plates) are laid out on a vertical chalk line grid, and measured up approximately 1¼″ above the QP1 continuous perforated vented flashing. The QP5 vertical main body back plate is then fastened with a brad nailer, followed by sealed screws.

Now referring to FIG. 2(viii), from left to right, QP6 rain screen furring spacers are centered between a first QP5 vertical main body back plate and the and the QP2 arrow outside corner back plate, between the first and second QP5 vertical main body back plates, and finally between the second QP5 vertical main body back plate and the QP3 inside corner. The QP6 rain screen furring spacers are then installed with sealed screws.

Now referring to FIG. 2(ix), beads of silicone adhesive are applied at suitable intervals (e.g. about 9″), along the panel platforms.

FIG. 2(x) now shows a plurality of panels which have been placed to rest into position for insulation. Temporary panel holders may be placed around the panels during this process. Any protective film on the panels may be removed at this time. Now referring to FIG. 2(xi), additional beads of silicone adhesive may be placed at suitable intervals along a top cap engagement channel formed between the panels and horizontally running along a length below the panels.

As shown in FIG. 2(xii), a top cap (as previously shown in FIG. 1(v) as part of QP4, may now be installed into position. This top cap is adapted to be hammered into position using a hammer block to spread out the force of a hammer.

Now referring to FIG. 2(xiii), the top caps of QP 5 vertical main body may be hammered into position using a hammer block to spread out the force.

Next, referring to FIG. 2(xiv), a QP7 continuous metal flashing is installed to cover the top edges of the panels, as well as the previously installed QP5 and QP6 profiles. As shown in FIG. 2(xv), a length of weather tape may be installed halfway onto the QP7 continuous metal flashing.

Now referring to FIG. 2(xvi), a plurality of QP8 horizontal main body back plates are positioned over the QP7 continuous metal flashing and installed with brad nails, and sealed screws as previously described.

Referring now to FIG. 2(xvii), additional lengths of QP5 vertical main body back plates are laid on the chalk line grid and measured up approximately 1¼″ above the QP1 continuous metal flashing. The QP 5 vertical main body back plates are plumbed, and fastened with brad nails and sealed screws.

Referring to FIG. 2(xviii), additional lengths of QP 6 rain screen furring spacers are positioned between the vertically installed profiles, as previously described with reference to FIG. 2(viii).

As shown in FIG. 2(xix), lengths of silicone adhesive are applied at suitable intervals along the panel platforms. FIG. 2(xx) now shows additional panels placed and positioned for fastening.

Next, as shown in FIG. 2(xxi), lengths of silicone adhesive are applied in the top cap engagement channels formed between the back plates and along the horizontal channel formed between the bottom of the panels and the previously installed panels below.

Now referring to FIG. 2(xxii), a QP8 horizontal main body top cap is hammered into position below the panels. Similarly, FIG. 2(xxiii) shows QP5 vertical main body top caps installed in position between the panels. As previously described, hammer blocks may be used to protect the top caps as they are being hammered into position.

Now referring to FIG. 2(xxii), another strip of QP7 continuous metal flashing is installed to cover the top edge of the panels and the previously installed vertical profiles. FIG. 2(xxv) shows a length of weather tape installed halfway onto the QP7 continuous metal flashing.

FIGS. 2(xxvii) and 2(xxviii) repeat the installation steps as previously described with reference to FIG. 2(xvii) and FIG. 2(xviii).

Next, FIG. 2(xxix) shows a plurality of QP9 soffit termination back plates are shown installed horizontally above the QP5 vertical main body back plates. The QP9 soffit termination back plates are installed with brad nails and sealed screws, as previously described.

FIG. 2(xxx) shows beads of silicone adhesive applied at suitable intervals along the panel platforms.

Now referring to FIG. 2(xxxi), a plurality of panels are placed into position for insulation. FIG. 2(xxxii) shows beads of silicone adhesive applied at suitable intervals along lengths of the top cap engagement channel formed between the panels.

FIG. 2(xxxiii) shows a QP8 horizontal main body top cap installed into position by hammering along the whole length. FIG. 2(xxxiv) shows the corresponding QP5 vertical main body top caps installed into position in an analogous manner. Hammer blocks may be used to protect the top caps as they are installed.

Finally, FIG. 2(xxxiv) shows a QP9 soffit termination top cap installed to cover the top edges of the panels, and previously installed vertical profiles.

FIG. 3(i) shows a complete back plate installation of vertical and horizontal trim profiles as described in the installation method illustrated in FIGS. 2(i) to 2(xxxiv). FIG. 2(ii) shows a completed installation including all panels and top caps retaining the panels in position.

Now referring to FIG. 4(i), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical vertical section. External wall assembly 401 is shown as per builders' specifications. Weather sealed to screws 402 are installed along a screw set line. QP5 vertical main body is lapped over QP7 metal through wall flashing where applicable. QP6 rain screen furring spacers 404 are spaced to be lapped over QP7 metal through wall flashing where applicable. An external sheathing 405 is shown beneath a layer of building paper 406. Panel P is shown in darker outline. And adhesive 407 is provided along panel platform channels to secure the panel P. Another bead of adhesive 407 is provided behind QP5 vertical main body top prior to installation. A QP5 vertical main body top cap is shown at 408.

Now referring to FIG. 4(ii), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical inside corner. Like parts are labelled with the same reference numeral. In FIG. 4(ii), QP3 inside corner 409 is shown in cross-section. Beads of adhesive are provided along panel platform channels to secure panel P.

Now referring to FIG. 4(iii), shown is a cross-section of a typical outside corner. QP2 arrow outside corner assembly is shown with adhesive 407 provided behind QP2 arrow outside corner top prior to installation. Additional adhesive 407 is provided along panel platform channels to secure panel P.

Now referring to FIG. 4(iv), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical horizontal section. Like parts are labelled with the same reference numerals. Shown at 410 is a shingle lapped tape over QP7 metal through wall flashing. A bead of adhesive 407 is provided along panel platform channels to secure panel P. QP 8 horizontal main body assembly is shown over the weather sealed screw 402. A bead of adhesive 407 is provided behind QP8 horizontal main body top prior to installation. A bead of adhesive is also provided across all and dam locations. QP8 horizontal main body assembly is installed level on QP7 metal through wall flashing at all locations.

Now referring to FIG. 4(v), shown is a cross-section of a typical multi-angle inside corner. QP13 multi-angle inside corner assembly is adapted to accommodate various angles formed at the inside corner. A bead of adhesive is provided behind QP13 multi-angle inside corner top caps prior to installation. Another bead of adhesive is provided along panel platform channels to secure panel P.

Now referring to FIG. 4(vi), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical multi-angle outside corner. QP14 multi-angle outside corner assembly is shown and accommodates a range of possible angles on an outside corner. Weather sealed screws 402 are used to install QP14 multi-angle outside corner assembly on each adjacent wall at the outside corner. Beads of adhesive 407 are provided behind QP14 multi-angle outside corner top caps prior to installation. Another bead of adhesive 407 is provided along panel platform channels to secure panel P.

Now referring to FIG. 4(vii), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical vertical material transition section. In this view, QP16 vertical termination assembly terminates panel P to the right and abuts an alternate exterior finish material 411 to the left. A bead of adhesive 407 is provided behind in QP16 vertical termination top prior to installation.

Now referring to FIG. 4(viii), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical outside corner material transition. QP17B corner termination assembly back plate is shown installed to one wall of the corner by weather sealed screw 402. QP17B corner termination back plate is installed to extend slightly beyond the edge of the corner to abut alternate exterior finish material 411. QP17T corner termination assembly top cap secures panel P onto QP17 corner termination assembly.

Now referring to FIG. 4(ix), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical soffit section. As shown, various trim profiles are used for the assembly, including QP4B perimeter starter trim assembly back plate and QP4T perimeter starter trim assembly top cap. In addition, QP1 perforated vented through wall flashing is used at an outside corner. QP8 horizontal main body assembly is also shown holding panel P in position. Finally, QP3 inside corner profile is also used at an inside corner shown in the figure.

Now referring to FIG. 4(x), shown is a cross-sectional view of an alternate soffit session. While the vertical section to the right of FIG. 4(x) is similar to the illustration shown in FIG. 4(ix), and aluminum soffit 412 is run along the horizontal surface. QP3 soffit termination assembly is then used to install panel P against the vertical wall shown at the left of FIG. 4(x).

Now referring to FIG. 4(xi), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical base section, in which QP4B perimeter starter trim assembly base plate is installed level on QP1 perforated to vented through wall flashing at all locations. Corresponding QP4T perimeter starter trim assembly top cap is also shown holding panel P in position.

Now referring to FIG. 4(xii), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical window head section. As shown, QP8B horizontal main body assembly that plate is installed level on QP1 perforated vented through wall flashing at all window head locations. A corresponding QP8 horizontal main assembly is shown holding panel P in position. QP0 window drip cap flashing is installed under QP1 perforated vented through wall flashing with building paper 406 lapped over QP0 window drip cap flashing.

Now referring to FIG. 4(xiii), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical window jamb detail. In this illustrative example, QP11B vertical window sides assembly that plate is shown installed with a weather sealed screw 402. Corresponding QP11T vertical window sides assembly top cap is shown holding panel P in position.

Now referring to FIG. 4(xix), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical window sill section, having a windowsill assembly 414 as per builders' specifications. QP10B horizontal windowsill assembly base plate is installed level on QP7 metal through wall flashing at all windowsill locations. Corresponding QP10T horizontal windowsill assembly top cap is shown installed in position. QP7 metal through wall flashing is adapted to extend over panel P.

Now referring to FIG. 4(xv), shown is a cross-sectional view of a typical vent/wall penetration detail, showing an exterior wall assembly 415 as per builder specifications. As shown, QP12 wall penetration assembly is shown installed in position with weather sealed screws 402.

Now referring to FIG. 4(xvi), shown is a cross-sectional view of another typical vent/wall penetration detail. As shown, QP12, wall penetration assembly is shown installed level on cue P7 metal through wall flashing. A second cue P12 wall penetration assembly is shown below a vent hood 416.

FIG. 5(i) to FIG. 5(iii) show illustrative examples of a compression system built into the wall panel trim insulation system to allow for a degree of compression between vertical sessions of wall panels over time. In this case, vertical profile sections at an outside corner (e.g. a two piece outside corner with float between the back plate and top cap snap engagements) and an inside corner (e.g. a two piece inside corner with float between the back plate and top cap snap engagements) are installed with appropriate gaps to allow for compression. A horizontal compression top cap QP19 with an extended lower flange covers the top edges of the panels below with a sufficient clearance to allow for compression between stages of the wall panel installation. A QP4 back plate includes a lateral extension of the mounting base to at least one side in order to provide a wider mounting base which engages a wall.

FIG. 6 shows a more detailed view with panel P and sections of vertical top cap profiles shown partially removed for better clarity. As shown, the vertical profiles, including outside corner profiles QP2, QP20, inside corner profiles QP3, QP21 and other vertical profiles mounted in between these corner profiles, are cut and mounted with a sufficient clearance to allow for vertical compression of the wall, particularly between the floors of a wood frame building.

Advantageously, this avoids buckling and deformation of any installed trim profiles due to settling of a building wall over time, and the integrity of the installed wall panel is maintained.

Various tools may be used during the panel installation process. For example, referring back to FIGS. 1(xxxiv)-1(xxxvii), a hammer block may be used for protecting trim pieces during installation, particularly top cap trim pieces which may be hammered into position. The hammer block may be laid on top of a trim piece so that it absorbs any impact from a hammer, rather than the trim piece. Referring back to FIGS. 1(xxxviii)-1(xxxxiii), a panel clip may be used for temporarily holding panels in position during installation of the wall panels. As shown in FIGS. 1(xxxxiv) and 1(xxxxv), in use, the panel clip is inserted into a channel of a trim piece, and is turned until its irregular shaped base engages the walls of the channel, thereby holding the panel P temporarily in position. Advantageously, this allows a single installer to install a panel, rather than requiring a second person to hold the panel in position while other work is being done to secure the panel.

Thus, in an aspect, there is provided a system for wall panel trim installation, comprising: a plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles having a back plate adapted to receive a top cap within a bracket, the bracket including a mounting base and walls extending up from either side of the base; and at least one flange formed on the walls and extending outwardly to form a platform, the at least one flange including a shallow channel; wherein, upon receiving the top cap within the bracket, the at least one flange forming the shallow channel and a portion of the top cap secure an edge of a wall panel therebetween.

In an embodiment, the shallow channel formed within the at least one flange is adapted to receive an adhesive or sealant.

In another embodiment, the walls include protrusions extending inwardly which are adapted to engage a corresponding protrusions on the top cap extending outwardly.

In another embodiment, the top cap is partially received within the bracket such that a clearance is formed between a bottom of the mounting base and a bottom of the top cap.

In another embodiment, the mounting base includes a center line formed along its length, the centerline comprising a shallow notch.

In another embodiment, the mounting base further includes mounting apertures formed at regular intervals along its length.

In another embodiment, the top cap includes a bent flange which, when the top cap is installed, runs generally parallel to one wall of the mounting base.

In another embodiment, a pair of mounting bases are coupled at an interlocking pivot point adapted to permit the pair of mounting bases to be rotated at least partially relative to each other.

In another embodiment, the rotation allows the pair of mounting bases to be installed at an inside corner or an outside corner of a mounting wall within a range of acute to obtuse angles.

In another embodiment, the system further comprises an integral profile forming an inside corner mounting base adapted to receive edges of two wall panels installed at a right angle relative to each other.

In another embodiment, the system further comprises an outside corner profile which includes mounting bases formed at right angles adapted to each mount to a wall.

In another embodiment, the system further comprises a corresponding outside corner top cap which includes extending protrusions adapted to engage a corresponding locking channel formed on the outside corner profile.

In another embodiment, at least one shallow channel extending from a wall of the mounting base forms a channel which is at least partially parallel to the wall.

In another embodiment, the system further comprises a horizontal top cap profile with an extending flange adapted to cover wall panels installed below the horizontal top cap profile with a sufficient clearance to allow for compression between stages of the wall panel installation.

In another embodiment, the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles are color coded based at least one of installation location and installation order.

In another embodiment, the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles are uniquely color coded.

In another embodiment, the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles are color coded to identify correct orientation.

In another embodiment, the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles form airflow gaps between all installed pieces to provide continuous airflow behind any installed panels.

In another embodiment, the system further comprises a thermal break adapted to stop inward deflection or warping of any installed wall panels.

In another embodiment, one or more of the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles include leveling guides to assist in leveling and squaring the profiles as they are installed.

In another embodiment, the plurality of horizontal and vertical trim profiles include back plate and top cap pairs for installing wall panels placed into position without fasteners.

While the above description provides examples of one or more systems and methods, it will be appreciated that other systems and methods may be within the scope of the present description as interpreted by one of skill in the art.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WALL PANEL TRIM INSTALLATION

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