Weatherproof multipurpose enclosure with integrated flashing

What is this patent about?

’685 is related to the field of rooftop equipment enclosures and flashing systems. Specifically, it addresses the challenges of mounting electrical or mechanical components, such as solar panel connectors and junction boxes, onto shingled roofs while maintaining a watertight seal and minimizing damage to the existing roofing material.

The underlying idea behind ’685 is the use of an asymmetric base design that allows for a non-destructive installation process. By offsetting the raised housing toward the downhill edge of the flashing plate, the inventor created a large, flat uncovered uphill portion that can slide directly under a full course of shingles. This geometry eliminates the traditional requirement to cut or notch shingles to fit around a centered enclosure, which significantly reduces the risk of leaks and speeds up the installation time.

The claims of ’685 focus on an enclosure assembly featuring a base with a bottom wall and an off-center raised portion that defines an interior space. The independent claims specifically protect the arrangement where the raised portion is positioned closer to the lower edge than the upper edge, leaving a substantial portion of the base free to act as integrated flashing. Furthermore, the claims specify that mounting markers and fasteners are located exclusively within the interior space of the raised portion to ensure all roof penetrations are shielded from the elements.

In practice, the system works by sliding the thin upper edge of the base under the shingles and securing it to the roof deck using fasteners driven through the interior of the housing. To further enhance weatherproofing, a horseshoe-pattern sealant is applied to the underside of the base, surrounding the fastener locations but allowing any moisture that might enter the upper section to drain out the bottom. The side walls of the housing are often set at oblique angles to the roof slope, creating a diamond-like profile that sheds water and debris more effectively than a standard square box.

This approach differs from prior solutions by moving away from centered, symmetrical flashing plates that require complex shingle modifications. By integrating the monolithic base and housing into a single unit with an offset footprint, the invention ensures that the most vulnerable parts of the installation—the mounting holes and the roof penetration—are consolidated within a protected, sealed environment. This design prioritizes the natural flow of water over the roof surface while providing a secure, accessible space for internal components like DIN rails or ground bars.