Importance

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Abstract

A tile formed from a relatively thin sheet is adapted to cooperate with similar tiles to form a tiled surface. When the tile is installed, the central axis thereof coincides with a line defining free water flow down the tile between upper and lower tile portions. The tile has first and second raised ribs extending symmetrically as mirror images of each other on each side of central axis. Each rib has upper and lower rib portions which are interconnected so as to extend continuously between the upper and lower tile portions to increase stiffness of the tile. The upper rib portions are generally complementary to the lower rib portions so that the lower rib portions of an upper tile can fit over upper rib portions of a lower tile. Thus rib axes of upper and lower rib portions are also mirror images of each other about a lateral axis disposed perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. The tiles are effectively secured in four places to increase resistance to movement. When the tiles are fitted, the ribs of the tiles are interlocked and this increases accuracy of installation of the tiles, as well as reducing a tendency of water seepage past edges of the tiles. The tiles exhibit a high degree of fitting tolerance, even when fitted on an uneven roof, thus permitting use of relatively unskilled labor.

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First Claim