Roof vent

Abstract

A novel roof vent in accordance with the present invention, utilizes a vent pipe communicating with a shroud, where the shroud compatibly fits over a ridge vent or a penetration on a roof. The vent pipe is extended above the roof, sufficiently so as to rise above the anticipated level of snow load that may be experienced in the locale of the application. The roof vent of the preferred embodiment includes trim panels that adjustably fits the roof pitch of the installation. In one version of the present invention, cosmetic dress may be used to allow the roof vent to blend with architectural requirements without impacting the functionality of the roof vent operation.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001]The present application is and improvement on and is related to a Provisional Patent Application, No. 60 / 601,839, filed Aug. 16, 2004.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention relates to roof vents, more specifically, roof vents that remain functional during periods of substantial snow loads.[0004]Roof venting is an issue more for colder climates owing to the potential for damage when snow loading occurs. Damage results from the situation where a poorly ventilated roof is allowed to trap heat thereby melting some of the snow residing on the roof itself. Snow melt will have a tendency to refreeze at times, especially as it migrates and accumulates near the lower roof edges. Once the ice starts to pile up in this manner, it can act like a dam and cause subsequent snow melt to accumulate in greater and greater quantities. The resulting water fl...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]The present invention is comprised of a roof vent with an extended portion that exceeds anticipated snow loads in Northern climates. More particularly, the present invention comprises a collection part that compatibly connects to a through hole in a roof construction or engages with an existing roof vent, and which provides an exhaust part that extends well above anticipated snow loads and which provides increased drafting for the exhausting of air flows within a roof system.

[0015]The present invention also comprises an improvement to existing ridge vents for the exhausting of airflows during periods of heavy snow loads. The present invention provides for a range of adjustments to fit a number of differing roof pitches without the need to trim or to supply an embodiment with custom sizing.

[0016]The present invention also comprises an improvement in roof venting by increasing the drafting efficiency of ridge venting.

Problems solved by technology

Roof venting is an issue more for colder climates owing to the potential for damage when snow loading occurs.

Damage results from the situation where a poorly ventilated roof is allowed to trap heat thereby melting some of the snow residing on the roof itself.

Once the ice starts to pile up in this manner, it can act like a dam and cause subsequent snow melt to accumulate in greater and greater quantities.

The resulting water flows will seek the avenue of least resistance which in some cases the penetration of the roofing system (typically shingles) which leads to leaking through the roof deck and into the residence.

Additionally, the water that pools during these events is subject to re freezing and if this happens it will expand.

Water that is trapped in this fashion, creates a great deal of damage to roof systems when refrozen since it will fracture, or separate, or otherwise disrupt the protection afforded by the roofing system, again leading to leakage.

However, the implementation of insulation, even in applications where it is very efficient in retarding heat loss, has not been able to completely solve the historic ice buildup problems associated with modern roofing.

Notwithstanding the success that the roof vents of various types have enjoyed with respect to reducing damage during periods of snow loads, there are occasions when this function breaks down.

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