Roof ridge construction apparatus and method

An apparatus and method for roof ridge construction are provided. Ridge risers are used to securely retain an attachment block above sheathing portions at an elevation sufficient to permit air venting through the ridge. The ridge risers have legs with one or more weakened regions (such as scores) that permit easy folding so that the legs can be attached to the sheathing and/or rafter portions. A set of attachment holes may be positioned below each of the weakened regions. The legs are joined to a cradle in which the attachment block rests. The attachment block is retained within the cradle via a mechanism such as fasteners, retention cleats, and retention assemblies with tabs designed to be driven into the attachment block. Roof covering elements, such as shingles, shakes, tiles, slate units, metal units, and synthetic ridge covering elements, are attached to the roofing block.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to roofing systems and methods. More specifically, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for providing ventilated roof ridge support and superior attachment of a nailer board for securing ridge and hip trim units.

The roof of a home or other building is essential for protecting the interior against the effects of precipitation, heat, and cold. Many types of roof-covering elements, including shingles, shakes, tiles, slate, metal, and synthetic substitutes, are currently used for roofing. Typically, one type of roofing unit will be applied to sloping sides of the roof while the apex of the roof, or the “ridge,” receives units that are specially configured to cover the ridge. According to known methods, the ridge-covering elements are typically supported by elongated wooden blocks attached directly to the sloping sides of the roof.

Unfortunately, such a ridge configuration has a number of inherent disadvantages. One disadvantage is that the attachment is unreliable. The wooden blocks are typically nailed or otherwise attached to the edges of the substrate, or “sheathing,” of the roof, which is typically constructed of plywood or some other laminated wood-based product. Attachment to the edges of the sheathing is difficult because the nail or other fastening device must be inserted through the wooden block with some precision to properly anchor within the comparatively narrow edge of the sheathing. Hence, the wooden blocks are often inadequately attached to the remainder of the roof, and are therefore easily removed, together with their attached ridge-covering elements, in the event of a windstorm, high wind, hurricane, or other trauma.

Additionally, such a ridge configuration does not generally provide adequate venting for the roof. Radiant heat and warm air from within the building will rise, and will often enter the attic area despite the presence of vapor barriers underneath the attic space. The humid air will often condense against the roof, particularly in cold weather. The resulting moisture tends to cause decay of the building envelope, thereby shortening the life of the roof and building structure and producing potentially dangerous weakened regions of the roof and structure.

Furthermore, if no venting is used, a significant temperature gradient may exist in the roof. For example, the eaves of the roof may not receive as much radiant heat from the interior of the building; hence, the eaves may be colder in cool weather. If the upper portion of the roof is warmer, snow on the upper portion may melt, slide down to the eave, and freeze again. The result is the formation of what is known as an “ice dam,” which retains runoff from the upper portion of the roof. The standing water on the roof is unable to drain from the eaves, and therefore may seep into the roof and damage the roof or the building envelope.

Although foam or fiber webbing may be used to elevate the ridge covering elements to permit venting, such materials tend to compress, for example, if a person steps on the ridge. Additionally, such materials provide little structural support for the ridge roofing units.

Furthermore, known ridge configurations generally do not provide a simple method of aligning abutting ends of adjacent wooden blocks with each other. A typical roof ridge requires the use of multiple wooden blocks, which are generally aligned end-to-end by hand in an attempt to provide a straight ridge.

Further, a safety line is often attached to the roof ridge to support a person working on the roof. However, to permit attachment of a safety line, known roof ridge configurations generally require the attachment of a specialized anchoring structure. Attachment of such an anchoring structure adds to the construction time and cost of the roof. It may even be necessary to have multiple anchoring structures distributed along the length of the ridge so that a safety line can be disposed at any desired location on the roof.

Accordingly, a need exists for a roof ridge configuration capable of remedying the problems of the prior art. Such a configuration should preferably provide sturdy support for the ridge covering elements, in a manner that allows for easy and reliable installation of the ridge covering elements. Furthermore, such a configuration should provide for air venting through the ridge to prevent moisture from damaging the substrate or building envelope and to prevent the formation of ice dams over the eaves of the roof.

Preferably, such a ridge configuration is not readily compressible, for example, by a person stepping on the ridge. A need further exists for roof ridge elements capable of aligning ends of adjoining wooden blocks. Yet further, a need exists for roof ridge elements capable of supporting the weight of a person via a safety line without requiring the use of additional anchoring structures. Such a ridge configuration should be obtained through the use of an apparatus and method that is economical, versatile, easy to manufacture, and easy to install.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The apparatus of the present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available roof ridge construction systems. Thus, one purpose of the present invention is to provide a roof ridge construction apparatus and method that remedies the shortcomings of the prior art.

To achieve the foregoing objective, and in accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, a ridge riser is provided. The ridge riser may be incorporated into a roof that has two or more pieces (i.e., portions) of sheathing that approach each other to form a ridge, and an underlayment portion disposed on top of each sheathing portion. A plurality of ridge risers is used to raise an attachment block above the sheathing portions so that ridge-covering elements (i.e., shingles, shakes, tiles, slate units, metal units, synthetic units, etc.) can be attached to the attachment block. The ridge risers provide for secure fixation of the attachment block to the sheathing portions and/or rafters disposed underneath the sheathing at an elevation sufficient to allow air venting through the ridge.

According to one configuration, the ridge riser comprises a pair of legs, each of which is configured to attach to one of the sheathing portions and/or an associated rafter. The legs converge to form a cradle shape to hold the attachment block. The cradle has a floor, upon which the attachment block rests, and a pair of side walls that keep the attachment block from sliding laterally off of the cradle.

Each of the legs is attached to the corresponding sheathing portion and/or rafter through the use of a plurality of substrate attachment holes. Fasteners, such as screws or nails, may be inserted through the holes and the sheathing portions to attach each leg to its corresponding sheathing portion and/or rafter. Additionally, each of the legs has a block attachment hole, through which a fastener can be inserted to fix the attachment block firmly in place within the cradle.

The ridge risers are easily usable with a wide variety of roof configurations. Each leg has a plurality of scores that permit relatively easy bending of the leg at a variety of positions along the leg. Thus, the ridge risers can be used with sheathing portions disposed at a wide variety of angles, or “slopes,” and the ridge risers can also be adapted to provide the desired elevation of the attachment block. Each ridge riser can thus be used with a variety of roof covering elements and ventilation schemes.

The ridge riser may be made from one strip of steel through the use of comparatively simple stamping operations. According to one manufacturing method, the strip is cut to the appropriate length from a roll. The various holes and/or scores may be formed by a stamping process that simultaneously cuts the steel. Then, another stamping operation may be used to form the legs of the ridge riser. Yet another stamping operation may be used to provide the cradle, including the floor and side walls, to complete fabrication of the ridge riser.

According to one alternative embodiment, the block attachment holes and corresponding fasteners are eliminated in favor of a more rapid attachment block retention system. A plurality of retention members, in the form of cleats, are formed in the side walls. The cleats have points that are angled downward and generally inward, with respect to the cradle. When the attachment block is inserted into the cradle, the cleats dig into the sides of the attachment block to prevent withdrawal of the attachment block from the cradle. No fasteners need be used to anchor the attachment block within the cradle.

According to another alternative embodiment, the block attachment holes and corresponding fasteners are again eliminated in favor of a different type of retention member. A retention member is formed in each of the side walls and in each corresponding upper leg portion. The retention members are disposed within slots so that the retention members are able to move toward the interior of the cradle. Each retention member has a shank that extends upward from the corresponding upper leg portion, and terminates in a locking tab. The locking tabs are oriented inward, toward the interior of the cradle.

The locking tabs do not interfere with insertion of the attachment block into the cradle. Once the attachment block is in place, the locking tabs may be forced inward, into the attachment block. For example, the roofer may hit each shank with a hammer to drive the locking tabs into the attachment block, thereby retaining the attachment block without separate fasteners.

In another alternative embodiment, the ridge risers may also be adapted for use with supplemental venting systems. For example, in a double battening system, latticed vertical and horizontal battens are used to permit venting of the roof between the underlayment and the roof covering elements. The double battening system elevates the roof covering elements from the sheathing and underlayment, thereby requiring that the ridge covering elements be correspondingly elevated. Hence, the legs of the ridge riser may have additional length to provide the increased elevation. One or more additional scores may also be provided so that the ridge riser can be used with a double batten system, or with a conventional roof system that has only horizontal battens.

In another alternative embodiment, a ridge riser is designed to provide a junction between two adjoining attachment blocks. The ridge riser has a comparatively large longitudinal width so that the ends of two attachment blocks can easily be retained head-to-head in the cradle. Each side wall of the cradle has at least one block attachment hole. The block attachment holes are longitudinally offset from each other so that a fastener inserted through one attachment hole will engage an end of a first attachment block, while a fastener inserted through an opposing attachment hole engages an end of a second attachment block. Thus, a straight and sturdy ridge is formed.

According to another alternative embodiment, a ridge riser is designed to act as an anchor for a safety line. The ridge riser is constructed of somewhat thicker metal so that the ridge riser is able to support the weight of a person. A restraint assembly may be easily attached to the ridge riser by attaching a clip of the restraint assembly to a leg of the ridge riser. A safety harness is attached to the clip via a safety line so that a person can wear the harness and safely work on the roof.

According to yet another alternative embodiment, the ridge riser is constructed of metal with a smaller thickness, with at least one leg doubled over itself to provide reinforcement. Thus, the clip may be attached to the reinforced leg to bear the weight of a person with the restraint assembly described above.

According to a further embodiment, the ridge riser has multiple weakened regions and a set of attachment holes that are positioned below each of the weakened regions. Such positioning of the attachment holes proximate the weakened regions may provide added strength and prevent a wind surge from lifting an attached roof off of the building. In some embodiments, the weakened regions may be scores, notches, or other elements.

According to a further embodiment, the cradle of the ridge riser is either a U-shaped or an inverted U-shaped element. In those embodiments in which an inverted U-shape is used, the floor of the cradle will go over the attachment block.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For this application, the phrases “connected to,” “coupled to,” and “in communication with” refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, and thermal interaction. The phrase “attached to” refers to a form of mechanical coupling that restricts relative translation or rotation between the attached objects. The phrases “pivotally attached to” and “slidably attached to” refer to forms of mechanical coupling that permit relative rotation or relative translation, respectively, while restricting other relative motion.

The phrase “attached directly to” refers to a form of attachment by which the attached items are either in direct contact, or are only separated by a single fastener, adhesive, or other attachment mechanism. The term “abutting” refers to items that are in direct physical contact with each other, although the items may not be attached together. The phrase “integrally formed” refers to a body that is manufactured integrally, i.e., as a single piece, without requiring the assembly of multiple pieces. Multiple parts may be integrally formed with each other if they are formed from a single workpiece.

Referring toFIG. 1, a cutaway, perspective view depicts ridge risers10according to one embodiment, incorporated into a roof12. The roof has a longitudinal direction14, a lateral direction16, and a transverse direction18. As shown, the roof12has a structural portion26that includes rafters28that support a pair of sheathing portions30, each of which is attached to the rafters28at a predetermined slope. Each of the sheathing portions30may consist of plywood, laminated wood material, or similar sheathing material used in the roofing industry. Each of the sheathing portions is covered by an underlayment32, otherwise known as “felt,” which may consist of tar paper or some other generally moisture repellant material.

The ridge risers10are used to elevate an attachment block34above the sheathing portions30. The attachment block34is positioned above an imaginary apex of the sheathing portions30, i.e., a line along which the sheathing portions30would intersect if they were longer. The attachment block34is a block of wood, metal, or some other structural material. In the case of wood, the attachment block34may be a 1×2, 2×2, or any other standard or desired surfaced lumber size, in inches. The attachment block34may alternatively be dimensioned in unsurfaced and/or metric terms. Multiple attachment blocks34may be disposed end-to-end along the longitudinal direction14, as will be shown and described subsequently.

The structural portion26of the roof12includes the rafters28, the sheathing portions30, and the attachment block34. The roof12has a first side36and a second side38, which may be symmetrical to each other, as depicted, or may be asymmetrical. Each of the first and second sides36,38, includes the corresponding sheathing portion30, the corresponding underlayment portion32, and the rafters28disposed underneath the corresponding sheathing portion30.

The ridge riser10is designed for supporting an attachment block34at a roof ridge35. In this embodiment, the roof ridge35is positioned at the apex of the roof or other local peak that is not inclined, or in other words, at the apex of the sheathing portion26or the apex of the rafters28or sheathing portion30. The ridge riser10could also be used with a “hip,” which has an inclined external angle formed by the intersection of two sloping roof planes. For simplicity, the term “roof ridge” will be used to refer to both a roof ridge and a hip, both of which are depicted inFIG. 1and depicted as item number35. Thus, the ridge riser10is designed to support an attachment block34, regardless of whether the attachment block34is positioned at the apex of the roof or at a hip/window box.

Each of the ridge risers10has a pair of legs40designed to be attached to the sheathing portions30and/or rafters. The legs40of each ridge riser10converge at a cradle42designed to support and retain the attachment block34. In this application, a “cradle” includes any device capable of supporting the weight of an attachment block and of preventing motion of the attachment block along the lateral direction16. The cradle42includes a floor44and a pair of side walls46that extend upward from the floor44, adjacent to the legs40. The floor44has a length in the lateral direction16that is selected to receive the desired size attachment block34. For example, if the attachment block34is a standard 2×2, it may have a lateral dimension of approximately 1½ inches. Thus, the floor may have a lateral length slightly larger than 1½ inches.

Each of the legs40has a plurality of substrate attachment holes50toward the lower end. The substrate attachment holes50are used to attach the legs40to the sheathing portions30and/or the rafters28. Fasteners52, such as screws, nails, or the like, may be inserted through the attachment holes50and seated in the corresponding sheathing portion30and/or rafter28to affix the legs40to the sheathing portion30and/or rafter28. The attachment holes50may be arranged in a way designed to prevent relative translation or rotation between the legs40and the sheathing portions30.

As illustrated inFIG. 1, the legs40are disposed to lie on top of the sheathing portions30. However, according to alternative embodiments, the legs40may extend underneath the sheathing portions30and bend to extend through the space between the sheathing portions30. In such a configuration, the legs40may be attached exclusively to the rafters28or the associated sheathing portion30. If desired, the legs40may be sandwiched between each of the rafters28and the adjoining sheathing portion30. Thus, the ridge risers10may be installed after construction of the rafters28but prior to installation of the sheathing portions30.

Returning to the embodiment ofFIG. 1, each of the legs40has a block attachment hole54used to fix the attachment block34in place within the cradle42. Fasteners56, such as screws, nails, or the like, may be inserted through the block attachment holes54and seated in the attachment block34to prevent withdrawal of the attachment block34from the cradle42. If desired, the block attachment holes54of each ridge riser10may be offset slightly from each other in the transverse direction18, or in the longitudinal direction14, to reduce the probability that the fasteners56will interfere with each other within the attachment block34.

The ridge risers10may be manufactured with the legs40in a straight configuration. Each of the legs40may be bent at a variety of positions, and at a variety of angles, so that each ridge riser10can be adapted for use with various roof slopes, roof covering elements, and ventilation schemes. For example, a more steeply sloped roof may require that the legs40be bent at a shallower, i.e., more obtuse, angle, while a less steeply sloped roof requires that the legs40be bent closer to a right angle. Furthermore, the use of thicker roof covering elements, such as curved tiles or metal, may require that the attachment block34be disposed at a comparatively high elevation, while a lower elevation of the attachment block34is optimal for thinner roof covering elements, such as asphalt shingles or flat tiles.

Such versatility may be provided through the use of scores60,62,64formed in the legs40along the longitudinal direction14. More precisely, a first score60is disposed near the tops of the legs40, and may be used for applications in which minimal elevation of the attachment block34is required. This may be appropriate if a thin type of roof covering element such as asphalt shingles is used. A second score62is disposed below the first score60, for use with low profile curved roof covering elements such as gently curved tiles. A third score64is positioned below the second score62for use with high profile curved roof covering elements such as more sharply curved tiles.

The scores60,62,64need not be uniformly spaced apart, but may be disposed at heights adapted for use with specific roof covering elements or ventilation schemes. The scores60,62,64may be labeled to provide guidance regarding where the leg40should be folded for each roof covering element or ventilation scheme.

In application, the legs40are initially straight. The roofer simply bends the legs40of each ridge riser10to the desired angle, at the desired score60,62, or64. In some embodiments, the legs40may be structured such that they can be bent or folded by hand along any of the scores60,62, or64. In this application, bending or folding “by hand” refers to bending or folding with the hands without the use of additional tools.

The roofer may attach the ridge risers10to the sheathing portions30with the fasteners52, place the attachment block34in the cradles42, and then apply the fasteners56to fix the attachment block34in place. In the alternative, the roofer may attach the ridge risers10to the attachment block34before or after the legs40have been bent as desired. The roofer may then attach the ridge risers10, with the affixed attachment block34, to the sheathing portions30.

The ridge risers10are spaced apart at a distance suitable to adequately support the attachment block34. Thus, the spacing used depends, in part, upon the strength of the attachment block34. The ridge risers10may be spaced apart by two feet (from center to center) or less. The ridge risers10may advantageously be spaced apart at the same spacing as the rafters28so that each ridge riser10can be anchored by a rafter28. Rafters are typically spaced apart with a spacing of two feet or sixteen inches, although other spacing arrangements may be used.

Horizontal battens may be installed on the sheathing portions30for attachment of roof covering elements below the level of the ridge. One such horizontal batten66is shown in phantom, and may be attached to the sheathing portion30over a portion of the legs40of the ridge risers10. Fasteners (not shown), such as screws or nails, may be used to affix the horizontal batten66in place.

The structural portion26of the roof12is covered by a roof covering assembly70designed to generally shield the structural portion26from weather while permitting ventilation. In addition to the ridge risers10, the roof covering assembly70includes covering elements72. The covering elements72include sheathing covering elements74designed to cover the sheathing portions30and ridge covering elements76designed to cover the attachment block34and the gap between the sheathing portions30.

The sheathing covering elements74and ridge covering elements76are depicted in cutaway form inFIG. 1; in practice, the sheathing portions30and ridge would preferably be substantially covered by the covering elements76. The covering elements72may include any of a variety of roofing products, including but not limited to shingles, shakes, tiles, slate units, metal units, and synthetic units. If desired, a venting screen (not shown) formed of a woven fiber, plastic, or other flexible construction for venting purposes may optionally be disposed in the ridge area, underneath the ridge covering elements76.

Each of the ridge risers10has a thickness78, which may be consistent along the legs40and the cradle42. According to one example, the thickness78ranges from about one thirty-second of an inch to about one fourth of an inch. More specifically, the thickness78may be about one sixteenth of an inch. The thickness78may vary depending on the weight of the attachment block34and the covering elements72, local weather conditions, and other factors. Furthermore, a comparatively greater thickness may be used to enable the ridge riser10to act as an anchor for a safety restraint assembly, as will be shown and described subsequently.

The ridge risers10may be formed of a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and composite materials based on plastic or metal matrices. Furthermore, the ridge risers10may be manufactured in a wide variety of ways. According to one example, the ridge risers10may be stamped from strips of a metal such as steel. One possible method of manufacturing the ridge risers10will be further illustrated in connection withFIGS. 2,3, and4, as follows.

Referring toFIG. 2, the ridge riser10is depicted after the performance of one manufacturing step. More specifically, the ridge riser10may be formed from a strip of steel. The strip may be cut from a longer strip that has been wound to form a roll.

The strip may be cut in conjunction with a stamping operation used to form some of the features of the ridge riser10. For example, the substrate attachment holes50, the block attachment holes54, and the scores60,62,64may all be stamped into the strip of steel when the strip is cut to the proper length. Hence, use of the term “scores” does not require the use of a scoring operation. Rather, any operation capable of forming grooves may be used to create the scores60,62,64. In alternative embodiments, perforations or other features that facilitate bending may be used in place of the scores60,62,64. These features may be formed using any suitable technique.

Additionally, facing holes80may be cut into the side walls46of the cradle42. When the cradle42is formed, the facing holes80will align with the block attachment holes54to permit insertion of the fasteners56through the side walls46. The facing holes80may be made somewhat larger than the block attachment holes54to ensure that no portion of the side walls46impedes passage of the fasteners56into the attachment block34.

As shown, the strip has a longitudinal width90, or width along the longitudinal direction14. The width90of the strip is consistent along the longitudinal direction14. The subsequent processing steps do not significantly alter the width90. Hence, the ridge riser10has a substantially uniform longitudinal width, which is equal to the width90of the strip.

Referring toFIG. 3, a perspective view shows the ridge riser10after the performance of another operation. More precisely, a second stamping operation may be used to form the cradle42, leaving the legs40coplanar. A rectangular die may simply be pressed downward against the center of the strip of metal to indent the metal, thereby forming the floor44and the side walls46. A bending or folding operation may alternatively be used to obtain the same configuration.

Referring toFIG. 4, a perspective view shows the ridge riser10in finished form, after the performance of yet another operation. A third stamping operation may be used to bend the legs40at an angle of approximately 180° with respect to the side walls46. For example, the ridge riser10may be inverted and placed so that the cradle rests on a rectangular block, and then the legs40may be folded upward until they are parallel to each other. Again, a bending or folding operation may be used to obtain the same configuration.

The foregoing is simply one of many possible manufacturing processes that may be used to form the ridge riser10. According to other embodiments, the ridge riser10need not even be formed of steel, but may be formed of other metals, plastics, composites, or the like. Any corresponding manufacturing process may therefore be used.

Fasteners56need not be used to affix the attachment block34to a ridge riser.FIGS. 5 and 6depict alternative ridge riser configurations in which separate fasteners are not needed.

Referring toFIG. 5, a perspective view shows the upper portion of a ridge riser110according to an alternative embodiment. The ridge riser110has legs140similar to the legs40of the previous embodiment, except that no block attachment hole is provided. The ridge riser110has a cradle142with a floor44and side walls146; the side walls146are configured to retain the attachment block34without separate fasteners.

More specifically, the facing holes80are omitted, and a plurality of retention members are formed in each of the side walls146. In this application, a “retention member” is any member integrally formed with a ridge riser that serves to block withdrawal of the attachment block34from a cradle of the ridge riser.

InFIG. 5, the retention members take the form of cleats170. The retention cleats170may simply be pointed tabs cut from the material of the side walls146and folded inward so that the points are oriented inward and downward. When the attachment block34is inserted into the cradle142, the sides of the attachment block34are able to slide downward along the cleats170. However, if upward force is applied against the attachment block34, the points of the cleats170embed themselves in the sides of the attachment block34so that the attachment block34cannot be removed from the cradle142.

With such an arrangement, no additional fasteners need be used. In addition, the roofer need not perform any additional steps besides inserting the attachment block34into the cradle142. Thus, the part count of the roof is reduced and installation is facilitated.

Referring toFIG. 6, a perspective view shows the upper portion of a ridge riser210according to another alternative embodiment. The ridge riser210has legs240, a cradle242, and side walls246. The block attachment holes54and facing holes80are again omitted. Retention members270are formed in the legs240and side walls246, and are configured to be actuated to lock the attachment block34in place.

More precisely, the retention members270are stamped or otherwise cut from the side walls246and the upper portions of the legs240to leave slots272, in which the retention members270are disposed. Each of the retention members270has a shank274angled outward with respect to the legs240. Each shank274terminates in a locking tab276. The locking tabs276are oriented inward, toward the positions in which the sides of the attachment block34will rest. The locking tabs276are pointed to facilitate penetration of the side walls of the attachment block34.

After the attachment block34has been inserted into the cradle242, the shanks274may be struck, for example, with a hammer, to drive the locking tabs276into the sides of the attachment block34. Such an arrangement provides for easy and rapid retention of the attachment block34without additional fasteners. Additionally, the attachment block34may be positioned, for example, by sliding the attachment block34in the longitudinal direction14within the cradle242and fixed in place when it reaches the desired position.

Ridge risers may also be adapted for use with supplemental venting systems, such as double batten roof configurations. In double batten systems, “vertical battens” are attached to the substrate, extending from the ridge toward the eaves. Horizontal battens are attached to the tops of the vertical battens, and the shingles are attached to the horizontal battens as in a conventional, single batten roofing arrangement. The double batten arrangement permits for the flow of air above the underlayment, between the vertical battens.

If desired, ridge risers10, such as those depicted inFIG. 1, may be used with a double batten system by simply attaching the ridge risers10to the tops of the vertical battens. The ridge risers10would then naturally have the additional elevation required to accommodate the height added by the vertical battens. In the alternative, ridge risers may be specially configured to provide the additional elevation. Such a configuration is depicted inFIG. 7.

Referring toFIG. 7, a perspective view depicts a pair of ridge risers310according to another alternative embodiment, used in conjunction with a roof312. The roof312includes a structural portion326in which a double batten system is used to provide additional ventilation, as described above. The roof has a first side336and a second side338, each of which includes a portion of the rafters28and a corresponding sheathing portion30and underlayment portion32. Covering elements have been omitted fromFIG. 7for simplicity. Each of the ridge risers310includes a pair of legs340, which are joined by a cradle42like that ofFIG. 1.

The legs340have additional length to compensate for the increased height of the double batten system. Additionally, each leg340may have a fourth score365positioned below the third score64. Thus, the ridge risers310may be used with conventional single batten systems by folding the legs310at the first, second, or third scores60,62, or64, depending on the desired amount of venting and/or the type of roof covering element used. For double batten systems, the second, third, or fourth scores62,64, or365may be used to add the necessary additional height. Again, the scores60,62,64,365may be labeled to indicate where they should be bent. More or fewer scores60,62,64,365may be used, and the scores60,62,64365may be relatively positioned in a variety of ways.

Vertical battens368are shown in phantom beneath the exemplary horizontal batten66. The additional height of the ridge risers310is determined by the height of the vertical battens368. This may be determined through the use of trigonometry.

More precisely, each of the vertical battens368has a thickness380. According to one example, each of the vertical battens368may take the form of 1×2, 2×2, 2×4, or 2×6 piece of surfaced lumber, dimensioned in inches. The thickness380is thus the actual dimension that corresponds to the nominal dimensions listed above. Unsurfaced and/or metric sized lumber may alternatively be used. The vertical battens368add an additional height382somewhat greater than the thickness380.

This additional height382is determined by the slope of the roof, which is also the angle384between the thickness380and the additional height382. Simple trigonometry shows that the additional height382is equal to the thickness380divided by the cosine of the angle384. This additional height382may be used to determine the overall length of the legs340and/or the positioning of the scores60,62,64,365. Additional scores (not shown) may be added to the legs340to enable easy adaptation of the ridge risers310to the added height of the double batten system. Such additional scores may be positioned and labeled for standard roof slopes so that the roofer is not required to perform the trigonometric analysis above to determine the proper folding position.

In many roofing situations, the ridge is longer than the standard length attachment block. Hence, multiple attachment blocks are laid end-to-end along the ridge. It is desirable to align the ends of the attachment blocks in a simple and rapid manner. One embodiment of the invention designed to provide easy alignment and juncture between attachment blocks will be shown and described in connection withFIG. 8.

Referring toFIG. 8, a perspective view illustrates a ridge riser410according to another alternative embodiment, used in conjunction with a roof412. The roof412includes a structural portion426similar to that ofFIG. 1. Covering elements have again been omitted for simplicity.

As shown, the structural portion426includes an attachment block34and a second attachment block434aligned end-to-end with the attachment block34. More precisely, the attachment block34has an end436disposed to abut an end438of the second attachment block434.

The ridge riser410has a longitudinal width490that is generally greater than the longitudinal width490of the ridge riser110. Otherwise, the ridge riser410has a configuration similar to that of the ridge riser410. The ridge riser410has a pair of legs440that converge to form a cradle442designed to receive and retain the ends436,438. The cradle442has a floor444and a pair of side walls446on either side of the floor444.

Each of the legs440has a plurality of substrate attachment holes50, into which fasteners52are inserted and seated into the corresponding sheathing portion30and/or the corresponding portion of the rafters28. Furthermore, each side wall446has a block attachment hole54. As shown, the block attachment holes54of the two side walls446are longitudinally offset from each other. Thus, a fastener56inserted into one of the block attachment holes54will seat within the end436of the attachment block34, while a fastener56inserted into the other block attachment hole54seats within the end438of the second attachment block434.

The block attachment holes54are longitudinally separated by an offset458designed to cause the fasteners56to easily and reliably seat within different ends436,438. According to certain examples, the offset458may range from about one half inch to about two inches. Further, the offset may range from about ¾ of an inch to about 1¼ inches. An offset of about one inch may be used. More offset block attachment holes could also be provided to accommodate additional fasteners, if desired.

As with the legs40of the ridge riser10ofFIG. 1, each of the legs440has plurality of scores, such as a first score460, a second score462, and a third score464. The legs40may each be bendable by hand along any of the scores460,462, or464to enable use with a variety of roof slopes and desired heights of the cradle442.

The ridge riser410has a longitudinal width490selected to enable the cradle442to receive and retain both of the ends436and438. The longitudinal width490may range from about one inch to about six inches. More specifically, the longitudinal width490may range from about one and one half inches to about two and one half inches. Yet more precisely, the longitudinal width490may be about one and three quarters inches.

A ridge riser according to the invention may also be designed to act as an anchor for a safety restraint assembly. Thus, separate anchors need not be installed on a roof. Two possible embodiments that enable use of a ridge riser as a safety restraint assembly anchor will be shown and described in connection withFIGS. 9 and 10.

Referring toFIG. 9, a perspective view illustrates a ridge riser510according to another alternative embodiment, used in conjunction with a roof512. The roof512includes a structural portion26like that ofFIG. 1. Covering elements have again been omitted for simplicity.

As shown, the ridge riser510has a shape generally similar to that of the ridge riser10ofFIG. 1. The ridge riser510has a pair of legs540that converge to define a cradle542shaped to receive an attachment block34. The cradle542has a floor544and a pair of side walls546extending in the transverse direction18, i.e., upward, from either side of the floor544. Substrate attachment holes550of the legs540enable insertion of fasteners52through each of the legs540and into the corresponding sheathing portion30and/or the corresponding portion of the rafters28. Similarly, block attachment holes554of the side walls546permit the insertion of fasteners56through each of the side walls546and into the attachment block34. Each of the legs540has a plurality of scores60,62,64to facilitate bending for roof slope adaptation or ridge riser height adjustment.

The ridge riser510differs from those disclosed previously in that it has a comparatively larger thickness578. For example, the ridge riser510may have a thickness578ranging from about one eighth to about three eighths of an inch. More specifically, the thickness578may be about one quarter of an inch. The enlarged thickness578adds flexural rigidity so that the legs540are able to support the weight of a person without unduly deflecting.

The thickness578may be substantially uniform along the length of the ridge riser510. In alternative embodiments, varying thicknesses may be used. The location at which the thickness is at a maximum may advantageously be at the point of maximum bending stress, such as the bend at which the leg begins to extend upward from the sheathing30or just above the uppermost substrate attachment hole.

The legs540may be thin enough to still be bendable by hand along any of the scores60,62,64. Alternatively, tools, such as standard tools, specialized folding brackets, or the like, may be required. If desired, the scores60,62,64may be omitted altogether, and the ridge riser510may be bent into the desired shape at the time of manufacture. For example, ridge risers510may be manufactured at a plurality of pre-established height/roof slope combinations, so that no bending at the job site is required.

Due to their increased thickness578, the legs540of the ridge riser510have a structural rigidity sufficient to support the weight of a person. Thus, a safety restraint assembly, or restraint assembly582, may be attached to one of the legs540. Such a restraint assembly may have a wide variety of configurations. In the exemplary configuration illustrated inFIG. 9, the safety restraint assembly582has a clip584designed to engage the leg540. The clip584may be somewhat similar to a mountaineering carabineer, with a pivoting portion586designed to pivot inward to permit the clip584to be engaged or disengaged with the leg540.

The restraint assembly582also has a safety line588with an anchoring end592and a harness end594. The anchoring end592is attached to the clip584and the harness end592is attached to a harness596, only a portion of which is depicted inFIG. 9. The safety line588may be constructed of braided nylon, simple rope, metal cable, or the like.

The clip584may simply be attached to the leg540of the ridge riser510, as illustrated, to provide anchoring of the restraint assembly582. No additional anchors need be added to the roof510for the restraint assembly582. It may be desirable to provide a ridge riser capable of providing such an anchoring function without requiring the full thickness578of the ridge riser510. Such a ridge riser will be shown and described in connection withFIG. 10.

Referring toFIG. 10, a perspective view illustrates a ridge riser610according to yet another alternative embodiment, used in conjunction with a roof612. The roof612includes a structural portion26like that ofFIG. 1. Covering elements have again been omitted for simplicity.

As shown, the ridge riser610also has a shape generally similar to that of the ridge riser10ofFIG. 1. The ridge riser610has a pair of legs640that converge to define a cradle42shaped to receive an attachment block34. The cradle42has a floor44and a pair of side walls46extending from either side of the floor44. Substrate attachment holes50on the legs640enable insertion of fasteners52through each of the legs640and into the corresponding sheathing portion30and/or the corresponding portion of the rafters28. Similarly, block attachment holes54on the side walls46permit the insertion of fasteners56through each of the side walls46and into the attachment block34. Each of the legs640has a plurality of scores60,62,64to facilitate bending for roof slope adaptation or ridge riser height adjustment.

The ridge riser610may have a thickness comparable to the thickness78of the ridge riser10ofFIG. 1. However, each of the legs640of the ridge riser610has a doubled back portion678that is folded into alignment with the remainder of the leg640. The leg640may be folded at the time of manufacture to form the doubled back portion678. In the alternative, the leg640may be folded by the user to form the doubled back portion678. An additional score (not shown) may be formed on the opposite side of the leg640for this purpose. The scores60,62,64of the doubled back portion678may be aligned with those of the remainder of the leg640to facilitate parallel bending of the doubled back portion678and the remainder of the leg640.

Due to the existence of the doubled back portions678, the lower portion of each leg640has a double effective width. This effective width provides the structural rigidity needed to support the weight of a person. Although only one leg640need be strengthened in such a manner to serve as an anchoring point,FIG. 10depicts doubled back portions678on both of the legs640. A restraint assembly582like that disclosed in connection withFIG. 9may be attached to one of the legs640to anchor the restraint assembly582.

The legs640may be folded along the scores60,62,64in a manner similar to that disclosed previously. One or more of the scores60,62,64may be formed on the doubled back portion678as well as on the remainder of the leg640, so that adjacent scores60,62,64of the doubled back portion678and the remainder of the leg640may be folded to create adjacent, aligned angles like that depicted inFIG. 10in connection with the third score64. Thus, use of the doubled back portion678may require multiple folding operations for each leg640, but may make such folding operations comparatively easy because the doubled back portion678and the remainder of the leg640are individually thin and can be separately folded.

Referring now toFIG. 11, a perspective view illustrates a ridge riser710according to another embodiment of the present invention. The ridge riser710is similar to the embodiments of the ridge risers discussed above (including the embodiment shown inFIG. 4). Those of skill in the art will recognize that much of the above-recited description would apply equally to the ridge riser710ofFIG. 11. For simplicity and brevity, this description will not be repeated.

The ridge riser710supports an attachment block34(shown inFIG. 1) at a roof ridge35(shown inFIG. 1). As noted above, this roof ridge35may be located at the apex of the roof or may be a “hip” that is used in conjunction with a window or window box. As also indicated above, for simplicity, the term “roof ridge” or “ridge” will be used to refer to both a roof ridge and a hip.

The ridge riser740will include a pair of legs740. These legs may be referred to as first leg740aand second leg740b. The legs740may be attached to the sheathing portions30(shown inFIG. 10) and/or rafters. The first leg740ais attached to a first sloping side36of the roof ridge35. The second leg740battaches to a second sloping side38of the roof ridge35. (Both the first side36and the second side38are shown inFIG. 1).

The legs740of each ridge riser710converge at a cradle742that supports and retains the attachment block34(shown inFIG. 1). In the embodiment ofFIG. 11, the cradle742is generally “U-shaped.” In other words, the cradle742has the shape of an “upwards” shaped “U”—i.e., it has the shape normally associated with the letter “U”. However, other embodiments may use a cradle742that has a downward or inverted “U” shape, as shown inFIG. 13. All such embodiments, whether having an upright or inverted U-shape, fall within the scope of the disclosed invention.

In some embodiments, the U-shaped cradle742may be formed by adding four bends787to the ridge riser710. Each of these four bends787may extend across the entire width of the riser710(i.e., across the entire distance that the riser710extends in the longitudinal direction14). Two top bends787amay be used to form the side walls746. The two side walls746connect the floor744of the cradle742to the legs740. Two floor bends787bmay be used to form the floor744.

As with the prior embodiments, the cradle742includes a floor744that has a length in the lateral direction16that is selected to support and receive the desired size attachment block34. If the attachment block34is a standard 2×2, the block34may have a lateral dimension of approximately 1½ inches. Thus, in this case, the floor744may have a lateral length slightly larger than 1½ inches. Of course, other sizes for the ridge riser710or the floor744may also be used.

As with the previous embodiments, the ridge riser710is designed such that the legs740are bent (in the manner described above) at an angle of approximately 180°, or parallel, with respect to side walls746. Likewise, the ridge riser710may be manufactured using the processes that are similar to and/or identical to those disclosed above.

The first leg740a, the second leg740b, and the cradle742are all integrally formed from a single strip of material. One way in which this piece may be formed from a single strip is described above in conjunction withFIGS. 2 through 4. This single strip of material may be made of metal, such as steel. Other metals may also be used. The strip of material may be, in one embodiment, 14 gauge metal. However, thinner materials may also be used (such as 16 gauge, 18 gauge, 20 gauge, 24 gauge, etc.).

In some embodiments, the single strip of metal used to form the ridge riser710has a uniform or substantially uniform longitudinal width. This width is the dimension of the riser710in the direction of the longitudinal axis14. In some embodiments, this longitudinal width is less than six inches. In other embodiments, the longitudinal width of the strip of metal is greater than or equal to six inches. In some embodiments, the riser710does not have a uniform or substantially uniform width across the entirety of the riser710.

Each of the legs740may have block attachment holes754used to fix the attachment block34in place within the cradle742. Fasteners56(not shown inFIG. 11) may be inserted through the block attachment holes754and seated in the attachment block34to secure the attachment block34in the cradle742. Positioning of the attachment block34in the cradle742may restrict movement of the attachment block34in the lateral direction16. If desired, the block attachment holes754of each ridge riser710may be offset slightly from each other in the transverse direction18, or in the direction of the longitudinal axis14, to reduce the probability that the fasteners56will interfere with, or strike, each other within the attachment block34.

Additionally, facing holes780may be cut into the side walls746of the cradle742. As explained above, the facing holes780will align with the block attachment holes754to permit insertion of the fasteners56through the side walls746. The facing holes780may be made somewhat larger than the block attachment holes754to ensure that no portion of the side walls746impedes passage of the fasteners56into the attachment block34.

As shown inFIG. 11, the first leg740aand the second leg740bboth include at least two weakened regions760,762. These regions may be referred to as a first weakened region760and a second weakened region762. More than two weakened regions may be used. In fact, some embodiments may include three or four weakened regions. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 11, four weakened regions760,762,764,766are used. These latter two weakened regions may be referred to as a third weakened region764and a fourth weakened region766.

The term “weakened region” refers to a portion of the legs740which has been modified to allow a user to bend the legs740at one of the weakened regions760,762,764,766. In some embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766may be an area of the legs740that is made “thinner” so that it will be easier for a user to bend the legs740at this point. (In other words, as the legs740are “thinner” at the weakened regions, there is less rigidity at this location such that the user may bend the legs).

In other embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766comprise scoring (such as a single score or multiple scores) or indentations that are added to the legs to lessen or weaken the rigidity of the legs740at the particular location. Scores may be added to the legs740in the longitudinal direction14. In further embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766comprise one or more holes, openings, or notches that are added to the legs to allow the legs740to be bent at this position. A single weakened region760,762,764,766could comprise any combination of any of the foregoing, such as a thinned region, scoring, indentations, etc. The weakened regions760,762,764,766, in one embodiment, may be on the exterior sides765,769of the legs740.

As with the previously described embodiments, weakened regions760,762,764,766may be added to the legs740in the longitudinal direction14. The first weakened region760is disposed near the tops of the legs740, and may be used for applications in which minimal elevation of the attachment block34is required. This may be appropriate with a thin type of roof covering element, such as roof tiles having a low profile. The second weakened region762is disposed below the first weakened region760, and may be used with low profile curved roof covering elements, such as gently curved tiles or medium profile tiles. The third weakened region764is positioned below the second region762, and may be used with high profile curved roof covering elements, such as more sharply curved tiles. A fourth weakened region766may also be used to accommodate, for example, high profile roof covering elements situated on a hip.

As shown inFIG. 11, the weakened regions760,762,764,766need not be uniformly spaced apart, but may be disposed at heights adapted for use with specific roof covering elements or ventilation schemes. In some embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766may be labeled to provide guidance indicating where the legs740should be folded for each roof covering element or ventilation scheme.

In some embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766may comprise two aligned scores arranged in a generally linear fashion. As used herein, “generally linear” means that the overall profile of the weakened regions760,762,764,766resembles a line. It is possible that portions of the weakened regions760,762,764,766may be curved, zig-zaged, or sinusoidal, and still have the overall profile that is generally linear. In the embodiment ofFIG. 11, each of the weakened regions760,762,764,766comprise two distinct scores768that are generally aligned and/or generally collinear (i.e. they are generally positioned at the same height on the legs740). Of course, other configuration and/or orientations for the weakened regions760,762,764,766are also possible, including embodiments in which the weakened regions760,762,764,766are not generally linear.

Embodiments of the ridge riser710may include weakened regions760,762,764,766that are symmetrical. This means that the weakened regions760,762,764,766on the first leg740aare positioned at the same height/location as the corresponding weakened regions760,762,764,766found on the second leg740b. In other embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766on the first leg740aare positioned at a height/location different from the height/location of the weakened regions760,762,764,766on the second leg740b.

In general, the weakened regions760,762,764,766are designed such that a user may bend the legs740by hand—i.e., without the use of tools. In other words, because the weakened regions760,762,764,766lessen the rigidity of the legs740at the location of the weakened region, a user can bend the legs740at this portion without the use of a tool (e.g., pliers, a hammer, or other bending/force providing tools).

The weakened regions760,762,764,766may be manufactured in the ridge riser at some point before the ridge riser710is sold or otherwise provided to an installer. An installer is any individual that installs the ridge riser710on a structure. Thus, an installer of the ridge riser710does not need to add or create the weakened regions760,762,764,766. Further, when the weakened regions760,762,764,766are bendable by hand, an end-user will not have to purchase tools that either create or bend the weakened regions760,762,764,766. Such a weakened region760,762,764,766may be referred to as a “predefined weakened region.”

In one embodiment, the weakened regions760,762,764,766are created during the manufacturing process, i.e., at or about the same time that other aspects of the ridge riser710are fabricated. Such a weakened region760,762,764,766may be referred to as a “manufactured weakened region.”

As with the embodiments described above, the user may bend the legs740at one of the weakened regions760,762,764,766so that the legs740are positioned at a particular height relative to the roof ridge35. As there are multiple different weakened regions760,762,764,766, there is a set of heights that may be achieved using the ridge riser710. Using his or her skill/knowledge, the roofer may select which of the particular heights matches the particular roof configuration and roof covering element; based upon this decision, the roofer will bend the legs740at the selected weakened regions760,762,764,766.

In some embodiments, the position of the weakened regions760,762,764,766may be selected so that when the legs740are bent, the height of the legs740relative to the roof ridge710accommodate or correspond to the different types of tiles that are commonly used in tile roofs. These tiles used for tile roofs may be constructed, for example, of clay or concrete. These tiles may be classified as “low profile” tiles, “medium profile” tiles, or “high profile” tiles. “Low profile” tiles are those tiles that are generally flat or have a top surface rise that is less than or equal to one-half (½) inch. “Medium profile” tiles are tiles that have a rise (total height) to width ratio that is less than or equal to 1:5. “High profile” tiles have a rise (total height) to width ratio that is greater than 1:5 (measured in an installed condition). Thus, embodiments may be designed such that if the legs740are bent at the first weakened region760, the height of the legs740relative to the ridge35is set to accommodate a low profile tile. Other embodiments may be designed such that if the legs740are bent at the second weakened region762, the height of the legs740relative to the ridge35is set to accommodate a medium profile tile. Additional embodiments may further be designed such that if the legs740are bent at the third weakened region764, the height of the legs740relative to the ridge35is set to accommodate a high profile tile.

As noted above, a fourth weakened region766may be added to each of the legs740. The fourth weakened region766may be positioned at or proximate the bottom of each of the legs740. The fourth weakened region766is positioned below the third weakened region764. In some embodiments, the fourth weakened region accommodates high profile tiles at a hip.

In some embodiments, the configuration of the weakened regions760,762,764,766is designed such that, when bent along these regions, the bend will be substantially linear in shape. As described above, the weakened regions760,762,764,766may be generally linear. The weakened regions760,762,764,766may also be perpendicular to, or substantially perpendicular to, the transverse axis19(which is shown in phantom). This generally linear configuration of the weakened regions760,762,764,766means that the bend at the weakened region may also be generally linear or substantially linear. Other shapes of bends are also possible.

As shown inFIG. 11, the ridge riser710is in its “default position.” This default position is the uninstalled configuration, after it has been formed such that the legs740are parallel or substantially parallel to the side walls746.

In one embodiment, the distance between the bottom767of the cradle742and the first weakened region is approximately 1 1/16 inches; the distance between the first weakened region760and the second weakened region762is approximately 1 3/16 inches; the distance between the second weakened region762and the third weakened region764is approximately 1½ inches; and the distance between the third weakened region764and the fourth weakened region766is approximately 1¼ inches. As used herein, “approximately” means plus or minus ¼ of an inch.

It should be noted that the dimensions/measurements/distances for the ridge riser710are given herein as exemplary purposes only. Other embodiments may be designed in which the distances between the bottom767and the weakened regions760,762,764,766are different from that which is provided herein. Still further embodiments may be designed in which the distances between the weakened regions760,762,764,766are different from that which was given herein.

As shown inFIG. 11, embodiments may include weakened regions760,762,764,766that do not traverse the entirety of the strip in the direction of the longitudinal axis14. Rather, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 11, the weakened regions760,762,764,766(which are scores) only extend inwardly about ¼ inch from the outer edge of the legs740. In other embodiments, the weakened regions760,762,764,766may extend approximately ⅜ inch, ½ inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, etc. inwardly from the outer edge of the legs740. Further embodiments may be designed in which the weakened regions760,762,764,766traverse the entire longitudinal length of the legs740. In some embodiments, only having the weakened regions760,762,764,766extend ¼ inch inwardly from the edge of the legs740may be desirable in that having this smaller score does not compromise the strength of the metal after the legs740have been bent.

In the embodiment ofFIG. 11, each of the legs740has a plurality of attachment holes750. The attachment holes750are used to attach the legs740to the sheathing portions30(shown inFIG. 1) and/or the rafters28(shown inFIG. 1) or any other type of substrate. Fasteners52(shown inFIG. 1) may be inserted through the attachment holes750and seated in the corresponding sheathing portion30and/or rafter28to affix the legs740to the sheathing portion30and/or rafter28. The attachment holes750may be arranged to prevent relative translation or rotation between the legs740and the sheathing portions30.

However, unlike some of the embodiments discussed above, multiple sets of attachment holes are used on each of the legs740. In the illustrated embodiment, a first set of attachment holes750amay be positioned below the first weakened region760, a second set of attachment holes750bmay be positioned below the second weakened region762, and a third set of attachment holes750cmay be positioned below the third weakened region764. A fourth set of attachment holes750dmay also be positioned below the fourth weakened region766.

As noted above, the attachment holes750receive a fastener52(shown inFIG. 1). This fastener52secures the first leg740ato the first sloping side36of the roof ridge35. An additional fastener52may also secure the second leg740bto the second sloping side38of the roof ridge35. (The first sloping side36, the roof ridge35, and the second sloping side38are all shown inFIG. 1).

Positioning of the attachment holes750below each of the weakened regions760,762,764,766provides significant benefits. Specifically, in this configuration, the ridge riser710more securely retains a roof during a wind storm. The roof is much less likely to be blown upwards—away from the remainder of the building. This improved ability to secure a roof during a wind storm is especially important in areas that frequently experience, for example, hurricanes or tornadoes.

Aligning each of the two holes750(relative to the transverse axis19) below each weakened region760, as illustrated inFIG. 11, can further provide a significant benefit. In particular, in such a configuration, each of the fasteners52positioned within the holes750will likely bear an equal or substantially equal weight if an upward force is applied to an attached roof. Notwithstanding this benefit, the disclosed invention may also encompass the use of attachment holes750under each weakened region760that are offset relative to each other.

Referring now toFIGS. 12A,12B, and12C, alternative embodiments of a weakened region860are illustrated. The weakened regions860shown inFIGS. 12A through 12Cmay be used as one or more of the weakened regions760,762,764,766described above. The weakened regions860may also replace one or more of the scores or score lines discussed in the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 1-10. Thus, the weakened region860is an alternative to the weakened regions/score lines used in the embodiments discussed above. In the embodiment ofFIG. 12A, the weakened region860comprises two openings864in a strip of metal862. These openings864may be punched out of the strip of metal862during the stamping process. In some embodiments, the openings864may be aligned (i.e., positioned at the same vertical location on the leg) so that, when the user bends the leg at the weakened region860, a linear or substantially linear bend is created (that may or may not be perpendicular to the axis18(shown inFIG. 11) of the leg). The shape and number of the openings864may also be varied within the scope of this invention. For example, a series of tiny openings864could constitute another type of weakened region.

InFIG. 12B, the weakened region860comprises a single score870that spans across the entire width of the strip of metal862. This score870may be stamped or pressed onto the strip of metal862, or may be made using a variety of other techniques. In one embodiment, this single score870is very shallow to avoid undermining the strength of the ridge riser710when the weakened region860is bent.

InFIG. 12C, the weakened region comprises two notches874that are removed from the strip of metal862. In further embodiments, more than two notches874may also be used. Less than two notches874are also possible in other embodiments. These notches874may be removed from the edges of the strip of metal862. The notches874may be aligned or may be offset, as desired. As with the other embodiments, the two notches874may create linear bend that may or may not be perpendicular to axis18.

It should be noted that all of the weakened regions860shown inFIGS. 12A through 12Cmay be designed such that a user can bend the legs740, at the weakened region860, by hand—i.e., without the use of tools. Other types of configurations for the weakened region860may also be used. For example, different types of weakened regions860may be combined or utilized on a single leg740or ridge riser710.

Referring now toFIG. 13, a further embodiment of a ridge riser910is illustrated. The ridge riser910is similar to the embodiments discussed above. In fact, the ridge riser910is patterned after the ridge riser710shown inFIG. 11. Accordingly, the features, elements, and discussions given above in conjunction withFIG. 11may apply equally to the ridge riser910.

The ridge riser910includes two legs940having weakened regions960,962,964,966. In the embodiment ofFIG. 13, four weakened regions960,962,964,966are shown. However, further embodiments may be designed in which more or less than four weakened regions960,962,964,966are utilized. Attachment holes950may also be added and positioned below each of the weakened regions960,962,964,966. The attachment holes are designed to receive fasteners (not shown inFIG. 13) to secure the first leg to the first sloping side (shown inFIG. 1) of the roof ridge (shown inFIG. 1) and the second leg to the second sloping side (shown inFIG. 1) of the roof ridge (shown inFIG. 1).

However, the ridge riser910differs from the ridge riser710in that the ridge riser910has a cradle942that has an “inverted” U-shape. This shape may be referred to as a “downward U-shape.” In these embodiments, this inverted U-shaped cradle942is designed to support and receive an attachment block34(shown in phantom). Because the cradle942has an inverted U-shape, the floor944of the cradle942is positioned over the attachment block34when the attachment block34is secured within the cradle942.

The cradle942may also be designed to include one or more sidewalls946. However, these side walls946may be simply a portion of the legs940. A block attachment hole954is also added. This attachment hole954is used to fix the attachment block34in place within the cradle942. Fasteners56(not shown inFIG. 13) may be inserted through the block attachment holes954and secured within the attachment block34to prevent withdrawal of the attachment block34from the cradle942. Once the fasteners56are positioned, the attachment block34will be supported and received by the cradle942. Positioning of the attachment block34in the cradle942may restrict movement of the attachment block34in the lateral direction16. If desired, the block attachment holes954of each ridge riser910may be offset slightly from each other in the transverse direction18(shown inFIG. 11), or in the direction of the longitudinal axis14(shown inFIG. 11), to reduce the probability that the fasteners56will interfere with each other within the attachment block34. Additionally, facing holes980may be cut into the side walls946of the cradle942. As explained above, the facing holes980will align with the block attachment holes954to permit insertion of the fasteners56through the side walls946. The facing holes980may be made somewhat larger than the block attachment holes954to ensure that no portion of the side walls946impedes passage of the fasteners56into the attachment block34.

As used herein, the term “bendable by hand without the use of tools” means that an average adult male may bend the referenced region (such as one of the weakened regions960,962,964,966of one of the legs940) by the use of his hands without the need to utilize any tools to cause the region to bend. The use of a weakened region960,962,964,966that is bendable by hand without the use of tools provides a significant advantage in that a person installing the ridge riser910does not need to carry bending tools on the pertinent roof or leave the roof to go to bending tools in order to bend the legs940of ridge riser910to the appropriate height.

Many alternative embodiments would also provide the structural rigidity necessary to enable a ridge riser to serve as an anchor for a restraint assembly. Gussets, locking tabs, or the like may be used.

According to other alternative embodiments, ridge risers disclosed herein may be used in conjunction with a metal frame roof. Such a roof may have a plurality of I-beams that form trusses in place of wooden rafters. Purlins may then run horizontally between the trusses. A B-deck that takes the form of corrugated steel and a layer of insulation may be disposed over the I-beams and purlins. With such a roofing configuration, ridge risers may be attached directly to the I-beams, and may extend upward through the insulation. The ridge risers may be attached through the use of bolts, welding, or any other suitable attachment mechanism. Ridge risers with comparatively longer legs may be used to elevate the ridge structure over the insulation.

Use of ridge risers, according to the invention, with such a metal frame roof provides a number of advantages. It may provide more secure attachment of ridge elements because they can be supported by the metal frame rather than by the B-deck. Furthermore, use of a metal ridge riser may help to maintain the fire rating of the metal frame roof by avoiding the use of extra wooden parts to support the ridge elements.

The embodiments disclosed herein may be combined or further modified in a wide variety of ways to suit individual roofing situations. Such modifications, as would be known to one of skill in the art with the aid of this disclosure, are to be embraced within the scope of the invention.