MODULAR INTERLOCKING ROOFING RIDGE

Description

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTS AND TRADE DRESS

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. This patent document may show and/or describe matter which is or may become trade dress of the owner. The copyright and trade dress owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright and trade dress rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

Field

This disclosure relates to materials in the use of roofing. More specifically, a modular interlocking roofing ridge tile, also referred to as a roofing ridge, for use in building roof ridges used for roofs of residential, commercial, and other structures. A modular roofing ridge tile that can be used to construct a full roof ridge is disclosed.

Description of the Related Art

Roofs are an important component of buildings, providing shelter and protection from the elements, weather, UV radiation, and other forces from the environment. Roofs may come in various forms and be constructed from various materials. The choice of material may be selected for properties such as whether the roof will be in a cold or hot environment and what type of architectural style the building with the roof will be based on and other building requirements. The main function of a roof is to protect the interior of a structure from rain, snow, wind, sunlight, impact and solar radiation while also providing insulation while being aesthetically pleasing. A well-designed roof should be watertight, durable, and able to withstand environmental forces. Some types of roofs include gable, hip, flat, mansard, and shed roofs, each offering its own unique characteristics and aesthetics. Various roofing materials exist today, such as asphalt shingles, metal, clay tiles, or slate. The choice of material affects a roof's durability, insulation, UV Protection and overall appearance. Roofs not only serve a practical purpose but also contribute to the overall architectural style and appeal of a building. Proper maintenance and periodic inspections are essential to ensure the longevity and performance of roofs, allowing the roof to fulfill its vital role of safeguarding the spaces beneath them.

Unfortunately, today, the roof ridge, on many roofs, are often difficult, expensive, and hard to maintain. For one, the regular tiles that are used for the rest of a roof are often hard to use for a roof ridge. Installing and maintaining roofing ridges is difficult for several reasons. First, because roof ridges are installed at the peak of a roof to provide a transition and cover the gap between two sloping roof sections, custom fittings are often required. The roof ridge needs to be more structurally sound than other parts of the roof because the ridge is often exposed to more forces such as wind, rain, and other external factors because the ridge is the topmost part of the roof. The roof ridge must be installed with proper support and alignment which is difficult because the ridge is often at irregular shapes or angles when compared to the other parts of a roof.

Today, roof ridges are also often made of specialized ridge caps or shingles designed to fit and seal the peak of the roof. These pieces must be custom made and it is challenging to find the correct materials that match the existing roofing materials used on an already existing roof such as color, texture, and style. Achieving a seamless integration between the ridge and the rest of the roof is difficult because it is time consuming to select the proper materials and requires careful selection and installation. Often, poor materials or irregular roofing shingles are used which can lead to disastrous results.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Placing roofing ridges also requires precise measurement, cutting, and alignment. Achieving a straight and level ridge line is essential for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Any inaccuracies or inconsistencies in the installation will lead to gaps, leaks, or an uneven appearance. Aside from being aesthetically unpleasing, a poorly installed roof ridge can lead to a loosening of the roof ridge which harms the structural integrity of the rest of the roof components. Additionally, because the ridge is at the top of the roof, this requires installers and other technicians work at the top part of a roof which is physically demanding and may require special equipment and/or safety measures to ensure the workers' stability and balance. Making custom cuts, measures, and decisions at the highest point of a roof is difficult for workers working at the top of a roof. A system that could reduce the amount of time a worker needs to work at the highest point of the roof is greatly needed.

Weather conditions also significantly impact the installation process as well as the long term roof. High winds, rain, snow, or extreme temperatures affect the topmost part of the roof (often where the roofing ridges are installed roof ridge is) the most, because the topmost part of a roof is exposed to the highest elevation. Adverse weather conditions can also affect the adhesive properties of roofing materials, making it harder to achieve a secure and durable installation. There exists a need for a roofing ridge material that requires little customization during installation, but is long lasting and can be used with a wide variety of different roofs. The present disclosure solves this problem.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a drawing of an interlocking roofing ridge.

FIG. 2 is a drawing of the anterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge.

FIG. 3 is a drawing of the anterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge without a cutting.

FIG. 4 is a drawing of an anterior portion of a roofing ridge with a cutting.

FIG. 5 is a drawing of the posterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge.

FIG. 6 is a drawing of the posterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge with the ventral portion of the flaps of the anterior portion showing.

FIG. 7 is a drawing of a closer view of the ventral side of an interlocking roofing ridge.

FIG. 8 is a drawing of another view of a ventral portion of an interlocking roofing ridge.

FIG. 9 is a drawing of a back view of a first roofing ridge apparatus and second roofing ridge apparatus connected to each other via interlocking.

FIG. 10 is a drawing of a ventral portion of two roofing ridge apparatuses connected together.

FIG. 11 is a drawing of a roofing ridge apparatus constructed only of sheet metal.

FIG. 12 is a drawing of an interlocking roofing ridge treated with a base layer.

FIG. 13 is a drawing of stone granules attached to an interlocking roofing ridge.

FIG. 14 is a drawing of a potential treatment process for an interlocking roofing ridge.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A roof may be considered the uppermost part of a building or structure that provides shelter, protection, and insulation from the outside elements. Roofs are designed and used to cover and enclose the top of a building, acting as a barrier against rain, snow, wind, sunlight, and other environmental factors. The primary function of a roof is to keep the interior of the building dry, safe, and separated from the outside elements. Roofs prevent water from entering a physical structure, protect a building's occupants, belongings, and the underlying structure of the building itself from moisture damage, rot, and mold growth. Roofs also play a vital role in providing thermal insulation, keeping warm air in and cold air out or vice versa. Roofs help regulate the temperature inside the building, which may prevent excessive heat loss in cold climates and minimize heat gain in warmer climates. Thus, roofs may contribute to energy efficiency and can reduce heating and cooling costs for a particular building. Roofs may come in various forms; the form being dictated by the designs and materials used to make up the roof. The form or shape of a roof takes may also be dependent on architectural style, climate, budget, materials used and personal preference. Some common roofing materials today include asphalt shingles, clay or concrete tiles, wood shakes or shingles, slate, and synthetic materials.

In addition to being functional, roofs also have aesthetic appeals. Roofs contribute to the overall appearance and appeal of a building, enhancing a building's architectural style and visual appeal. Despite common misconceptions, roofs are more than simply shingles locked together on top of a building. Roofs have multiple components as outlined below. For example, the roof deck is considered the base layer of the roof. A roof deck may be composed of plywood or oriented strand board (OSB). It provides structural support and forms the foundation for the roof covering. Other materials such as concrete or plaster may also be used. A roof deck is not equivalent to a roof ridge.

The roof deck may provide structural support for the other components of the roof and the entire roof system. The roof deck is responsible for distributing the weight of the roof, and additional loads such as snow, wind, people, fixtures, to the underlying framework of the building. A properly designed roof should have a deck that distributes loads evenly to the supporting rafters or trusses, ensuring the roof's stability and integrity. A roof deck must distribute the weight of the roof ridge otherwise a building may collapse. Thus, a lightweight material that is also strong is favorable for constructing a roof ridge, and the individual roofing ridges that make up the roof ridge. The present disclosure as discussed below discloses a lightweight yet strong modular interlocking roofing ridge that can be used to make a roof's final roof ridge.

The roof deck also acts as an attachment surface for the roof covering. The roof deck provides a flat, stable platform where roofing materials may be securely fastened to. Proper attachment of the roof covering to the roof deck is essential for preventing wind uplift and ensuring the long-term durability of the roof. While most associate the primary function of the roof deck as structural, the roof deck also acts as a moisture barrier. The roof deck alone is not sufficient to prevent water penetration but is an essential part of preventing water penetration. Additional layers like underlayment and a waterproof roof covering are installed over the deck to provide effective protection against moisture intrusion. Additionally, a roof's roof ridge may assist in the dissipation of excess moisture from rain. If a modular interlocking roofing ridge is used to construct a roof's roof ridge, the final roof ridge will be better able to dissipate water due to the coated treatments found on each interlocking roofing ridge as discussed more below.

Before installation of the roof deck, engineers should ensure that the supporting structure, such as rafters or trusses, are properly spaced and aligned. Roof decks should be installed with the appropriate slope or pitch to facilitate water drainage. Flat roofs leave much to be desired because they often result in poor water drainage and can lead to puddles and leaks accumulating on a roof. Proper ventilation is also necessary to prevent the accumulation of moisture and promote the longevity of the roof system. The thickness of a roof deck material depends on factors such as the span between the supporting structure, the anticipated loads, and local building codes. Typically, roof decks are constructed using plywood or OSB panels with thicknesses ranging from ½ inch to ¾ inch. Thicker decks may be required for larger spans or heavier loads.

The underlayment is another part of the roofing system crucial to a roof's function. Underlayment is often installed directly on top of the roof deck and serve as a secondary barrier against moisture. The primary function of the underlayment is to provide an additional layer of protection against water and moisture from entering a physical structure via the roof. While the roof covering (e.g. shingles, tiles, panels) may be considered the primary waterproofing layer, the underlayment acts as a secondary defense for when water penetrates the primary roof covering. The underlayment also helps prevent leaks and keeps the roof deck and underlying structure dry. Underlayment also plays a significant role in managing moisture within the roof system. The underlayment may assist with shedding any water that enters beneath the roof covering, preventing the water from reaching the roof deck and causing damage. The underlayment also assists in preventing condensation by allowing trapped moisture to escape from the roof assembly.

Underlayment may come in multiple varieties depending on materials available. The materials used may depend on factors such as climate, local building codes, and the specific roofing system being installed. Some appropriate types include asphalt-saturated felt. Asphalt-saturated felt is a traditional and widely used underlayment material. It, however, is inferior to an interlocking roofing ridge because increased temperatures may cause it to crack or lose structural integrity. Sheet metal does not crack or have leaks nearly as much as asphalt-saturated felt. This is why a roofing ridge constructed from sheet metal treated with aluminum zinc coatings is superior to asphalt-saturated felt roofing ridges. Asphalt-saturated felt consists of a mat made from organic or fiberglass material saturated with asphalt. It provides excellent protection against water and acts as a moisture barrier. Synthetic underlayment is similar to asphalt-saturated felt except synthetic underlayment is composed of synthetic materials made from polypropylene, polyester, or a combination of both. Synthetic underlayment is lightweight, durable, and highly resistant to tearing. They offer superior water resistance and may have additional features like enhanced UV protection. Unfortunately, synthetic underlayment is not as durable as sheet metal, especially sheet metal coated with aluminum oxide or aluminum zinc. Specialized membranes are another form of underlayment. In certain roofing systems, specialized membranes may be used as underlayment. For example, in low-slope or flat roofs, self-adhering bitumen membranes or synthetic rubber membranes like EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) are used.

Underlayment may be installed in overlapping layers over a roof deck. The exact installation process may vary depending on the specific type of underlayment utilized. Generally, an underlayment is rolled out horizontally, starting from the eaves of a roofing system and working up towards the roof ridge. A roof ridge made from an interlocking roofing ridge mechanism is superior to traditional roof ridges because the additional flaps provided by the interlocking roofing ridge serve as areas of anchor support for attaching underlayment to the roof ridge. Proper sealing and overlap of the underlayment sheets are essential to ensure a continuous and watertight barrier. Underlayment also plays an important part in the ventilation of a roof system. Underlayments help create a breathable space between the roof deck and the roof covering, allowing for the proper circulation of air and preventing the buildup of moisture. Ventilation requirements may vary depending on the climate and specific roofing system being installed.

The roof covering is the visible, outermost layer of the roof that provides protection against the elements. It plays a crucial role in shielding the underlying structure from rain, snow, wind, sunlight, and other environmental factors. Roof coverings are generally made from a wide range of materials, each material with its own unique set of characteristics. Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material due to their affordability, versatility, and ease of installation. They are available in a variety of colors and styles and provide good durability and weather resistance. Clay and concrete tiles are known for their distinctive appearance and durability. Clay and concrete are commonly used in Mediterranean or Spanish-style architecture and offer excellent resistance to fire and wind. Unfortunately, clay and concrete can be heavy, requiring proper roof structure support. Asphalt, clay, and concrete however are not ideal choices for use in a roof ridge. This is because asphalt, clay, and concrete often cannot be treated with aluminum oxide or aluminum zinc which leads to faster corrosion due to weather and moisture. Additionally, asphalt, clay, and concrete are heavier than stainless steel and this contributes more to the load force applied to a roof.

Wood shakes and shingles may provide a natural and rustic look. Shakes and shingles are typically made from cedar, redwood, or other types of wood and offer good insulation properties. Wood roofs require regular maintenance and are often prone to fires. In fact, many building codes in various jurisdictions have outlawed their use due to fire hazard concerns. Slate is a high-end roofing material known for its elegance, longevity, and resistance to fire and harsh weather conditions. It is often derived from metamorphic rocks and clay or volcanic ash. Slate offers a distinctive appearance and is available in various colors and textures. Slate roofs are heavy and often require a robust roof structure. Synthetic roofing materials available, such as composite shingles, rubber, or plastic-based products may sometimes be incorporated with the roofing materials listed above. Synthetic roofing materials offer a range of benefits, including durability, lightweight construction, and cost-effectiveness. Unfortunately, none of these materials are very resilient when being used as a roofing ridge for a roof. Along with being difficult to cut in a custom way, they are not as durable as metal that has undergone treatments with aluminum oxide and/or aluminum zinc coatings.

The proper selection of roof covering material depends on several factors. The desired appearance and architectural style of a building plays an important role in material selection. Different roofing materials can complement specific architectural designs and enhance the overall appeal of a structure. The expected lifespan of the roof covering and its ability to withstand local climate conditions, such as extreme temperatures, wind, or hail, are important considerations when determining what material to use. Building owners today often complain of having to replace roofs roughly every ten years. This is due to a lack of metal in roofing material and roofing ridge design. Metal treated with aluminum oxide and aluminum zinc is a more durable building material than other roofing ridge materials.

Roofing material should be suitable for the climate in the area a roof and roofing ridge is to be installed. For example, in regions with heavy rainfall, materials with superior water-shedding capabilities are much preferred. Some materials require regular maintenance, such as periodic cleaning or coating applications, while others require relatively low maintenance. This is yet another reason the present disclosure is superior to prior art. The application of aluminum oxide and/or aluminum zinc coating to the roofing ridge before installation allows for a more durable design rather than applying more coatings later. The cost of the roofing material, including installation, is also a major factor in selecting building materials for a roof. Local building codes may also mandate certain requirements.

Flashing is another important component of a roofing system specifically designed to prevent water infiltration in vulnerable areas where the roof is interrupted or intersected. The main purpose of flashing is to provide a watertight seal and redirect water away from critical areas of the roof. Flashing acts as a barrier, preventing water from seeping into joints, transitions, and penetrations, which are often prone to leaks if left unprotected. Flashing is usually made from durable and corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum, copper, or galvanized steel. Flashing is usually applied to multiple parts of a roof. The present disclosure is superior to other roofing ridges because roofing ridges composed of the disclosed interlocking modular roofing ridge apparatuses contain extra flaps that can be used to secure flashing to areas of the roof that are near the roof ridge.

For example, flashing may be installed at the intersection between the chimney and the roof. Flashing may also be installed at the intersection of the roof ridge, the chimney, and the rest of the roof. The final flashing typically consists of several components, including base flashing, step flashing, and counter flashing. These elements work together to create a water-tight seal around the chimney or other potential openings and prevent water from entering the joint. Skylights may have essential flashing to prevent water infiltration. Skylight flashing may be installed along the perimeter of the skylight opening and create a barrier between the roof and the skylight frame. Skylight flashing is designed to divert water away from the opening and ensure proper drainage. Roof valleys are areas where two roof planes intersect and form a V-shaped channel. Roof valleys also may require flashing. Valley flashing is installed in these areas to guide water down a channel and away from the roof's vulnerable joint. Valley flashing is typically made of metal and may run along the length of the valley. Flashing may also be installed around vent pipes or stack vents that protrude through the roof. Vent pipe flashing may consist of a base flashing that is fitted around a pipe, forming a watertight seal. Vent pipe flashing prevents water from entering the roof through the opening created by the pipe. Roof transitions are areas where different roof slopes meet or where a roof intersects with a wall or dormer. Flashing is used to protect roof transitions to ensure that water is effectively redirected and does not seep into the transition area.

Proper installation of flashing is necessary to ensure its effectiveness and that water stays out of important areas. Flashing should be securely fastened and properly overlapped to create a continuous water barrier wherever the flashing is applied. Flashing should also be installed with precision and care, adhering to manufacturer guidelines and local building codes. In some cases, professional roofing contractors may use additional techniques including soldering, to ensure watertight connections. Over time, flashing may deteriorate due to exposure to weather conditions or physical damage. Regular inspection and maintenance of the flashing is important to identify any signs of wear, such as corrosion, loose or damaged sections, or improper seals. Damaged flashing should be promptly repaired or replaced to maintain the integrity of the roofing system and prevent water damage.

A ridge vent is another key ventilation component that may be installed along the roof or roofing ridge. A ridge vent plays a critical role in facilitating the airflow and ventilation within an attic space. The primary purpose of a ridge vent is to exhaust hot air and moisture from an attic. As warm air rises, it accumulates in the attic space, which leads to increased temperatures, excess humidity, and moisture-related problems. The ridge vent allows the hot air to escape naturally through the ridge, creating a continuous flow of fresh air from the eaves or soffit vents.

The ridge of a roof or roof ridge, or interlocked roofing ridges, is the peak where two opposing roof planes that make up the roof meet. Other definitions include the highest point on a roof, represented by a horizontal line where two roof areas intersect, running the length of the area. The ridge may also be considered the peak of the roof, some in the industry also refer to the ridge as the board or beam that is used when building the ridge. In traditional house framing, which some refer to as “stick framing,” the fundamental structure of a roof includes sets of sloping rafters that may be joined at the top. This forms a ridge board or ridge beam. Each rafter's upper end is precisely cut at an angle to create a flush connection with one side of the ridge board, effectively sandwiching the ridge between the rafters. Some may refer to a roofing ridge as regular roofing tiles.

Traditional stick framing can be extremely difficult when making a roof ridge because of precision cutting. Precision cutting often requires custom pieces to construct a roof ridge and requires extra work to make sure the roof ridge matches the rest of the roof. Crafting the rafters and ridge board requires precise angle cuts to ensure a proper fit and flush connection. Achieving accurate cuts can be time-consuming and demanding, as it necessitates careful measurements and precise execution. Ensuring the opposing pairs of rafters align correctly and meet securely at the ridge board or ridge beam can also be very difficult as materials may sometimes warp or not be cut properly. Any misalignment or instability at the ridge can compromise the structural integrity of the roof and may result in structural problems such as leaks, sagging, or uneven weight distribution.

Proper load distribution is also crucial in order to bear the weight of the roof evenly and transfer it to the supporting walls or beams. Achieving consistent load distribution at the roof ridge requires careful placement of rafters and accurate attachment to the ridge board or beam. Any mistakes in load distribution can lead to structural issues or a weakened roof structure. Depending on the selected materials for rafters and the ridge board or beam, additional problems may arise. For example, working with heavy ridge beams or materials that require specialized tools for cutting and installation can increase the complexity of the installation process and may lead to problems down the line. This is why modular roofing ridges with a uniform body length of 8 and/or 10 inches are superior to other materials. Not having to deal with custom fittings and having a uniform length is not only easier to work with, but reduces the amount of time a worker needs to spend placing down individual roofing ridges, tiles, or rafters to create the final roofing ridge. interlocking modular roofing ridge apparatuses may be used to refer to roofing ridges of 8 and/or 10 inches.

Rafters may be attached to the ridge either by various fasteners including nailing or using metal framing connectors. Using fasteners establishes a structural connection between the rafters and the ridge board, which offers lateral stability and forms a sturdy backbone for the roof peak. To connect the lower ends of the opposite rafters, a horizontal board which may be referred to as a joist may be utilized. Joists may also serve as the framework for the ceiling of the top floor or attic. Together, the rafters, ridge, and joists may create a triangular structure that possesses significant structural integrity while leaving an open space in the center, which constitutes the attic area. Though different, it should be understood that a traditional rafter may be replaced by the disclosed interlocking roofing ridge apparatus.

Traditional ridge caps, as their name implies, refer to the shingles positioned along the ridge of a roof. Almost every roof, except for flat roofs, may feature a ridge, and some roofs may even have multiple ridges. Ridge caps have played an important role in safeguarding a roof and home by allowing proper airflow through the attic while providing protection against leaks. They serve as a protective barrier that ensures both ventilation and weatherproofing for the overall roofing system.

Ridge caps are usually crafted from the same material as standard asphalt shingles, but with a few key distinctions. Ridge caps may be thicker to facilitate easy installation along the ridge line or a roof ridge. In terms of size, they are considerably smaller compared to regular shingles. The increased thickness of ridge caps serves a specific purpose. The extra thickness enables the ridge caps to bend without compromising their protective capabilities. This feature allows ridge caps to effectively shield the roof against water and snow without failing due to deterioration from the elements.

When installing ridge caps on the roof, ridge caps are positioned over a gap or opening in the roof structure, unlike standard shingles that directly cover the roof sheathing. To ensure proper ventilation and airflow, a ridge vent is installed beneath the ridge caps. This serves two important purposes first it helps create a sealed roof system and allows air to enter the attic space. Without a ridge vent, the attic would trap stagnant air, leading to diminished air quality and higher energy costs to get rid of the trapped air. The presence of a ridge vent promotes healthy air circulation, contributing to improved ventilation and energy efficiency within the home.

Acrylic, also known as poly(methyl methacrylate) or PMMA, is a thermoplastic material with favorable qualities because of its transparency, durability, and weather resistance. When exposed to sunlight, acrylic can undergo multiple reactions. First, acrylic may undergo UV degradation. Acrylic is susceptible to degradation when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation present in sunlight. Over time, UV rays may cause the polymer chains in acrylic to break down, leading to surface degradation, discoloration, and reduced mechanical strength. This degradation can result in a loss of clarity and the development of a yellowish tint, especially in unpigmented or clear acrylic. Prolonged exposure to sunlight may also cause acrylic to become more brittle. The UV radiation initiates a process called photodegradation, which weakens the molecular structure of acrylic. Photodegradation can result in acrylic becoming more prone to cracking or breaking when subjected to mechanical stress.

Acrylic's optical properties, such as transparency and clarity, may be affected by prolonged sunlight exposure. UV radiation can lead to the formation of microcracks on the surface, scattering light and reducing transparency. This can result in a hazy or cloudy appearance and diminished optical performance.

Acrylic materials that have been pigmented or dyed may undergo color fading when exposed to sunlight. UV rays can break down the pigment molecules, causing the colors to fade or change over time. This effect is more pronounced in acrylics with light-sensitive pigments or dyes. To mitigate the effects of sunlight on acrylic, and thus have an acrylic suitable for an interlocking roofing ridge apparatus, additives may be used with the acrylic. For example, adding UV stabilizers or inhibitors during the manufacturing process of either the interlocking roofing ridge, or the acrylic itself can enhance the acrylic's resistance to UV degradation. These additives help to absorb or deflect UV radiation, slowing down the degradation process. Examples of specific stabilizers include UV stabilizers, heat stabilizers (including metal soaps like calcium stearate or zinc stearate), antioxidants (including hindered phenols and phosphites), impact modifiers, metal deactivators, acid scavengers, and hydrolysis stabilizers.

Unfortunately, these stabilizers often only prolong the UV degradation process and do not actually protect the underlying stainless steel or roofing ridge from degrading. Applying UV-resistant coatings or films to the surface of acrylic can also provide an additional protective layer against UV radiation. These coatings can help minimize UV damage and prolong the lifespan of the acrylic material. Better than coatings or stabilizers is the addition of stone granules discussed more below. This is because when acrylic is applied to the top layer of an interlocking roofing ridge, the acrylic may seep in behind, around, and underneath stone granules applied to the roofing ridge. The acrylic not only assists in keeping the stone granules in place, but also is protected from UV radiation by being underneath stone granules. Though sunlight may diffract off of the stone granules, energy loss from the light hitting the granules makes the UV radiation less intense and thus prolongs not only the life of the acrylic, but the interlocking roofing ridge and roof ridge itself.

Turning to FIG. 1, there is a picture of an interlocking roofing ridge 110 with multiple angles and components showing. Interlocking roofing ridge 110 contains a sagittal plane 130 that is primarily constructed from sheet metal. The sheet metal undergoes several treatments of protective coating as discussed later on but not shown in FIG. 1. However, from FIG. 1 the stone treatment 115 is shown. This stone treatment is composed of stone granules. Sagittal plane 130 contains a bend 120. Several different portions of the interlocking roofing ridge 110 are shown. Posterior portion 140 contains flaps that will be discussed later on. Dorsal portion 160 is where the stone portion is applied to the interlocking roofing ridge. Anterior portion 150 contains more flaps (not seen in FIG. 1) that interact with the flaps of the posterior portion 140 to form an interlocking mechanism that combines a first interlocking roofing ridge with a second interlocking roofing ridge. For purposes of this disclosure when referring to the “front” of a roofing ridge, the “posterior” portion may be referred to. This is because technicians installing the interlocking roofing ridge sometimes refer to the posterior portion as the front and the anterior portion as the back. Though this may seem confusing for purposes of describing the front or back, so long as anterior portion and posterior portion are used consistently mislabeling the components of the roofing ridge will be avoided.

FIG. 2 shows the anterior end of an interlocking roofing ridge. Anterior portion 150 is the portion of the roofing ridge that houses the anterior ridge 210. As will be discussed below, the interaction between the parts of the anterior ridge and another portion of a second roofing ridge allows for multiple roofing ridges to be interlocked together to form a roofing ridge system for a building. Anterior ridge 210 is formed by a first lateral flap 220 and a second lateral flap 225.

FIG. 3 shows the anterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge without a cutting. Note how no cutting 310 has no gap between first lateral flap 220 and second lateral flap 225. From a manufacturing standpoint no cutting 310 may be advantageous because it eliminates an extra step in the production of an interlocking roofing ridge. No cutting 310 reduces the amount of time an interlocking roofing ridge must stay inside a factory for processing and also adds more customizability to a single interlocking roofing ridge. By including no cutting 310, an installer is given the option of adding a cutting 410 (see FIG. 4), to the interlocking roofing ridge. This also gives the installer the option of creating an interlocking roofing ridge system from a combination of roofing ridges that have no cutting 310 and cutting 410. In some instances, it may be beneficial to construct an interlocking roofing ridge system that has the majority of interlocking roofing ridges making up the system with a cutting 410, but the end piece to have no cutting 310.

FIG. 4 shows an anterior portion of a roofing ridge with cutting 410. Note how anterior portion 150 along with first lateral flap 220 and second lateral flap 225 are still shown, except now lateral flap 220 and lateral flap 225 are separated by cutting 410. Cutting 410 is beneficial to the overall structure of an interlocking roofing ridge, and a roofing ridge system constructed from interlocking roofing ridges for several reasons. First, cutting 410 may add stress relief or stress concentration reduction to an individual interlocking roofing ridge and a roofing ridge system constructed from interlocking roofing ridges. This is because when a load or force is applied to an individual interlocking roofing ridge, the force may create stress within the material making up the interlocking roofing ridge. Stress may be measured as force per unit area, and the stress may concentrate at certain points, particularly at sharp corners such as first lateral flap 220, second lateral flap 225, and anterior ridge 210. This stress concentration can lead to material failure, such as cracks or fractures on first lateral flap 220, second lateral flap 225, and anterior ridge 210, or other parts of the interlocking roofing ridge.

Second, adding cutting 410 may assist with stress redistribution of an interlocking roofing ridge. The presence of cutting 410 redistributes the stress within the individual roofing ridge apparatus. Instead of stress concentrating at a single point of the interlocking roofing ridge, cutting 410 distributes the force from the stress more evenly along the edges of cutting 410. The distribution of the force helps prevent localized stress concentrations, reducing the risk of cracks or fractures on the roofing ridge apparatus.

Third, cutting 410 can enhance load transfer between two interlocking roofing ridges that have been fastened to each other. As discussed more below, the anterior portion of a single interlocking roofing ridge may be connected to the posterior portion of a separate interlocking roofing ridge. This connection improves the load transfer between two interlocking roofing ridges fastened together because when the interlocking roofing ridges are subject to bending forces, cutting 410, can help redistribute the load from the bending or other force and prevent stress concentrations at other points of an individual roofing ridge apparatus. Prevention of stress concentrations on various parts of an interlocking roofing ridge increases the overall lifespan of the individual interlocking roofing ridge and an overall roofing ridge system constructed from individual interlocking roofing ridges.

Fourth, cutting 410 introduces a controlled fracture point to an individual interlocking roofing ridge. It is preferable for an individual interlocking roofing ridge to fail at a specific area, such as cutting 410 of the anterior portion of a roofing ridge, rather than experiencing sudden catastrophic failure of the entire roofing ridge. Failure at the anterior portion of the roofing ridge at cutting 410 is preferable because failure at this point still allows for two interlocking roofing ridges to stay connected and for an overall roof ridge system to remain intact.

FIG. 5 shows a posterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge with a focus on the components that make up the posterior portion. Posterior portion 140 is composed primarily of four different flaps. First distal flap 520 is connected to first medial flap 510. A second medial flap 515 is connected to a second distal flap 525 on the other side of the first distal flap 520 and first medial flap 510. A triangular cutting 530 is found between first medial flap 510 and second medial flap 515. The triangular cutting allows for some flexibility while maintaining some rigidity in the overall structure of the interlocking roofing ridge.

A triangular cutting at 530 is superior to other cuttings for multiple reasons. First, triangular shapes due to various geometric properties have more inherent strength and stability than most other geometric shapes, such as squares, polygons, and circles. By adding a triangular cutting to the posterior portion of the interlocking roofing ridge stress from the load of multiple interlocking roofing ridges connected to each other is more evenly distributed amongst the final roofing ridge system. This prevents the concentration of stress in specific areas such as first medial flap 510 and second medial flap 515, and reduces the risk of failure or deformation of the entire interlocking roofing ridge.

Second, the triangular shape of triangular cutting 530 allows for more efficient distribution of loads across multiple areas of the interlocking roofing ridge. When forces are applied to the roofing ridge, triangular cutting 530 helps to spread the load across a larger surface area, reducing the stress on first distal flap 520, first medial flap 510, second medial flap 515, and second distal flap 525.

Triangular cutting 530 also allows for efficient distribution of loads across distal flap 520, first medial flap 510, second medial flap 515, and second distal flap 525. When forces are applied to multiple components of the anterior portion triangular cutting 530 helps to spread the load across a larger surface area of the entire anterior portion. This reduces the stress on individual components and promotes overall stability of the individual interlocking roofing ridge.

Triangular cutting 530 further enhances the stiffness and rigidity of the interlocking roofing ridge. Triangular cutting 530 may act as brace or reinforcement, of the interlocking roofing ridge which reduces flexing or bending of the interlocking roofing ridge under load. This helps to maintain the original shape of the interlocking roofing ridge and prevents excessive deformation.

Triangular cutting 530 also provides improved resistance to shear and torsion forces acting on the interlocking roofing ridge. Shear forces may cause the anterior portion of one interlocking roofing ridge to slide past the posterior portion of a second interlocking roofing ridge connected to the first interlocking roofing ridge. Torsion forces can cause twisting or rotational motion between the posterior portion of a first interlocking roofing ridge and the anterior portion of a second interlocking roofing ridge. Shear and torsion forces may be exacerbated by other forces such as wind, hail, snow, rain or other forces applied from the weather or elements. The addition of a triangular cutting helps to mitigate these forces by reinforcing the flaps making up the anterior portion of the interlocking roofing ridge and enhancing the overall stability of the entire roofing ridge system.

Triangular cutting 530 can also dampen vibrations that may come into contact with the interlocking roofing ridge by removing excess material and thus reducing the amount of solid material a vibration may travel through. Vibrations may arise from various sources, such as machinery operated within or near a building, wind or other external forces, and can lead to fatigue and failure of a roofing ridge system over time. The presence of triangular cutting helps to absorb and dissipate these vibrations, preventing them from propagating throughout the entire roofing ridge system. The air gap present near triangular cutting 530 fails to transfer vibrational energy propagated by a vibration and thus reduces the overall force from the vibration applied to an interlocking roofing ridge apparatus.

FIG. 6 shows a posterior portion of an interlocking roofing ridge with the ventral portion of the flaps of the anterior portion first lateral flap 220 and second lateral flap 225 showing. Note how first lateral flap ventral portion 221 does not have any stone treatment on it. Neither does second lateral flap ventral portion 226 either. This is because the lateral flaps have both a ventral and dorsal portion. The dorsal portion of the entire roofing ridge interlocking system is generally covered with stone treatment, whereas the ventral portion is stainless steel with treatments discussed below applied to it.

FIG. 7 shows a more close up view of the ventral side of an interlocking roofing ridge. Ventral portion 710 does not have any stone treatment on it. The underside of bend 120 may be seen at the ventral side. The ventral side of first lateral flap 221 and second lateral flap 226 may also be seen in this figure. Cutting 410 is also apparent from the ventral side. Protective coating 720 may also be seen at the ventral portion of an interlocking roofing ridge mechanism.

FIG. 8 offers another view of ventral portion 710. Note how ventral portion 710 does not contain any stone treatment. However, ventral portion 710 does contain a protective coat treatment. The protective coat treatment may come in a single layer of aluminum zinc, or multiple layers of aluminum zinc and other coatings as discussed below. Aluminum oxide may also be used as a protective coat treatment.

FIG. 9 shows the back view of a first roofing ridge apparatus and second roofing ridge apparatus connected to each other via interlocking roofing ridges. The term interlocking may also be referred to as an interlocked connection. An interlocked connection is a mechanical connection between components of one apparatus with another. Note how first roofing ridge apparatus 910 contains a first lateral flap 920 (220 in FIG. 2) and second lateral flap 925 (225 in FIG. 2). First lateral flap 920 is mechanically connected to first medial flap (510 in FIG. 5) while second lateral flap 925 is mechanically connected to second medial flap (515 in FIG. 5). Though not shown connected to another roofing ridge apparatus in FIG. 9, first lateral flap 970 of second roofing ridge 960 and second lateral flap of second roofing ridge 975 could be linked to a third interlocking roofing ridge (not shown).

FIG. 10 shows a ventral portion of two roofing ridge apparatuses connected together. In other words, FIG. 10 is a ventral view of FIG. 9 and shows roofing ridge 910. In FIG. 10 there is a first medial flap 1110 (510 in FIG. 5) and second medial flap 1115 (515 in FIG. 5) of a second roofing ridge connected to the anterior portion of a first roofing ridge. The first lateral flap 1120 (221 in FIG. 2) and second lateral flap 1125 (226 in FIG. 2) could be attached to a third roofing ridge apparatus when construction of a roof ridge system on a rooftop utilizes interlocking roofing ridges. A third roofing ridge apparatus could be connected to a fourth roofing ridge apparatus, until a full roof ridge for a roof has been constructed. A fourth roofing ridge apparatus could be connected to a fifth roofing ridge apparatus and so on until an entire roof ridge system has been constructed for the roof of a building.

FIG. 11 shows a roofing ridge apparatus constructed only of sheet metal. Note FIG. 11 may also show the sheet metal treated by zinc aluminum and other coatings. Zinc aluminum is an alloy that may be used to treat stainless steel. Though stainless steel is a strong metal, it is susceptible to degradation over time especially when left outside on a roof. By treating an interlocking roofing ridge with either a single or multiple coats of aluminum zinc, the lifespan of a single interlocking roofing ridge is greatly extended. This is because aluminum zinc may offer sacrificial protection to the stainless steel body of an interlocking roofing ridge. Zinc aluminum can act as a sacrificial anode when coated over stainless steel. As a sacrificial anode the zinc aluminum coating preferentially corrodes, sacrificing itself to protect the stainless steel underneath. When the zinc and aluminum, in the zinc aluminum coating, undergo galvanic corrosion, the zinc and aluminum atoms release electrons that flow to the stainless steel. This sacrificial protection prevents the degradation of the stainless steel surface by sacrificing the more reactive zinc aluminum coating, rather than the underlying stainless steel. This can prevent rust and other degradation from accumulating on single interlocking roofing ridge apparatus.

The zinc aluminum coating also forms a protective barrier on the surface of the stainless steel of the interlocking roofing ridge. This barrier prevents corrosive agents including moisture, oxygen, and chemicals introduced from weather and other environmental factors from reaching the stainless steel directly. The barrier effect slows the degradation process by limiting the contact between the stainless steel and the corrosive environment.

FIG. 12 shows an interlocking roofing ridge treated with a base layer 1200. The base layer may be a zinc oxide adhesive. Before application of the stone granules, a base layer of adhesive zinc oxide is added to the top of the interlocking roofing ridge. This has a dual purpose of preventing UV radiation from degrading the interlocking roofing ridge, and also serves as an adhesive to bind the stone granules to the top of the interlocking roofing ridge. In other instances, acrylic with zinc oxide incorporated into the acrylic may be used as a base layer. Appropriate acrylics include Polyhydroxyethylmethacrylate.

Turning to FIG. 13 there is a picture of stone granules 1300 attached to the roofing ridge. Stone granules may be small, finely crushed particles of natural minerals or synthetic materials. More specifically, stone granules may be formed from a combination of mineral materials such as granite, limestone, basalt, slag, marble, sandstone, quartzite, travertine, slate, gabbro, schist, as well as synthetic materials including fiberglass, polyvinyl chloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, epoxy, phenolic resins, ceramic-coated granules or polymer-based granules. Stone granules may also be formed from materials including light black, midnight cool, black shadow, estate grey, weathered wood, oakwood, birchwood, amber, desert tan, white, slate grey, shake wood, dual brown, silverwood, bark wood. Petrified woods may also be added to either mineral materials and/or synthetic materials. Petrified woods themselves may sometimes make up the entire stone granules added to an interlocking roofing ridge apparatus.

Mixing different proportions and types of stone granules with each other creates different stone granule effects. These granule effects include black shadow, light black, midnight cool, estate grey, weathered wood, oakwood, birchwood, amber, desert tan, white, slate grey, shake wood, dual brown, silverwood, bark wood. Though petrified wood may be considered a mineral, sometimes petrified woods may be combined with the minerals listed above to create different stone granule textures. Petrified wood may also be incorporated into the stone granules, appropriate petrified wood includes quartz, chalcedony, agate, opal, homogeneous type petrified wood, spotted type petrified wood, Jet-like petrified wood, and concentric petrified wood.

FIG. 14 shows a potential treatment process for an interlocking roofing ridge. In some instances, it may be favorable to only apply a single layer of aluminum zinc. In other instances, multiple layers are necessary. For example, FIG. 14 shows protective coat 1410 being applied. Protective coat 1410 may be a coat of aluminum zinc. Zinc-aluminum coat 1420 may be applied after the initial coat 1410. Both coats 1410 and 1420 are applied to steel base 1430. Steel base 1430 is constructed of stainless steel and serves as the body of the interlocking roofing ridge. Yet another zinc-aluminum coat may be applied at 1440. This third coat serves as to provide a high heat reflection capacity, strong corrosion resistant, and may help conserve energy for an indoor structure while improving the overall roofing ridge life. Note Zinc-aluminum, Zinc-Aluminum, Zinc-aluminum, zinc aluminum, or other spellings of zinc aluminum all have the same meaning. A fourth protective coat at 1450 may be applied and coat 1450 may also be aluminum zinc. Base coat 1460 serves as another protective layer to the interlocking roofing ridge, but also as an adhesive for the stone granules at 1470. Note base layer 1460 may be another layer of aluminum zinc. Base layer 1460 may also be a layer of aluminum oxide adhesive. Base layer 1460 may also be a layer of aluminum oxide adhesive mixed with acrylic. Stone granules layer 1470 is composed of a combination of mineral materials and or synthetic materials. Clear acrylic overglaze 1480 may be added on top of stone granules 1470 or below. Clear acrylic overglaze 1480 may increase the brightness and bonding strength of the entire interlocking roofing ridge. Additionally, the acrylic overglaze may act as another layer of defense against weather elements (including rain) against the stone granules layer 1470. It should be noted that each of the individual layers discussed in FIG. 14 (1410-1480) could each individually serve as a single protective coating alone without any other layers, or in a combination of one or more layers mentioned in FIG. 14. The protective layers are equivalent to a protective coating.

A method of installing a roofing ridge on a roof using interlocking roofing ridges could be, a method of generating an interlocking roofing ridge for constructing a roofing ridge system for a roof comprising: providing a piece of sheet metal with a body that has an anterior portion, a posterior portion, a ventral portion, a dorsal portion, and a sagittal plane portion; applying a bend of more than 10 degrees but less than 90 degrees at the sagittal plane portion; the anterior portion of the body further configured to have an inwardly bent ridge formed by two lateral flaps separated by a cutting at the midpoint of the ridge; the posterior portion of the body configured to have two medial flaps and two distal flaps; the two medial flaps bent backwards at an angle and the two medial flaps separated by a triangular cutting; the two distal flaps configured to jut out horizontally with no angle; applying a protective coating to the dorsal portion of the sheet metal; applying a protective coating to the ventral portion of the sheet metal.

It should be noted that the sagittal plane portion above may also be considered the piece of sheet metal. The sagittal plane portion could have a midpoint, being the exact middle of the sheet metal from either the base or the height where the bend is applied. Additionally, the method discussed above could further include wherein the protective coating applied to the dorsal portion of the sheet metal further comprises applying a protective coat of aluminum zinc; a steel base; stone granules, and a clear acrylic overglaze. The method discussed above could also include wherein the protective coating applied to the anterior portion of the sheet metal comprises a first protective coat of aluminum zinc, a second coat of aluminum zinc, a steel base, a third protective coat of aluminum zinc. The method above could also include wherein the roofing ridge has a body with a width of 10 inches. The method above could also include wherein the roofing ridge has a body with a width of 8 inches.

The method above could also include wherein the protective coating includes stone granules selected from a group consisting of minerals, synthetic materials, and petrified wood including black shadow, light black, midnight cool, estate grey, weathered wood, oakwood, birchwood, amber, desert tan, white, slate grey, shake wood, dual brown, silverwood, bark wood. The method above could also include wherein the protective coating includes Polyhydroxyethylmethacrylate.

It should be noted that along with the version of aluminum zinc and zinc oxide listed above the protective coating applied to the dorsal and ventral portion of the sheet metal may include applying a protective coat of aluminum zinc; a steel base; stone granules, and a clear acrylic overglaze. The steel base may be an additional layer, or be the same layer of sheet metal that the sheet metal making the roofing ridge is composed of. Another way of describing this method could be wherein the protective coating applied to the dorsal portion of the sheet metal further comprises applying a protective coat of aluminum zinc to the steel base; applying stone granules, and a clear acrylic overglaze.

Closing Comments

Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples shown should be considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on the apparatus and procedures disclosed or claimed. Although many of the examples presented herein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements, it should be understood that those acts and those elements may be combined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. With regard to flowcharts, additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the steps as shown may be combined or further refined to achieve the methods described herein. Acts, elements, and features discussed only in connection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from a similar role in other embodiments.

As used herein, “plurality” means two or more. As used herein, a “set” of items may include one or more of such items. As used herein, whether in the written description or the claims, the terms “comprising”, “including”, “carrying”, “having”, “containing”, “involving”, and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”, respectively, are closed or semi-closed transitional phrases with respect to claims. Use of ordinal terms such as “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish one claim element having a certain name from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claim elements. As used herein, “and/or” means that the listed items are alternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.