GB2456758A - Ventilated ridge tile - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and a ventilation means (212, 312 figures 6 11) situated on at least one side portion of the tile. The tile may be double skinned with an outer cover portion (202, 302 figures 6 and 11) and an inner base portion 102. The cover portion may be angular or curved and the tile is preferably fixed to the roof by mortar, screws or nails which pass through apertures 144, (209, 308 figures 6 and 11). The tile preferably comprises internal drainage means in the form of one or more sloping surfaces 136, 138. The tile may have end portions (222, 320 figures 6 and 11) which allow the tile to be joined to a conventional ridge tile as well as providing water drainage channels (224, 322 figures 6 and 11). The tile may be fitted to an extraction pipe fitted to the underside. The tile is preferably formed from plastics material by injection moulding. Later embodiments relate to a method of securing said tile, a base portion for a ventilated ridge tile, a cover portion for a ventilated ridge tile and a ventilated ridge tile kit.

Description

Ventilated Ridge Tile The present invention relates to a ventilated ridge tile for providing ventilation at the ridge of a pitched roof.

In particular, to a ventilated ridge tile, a ventilated ridge tile assembly, a ventilated ridge tile kit, a method of securing a ventilated ridge tile to the ridge of a pitched roof and a method of ventilating a pitched roof.

Pitched roofs are required to be ventilated at their ridge where moisture can gather and cause rotting of timbers.

Roofs generally fall into two categories: warm roofs, where the space directly thereunder is a living space, such as a bedroom or playroom; and cold roofs, where the space directly thereunder is not a living space, but is a traditional "attic", which may be used for storage, but little else. Warm roofs and cold roofs require different levels of ventilation, both at their eaves and at the ridge.

Accepted industry standards (BS 52550, for example) dictate that for a ridge of a warm roof to be adequately vented, it must comprise 5,000mm2 of ventilation per side of the ridge, per metre (a total of 10,000mm2 per metre), whereas with cold roofs, the requirement for ventilation is half of warm roofs, ie. 2,500mm2 per side of the ridge (a total of 5,000mm2 per metre).

There are currently a number of known solutions for providing adequate venting at the ridge of a pitched roof.

A well known solution is to provide a continuous venting strip along either side of an apex of a roof. The strip comprises a number of small venting holes and thus provides the required venting along the ridge. This system may be considered cumbersome and time consuming to install because the strip is required to extend and be secured along the entire length of the ridge. The system also requires a high level of skill and dexterity to accurately position and secure.

A further known system is to provide a ventilating insert tile at positions along the ridge, upon which a standard ridge tile may be placed, thus raising the standard ridge tile and causing it to sit proud of the ridge line of the roof. This system, although providing the required ventilation is particularly unfavourable because the ventilating insert is heavy and cumbersome to install.

Also this system results in a ridge line that is uneven, which is often considered aesthetically displeasing.

It is an object of aspects of the present invention to provide a solution to the above or other problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof.

Preferably, the ridge ventilation tile is adapted to be of a similar size to existing ridge tiles. Thus, preferably and advantageously, in use, the ventilated ridge tile of the present invention provides a generally even ridge line when used with existing conventional ridge tiles.

Advantageously, the ventilated ridge tile itself provides the ventilation via ventilation means, thus, in situ, the ventilated ridge tile does not require an insert cradle and thus does not sit proud of the other conventional ridge tiles meaning that the ridge line of a roof is not uneven. Also, the ventilated ridge tile may be added to the ridge of a pitched roof without the requirement of any further ventilating inserts.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "apex" with respect to a ventilated ridge tile refers to the highest point thereof, when installed onto the ridge of a pitched roof.

The term includes references to a theoretical apex on a curved surface and does not necessarily refer exclusively to a vertex.

References hereunder to "the tile" refer to the ventilated ridge tile of the present invention, unless otherwise stated.

Preferably, the tile is generally elongate, preferably with the apex being parallel with an elongate axis of the tile.

Preferably, the ventilation means are provided on each side portion of the tile. By the term side portion, it is meant a portion generally parallel with, but laterally displaced from the apex. Preferably, the ventilation means are provided at either side of the apex.

Preferably, the ventilation means extend generally parallel with the apex. Preferably, the ventilation means is operable to provide in line venting at either side of the ridge of a pitched roof.

The term "in line venting" should be understood to mean venting or ventilation that is generally parallel with the elongate axis of the ridge of a pitched roof.

Preferably, the ventilation means comprise one or more apertures, which apertures may be louvered. The apertures may be operable to provide sufficient ventilation in accordance with BS 5250. Preferably, the apertures are generally parallel with the apex. Preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 50 and 600 in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane. More preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 15° and 40° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane. More preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 20° and 30° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane. Most preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of about 25° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane.

Preferably, the tile comprises fixing means to allow it to be fixed to a surface, such as the ridge or the ridge baton of a pitched roof, for example. The fixing means may comprise mortar fixing means adapted to facilitate the fixing of the tile to a surface using mortar materials.

The mortar fixing means may comprise a grid of apertures, through which apertures mortar may extend, in use.

Appropriate mortar materials will be known to a person skilled in the art.

The fixing means may additionally or alternatively comprise dry fixing means adapted to allow the tile to be dry fixed to a surface. The dry fixing means may comprise one or more guide members through which a fixing member (such as a screw etc) may be guided onto a surface, which surface may be the ridge baton of a pitched roof, for

example.

Preferably, in use, the apex of the tile is aligned vertically above the apex of a pitched roof.

The tile may comprise an outer portion and an inner portion. The tile may be dual skinned.

The tile may comprise drainage means. The drainage means may be internal drainage means. The internal drainage means may comprise one or more sloping surface operable to allow water entering the tile to run off. The internal drainage means may be part of the inner portion of the tile.

The tile may comprise fixing indicia, preferably on the apex thereof, operable to indicate to a user where to insert fixing members, such as screws, nails, for example, in use. The fixing indicia may comprise small apertures through which a fixing member may be inserted.

The tile may comprise means to allow an extraction pipe to be fitted to an underside thereof. Such means may comprise one or more of apertures, lobes, tabs etc. Preferably, the tile comprises joining means operable to allow a conventional ridge tile to join thereto. In a preferred embodiment, the joining means comprise end portions with which a conventional ridge tile may overlap.

The end portions preferably extend from elongate ends of the tile. The end portions preferably comprise at least one drainage channel, which drainage channel preferably extends perpendicular to the elongate axis of the tile.

Advantageously, the drainage channels provide means to drain water that may be driven between the tile of the present invention and conventional ridge tiles. In this manner, water is prevented from entering the roof space and potentially rotting roofing timbers.

The ridge ventilation tile may comprise an assembly of a base portion and a cover portion.

Preferably, the ventilated ridge tile if formed of a plastics material, preferably as an injection moulding.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a base portion of a ventilated ridge tile, the base portion comprising ventilation means and locating means operable to allow a cover portion of a ventilated ridge tile to locate thereon.

The base portion is preferably elongate.

Preferably, the ventilation means comprise an aperture, preferably an elongate aperture, which is preferably generally parallel with an elongate axis of the base portion. Preferably, the aperture opens upward toward an apes of the tile, in use. The aperture is preferably peripherally surrounded by a lip, which is preferably upstanding from a top of the base portion.

The base portion preferably comprises drainage means operable to allow water entering the tile to drain therefrom. The drainage means may comprise one or more downwardly sloping sections.

The base portion may comprise an upper face, in which face is preferably situated the ventilation means. Preferably, the upper face surrounding the ventilation means slopes gently generally away from the ventilation means toward outer edges of the base portion. Advantageously, in this manner, water ponding is avoided.

The base portion may comprise side faces, which may be adjoined along side edges of the upper face. The side faces may slope generally downwardly.

The base portion may comprise mortar fixing means. The mortar fixing means may be situated on the side faces.

The base portion may comprise dry fixing means. The dry fixing means may be situated on the upper face.

An underside of the base portion may comprise means to allow an extraction pipe to be fitted thereto, preferably such means allow an extraction pipe to be fitted to the base portion so as to generally surround the aperture.

Preferably, such means allow an extraction pipe to be fitted thereto in a sealed manner, for example, so that extracted gases passing therethrough exit through the aperture of the base portion.

The locating means may comprise one or more of apertures, ridges, platforms, ribs etc and may be located on one or more of the upper face or side faces.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a cover portion of a ventilated ridge tile, the cover portion comprises a solid apex, ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof and locating means operable to allow the cover portion to locate on a base portion of a ventilated ridge tile.

Preferably, the ventilation means are provided on each side portion of the cover portion. By the term side portion, it is meant a portion generally parallel with, but laterally displaced from the apex. Preferably, the ventilation means are provided at either side of the apex.

Preferably, the ventilation means extend generally parallel with the apex. Preferably, the ventilation means is operable to provide in line venting at either side of the ridge of a pitched roof.

The term "in line venting" should be understood to mean venting or ventilation that is generally parallel with the elongate axis of the ridge of a pitched roof.

Preferably, the ventilation means comprise one or more apertures, which apertures may be louvered. The apertures may be operable to provide sufficient ventilation in accordance with BS 5250. Preferably, the apertures are generally parallel with the apex. Preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 50 and 60° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane. More preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 15° and 40° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane. More preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 20° and 300 in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane. Most preferably, the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of about 25° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane.

The locating means may comprise one or more of ribs, lobes, platforms, apertures etc. Preferably, the locating means is located on an underside of the cover portion.

The cover portion may be curved in cross section. The cover portion may be angled in cross section.

According to a yet further aspect of the present invention there is provided a ventilated ridge tile assembly comprising a base portion and a cover portion of the above aspects, assembled together to form a ventilated ridge tile.

The base portion may be assembled together by locating the locating means of the cover portion onto the locating means of the base portion. The ventilated ridge tile assembly may be fixed together using fixing means, such as clips, screws etc. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a ventilated ridge tile kit comprising a base portion and a cover portion of the above aspects.

Advantageously, the provision of an assembly or kit of the present invention allows a user to adequately ventilate the ridge of a pitched roof easily and efficiently.

Moreover, the provision of an assembly or kit in this manner allows a base portion to be used with a plurality of cover portions, perhaps having different profiles or colours to correspond to the type and colour of conventional ridge tiles being used.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of securing a ventilated ridge tile to a ridge of a pitched roof, the method comprising applying a mortar material to a ridge of a roof and placing a ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof onto the mortar and applying pressure thereon to cause the mortar material to contact mortar fixing means of the ventilated ridge tile.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of securing a ventilated ridge tile to a ridge of a pitched roof, the method comprising aligning a ventilated ridge tile onto a ridge of a pitched roof, the ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof; and inserting a fixing member through dry fixing means of the ventilated ridge tile.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of ventilating the ridge of a pitched roof, the method comprising securing a ventilated ridge tile of any of the above aspects to a ridge of a pitched roof.

All of the features contained herein may be combined with any of the above aspects and in any combination.

For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a base plate of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a plan view of the base plate of the present invention; Figure 3 shows an underplan view of a base plate of the present invention; Figure 4 shows a side view of a base plate of the present invention; Figure 5 shows an end view of a base plate of the present invention; Figure 6 shows a perspective view of an angled cover portion of the present invention; Figure 7 shows a plan view of an angled cover portion of the present invention; Figure 8 shows an underplan view of the angled cover portion of the present invention; Figure 9 shows a side view of the angled cover portion of the present invention; Figure 10 shows an end view of the angled cover portion of the present invention; Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a rounded cover portion of the present invention; Figure 12 shows a plan view of the rounded cover portion of the present invention; Figure 13 shows an underplan view of the rounded cover portion of the present invention; Figure 14 shows a side view of a rounded cover portion of the present invention; Figure 15 shows an end view of the rounded cover portion of the present invention; Figure 16 shows a perspective partially transparent view of a first embodiment of a ventilated ridge device assembly of the present invention; Figure 17 shows an end view of the first embodiment of the ventilated ridge device assembly of the present invention; Figure 18 shows a perspective partially transparent view of a second embodiment of a ventilated ridge device assembly of the present invention; and Figure 19 shows an end view of the second embodiment of the ventilated ridge device assembly of the present invention.

Referring firstly to figures 1 to 5 there is shown a base plate 102 of a ridge ventilation tile of the present invention. The base plate 102 is generally elongate and comprises a rectangular top section 104 having rectangular side sections 106, 108 extending outwardly and downwardly from long edges of the rectangular top section 104 to form a three sides of a trapezium in section (as shown in figure 5) The top section 104 comprises an elongate aperture 110 extending therethrough. Surrounding the aperture 110 on an upper face 112 of the top section 104 is an upstanding lip 114. Four further small rectangular apertures 116, adjacent to the aperture 110 are situated, in two pairs, toward opposite ends of the long sides of the aperture 110 and at opposite sides of the aperture 110. These apertures 116 are also surrounded by an upstanding lip.

Surrounding the aperture 110 on an underside of the top section 104 and extending downward therefrom is a further lip 111.

At the elongate ends of the top section 104 are a pair of upstanding platforms 118, 120. The platforms 118, 120 are similar in size, but have slightly different features thereon. The platform 118 comprises a pair of circular apertures 122 toward each elongate end thereof and a central circular aperture 124. The aperture 124 is surrounded by an upstanding circular rib 126. The platform 120 also comprises a pair of apertures 128 toward each elongate end of the platform, but they are oval in shape rather than circular, also a central aperture 130 is provided, but it is oval rather than circular and is not surrounded by an upstanding rib.

The rectangular side section 106, 108 that slope downwardly away from the top section 104 are symmetrical and each comprise four attachment regions 132, 134 separated by three run off regions 136, 138. The attachment regions comprise a first steep slope section 139 proximal to the top section 104 and a second shallow slope section 141 distal to the top section 104. The second shallow slope section 141 comprises a number of circular apertures 144 through which an attachment material (such as a mortar material, explained below) may pass. The attachment regions 132, 134 are separated from the run off regions 136, 138 by walls 140 which extend perpendicularly to an elongate axis of the device 102.

The walls slope downwardly in a similar manner to the side sections 106, 108, but have a notch 142 at about a mid point there along. The run off regions 136, 138 have a first steep slope region 146 proximal to the top section 104 and a second shallow slope section 148 distal to the top section 104.

Along long edges of the side section 106, 108 distal to the top section 104 is a lip 150 which comprises four slits 152 therealong corresponding to the bottom of the run off sections 136, 138, one on each of the outer run off sections 138, and two in the middle run off section 136.

Referring now specifically to figure 3, which shows an underplan view of the base plate 102, the sections 104, 106, 108 can easily be seen, as can the apertures 110, 116 and 144. However, much of the surface detail of figures 1, 2, 4 and 5 is not visible. Supporting ribs 154 extending between the rib 111 and the side portions 106, 108 can be seen, however.

Referring now to figures 6 to 10, there is shown a first embodiment of a cover device 202 of the present invention.

The cover portion 202 comprises a pair of generally rectangular walls 204, 206 adjoined along long edges thereof at about 1200 to each other and form a ridge 208 where the two join. Toward either end of the ridge 208 are a pair of small apertures 209.

The walls 204, 206 are symmetrical and comprise a ventilation section 210 having louvered apertures 212.

Between the louvered apertures, about half way along the length thereof are upstanding strengthening ribs 211.

These ribs ensure that the distance between the vent louvers 214 is kept at a constant. Figures 6 to 10 show a device having one set of centrally displaced strengthening ribs 211, but it will be appreciated that a number of strengthening ribs may be added along the length of the louvered apertures 212. For example, 2, 3, 4 or more sets of strengthening ribs may be present at different positions along the length of the apertures 212. The louvers 214 are angled downward as will be described hereunder. At long edges of the walls 204, 206 distal to the ridge 208 is an end plate 216 that extends downwardly.

Into the underside of the end plate are three cut-out portions 218.

At the elongate ends of the device 202 are end plates 220 having connecting portions 222 operable to allow conventional ridge tiles (not shown) to overlap therewith as will be described hereunder. The connecting portions 222 generally follow the sectional shape of the device 202 but are rounded rather than angled. The portions 222 comprise two channels 224 therealong which prevent water ingress as will be described below.

Referring now specifically to figure 8, which shows an underplan view of the cover device 202 there is shown details of the underside of the device 202, not visible in the other figures. For example, extending downwardly from an underside of the ridge 208 are a pair of guiding tubes 226 having circular apertures 227 extending therethrough, which tubes correspond with the positions of the apertures 209 on the ridge. The tubes 226 are structurally supported by walls 228 that extend radially outwardly from the tube 226 and generally perpendicular to the ridge 208, which walls 228 attach to the sections 204, 206 along top edges thereof. Toward ends of the walls 228 distal to the tube 226 are further tubes 230 having circular apertures 231 extending therethrough.

The underside of the device 202 also comprises downwardly extending tabs 232. The tabs are positioned toward the outer long edges of the device 202 on the section 204, 206. Also, extending downwardly from an underside of the device 202 on the sections 204, 206 are a pair of ribs 234. The ribs extend the length of the aperture and are situated inward of the aperture, between the apertures 212 and the ridge. These ribs 234 are very important in preventing water ingress as will be described hereunder.

Referring now to figures 11 to 15 there is shown various views of a second embodiment of a cover device 302. The cover device 302 shares many features with the cover device 202, and the two may be used interchangeably as will be described hereunder.

The device 302 comprises an elongate half cylindrical body 304. At an uppermost point of the cylindrical body, that is, the mid point between the two elongate side is a theoretical ridge line, shown on the figures as 306. This line 306 represents only a point of reference on the figures and is not present as a structural feature on the device itself 302. Toward each elongate end of the device there is a small aperture 308, situated on the ridge line 306. At either side of the ridge line 306, the device 302 comprises a ventilation region 310 comprising a number of louvered vents 312. The louvered vents 312 provide sufficient venting to comply with BS 5250. The louvers 314 are angled downward as will be described hereunder.

Between the louvered apertures 312, about half way along the length thereof are upstanding strengthening ribs 311.

These ribs ensure that the distance between the vent louvers 314 is kept at a constant. Figures 6 to 10 show a device having one set of centrally displaced strengthening ribs 311, but it will be appreciated that a number of strengthening ribs may be added along the length of the louvered apertures 312. For example, 2, 3, 4 or more sets of strengthening ribs may be present at different positions along the length of the apertures 312.

The elongate edges of the device 302 comprise three shallow cutaway sections 316. At elongate ends of the device are arcuate end plates 318 having coaxial smaller diameter arcuate connecting portions 320 extending axially therefrom. The connecting portions comprise three channels 322 extending thereover, perpendicular with the elongate axis of the device 302. The channels are very important in preventing the ingress of water as will be described hereunder.

Referring now specifically to figure 13, which shows the underside of the device 302, there is shown a tube arrangement, having central tubes 324 flanked by outer tubes 330, which outer tubes 330 have an internal tubular aperture 331, about the underside of the apertures 308, similar to that described above in relation to the first cover device 202 (the tubes 226, 230 etc) . Also, tabs 326, similar to tabs 232 are present, as is a rib 328, being very similar to the rib 234.

In use the base plate is secured to either of the above described cover portions 202, 302 to form an assembly as shown in figures 16 to 19. The tabs 232 or 326, as the case may be, locate within the apertures 152 and the tubes 226, 230, or 324 correspond with the apertures 122, 124, 128, 130. Clips or other attachment means may be added to the outer apertures 128, 122 to secure the base plate 102 to the cover portion 202, 302. For example, self tapping screws (not shown) may be screwed through the apertures 122, 128 up into the apertures 231, 331 and engage with the inner walls of the tubes 230, 231 thereby securing the base plate 102 and the cover portion 202, 302 together as an assembly.

Figures 16 and 17 show a ventilation assembly 402 comprising the base plate 102 and the cover portion 202, hereafter referred to as the "angled" cover portion, as distinct from the "curved" cover portion 302. As can be seen in figures 16 and 17, the two parts 102, 202 fit together as discussed above to form a composite assembly 402. Similarly, with reference now to figures 18 and 19, the two parts 102, 302 fit together to form a composite assembly 502. The composite assemblies 402, 502 are ridge ventilation tiles of the present invention.

In use, the assembly 402, 502 functions as follows. It is necessary to provide venting at the ridge of a pitched roof to prevent the accumulation of moisture which can lead to timbers becoming damaged, as discussed above in the preamble. The present invention provides the requisite venting as follows. The assembly 402, 502 is wither mortar bedded or dry fixed to the ridge of a pitched roof. When mortar bedded, a mortar bed is applied to the ridge and a downward pressure is applied to push the mortar up through the apertures 144 in the base plate 102. As the mortar is pushed through the apertures 144 it spills over into the sections 132, 134 and thereby secures the assembly in position with regard to the roof as the mortar cures. If the assembly 402, 502 is being dry fixed to a roof, a large screw, for example, is screwed through the apertures 209, 308, down the tubes 226, 324, through the aperture 124, 130 and into the ridge baton of the roof. The tubes 226, 324 serve to accurately guide the screw with regard to the assembly and ensure that it is secured in the correct position.

The ridge is vented by allowing air to pass up through the aperture 110 in the base plate 102 and down and out through the louvered vents 212, 314.

The assembly 402 provides 13,500mm2 of venting, and the assembly is 450mm long (the same length as conventional ridge tiles). Thus, on a "warm roof", the requisite 10,000mm2 of venting per metre is provided by using one assembly 402 per three tiles (le. two conventional ridge tiles and one assembly 402).

The assembly 502 provides 18,000mm2 of venting in a 240mm long assembly. Thus, on a "warm roof", the requisite 10,000mm2 of venting per metre is provided by using one assembly 502 per four tiles (ie. three conventional ridge tiles and one assembly 502).

The assembly 402, 502 comprises many further features to provide an improved solution to ridge venting as follows.

The louvers are angled downward at an angle of 25° to reduce the likelihood of rain entering the assembly.

However, in the unlikely event that rain were to enter the device, the lip 114 prevents water entering the aperture 110, thus water is prevented from entering the roof space.

The upper face 112 of the top section 104 slopes gently downwardly toward the side sections 106, 108, thus the device prevents standing water accumulating on the top section 104. The side sections 106, 108 provide a run off for water, which can then exit the device via apertures 218, 316. The apertures 218, 316 are provided along the length of the device 202, 302 so that if the assembly 402, 502, when installed on the ridge, is not horizontal water can run off in either direction. 2].

Further, in line with BS5250, the louvers are no greater than 4mm apart, thus preventing the admission of a nesting insect.

On the underside of the devices 202, 302 there is a rib 234, 328 which serves to prevent rain water being driven upward on the underside of the device 202, 302 or acting by capilliary action entering the aperture 110. Instead, water on the underside of the device 202, 302 will hit the rib 234, 328 and drip down onto the side sections 106, 108 or the section 112 of the base plate 102 and thus run off via the apertures 218, 316.

In one embodiment, the assembly 402, 502 may be used in conjunction with an extraction device (not shown). In such a scenario, an extraction pipe from the extraction device may be secured to an underside of the plate 102 to surround the aperture 110. In such a scenario, a suitable adapter may be provided having attachment pins operable to extend up through and secure to the apertures 116. The bottom end of the adapter may be secured to an extraction pipe by known means.

A ridge ventilation device and assembly provided by the present invention is easy to install, aesthetically pleasing when juxtaposed with standard non ventilated ridge tiles and has several features to prevent water ingress. The fact that the two cover devices 202, 302 can be used in conjunction with a single base plate 102 significantly reduces manufacturing costs and makes the device more adaptable. Further designs of cover device and many different colours may be provided to correspond to the non ventilated ridge tile being used.

Attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification

(including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features

disclosed in this specification (including any

accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims (72)

1. A ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof.

2. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 1, wherein the ridge ventilation tile is adapted to be of a similar size to existing ridge tiles.

3. A ventilated ridge tile according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the tile is generally elongate.

0)

4. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding o 15 claim, wherein the apex is parallel with an elongate axis of the tile.

5. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim wherein the ventilation means are provided on each side portion of the tile.

6. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the ventilation means are provided at either side of the apex.

7. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the ventilation means extend generally parallel with the apex.

8. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the ventilation means is operable to provide in line venting at either side of the ridge of a pitched roof.

9. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the ventilation means comprise one or more apertures, which apertures may be louvered.

10. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 9, wherein the apertures may be operable to provide sufficient ventilation in accordance with BS 5250.

11. A ventilated ridge tile according to either of claims 9 or 10, wherein the apertures are generally parallel with the apex.

0')

12. A ventilated ridge tile according to any of claims 9 to 11, wherein the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of between about 5° and 60° in use, with respect to a generally horizontal plane.

O

13. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile comprises fixing means to allow it to be fixed to a surface, such as the ridge or the ridge baton of a pitched roof, for example.

14. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 13, wherein the fixing means comprises mortar fixing means adapted to facilitate the fixing of the tile to a surface using mortar materials.

15. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 14, wherein the mortar fixing means comprise a grid of apertures, through which apertures mortar may extend, in use.

16. A ventilated ridge tile according to any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the fixing means comprise dry fixing means adapted to allow the tile to be dry fixed to a surface.

17. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 16, wherein the dry fixing means comprises one or more guide members through which a fixing member (such as a screw etc) may be guided onto a surface, which surface may be the ridge baton of a pitched roof, for example.

18. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein in use, the apex of the tile is aligned vertically above the apex of a pitched roof.

19. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile may comprise an outer portion and an inner portion. Co

O

20. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile is dual skinned.

21. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile comprises drainage means.

22. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 21, wherein the drainage means is internal drainage means.

23. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 22, wherein the internal drainage means comprises one or more sloping surface operable to allow water entering the tile to run off.

24. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile comprises fixing indicia, preferably on the apex thereof, operable to indicate to a user where to insert fixing members, such as screws, nails, for example, in use.

25. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 24, wherein the fixing indicia comprises small apertures through which a fixing member may be inserted.

26. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile comprises means to allow an extraction pipe to be fitted to an underside thereof. 0)

27. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the tile comprises joining means operable O to allow a conventional ridge tile to join thereto. Co

O

28. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 27, wherein the joining means comprise end portions with which a conventional ridge tile may overlap.

29. A ventilated ridge tile according to claim 28, wherein the end portions preferably extend from elongate ends of the tile.

30. A ventilated ridge tile according to claims 28 or 29, wherein the end portions comprise at least one drainage channel, which drainage channel preferably extends perpendicular to the elongate axis of the tile.

31. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the ridge ventilation tile may comprise an assembly of a base portion and a cover portion.

32. A ventilated ridge tile according to any preceding claim, wherein the ventilated ridge tile is formed of a plastics material, preferably as an injection moulding.

33. A base portion of a ventilated ridge tile, the base portion comprising ventilation means and locating means operable to allow a cover portion of a ventilated ridge tile to locate thereon.

0)

34. A base portion according to claim 33, wherein the ventilation means comprise an aperture, preferably an elongate aperture, which is preferably generally parallel O with an elongate axis of the base portion.

O

35. A base portion according to claim 34, wherein the aperture opens upward toward an apex of the tile, in use.

36. A base portion according to claims 34 or 35, wherein the aperture is preferably peripherally surrounded by a lip, which is preferably upstanding from a top of the base portion.

37. A base portion according to claims 33 to 36, wherein the base portion comprises drainage means operable to allow water entering the tile to drain therefrom.

38. A base portion according to claim 37, wherein the drainage means comprises one or more downwardly sloping sections.

39. A base portion according to claims 33 to 38, wherein the base portion comprises an upper face, in which face is situated the ventilation means.

40. A base portion according to claim 39, wherein the upper face surrounding the ventilation means slopes gently generally away from the ventilation means toward outer edges of the base portion.

41. A base portion according to claims 33 to 40, wherein the base portion comprises side faces, which may be adjoined along side edges of the upper face.

0)

42. A base portion according to claims 33 to 41, wherein the base portion comprises mortar fixing means.

O

43. A base portion according to claim 42 when dependent on 41, wherein the mortar fixing means may be situated on the Q side faces.

44. A base portion according to claims 33 to 43, wherein the base portion comprises dry fixing means.

45. A base portion according to claim 44 when dependent on 39, wherein the dry fixing means may be situated on the upper face.

46. A base portion according to claims 34 to 45, wherein an underside of the base portion comprises means to allow an extraction pipe to be fitted thereto, preferably such means allow an extraction pipe to be fitted to the base portion so as to generally surround the aperture.

47. A base portion according to claim 46, wherein such means allow an extraction pipe to be fitted thereto in a sealed manner, for example, so that extracted gases passing therethrough exit through the aperture of the base portion.

48. A base portion according to claim 41 when dependent on 39, wherein the locating means may comprise one or more of apertures, ridges, platforms, ribs etc and may be located on one or more of the upper face or side faces.

49. A cover portion of a ventilated ridge tile, the cover portion comprises a solid apex, ventilation means situated 0) on at least one side portion thereof and locating means operable to allow the cover portion to locate on a base portion of a ventilated ridge tile.

50. A cover portion according to claim 49, wherein the Q ventilation means are provided on each side portion of the cover portion.

51. A cover portion according to claims 49 or 50, wherein the ventilation means are provided at either side of the apex.

52. A cover portion according to claims 49 to 51, wherein the ventilation means extend generally parallel with the apex.

53. A cover portion according to claims 49 to 52, wherein the ventilation means is operable to provide in line venting at either side of the ridge of a pitched roof.

54. A cover portion according to claims 49 to 53, wherein the ventilation means comprise one or more apertures, which apertures may be louvered.

55. A cover portion according to claim 54, wherein the apertures are operable to provide sufficient ventilation in accordance with BS 5250.

56. A cover portion according to claims 54 or 55, wherein the apertures are generally parallel with the apex.

57. A cover portion according to claims 54 to 56, wherein the louvers are arranged to extend downward at an angle of 0') between about 50 and 600 in use, with respect to a o 15 generally horizontal plane.

O

58. A cover portion according to claims 49 to 57, wherein the locating means may comprise one or more of ribs, lobes, platforms, apertures etc.

59. A cover portion according to claim 58, wherein the locating means is located on an underside of the cover portion.

60. A cover portion according to claims 49 to 59, wherein the cover portion is curved in cross section.

61. A cover portion according to claims 49 to 59, wherein the cover portion is angled in cross section.

62. A ventilated ridge tile assembly comprising a base portion of any of claims 33 to 48 and a cover portion of any of claims 49 to 61, assembled together to form a ventilated ridge tile.

63. A ventilated ridge tile assembly according to claim 62, wherein the base portion and cover portion are assembled together by locating the locating means of the cover portion onto the locating means of the base portion.

64. A ventilated ridge tile kit comprising a base portion of any of claims 33 to 48 and a cover portion of any claims 49 to 61.

65. A method of securing a ventilated ridge tile to a 0) ridge of a pitched roof, the method comprising applying a mortar material to a ridge of a roof and placing a ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof onto the mortar and applying pressure thereon to Q cause the mortar material to contact mortar fixing means of the ventilated ridge tile.

66. A method of securing a ventilated ridge tile to a ridge of a pitched roof, the method comprising aligning a ventilated ridge tile onto a ridge of a pitched roof, the ventilated ridge tile comprising a solid apex and ventilation means situated on at least one side portion thereof; and inserting a fixing member through dry fixing means of the ventilated ridge tile.

67. A method of ventilating the ridge of a pitched roof, the method comprising securing a ventilated ridge tile of any of claims 1 to 32 to a ridge of a pitched roof.

68. A ventilated ridge tile substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

69. A base portion of a ventilated ridge tile substantially as hereinbef ore described and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

70. A cover portion of a ventilated ridge tile substantially as hereinbefore described and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

71. A ventilated ridge tile assembly substantially as hereinbef ore described and with reference to the C') accompanying drawings. o

72. A method substantially as hereinbefore described and 0 with reference to the accompanying drawings. Co