VENTILATION SYSTEM FOR THE ATTIC SPACE OF A BUILDING

Abstract

A ventilation system for an attic space in a building having a roof includes a ventilation tube defining a ventilation channel. The ventilation tube is configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube. The ventilation tube is disposed within an attic space in a building, such that the first end of the ventilation tube is positioned adjacent a soffit vent, and the second end of the ventilation tube is positioned within the attic space.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments of a ventilation system are described herein. In particular, the embodiments described herein relate to an improved ventilation system for the attic space of a building.

Roof systems for buildings typically include components to help provide air circulation through the attic space and facilitate heat exchange between the attic and the building exterior. It is desirable to maintain the air movement through the attic space in order to assist in convection cooling of the attic space in the summer and prevent ice dam related damage to the roof system in the winter. Ridge vents, roof vents, and soffit vents allow air to move between the attic space and the building exterior. Attics are often provided with insulation material such as glass fiber batts or loosefil insulation to retard heat flow to or from the building. Care must be taken to avoid having the insulation material cover up the soffit vents, which would cause the soffit vents to be inoperative, and thereby reduce the amount of desirable air exchange between the attic and the building exterior.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present application describes various embodiments of a ventilation system. One embodiment of the ventilation system for an attic space in a building having a roof includes a ventilation tube defining a ventilation channel. The ventilation tube is configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube. The ventilation tube is disposed within an attic space in a building, such that the first end of the ventilation tube is positioned adjacent a soffit vent, and the second end of the ventilation tube is positioned within the attic space.

Another embodiment of a ventilation system for an attic space in a building having a roof includes a ventilation tube defining a ventilation channel and configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube. The ventilation tube includes four elongated walls defining the ventilation channel having a substantially rectangular transverse section.

One embodiment of a method of providing ventilation system in an attic space in a building having a roof includes disposing a ventilation tube within an attic space of a building. A first end of the ventilation tube is positioned adjacent a soffit vent, and a second end of the ventilation tube is positioned within the attic space. The ventilation tube defines a ventilation channel configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between the first end of the ventilation tube and the second end of the ventilation tube.

Another embodiment of the method of providing ventilation system in an attic space in a building having a roof includes disposing a ventilation tube within an attic space of a building. The ventilation tube defines a ventilation channel configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube. The ventilation tube is formed having four elongated walls defining the ventilation channel, wherein the ventilation tube has a substantially rectangular transverse section.

Other advantages of the ventilation system will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional elevational view of a portion of a known roof system and attic space.

FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of a first embodiment of a ventilation tube according to the invention.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the ventilation tube illustrated in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view, partially cut-away, of an attic space including the ventilation tube illustrated in FIG. 2 installed therein.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 5-5 of FIG. 3, showing the ventilation tube in an open position.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the ventilation tube illustrated in FIG. 5, showing the ventilation tube in a folded position.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 7-7 of FIG. 3, showing the tab and slot support of the ventilation tube.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the ventilation tube taken along the line 8-8 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional elevational view of the upper end of the ventilation tube illustrated in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of a second embodiment of the ventilation tube.

FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of a third embodiment of the ventilation tube.

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of a fourth embodiment of the ventilation tube.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described with occasional reference to the specific embodiments of the invention. This invention may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The terminology used in the description of the invention herein is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used in the description of the invention and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as molecular weight, reaction conditions, and so forth as used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, the numerical properties set forth in the specification and claims are approximations that may vary depending on the desired properties sought to be obtained in embodiments of the present invention. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical values, however, inherently contain certain errors necessarily resulting from error found in their respective measurements.

As used in the description of the invention and the appended claims, the phrase “fibrous insulation” is defined any insulation formed from fibrous material. The terms “insulative value” and “R-value” are defined as describing a level of thermal resistance. The term “loosefil insulation” is defined as insulation formed from a plurality of discrete, individual tufts, cubes, flakes, or nodules. Loosefil insulation is typically applied to buildings by blowing the insulation into an insulation cavity, such as a wall cavity, or an attic of a building. Loosefil insulation may be made of glass fibers, although other mineral fibers, organic fibers, and cellulose fibers can be used.

Referring now to the drawings, there is illustrated in FIG. 1 a cross sectional view of a known roof system indicated generally at 10. The illustrated roof system 10 includes a plurality of attic joists 12. The attic joists 12 extend horizontally and are supported on either end by wall studs 14. The wall studs 14 also support horizontally extending soffit joists 16, also shown in FIG. 4. The roof system 10 includes rafters 18 that extend upwardly and inwardly from an outside wall of the building (represented in the exemplary embodiment by the studs 14) at an angle relative to the joists 12, and meet at a ridge 20. The attic joists 12, wall studs 14, soffit joists 16, and rafters 18 are typically wooden members, and are connected by nails or other fasteners. Alternatively, the components of the roof system 10 may be made of any other suitable material.

The roof system 10 further includes a layer of roof sheathing 22 supported on the rafters 18. A layer of shingles 24, or other roof covering, is attached to the roof sheathing 22. A soffit 26 is supported on the lower side of the soffit joists 16. A fascia board 28 is attached to the outer end of the rafter 18. An attic floor 30 is supported on the attic joists 12. Alternatively, no attic floor may be provided and the attic joists 12 may be exposed to the attic space 32. The roof system 10 encloses an attic space 32, between the attic floor 30 and the roof sheathing 22. The roof system also encloses an eave space 34 between the roof sheathing 22 and the soffit 26. A living space 36 is typically located below the attic joists 12 and the attic floor 30.

The roof system 10 includes components to help provide air circulation through the attic space and heat exchange with the building exterior 38. A ridge vent 40, and/or a roof vent 42 may be provided and allow air to move between the attic space 32 and the building exterior 38. A soffit vent 44 allows air to move between the eave space 34 and the building exterior 38. Generally, the roof system 10 is heated by exposure to sunlight. This causes an increase in the temperature of the air in the attic space 32. The heated air from the attic space 32 moves to the building exterior 38 through the ridge vent 40 and the roof vent 42. This air is replaced by relatively cool air from the building exterior entering through the soffit vent 44. The movement of air is shown by the arrow 46. It is desirable to maintain the air movement 46 through the attic space 32 in order to assist in convection cooling of the attic space 32 in the summer and prevent ice dams and ice dam related damage to the roof system 10 in the winter. It will be appreciated that a building may have several vents to assist in air flow through the attic. These vents may include soffit vents 44, roof vents 42, ridge vents 40, as well as gable vents (not shown), wind turbines (not shown) and powered vents (not shown). The amount of ventilation installed on a structure is typically calculated based on the size and location of the structure's roof.

In order to reduce the amount of energy required to control the climate in the living space 36, insulation may be installed in the attic space 32. When adding insulation to the attic space 32 it is desirable to ensure that the insulation does not create an air flow obstruction between the roof sheathing 22 and the attic floor 30. Air movement 46 is most susceptible to such obstruction at the narrow region between the eave space 34 and the attic space 32, indicated generally at 48. The narrow region 48 defines a region or space where the roof sheathing 22 is nearest the attic floor 30.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 through 7, a first embodiment of a ventilation system is shown generally at 49. The ventilation system 49 includes a first embodiment of a ventilation tube 50. The ventilation tube 50 is provided to assist in maintaining the air movement 46 by maintaining an air pathway between the soffit vent 44 and the ridge and roof vents 40 and 42, respectively, through the eave space 34, the narrow region 48, and the attic space 32.

The ventilation tube 50 is an elongated tube having first end 50A and second end 50B, and a substantially rectangular transverse cross-sectional shape. The ventilation tube 50 includes an attic floor facing wall 51A, a roof sheathing facing wall 51B opposite the attic floor facing wall 51A, a first side wall 51C (not shown in FIG. 2), and a second side wall 51D. The first and second side walls 51C and 51D connect the attic floor facing wall 51A and the roof sheathing facing wall 51D. The walls 51A, 51B, 51C, and 51D define a ventilation channel 53. Joints 59 between adjacent walls 51A, 51B, 51C, and 51D define living hinges. The illustrated ventilation tube 50 is movable between a folded position, as shown in FIG. 6, wherein the ventilation tube 50 is substantially flat, and an open position wherein the ventilation tube has the substantially rectangular transverse section, as shown in FIG. 5.

As best shown in FIG. 2, leading edge surfaces 61 of the first and second side walls 51C and 51D, respectively, are formed at an obtuse angle A relative to the flap portion 52. Similarly, trailing edge surfaces 63 of the first and second side walls 51C and 51D, respectively, are formed at an obtuse angle B relative to the attic floor facing wall 51A. In the illustrated embodiment, the angles A and B are about 135 degrees. Alternatively, the angles A and B may be any desired angle such as an angle within the range of from about 115 degrees to about 150 degrees.

The illustrated ventilation tube 50 further includes a flap portion 52 extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall 51A at the first end 50A and defines a leading edge 52A. The illustrated flap portion 52 is formed as a continuation of the attic floor facing wall 51A of the ventilation tube 50 and has a length of about 9.0 inches. Alternatively, the flap portion 52 may have any other desired length. In the illustrated ventilation tube 50, a score line 55 is formed between the attic floor facing wall 51A and the flap portion 52 and defines a living hinge. Thus, the flap portion 52 remains connected to the attic floor facing wall 51A of the ventilation tube 50, while being rotatably movable relative to the ventilation tube 50. The illustrated flap portion 52 is movable between a first position wherein the flap portion 52 is substantially coplanar with the attic floor facing wall 51A, as shown in FIG. 2, and a second position (shown by phantom line in FIG. 2) wherein the flap portion 52 is pivoted about the living hinge 55 such that the leading edge 52A is oriented substantially toward the second end 50B of the ventilation tube 50.

As described in detail below, when in the second position, the flap portion 52 may assist in reducing the spread of blown insulation. If desired, the leading edge 52A may be reinforced, for example, by a layer of tape (not shown). It will be appreciated that the flap portion 52 may be formed separately from the ventilation tube 50 and attached to the ventilation tube 50 by a suitable hinge.

The ventilation tube 50 also includes support tabs, indicated generally at 56. The support tabs 56 assist in retaining the ventilation tube 50 in the open position. As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the support tabs 56 include a body 64 having a first or long side 64A and a second or short side 64B. A tab portion 65 extends outwardly of the short side 64B. The illustrated support tabs 56 are formed from the roof sheathing facing wall 51B by cutting through the material of the roof sheathing facing wall 51B on all sides except the long side 64A, and in a shape corresponding to the shape of the tabs 56. A score line 70 is formed along the long side 64A and defines a living hinge between the tab 56 and the roof sheathing facing wall 51B. The long side 64A of the tab 56 thus remains attached to the roof sheathing facing wall 51B, while being rotatably movable relative to the ventilation tube 50. The illustrated tab 56 is movable between a first position wherein the tab 56 is substantially coplanar with the roof sheathing facing wall 51B, and a second position (as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8) wherein the tab portion 65 is pivoted about the living hinge 70 such that the tab portion 65 is oriented substantially perpendicularly relative to the roof sheathing facing wall 51B and into a slot 66 formed in the attic floor facing wall 51A of the ventilation tube 50. When the support tab 56 is moved to the second position, a tab opening 72 is defined through the roof sheathing facing wall 51B.

When the support tabs 56 are in the second position, the support tabs 56 help prevent the ventilation tube 50 from moving back into the folded position. The number, size, position, and shape of the support tabs 56 may be other than as described and illustrated herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the support tabs 56 are arranged in pairs, as shown, and three or four pairs of support tabs 56 may be included in an 8 foot long ventilation tube 50.

The illustrated support tab 56 is a punch-out design, made of the material of the ventilation tube 50. Alternatively, the support tab 56 may be made of different material, and may be attached to the ventilation tube 50 by any suitable means, such as with adhesive, or with clips. The support tabs 56 may also be a separate piece that is inserted into the ventilation tube 50. Also, it will be appreciated that the support tab 56 is optional, and the ventilation tube 50 could remain in the open position as a result of its own weight and/or stiffness.

The illustrated ventilation tube 50 is about 2 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 8 feet long. In typical housing construction, the rafters 18 are spaced 16-inches on center or 24-inches on center. The illustrated ventilation tube 50 is configured to be located between two adjacent rafters 18. It will be appreciated that the described configuration and dimensions only apply to the illustrated exemplary embodiment, and that the ventilation tube 50 may be formed in shapes and dimensions other than as described herein. Suitable shapes for the ventilation tube 50 include, but are not limited to, a transverse cross-sectional shape that is oval, parallelogram, or square. The ventilation tube 50 may also have a larger or smaller width, so as to fit in different size spaces, or to fit snugly between rafters 18.

The illustrated ventilation tube 50 is made of 3/16 inch thick foam covered with a layer of metal foil. It will be appreciated that the ventilation tube 50 may be made of any other suitable material, such as moisture resistant cardboard, and other moisture resistant material. The illustrated exemplary embodiment of the ventilation tube 50 is formed from a substantially rigid material, although flexible or semi-flexible materials may also be used.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of the roof system 49 including the ventilation tube 50 is shown. For better understanding of the structure, a portion of the roof sheathing 22 and shingles 24 have been cut away.

Additionally, the soffit joist 16 and the rafter 18 that should be on the near side of the ventilation tube 50 (the left side of FIG. 4) have been removed to make the ventilation tube 50 visible. Between adjacent rafters 18 is a rafter space, indicated generally at 58A, 58B, and 58C. As shown, the ventilation tube 50 is installed in one rafter space 58a. As shown, the first end 50A of the ventilation tube 50 is positioned in the eave space 34, adjacent the soffit vent 44, such that the ventilation channel 53 is in fluid communication with the eave space 34, and the soffit vent 44. As shown, the flap portion 52 is disposed on the attic floor 30.

As shown in FIG. 4, in rafter spaces wherein no ventilation tubes 50 will be placed, such as the rafter spaces 58B and 58C, insulation batts 62 are provided. The insulation batts 62 are positioned substantially within the narrow region 48, and may completely occlude the space between the roof sheathing 22 and the attic floor 30. Alternatively, an air space could remain open between the insulation batts 62 and the roof sheathing 22.

If desired, the ventilation tube 50 may be moved to the folded position, as shown in FIG. 6. The folded position is advantageous for shipping and storing the one or more ventilation tubes 50, such as a plurality of stacked ventilation tubes 50. In the folded position, the ventilation tube 50 also offers limited ventilation or air flow capacity, but retains its flexibility and is relatively easily bent. In the folded position, the narrower cross section and the flexibility aid an installer in moving the ventilation tube 50 into an attic space 32, such as through a narrow attic access opening. As shown in FIG. 5, ventilation tube 50 may be expanded into the open position. In the open position, the ventilation tube 50 offers increased ventilation or air flow capacity, and has greater rigidity.

To install the ventilation system 49, an installer may first move a ventilation tube 50 in the folded position into an attic space 32, such as through a narrow attic access opening (not shown). The ventilation tube 50 may then be moved or expanded into the open position, and the support tabs 56 may be rotated about the living hinge 70 such that the tab portions 65 are moved into the slots 66. The first end 50A of the ventilation tube 50 may then be positioned adjacent the soffit vent 44. As used herein, the phrase “adjacent the soffit vent” is defined as positioning the first end 50A of the ventilation tube 50 in the eave space 34 such that the ventilation channel 53 is in fluid communication with the soffit vent 44 through the eave space 34, and air is able to flow from the soffit vent 44 into the ventilation channel 53 of the ventilation tube 50.

Prior to positioning the first end 50A of the ventilation tube 50 adjacent the soffit vent 44, the flap portion 52 may be pivoted about the living hinge 55 and moved to the second position, as described above. When the flap portion 52 is in the second position, the ventilation tube 50 may be easily positioned by the installer. The installer may, for example, slide the flap portion 52 along the attic joists 12 (or the attic floor 30, if provided) until the first end 50A of the ventilation tube 50 is positioned into a desired position adjacent the soffit vent 44, such that the flap portion 52 remains in contact with either the attic joists and/or the attic floor 30.

Advantageously, the relatively long length (about 8 ft.) of the ventilation tube 50 allows the installer to position the ventilation tube 50 within the attic space 32, while remaining a distance away from the eave space 34. The installer is thus able to install the ventilation tube 50 without having to move into, or work within, the decreased head room created by the sloping roof near narrow region 48.

The second end 50B of the ventilation tube 50 may then be moved to a desired position against the roof sheathing 22. As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a typical roof system 10 includes roofing nails 78 that extend through the roof sheathing 22 and into the attic space 32. The ends of the roofing nails 78 which extend into the attic space 32 may also be used to help keep the ventilation tube 50 in a desired position relative to the roof sheathing 22. For example, the roof sheathing facing wall 51B of the ventilation tube 50 may be urged against the roof sheathing 22 such that the roofing nails penetrate the roof sheathing facing wall 51B, thereby securing the ventilation tube 50 into a desired position relative to the roof sheathing 22. As best shown in FIG. 9, the ventilation tube 50 may be further attached to the roof sheathing 22 by fasteners inserted into the roof sheathing 22 through the ventilation channel 53. In the illustrated embodiment, the fasteners are staples 80, however any other desired fastener may be used. Alternatively, the ventilation tube 50 may be attached to the roof system 10 by other means, such as with stiff wires extending between adjacent rafters 18. Further, fasteners such as nails or staples may be inserted through the ventilation tube 50 into the rafters 18, such as through the first and second side walls 51C and 51D, respectively. In another alternate embodiment, the ventilation tube 50 may have a width slightly larger than a width of the space between adjacent rafters 18 such that the ventilation tube 50 may be inserted in an interference fit relationship between adjacent rafters 18. It will be appreciated that the ventilation tube 50 does not have to be flush with the roof sheathing 22, and an air space 82 may be defined between the roof sheathing 22 and the ventilation tube 50. When such an air space 82 exists, the air space 82 will be in fluid communication with the ventilation channel 53 through the tab openings 72 in the ventilation tube 50.

Once the ventilation tube 50 has been attached with the attic space 32, insulation, such as loosefil insulation 84, may be placed in the attic space 32 without covering the soffit vent 44, and therefore without obstructing the air movement 46. The loosefil insulation 84 may be placed, such as by blowing, into the attic space 32. The flap portion 52 of the ventilation tube 50 will help prevent the insulation 84 from entering the eave space 34, and therefore help maintain a clear path for air movement 46 through the soffit vent 44, and the eave space 34. Advantageously, the insulation 84 may be provided to any desired depth within the attic space 32, and the air movement 46 will be maintained through the ventilation channel 53. As described above, the rafter spaces without a ventilation tube 50, such as the rafter spaces 58B and 58C are provided with the insulation batt 62 to further minimize or prevent the insulation 84 from covering or otherwise blocking the soffit vent 44.

As described above, a ventilation tube 50 need not be installed in each rafter space 58. The number of ventilation tubes that will be installed will vary based on the ventilation requirements of the specific roof system 10.

As shown in FIG. 4, the ventilation tube 50 is installed with its first end 50A spaced apart from the soffit vent 44 (above the soffit vent 44 when viewing FIG. 4). It will be appreciated that the ventilation tube 50 may also be installed such that the first end 50A is any desired distance from the soffit vent 44. Such a distance may be determined based on the roof geometry, the number and location of obstructions in the attic space 32, installer convenience, and other factors. It will also be appreciated that as long as the soffit vents 44 are in fluid communication with the attic space 32 through the ventilation channels 53 of the ventilation tubes 50, the position of the ventilation tubes 50 may vary. The ventilation tubes 50 need not be aligned with the soffit vents 44 as illustrated, as long as the ventilation tubes 50 provide an air flow path from the soffit vents 44, through the attic space 32, to the ridge vent 40 and/or the roof vent 42.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a second embodiment of the ventilation tube is shown generally at 150. The ventilation tube 150 is substantially identical to the ventilation tube 50 and has a first end 150A and second end 150B, and a substantially rectangular transverse cross-sectional shape. The ventilation tube 150 includes an attic floor facing wall 151A, a roof sheathing facing wall 151B opposite the attic floor facing wall 151A, a first side wall 151C (not shown in FIG. 10), and a second side wall 151D. The first and second side walls 151C and 151D connect the attic floor facing wall 151A and the roof sheathing facing wall 151D. The illustrated ventilation tube 150 further includes the flap portion 152 extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall 151A at the first end 150A. The leading edge surfaces 161 and the trailing edge surfaces 163 of the first and second side walls 151C and 151D are formed at about an angle of about 90 degrees relative to the attic floor facing wall 151A.

Referring to FIG. 11, a third embodiment of the ventilation tube is shown generally at 250. The ventilation tube 250 is substantially similar to the ventilation tube 150 and has a first end 250A and second end 250B, and a substantially rectangular transverse cross-sectional shape. The ventilation tube 250 includes an attic floor facing wall 251A, a roof sheathing facing wall 251B opposite the attic floor facing wall 251A, a first side wall 251C (not shown in FIG. 11), and a second side wall 251D. The first and second side walls 251C and 251D connect the attic floor facing wall 251A and the roof sheathing facing wall 251D. The illustrated ventilation tube 250 further includes the flap portion 252 extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall 251A at the first end 250A. The an attic floor facing wall 251A, roof sheathing facing wall 251B, and first and second side wall 251C and 251D define a tube body 254 having a length substantially shorter than the length of the ventilation tubes 50 and 150. At least a portion of the roof sheathing facing wall 251B extends outwardly of the second end 250BA and defines a handle portion 256. The handle portion 256 allows an installer to position the ventilation tube 250 in the manner described above regarding ventilation tube 50.

Referring to FIG. 12, a fourth embodiment of the ventilation tube is shown generally at 350. The ventilation tube 350 is similar to the ventilation tube 150 and has a first end 350A and second end 350B, and a substantially rectangular transverse cross-sectional shape. The ventilation tube 350 includes an attic floor facing wall 351A, a roof sheathing facing wall 351B opposite the attic floor facing wall 351A, a first side wall 351C (not shown in FIG. 12), and a second side wall 351D. The first and second side walls 351C and 351D connect the attic floor facing wall 351A and the roof sheathing facing wall 351D. The illustrated ventilation tube 350 further includes the flap portion 352 extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall 351A at the first end 350A. The attic floor facing wall 351A, roof sheathing facing wall 351B, and first and second side wall 351C and 351D define a tube body 354 having a central pleated portion 356 defining a flexible, compressible portion. All or selected portions of the central pleated portion 356 may be bent, compressed, and/or extended, thereby allowing an installer to conform the shape of the tube body 354 to a desired shape. The embodiment of the ventilation tube 350 may therefore be shaped, i.e., bent, compressed, and/or extended, to a plurality of shapes to fit a plurality of attic space configurations and to avoid obstacles within the attic space 32.

It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the ventilation tubes 50, 150, 250, and 350 described herein may be used in applications other than between the rafters 18 of a roof system 10, such as anywhere where it is desirable to provide unobstructed movement of air through a space. For example, in a building constructed with no eave space wherein the soffit vent is positioned to directly connect the attic space with the outside of the building, the ventilation tube 50 may be positioned such that the opening at the first end 50A is directly on top of the soffit vent 44. In such an embodiment, any subsequently distributed insulation 84 will be prevented from blocking air flow through the soffit vent 44 covered by the first end 50A of the ventilation tube 50.

The principle and mode of operation of the ventilation system have been described in its preferred embodiment. However, it should be noted that the ventilation system described herein may be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its scope.

Claims

1. A ventilation system for an attic space in a building having a roof, the ventilation system comprising: a ventilation tube defining a ventilation channel and configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube;wherein the ventilation tube is disposed within an attic space in a building, such that the first end of the ventilation tube is positioned adjacent a soffit vent, and the second end of the ventilation tube is positioned within the attic space.

2. The ventilation system according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation channel is further configured for the movement of air between the soffit vent and a roof vent.

3. The ventilation system according to claim 1, wherein the second end of the ventilation tube is attached to a roof sheathing of the roof.

4. The ventilation system according to claim 1, wherein the ventilation tube includes four elongated walls defining the ventilation channel having a substantially rectangular transverse section.

5. The ventilation system according to claim 4, wherein joints between adjacent walls define living hinges; and wherein the ventilation tube is movable between a folded position wherein the ventilation tube is substantially flat, and an open position wherein the ventilation tube has the substantially rectangular transverse section.

6. The ventilation system according to claim 4, wherein the walls include an attic floor facing wall, a roof sheathing facing wall opposite the attic floor facing wall, and first and second side walls connecting the attic floor facing wall and the roof sheathing facing wall; the ventilation tube further including a flap portion extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall and defining a leading edge;wherein a living hinge is defined between the attic floor facing wall and the flap portion; andwherein the flap portion is movable between a first position wherein the flap portion is substantially coplanar with the attic floor facing wall, and a second position wherein the flap portion is pivoted about the living hinge such that the leading edge is oriented substantially toward the second end of the ventilation tube.

7. The ventilation system according to claim 6, wherein in the second position, the flap portion defines an insulation barrier between the soffit vent and a remainder of the attic space in a building having a roof.

8. The ventilation system according to claim 7, wherein leading edge surfaces of the first and second side walls at the first end of the ventilation tube are formed at an obtuse angle relative to the flap portion.

9. A ventilation system for an attic space in a building having a roof, the ventilation system comprising: a ventilation tube defining a ventilation channel and configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube;wherein the ventilation tube includes four elongated walls defining the ventilation channel having a substantially rectangular transverse section.

10. The ventilation system according to claim 9, wherein joints between adjacent walls define living hinges; and wherein the ventilation tube is movable between a folded position wherein the ventilation tube is substantially flat, and an open position wherein the ventilation tube has the substantially rectangular transverse section.

11. The ventilation system according to claim 9, wherein the walls include an attic floor facing wall, a roof sheathing facing wall opposite the attic floor facing wall, and first and second side walls connecting the attic floor facing wall and the roof sheathing facing wall; the ventilation tube further including a flap portion extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall and defining a leading edge;wherein a living hinge is defined between the attic floor facing wall and the flap portion; andwherein the flap portion is movable between a first position wherein the flap portion is substantially coplanar with the attic floor facing wall, and a second position wherein the flap portion is pivoted about the living hinge such that the leading edge is oriented substantially toward the second end of the ventilation tube.

12. The ventilation system according to claim 11, wherein in the second position, the flap portion defines an insulation barrier between a soffit vent and a remainder of an attic space in a building having a roof.

13. The ventilation system according to claim 9, wherein leading edge surfaces of the first and second side walls at the first end of the ventilation tube are formed at an obtuse angle relative to the flap portion.

14. A method of providing ventilation system in an attic space in a building having a roof, the method comprising: disposing a ventilation tube within an attic space of a building; andpositioning a first end of the ventilation tube adjacent a soffit vent, and positioning a second end of the ventilation tube within the attic space;wherein the ventilation tube defines a ventilation channel; andwherein the ventilation tube is configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between the first end of the ventilation tube and the second end of the ventilation tube.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the ventilation channel is further configured for the movement of air between the soffit vent and a roof vent.

16. The method according to claim 14, further including attaching the second end of the ventilation tube to a roof sheathing of the roof.

17. The method according to claim 14, wherein the ventilation tube is formed having four elongated walls defining the ventilation channel; and wherein the ventilation tube has a substantially rectangular transverse section.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the ventilation tube is formed such that joints between adjacent walls define living hinges; and wherein the method further includes moving the ventilation tube between a folded position wherein the ventilation tube is substantially flat, and an open position wherein the ventilation tube has the substantially rectangular transverse section.

19. The method according to claim 17, wherein the walls include an attic floor facing wall, a roof sheathing facing wall opposite the attic floor facing wall, and first and second side walls connecting the attic floor facing wall and the roof sheathing facing wall; wherein the ventilation tube further includes a flap portion extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall and defining a leading edge;wherein a living hinge is defined between the attic floor facing wall and the flap portion; andwherein the method further includes moving the flap portion between a first position wherein the flap portion is substantially coplanar with the attic floor facing wall, and a second position wherein the flap portion is pivoted about the living hinge such that the leading edge is oriented substantially toward the second end of the ventilation tube.

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein leading edge surfaces of the first and second side walls at the first end of the ventilation tube are formed at an obtuse angle relative to the flap portion.

21. The method according to claim 14, further including urging the roof sheathing facing wall against a roof sheathing of a roof such that any shingle nails extending through the roof and into the attic space are urged through the roof sheathing facing wall, thereby attaching the ventilation tube to the roof sheathing.

22. The method according to claim 14, further including inserting fasteners through the roof sheathing facing wall and into a roof sheathing of a roof, thereby attaching the ventilation tube to the roof sheathing of the roof.

23. A method of providing ventilation system in an attic space in a building having a roof, the method comprising: disposing a ventilation tube within an attic space of a building;wherein the ventilation tube defines a ventilation channel;wherein the ventilation tube is configured for the movement of air within the ventilation channel between a first end of the ventilation tube and a second end of the ventilation tube;wherein the ventilation tube is formed having four elongated walls defining the ventilation channel; andwherein the ventilation tube has a substantially rectangular transverse section.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the ventilation channel is further configured for the movement of air between a soffit vent and a roof vent.

25. The method according to claim 23, further including attaching the second end of the ventilation tube to a roof sheathing of the roof.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein the ventilation tube is formed such that joints between adjacent walls define living hinges; and wherein the method further includes moving the ventilation tube between a folded position wherein the ventilation tube is substantially flat, and an open position wherein the ventilation tube has the substantially rectangular transverse section.

27. The method according to claim 25, wherein the walls include an attic floor facing wall, a roof sheathing facing wall opposite the attic floor facing wall, and first and second side walls connecting the attic floor facing wall and the roof sheathing facing wall; wherein the ventilation tube further includes a flap portion extending outwardly of the attic floor facing wall and defining a leading edge;wherein a living hinge is defined between the attic floor facing wall and the flap portion; andwherein the method further includes moving the flap portion between a first position wherein the flap portion is substantially coplanar with the attic floor facing wall, and a second position wherein the flap portion is pivoted about the living hinge such that the leading edge is oriented substantially toward the second end of the ventilation tube.

28. The method according to claim 25, wherein leading edge surfaces of the first and second side walls are formed at an obtuse angle relative to the flap portion.

29. The method according to claim 23, further including urging the roof sheathing facing wall against a roof sheathing of a roof such that any shingle nails extending through the roof and into the attic space are urged through the roof sheathing facing wall, thereby attaching the ventilation tube to the roof sheathing.

30. The method according to claim 23, further including inserting fasteners through the roof sheathing facing wall and into a roof sheathing of a roof, thereby attaching the ventilation tube to the roof sheathing.