US20250155145A1

US20250155145A1 - Ridge vents for a roof

Info

Publication number: US20250155145A1
Application number: US18/508,079
Authority: US
Inventors: Stephanie Lin DANIELS; Meldrin Gabriel COLLINS; Paul Andrew CASSERI; John Mankowski; Hazem SHANAB
Original assignee: Atlas Roofing Corp
Current assignee: Atlas Roofing Corp
Priority date: 2023-11-13
Filing date: 2023-11-13
Publication date: 2025-05-15

Abstract

A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof comprises two longitudinal edges; two lateral sides; a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides; two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges; and a ridge cap supporting section. The ridge cap supporting section is provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section. The ridge cap supporting section comprises a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions. On average the ridge cap supporting section central region has a smaller thickness than the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention pertains to ridge vents for a roof.

BACKGROUND

Many sloping roofs, such as roofs of some residential buildings, are typically formed of two inclined roofing decks that are supported by rafters and extend from an eaves toward a peak. For ventilation purposes, a small gap is provided at the peak, i.e., at the apex of the two inclined decks, to allow hot air to escape from an attic which is covered by the roof. The two inclined decks are preferably covered with an underlayment and the underlayment in turn is covered by shingles.
The gap provided at the apex of the two inclined decks may be a separation of about 3.5 inches between the two decks. A structure known as a ridge vent is typically installed in a manner to bridge the two inclined decks at the roof peak and thereby cover the gap. The ridge vent covers the gap and yet includes louvers or vents that allow the hot air to escape. One type of ridge vent is a three dimensional panel which extends approximately four feet along and parallel to the roof peak. An example of such a ridge vent is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 9,540,823 to Mankowski, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
In installation, a series of ridge vent panels are arranged in adjacent fashion along the roof peak to cover the gap. Installers typically snap a chalk line on the shingled roof deck to indicate where longitudinal edges of the ridge vent panels should be aligned. Careful positioning of the ridge vent panels on the shingled roof decks is significant for both aesthetic and functional purposes. After the ridge vent panels are secured to the two inclined roof decks, e.g., by fasteners, ridge cap shingles are applied over a top surface of the ridge vent panel and secured by yet further fasteners which extend through the ridge vent panel and into the underlying roof deck. The ridge cap shingles blend with the other shingles on the roof, but do not cover the louvers or vents through which the attic hot air may escape.
A ridge vent panel may typically comprise a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) type material. The material may be molded it a panel which, although solid, still has some degree of flexibility. The flexibility is both a benefit and a problem for installation purposes. A benefit of panel flexibility is easier handling of the panel during installation. A problem of panel flexibility is that installers tend to step on the panels during installation, which may cause misalignment or possible damage. Moreover, the ridge vent panel is subject to forces caused by thermal conditions both from above, e.g., incident radiation and heat of the day, and from the attic.
What is needed, therefore, and an example object of the technology disclosed herein, is a ridge vent panel that is flexible and durable during installation and adaptable during utilization.

SUMMARY

In one of its example aspects the technology disclosed herein concerns a ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof. The panel comprises two longitudinal edges; two lateral sides; a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides; two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges; and a ridge cap supporting section. The ridge cap supporting section is provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section. The ridge cap supporting section comprises a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions. On average the ridge cap supporting section central region has a smaller thickness than the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.
In another of its example aspects the technology disclosed herein concerns a ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof. The panel comprises two longitudinal edges; two lateral sides; a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface; a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides; two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges; a ridge cap supporting section; and two series of flexible struts. The ridge cap supporting section is provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings. The ridge cap supporting section comprises a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions. The two series of flexible struts are provided along and proximate respective two longitudinal edges of the ridge cap supporting section central region and spaced away from the longitudinal edges.
In yet another of its example aspects the technology disclosed herein concerns a ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof. The panel comprises two longitudinal edges; two lateral sides; a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface; a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides; two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges; a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings; and an oval shaped preformed aperture which extends through a thickness of the panel in the ridge cap supporting section.
In yet another of its example aspects the technology disclosed herein concerns a ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof in which the panel comprises two longitudinal edges; two lateral sides; a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface; a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides; two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges; and a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings. The ridge cap supporting section comprises a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions. The panel further comprises a resilient cantilever finger provided on at least one of the two lateral sides in at least one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRA WINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the technology disclosed herein will be apparent from the following more particular description of preferred embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the various views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the technology disclosed herein.

FIG. 1 is a top, front, right side perspective view of a ridge vent according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a top elevation view of the ridge vent of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a top, front perspective view of the ridge vent of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 4 is a top, right side perspective view of the ridge vent of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of a region 5 of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a region 6 of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 7 is a bottom back left side perspective view of the ridge vent of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 8 is a bottom elevation view of the ridge vent of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 9 is a bottom right side enlarged perspective view of a region 9 of the ridge vent shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 is a bottom right side enlarged perspective view of a region of the ridge vent shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 11 is a bottom back right side enlarged perspective view of the region shown in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 12 is an enlarged bottom plan view of the region shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 13 is an enlarged bottom right side perspective enlarged view of the region shown in FIG. 12 .

FIG. 14 is a bottom left side perspective view of the ridge vent shown in FIG. 1 .

FIG. 15 is a bottom, back, right side enlarged perspective view of a region shown in FIG. 10 .

FIG. 16 is a bottom, back, left side enlarged perspective view of a region of the ridge vent shown in FIG. 8 .

FIG. 17A is a sectioned right side view of the ridge vent panel showing an example configuration of a flexible strut according to an example embodiment and mode; FIG. 17B is sectioned rear view of the flexible strut of FIG. 17A taken along line 17B-17B.

FIG. 18A is a simplified cross-sectional edge view of a roof having a moderate pitch with ridge vent panel installed over the gap of the two roof decks; FIG. 18B is a simplified cross-sectional edge view of a roof having a steep pitch with ridge vent panel installed over the gap of the two roof decks.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, for purposes of explanation and not limitation, specific details are set forth such as particular architectures, interfaces, techniques, etc. to provide a thorough understanding of the technology disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the technology disclosed herein may be practiced in other embodiments that depart from these specific details. That is, those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements which, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the technology disclosed herein and are included within its spirit and scope. In some instances, detailed descriptions of well-known devices, circuits, and methods are omitted so as not to obscure the description of the technology disclosed herein with unnecessary detail.
FIG. 1 shows ridge vent panel 20 according to an example embodiment which is configured for installation over a gap at a peak of a roof. Unlike fabric type ridge vents which are stored on and are un-wound from a roll, ridge vent panel 20 is a three dimensional, semi-rigid unit having some degree of flexibility. In terms of material composition, the ridge vent panel 20 may, for non-limiting example, be comprised of a thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) type material. For example, the ridge vent panel 20 may comprise a combination of Polypropylene and Polyethylene along with a glass or talc filler to provide a thermally and dimensionally stable resin. FIG. 1 is a top, front, right side perspective view of a ridge vent according to an example embodiment. FIG. 1 shows ridge vent panel 20 as comprising two longitudinal edges 22 which extend in a longitudinal or major dimension indicated by broken line double-headed arrow 23, and two lateral sides 24A and 24B which extend in a transverse or minor dimension of ridge vent panel 20 as indicated by broken line double-headed arrow 25. The two longitudinal edges 22 are parallel to one another; the lateral sides 24 are parallel to one another and are perpendicular to the two longitudinal edges 22. The ridge vent panel 20 comprises a peak 26, which extends along the major dimension 23 midway between the two longitudinal edges 22. At its peak 26 the ridge vent panel 20 has a greater height along a height dimension indicated by broken line double-headed arrow 27, than at its two longitudinal edges 22.
FIG. 1 shows panel top surface 28 of ridge vent panel 20. A panel bottom surface 29 is shown in other figures, such as FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 .
In an example embodiment, the two longitudinal edges 22 may comprise edge segments oriented at different inclinations with respect to the height dimension 27. For example, as shown in FIG. 4 , two longitudinal edges 22 may comprise edge base segment 22 b which may either be inclined at an angle toward peak 26 or even parallel to the height dimension 27. The base edge segment 22 b may in turn be surmounted by an edge top segment 22 t which is inclined or flared away from peak 26. Additionally, the two longitudinal edges 22 may be provided with stabilization edge features 30 which have a transverse protruding “V” shape as seen from above.
As shown for example in FIG. 4 , lateral sides 24 may be provided, in their center regions, with a series of lateral side vanes 32 which define lateral side vents 34 there between. The lateral side vanes 32 are preferably inclined angularly with respect to both the longitudinal dimension 23 and the lateral dimension 25.
FIG. 1 shows, from above, ridge vent interior section 36. The ridge vent interior section 36 is bounded by the two longitudinal edges 22 and the two lateral sides 24. The ridge vent interior section 33 comprises the peak 26 which, as mentioned above, extends along a center longitudinal axis of the panel 20.
As also shown in FIG. 1 and shown in more detail in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 , the ridge vent panel 20 comprises plural longitudinally arranged vent openings 40. The longitudinal vent openings 40 are provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges 22. The longitudinal vent openings 40 are defined between vent ribs or louvers 42 that laterally connect one of the longitudinal edges 22 with the ridge vent interior section 36. As shown in FIG. 11 , for example, vent ribs 42 may be inclined with respect to the height dimension 27 by an angle α, or possibly slightly curved.
The technology disclosed herein encompasses ridge vent panels comprising one or more features including but not limited to (1) varying thickness between panel top surface 28 and panel bottom surface 29 in a ridge cap supporting section; (2) flexible struts provided in a ridge cap supporting section central region; (3) a preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s); and (4) resilient cantilever fingers formed on an exterior lateral surface.
Each of these features are described below. A ridge vent panel 20 of the technology disclosed herein may include one or more of the described features. That is, a ridge vent panel 20 may include just one of the described features or a combination of one or more of the features.

1.0: Varying Thickness in Ridge Cap Supporting Section

As mentioned above, the ridge vent panel 20 comprises ridge vent interior section 36. As shown more specifically shown as bounded by dashed dotted lines, the ridge vent interior section 36 comprises ridge cap supporting section 50 which encompasses or comprises both a ridge cap supporting section central region 52 and ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. The ridge cap supporting section central region 52 is depicted between dashed double dotted lines, and two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 are depicted as bounded by the dashed single dotted lines and the dashed double dotted lines of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52. The two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 essentially border the longitudinal vent openings 40, and thus are situated between the longitudinal vent openings 40 and the ridge cap supporting section central region 52. The ridge cap supporting section 50 extends essentially between the two series of longitudinal vent openings 40 in the lateral dimension 25 and between the lateral sides 24 in the longitudinal direction 23. Likewise, both the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 and ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 extend substantially between the lateral sides 24 in the longitudinal direction 23. Thus, in an example embodiment and mode ridge cap supporting section central region 52 extends substantially from a first lateral side 24A to a second lateral side 24B and substantially between the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. As used herein, “substantially” or “essentially” or “about” refers to plus or minus 10% of the stated distance, or quality, or measure.
As mentioned above, the lateral edges 24A and 24B includes lateral side vanes 32 which define lateral side vents 34. The lateral side vanes 32 and the lateral side vents 34 are provided in the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 of ridge cap supporting section 50.
In accordance with one example aspect of the technology disclosed herein, between the panel top surface 28 and panel bottom surface 29 the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 has a smaller thickness than does the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. The thicknesses of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 and the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 are determined with respect to the height dimension 27. For example, on average the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 has a smaller thickness than does the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. The thicknesses of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 and ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 are considered as the thickness of the web or material forming those respective sections, between the panel top surface 28 and the panel bottom surface 29, without regard to any protruding local feature or local embossment or local indentation provided therein.
In view of its smaller thickness, the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 has greater flexibility than does the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. An advantage of increased flexibility is that the ridge vent panel 20 may be more easily installed on a roof, and on roofs of different pitches, i.e., roofs whose decks are inclined at different angles. For example, FIG. 18A is a simplified cross-sectional edge view of a roof having a moderate pitch with ridge vent panel 20 installed over the gap of the two roof decks. By contrast, FIG. 18B is a simplified cross-sectional edge view of a roof having a steep pitch with ridge vent panel 20 installed over the gap of the two roof decks. In view of the increased flexibility of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 of ridge vent panel 20, the ridge vent panel 20 is suitable not only for moderately pitched roofs, but also may be flexed to a greater degree to also be used on steeper pitched roofs.
In a prior art panel, the thicknesses of a region corresponding to the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 of the inventive panel 20 is on between 0.048 inch and 0.055 inch, and the thickness in a region corresponding to the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 is on average 0.051 inch. By contrast, in an example embodiment and mode the thicknesses of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 is between 0.038 inch and 0.039 inch and the thickness in the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 is on average 0.065 inch.
In an example embodiment and mode, on average the smaller thickness of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 is about 60% of a thickness of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54, plus or minus 10%.
In an example embodiment and mode, a panel width of the panel 20 extends between the two longitudinal edges 22 for about fourteen inches, the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 is centered between the two longitudinal edges, and the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 extends for about nine inches along the panel width. As used herein, “width” when referring to ridge vent panel 20 refers to the lateral dimension 25.
In an example embodiment and mode, a width of the ridge cap supporting section 54 is about 11.5 inches, and wherein the ridge cap supporting section central region is centered relative to the ridge cap supporting section and extends for about nine inches in width.
In an example embodiment and mode, a panel width of the panel 20 which extends between the two longitudinal edges 22 is about fourteen inches, the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 is centered between the two longitudinal edges 22, and the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 extends for about nine inches along the panel width.
In an example embodiment and mode, the top surface 28 of ridge vent panel 20 comprises an indication of a nailing zone 56 for nailing ridge caps, e.g., a zone in which the ridge cap shingles may be nailed through ridge vent panel 20 to the underlying deck. The indication may comprise, for example, two parallel lines extending in the longitudinal dimension 23. Indicia or a marking such as “NAIL HERE” may be inscribed or otherwise provided in the nailing zone 56, e.g., between the two parallel lines. See, for example, FIG. 5 . Preferably the indication of the nailing zone 56 is provided on the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54, e.g., on the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 near a border with the ridge cap supporting section central region 52. The ridge vent panel 20 itself is nailed to the deck through preformed nailing apertures, such as preformed nailing aperture(s) 70 and 71, as described hereinafter.

2.0: Flexible Struts in Ridge Cap Supporting Section Central Region

As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 , for example, panel bottom surface 29 of panel 20 includes two series of fins or posts 58 which are attached to or formed on an underside of the panel bottom surface 29. Each series of fins 58 is arranged along the longitudinal dimension 23 of panel 20 in a respective one of the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. With respect to the lateral dimension 25, a base of a laterally extreme edge of each fin 58 is essentially aligned with an imaginary line that forms a boundary between a respective ridge cap supporting section edge region 54 and a region of the longitudinal vent openings 40. The other lateral edge of each fin 58 is spaced laterally about 0.500 inches from the center of nailing zone 56.
In an example embodiment and mode, adjacent fins 58 in each series are spaced about 4 inches apart from one another along the longitudinal dimension 23. The two fins 58 which are closest to the two lateral edges 24A and 24B are spaced about 2 inches away from the lateral edge 24 in the longitudinal dimension 23.
Each fin 58 is preferably narrow in the longitudinal dimension 23 and has its main fin surface extending in a plane defined by the lateral dimension 25 and the height dimension 27.
In an example embodiment and mode, each fin 58 has a measurement of about 1/16 inch in the longitudinal dimension 23; a measurement of about ¼ inch on average in the lateral dimension 25; and a measurement of about ¾ inch in the height dimension 27. In an example embodiment and mode, each fin 58 may taper to be thinner away from the panel bottom surface 29, for which reason an “on average” measurement is provided.
The two series of fins 58 are provided on panel bottom surface 29 in the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54, e.g., at an edge of the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 near the longitudinal vent openings 40. In addition, in accordance with the technology disclosed herein, two series of flexible struts 60 are provided on panel bottom surface 29, but along and proximate respective two longitudinal edges of the ridge cap supporting section central regions 52. The flexible struts 60 are spaced away from the longitudinal edges 22 and thus do not extend into the ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54. In an example embodiment and mode, the flexible struts 60 are spaced away from the two longitudinal edges 22 by 2.000 inches or more, and preferably spaced away by about 2.375 inches.
Thus, the flexible struts 60 are provided in the region of ridge cap supporting section 50 that has thinner thickness between panel top surface 28 and panel bottom surface 29, i.e., the flexible struts 60 are provided in the ridge cap supporting section central region 52.
Except for the longitudinal center of ridge vent panel 20, each of the flexible struts 60 of a series is positioned approximately mid-way between two adjacent fins 58 that are provide on the ridge cap supporting section edge region 54 to which the series of flexible struts 60 is adjacent. For example, in an example embodiment and mode, except at the longitudinal center of the panel, the flexible struts 60 are separated from one another by about 4 inches along the longitudinal dimension 23.
In addition to fins 58 and flexible struts 60, the panel bottom surface 29 also has three transverse ribs 64 formed on its underside, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 . The transverse ribs 64 are also formed in the ridge cap supporting section central region 52, and essentially extend from one longitudinal edge of the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 to the other longitudinal edge thereof. A middle transverse rib 64 m is formed at the longitudinal center of ridge vent panel 20 across the ridge cap supporting section central region 52. The middle transverse rib 64 m thus takes the place that would otherwise be occupied by a flexible strut 60 at the longitudinal middle of ridge vent panel 20. A first quarter transverse rib 64 q is formed between the middle transverse rib 64 m and lateral edge 24A; a second quarter transverse rib 64 q is formed between the middle transverse rib 64 m and lateral edge 24B. The quarter transverse ribs 64 q are positioned in the longitudinal dimension 23 between second and third flexible struts 60 from the lateral sides.
A center segment of each of the transversely extending transverse ribs 64 may be configured in a zig-zag fashion. In an example embodiment and mode, each of the transverse ribs 64 may extend for about 7.5 inches across the ridge cap supporting section central region 52 in the lateral dimension 25, with the center segment of the transverse rib 64 extending about 4.5 inches of that transverse extent.
FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B show one example configuration of a flexible strut 60 according to an example embodiment and mode. The flexible strut 60 of FIG. 17A is shown as comprising a strut tail section 66; a strut spine section 67; and an optional strut heel section 68.
In an example embodiment and mode, in a plane parallel to a width of the panel, i.e., in a plane of lateral dimension 25 and height dimension 27, the strut spine section tapers 67 away from the strut tail section 68 toward the bottom surface of the panel. The strut tail section 66 is shown as having a central axis 69 which, in a plane transverse to a width of the panel, is inclined with respect to the bottom surface of the panel 29 at an angle β of about 81 degrees as shown in FIG. 17A.
In an example embodiment and mode, in a plane transverse to a width of the panel, i.e., in a plane defined by the lateral dimension 25 and the height dimension 27, the flexible struts 60 extend about two inches. In an example embodiment and mode, the strut tail section 66 of the flexible struts extends a lateral distance 66L of about 0.603 inch and the strut spine section 67 extends a lateral distance 67L of about 1.430 inch.
In an example embodiment and mode, the strut tail section 66 of the flexible struts extends from the panel bottom surface 29 for a greater distance than the strut spine section 67 of the flexible struts. In an example embodiment and mode, the strut tail section 66 extends from the panel bottom surface for a depth Wd1 of about 0.665 inch and at its greatest depth the strut spine section 67 extends for a maximum depth Wd2 of about 0.212 inch.
In an example embodiment and mode, a portion of the flexible strut 60 that is farthest or more distal from the panel bottom surface 29, a distal end of strut tail section 66, has less thickness along the horizontal dimension 23 than a remainder of the flexible strut 60. For example, the strut tail section 66 may have a longitudinal thickness 60 t 1 of about 0.053 at its farthest distance from panel bottom surface 29 while at or near the panel bottom surface a base end of the flexible strut 60 may have a longitudinal thickness 60 t 2 of about 0.080 inch. Thus, the distal end of flexible strut 60 may be in a range of about 50% to 70% of the thickness of a base send of flexible strut 60.
The flexible struts 60 serve, e.g., to prevent warping of the panel 20 during installation. This is particularly important since roofers often sit on the panel 20 near the peak of the roof, and thereby apply their weight to the ridge cap supporting section central region 52. In situations such as when the flexible struts 60 bear the weight of the roofer, the flexible struts 60 becomes sacrificial crush points, e.g., by partially collapsing, e.g., in one or more of the longitudinal dimension 23 and the height dimension 27, so that placement of the footprint of the panel 20 is not warped or distorted while the panel 20 is being nailed to the roof deck. Thus, the horizontally bendable strut ensures that when multiple parts are connected in a straight line, a set of vents will not spiral or become misaligned. In essence, the flexible strut 60 can be compared to a typical pier bridge, except that it allows for bending while redirecting the live load away from the installer's weight.
Thus, a series of flexible fins 58 are provided on the panel bottom surface 29 on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion 54. The fins 58 are preferably provided adjacent to the vent ribs or louvers 42 which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings 40. The series of flexible fins 58 are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, i.e., along longitudinal dimension 23. With respect to the longitudinal direction 23, the flexible struts 60 are provided in staggered manner with respect to the first interval. Preferably, with respect to the longitudinal dimension 23, at least one of the flexible struts 60 is provided essentially midway between two adjacent flexible fins 58.

3.0: Oval Shaped Nailing Aperture(s)

The ridge vent panel 20 further comprises one or more preformed oval shaped apertures through which the ridge vent panel 20 may be nailed to the underlying deck. In an example embodiment and mode, two types of preformed oval shaped nailing apertures are provided: preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s) 70 which are provided in a central or mid-portion of ridge vent panel 20 along the longitudinal dimension 23; and preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s) 71 which are provided at lateral edges of ridge vent panel 20 along the longitudinal dimension 23. The two types of preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s) 70 and 71 may be used in combination with one or another, or separately. In other words, panels of the technology described herein need not necessarily incorporate both types of preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s) 70 and 71.
In an example embodiment and mode, preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s) 70 and 71 extend through and are provided in the ridge cap supporting section 50. Preferably but not necessarily, the preformed oval shaped nailing aperture(s) 70 and 71 through and are provided in the ridge cap supporting section edge region 54.
Preferably, the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 each comprise an oval shaped aperture 70 which extends through a thickness of the ridge vent panel 20. The oval shaped aperture(s) 70 is also known herein as the preformed deck movement compensation central aperture 70 since the oval shape of the aperture(s) 70 compensate for movement of the roofing deck to which the panel 20 is nailed through the aperture(s) 70. The oval shape of the aperture(s) 70 allow the panel 20, which is secured to the roofing deck by a fastener or nail which extends through the aperture(s) 70, to remain in its originally intended position on the roof deck even if the roof deck and nail move, since the oval shape allows for the movement of the deck and nail in the horizontal dimension 23 rather than a tight horizontal engagement. The roofing deck may have a tendency to move in view of environmental or external factors, such as atmospheric or attic heat, for example. The deck movement compensation central aperture 70, is preferably located approximately in the center of the ridge cap supporting section edge region with respect to the longitudinal dimension 23 of ridge vent panel 20, as shown, for example, in FIG. 1 , FIG. 2 , and FIG. 6 .
In an example embodiment and mode, and as shown, for example, in FIG. 6 , deck movement compensation central aperture 70 preferably comprises an aperture top opening 72 which is essentially flush with panel top surface 28 of ridge cap supporting section 50. In addition, and as shown, for example, in FIG. 12 , deck movement compensation central aperture 70 comprises an aperture bottom opening 74 which is formed in an aperture tunnel 76 provided on and extending downwardly from the bottom surface 29 of ridge cap supporting section 50 toward the bottom of panel 20.
In an example embodiment and mode, the preformed nailing central aperture 70 comprises or assumes an essentially oval shape. In an example embodiment and mode, in the upper surface 28 of ridge cap supporting section 50 the deck movement compensation central aperture 70 extends approximately ⅝ inch in the longitudinal dimension 23 and extends approximately ¼ inch in the lateral dimension 25. In an example embodiment and mode, the aperture tunnel 76 extends approximately 0.75 inch below the panel bottom surface 29 of ridge cap supporting section 50, e.g., extends approximately 0.75 inch in the height dimension 27. In an example embodiment and mode, in a plane of lateral dimension 25 and vertical dimension 27 a height axis the aperture tunnel 76 may be inclined at an angle of approximately 12 degrees with the height dimension 27.
In an example embodiment and mode, the ridge vent panel 20 further comprises a tunnel connection web 78 which extends in a plane of a width of the panel, e.g., in a plane defined by lateral dimension 25 and height dimension 27. The tunnel connection web 78 connects the aperture tunnel 76 to a longitudinal edge 22 of the panel in alignment with a vent rib or louvre 42 that defines at least one of the vent openings 40.
The preformed oval shaped aperture(s) 71 also extends through ridge cap supporting section 50, and preferably through the ridge cap supporting section edge region 54. Whereas the preformed oval shaped nailing central aperture 70 is located at or near a longitudinal midpoint of the ridge vent panel 20, the aperture(s) 71 are located proximate the lateral edges 24A and 24B of ridge vent panel 20. The oval shaped aperture(s) 71 is also known herein as the preformed deck movement compensation edge aperture 70 since, like the oval shaped aperture(s) 70, the oval shape of the edge aperture(s) 71 compensate for movement of the roofing deck to which the panel 20 is nailed through the aperture(s) 71. Like aperture(s) 70, the oval shape of the aperture(s) 71 allow the panel 20, which is secured to the roofing deck by a fastener or nail which extends through the aperture(s) 71, to remain in its originally intended position on the roof deck even if the roof deck and nail move, since the oval shape allows for the movement of the deck and nail in the horizontal dimension 23 rather than a tight horizontal engagement. Preferably, the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54 each comprise two deck movement compensation edge apertures 71 which extend through a thickness of the ridge vent panel 20.
In an example embodiment and mode, preformed nailing edge aperture 71 preferably comprises an edge aperture top opening 82 which is essentially flush with panel top surface 28 of ridge cap supporting section 50, as shown, for example, in FIG. 5 . The preformed nailing edge aperture 71 extends through the thickness of the ridge cap supporting section ridge cap supporting section 50 and below the panel bottom surface 29 to edge aperture bottom opening 84 which is formed at a distal or lower end of edge aperture tunnel 86. See, for example, FIG. 11 and FIG. 16 . Thus, edge aperture tunnel 86 is provided on and extending downwardly from the panel bottom surface 29 of ridge cap supporting section 50.
In an example embodiment and mode, the edge aperture top opening 82 of deck movement compensation edge aperture 71 comprises or assumes an essentially oval shape as seen from above the panel top surface 28. In an example embodiment and mode, a center of the edge aperture top opening 82 is spaced about ½ inch from the outer edge of the ridge cap supporting section edge region 54, and about 1/16 inch separates an edge of the edge aperture top opening 82 from the nearest lateral side 24. In an example embodiment and mode, a major dimension of edge aperture top opening 82 is about ⅜ inch.
Unlike tunnel 76 of deck movement compensation central aperture 70, the edge aperture tunnel 86 of deck movement compensation edge aperture 71 is not essentially completely oval in shape, but rather is defined by for at least a part of its height in dimension 27 by a segment 87 of lateral side wall 24 and throughout its height by a semi-oval or half-oval tunnel wall 88. FIG. 11 shows segment 87 of lateral side wall 24, although in FIG. 11 the panel 20 is inverted and thus segment 87 appears below edge aperture bottom opening 84.
As also shown in FIG. 11 , which shows panel 20 as inverted, a recess 90 is provided below segment 87 of lateral side wall 24. Below segment 87 of lateral side wall 24 the edge aperture tunnel 86 is open through recess 90. In view of the recess 90, the edge aperture bottom opening 92 is seen as a half-oval or semi-oval from below panel 20. Thus, below segment 87 of lateral side wall 24 a mouth of the edge aperture tunnel 86 is oriented to face outwardly from ridge vent panel 20.
In an example embodiment and mode, the segment 87 of lateral side wall 24 extends approximately ⅜ inch on average in the height dimension 27 and approximately 7/16 inch in lateral dimension 25. The recess 90 likewise extends approximately 7/16 inch in lateral dimension 25 and about ⅜ inch on average in the height dimension 27.
A central axis of edge aperture tunnel 86 may be inclined at an angle of about 12 degrees with respect to the height dimension 27 in a plane of the height dimension and the lateral dimension 25.
The deck movement compensation central aperture 70 and the deck movement compensation edge aperture 71 serve, e.g., to accommodate the movement of the decking by creating a sufficiently large hole or aperture through which a nail or fastener can be driven into the underlying deck. As a result, the deck movement compensation apertures 70 and 71 can move dynamically to compensate for the expansion and contraction of the decking under varying environmental conditions, including heat and moisture in the attic.

4.0: Resilient Cantilever Fingers on Exterior Lateral Surface

As mentioned above, deck movement compensation edge apertures 71 may be provided on lateral sides 24A and 24B of panel 20. As shown, for example in FIG. 8 and FIG. 10 , on one and preferably both of the lateral sides 24A and 24B, a resilient cantilever finger 94 depends downwardly into a center of recess 90 from the segment 87 of lateral side wall 24. Thus, in accordance with an example embodiment and mode of the technology disclosed herein, the resilient cantilever finger 94 may be provided on at least one of the two lateral sides 25 in at least one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions 54.
As shown, for example in FIG. 11 , a nub or projection 96 may be provided on a distal end of resilient cantilever finger 94 facing outwardly from the lateral edge 24 of panel 20. In an example embodiment and mode, resilient cantilever finger 94 extends approximately ⅜ inch on average in the height dimension 27.
As shown in FIG. 16 , a major axis of resilient cantilever finger 94 may also be inclined away from panel 20 at an angle of about 13 degrees with respect to the height dimension 27 in a plane of the height dimension and the longitudinal dimension 23, e.g., about 13 degrees away from its lateral side 24. A distance of about 0.120 inch may separate a distal end of the 94 resilient cantilever finger 94 from the lateral side 24.
Preferably the resilient cantilever finger 94 is provided in both recesses 90 on lateral sides 24A and 24B of panel 20. The resilient cantilever finger 94 thus provides a spring-like fixture that provide an extra layer of safety in the event that stress is applied to the pre-drilled holes, e.g., deck movement compensation edge aperture 71. These fixtures effectively dissipate stress caused by the decking and or roofing materials.
As used herein, “lower” generally connotes a lower direction, e.g., in the direction of eves of a roof, rather than apex. Conversely, “upper” or “higher” refers to an apex direction of a roof. Such terms are understood to include reference to orientation of a shingle as the shingle is intended to be installed on a roof. Further, any reference to “about” or “substantially” or “essentially” or “approximately” means within plus or minus 5% of the distance, measurement, or property or quantity mentioned.
Aspects of the technology disclosed herein may involve or include without limitation one of more of the following example embodiments:
Example Embodiment 1: A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

- two longitudinal edges;
- two lateral sides;
- a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides;
- two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges;
- a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section comprising a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions; and
- wherein on average the ridge cap supporting section central region has a smaller thickness than the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

Example Embodiment 2: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein on average the smaller thickness of the ridge cap supporting section central region is about 60% of a thickness of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions plus or minus 10%.
Example Embodiment 3: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein on average the smaller thickness of the ridge cap supporting section central region is about 0.039 inch and a thickness of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions is about 0.065 inch.
Example Embodiment 4: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein the ridge cap supporting section central region extends substantially from a first of the two lateral sides to a second of the two lateral sides and substantially between the two longitudinal series of vent openings.
Example Embodiment 5: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein a panel width of the panel which extends between the two longitudinal edges is about fourteen inches, and wherein the ridge cap supporting section central region is centered between the two longitudinal edges and extends for about nine inches along the panel width.
Example Embodiment 6: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein a width of the ridge cap supporting section is about 11.5 inches, and wherein the ridge cap supporting section central region is centered relative to the ridge cap supporting section and extends for about nine inches in width.
Example Embodiment 7: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein a panel width of the panel which extends between the two longitudinal edges is about fourteen inches, and wherein the ridge cap supporting section central region is centered between the two longitudinal edges and extends for about nine inches along the panel width.
Example Embodiment 8: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein the panel comprises a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface, and wherein on the panel top surface the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions bear an indication of a nailing zone for nailing ridge caps.
Example Embodiment 9: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein the ridge cap supporting section comprises a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface, and further comprising two series of flexible struts provided along and proximate respective two longitudinal edges of the ridge cap supporting section central region on the panel bottom surface.
Example Embodiment 10: The ridge vent of example embodiment 9, wherein a plurality of the flexible struts comprise a strut tail section and a strut spine section.
Example Embodiment 11: The ridge vent of example embodiment 10, wherein in a plane defined by the lateral dimension and the height dimension the flexible struts extend about two inches (+/−) and the strut tail section of the flexible struts extends about 0.5 inch in the lateral dimension.
Example Embodiment 12: The ridge vent of example embodiment 10, wherein the strut tail section of the flexible struts extends from the panel bottom surface for a greater distance than the strut spine section of the flexible struts.
Example Embodiment 13: The ridge vent of example embodiment 11, wherein the strut tail section extends from the panel bottom surface for a depth of about ¾ inch and at its greatest depth the strut spine section extends for a depth of about ¼ inch.
Example Embodiment 14: The ridge vent of example embodiment 10, wherein in a plane defined by the lateral dimension and the height dimension the strut tail section has a central axis which is inclined with respect to the bottom surface of the panel.
Example Embodiment 15: The ridge vent of example embodiment 10, wherein in a plane defined by the lateral dimension and the height dimension the strut spine section tapers away from the strut tail section toward the bottom surface of the panel.
Example Embodiment 16: The ridge vent of example embodiment 9, wherein a series of flexible posts are provided on the panel bottom surface on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion, the flexible posting be provided adjacent to louvers which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings, wherein the series of flexible posts are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, and wherein with respect to the longitudinal direction the flexible struts are provided in staggered manner with respect to the first interval.
Example Embodiment 17: The ridge vent of example embodiment 9, wherein a series of flexible posts are provided on the panel bottom surface on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion, the flexible posting be provided adjacent to louvers which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings, wherein the series of flexible posts are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, and wherein with respect to the longitudinal direction at least one flexible strut is provided essentially midway between two adjacent flexible posts.
Example Embodiment 18: The ridge vent of example embodiment 1, wherein the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions each comprise a preformed oval shaped aperture which extends through a thickness of the panel.
Example Embodiment 19: A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

- two longitudinal edges;
- two lateral sides;
- a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface;
- a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides;
- two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges;
- a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section comprising a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions; and
- two series of flexible struts provided along and proximate respective two longitudinal edges of the ridge cap supporting section central region and spaced away from the longitudinal edges.

Example Embodiment 20: The ridge vent of example embodiment 19, wherein the two series of flexible struts are spaced away from the longitudinal edges by 2.000 inches or more with respect to the lateral dimension.
Example Embodiment 21: The ridge vent of example embodiment 19, wherein a plurality of the flexible struts comprise a strut tail section and a strut spine section.
Example Embodiment 22: The ridge vent of example embodiment 21, wherein in a plane transverse to a width of the panel the flexible struts extend about two inches (+/−) and the strut tail section of the flexible struts extends about 0.5 inch.
Example Embodiment 23: The ridge vent of example embodiment 21, wherein the strut tail section of the flexible struts extends from the panel bottom surface for a greater distance than the strut spine section of the flexible struts.
Example Embodiment 24: The ridge vent of example embodiment 23, wherein the strut tail section extends from the panel bottom surface for a depth of about ¾ inch and at its greatest depth the strut spine section extends for a depth of about ¼ inch.
Example Embodiment 25: The ridge vent of example embodiment 21, wherein in a plane transverse to a width of the panel the strut tail section has a central axis which is inclined with respect to the bottom surface of the panel.
Example Embodiment 26: The ridge vent of example embodiment 21, wherein in a plane transverse to a width of the panel the strut spine section tapers away from the strut tail section toward the bottom surface of the panel.
Example Embodiment 27: The ridge vent of example embodiment 19, wherein a series of flexible posts are provided on the panel bottom surface on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion, the flexible posting be provided adjacent to louvers which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings, wherein the series of flexible posts are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, and wherein with respect to the longitudinal direction the flexible struts are provided in staggered manner with respect to the first interval.
Example Embodiment 28: The ridge vent of example embodiment 19, wherein a series of flexible posts are provided on the panel bottom surface on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion, the flexible posting be provided adjacent to louvers which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings, wherein the series of flexible posts are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, and wherein with respect to the longitudinal direction at least one flexible strut is provided essentially midway between two adjacent flexible posts.
Example Embodiment 29: A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

- two longitudinal edges;
- two lateral sides;
- a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface;
- a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides;
- two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges;
- a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings; and
- an oval shaped preformed aperture which extends through a thickness of the panel in the ridge cap supporting section.

Example Embodiment 30: The ridge vent of example embodiment 29, wherein the ridge cap supporting section comprises a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions; and wherein the oval shaped preformed aperture extends through a thickness of the panel in one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.
Example Embodiment 31: The ridge vent of example embodiment 29, wherein the oval shaped preformed aperture is located approximately in the center of the panel with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the panel.
Example Embodiment 32: The ridge vent of example embodiment 31, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture comprises an aperture top opening which is essentially flush with a top surface of the ridge cap supporting section edge region and an aperture bottom opening which is formed in an aperture tunnel provided on a bottom surface of the panel below a bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section.
Example Embodiment 33: The ridge vent of example embodiment 32, wherein the aperture tunnel extends approximately 0.75 inches below the bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section edge region.
Example Embodiment 34: The ridge vent of example embodiment 32, further comprising a tunnel connection web which extends in a plane of a width of the panel to connect the aperture tunnel to a longitudinal edge of the panel in alignment with a louvre that defines at least one of the vent openings.
Example Embodiment 35: The ridge vent of example embodiment 29, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture extends approximately ⅝ inches in a longitudinal direction and extends approximately ¼ inches in a lateral direction.
Example Embodiment 36: The ridge vent of example embodiment 29, wherein the preformed aperture is located proximate a lateral side of the panel.
Example Embodiment 37: The ridge vent of example embodiment 36, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture extends through a tunnel that extends below a bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section.
Example Embodiment 38: The ridge vent of example embodiment 37, wherein the tunnel is defined by a segment of one of the two lateral sides and a semi-oval tunnel wall.
Example Embodiment 39: The ridge vent of example embodiment 38, wherein the segment of the one of the two lateral walls extends for only a portion of a height of the panel, and wherein a recess is provided below the segment in a height dimension of the panel.
Example Embodiment 40: The ridge vent of example embodiment 39, wherein a resilient cantilever finger is provided in the recess.
Example Embodiment 41: The ridge vent of example embodiment 40, wherein the resilient cantilever finger extends approximately ⅜ inch in a height direction of the lateral side of the panel.
Example Embodiment 42: A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

- two longitudinal edges;
- two lateral sides;
- a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface;
- a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides;
- two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges;
- a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section comprising a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions;
- a resilient cantilever finger is provided on at least one of the two lateral sides in at least one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

Example Embodiment 43: The ridge vent of example embodiment 42, wherein an oval shaped preformed aperture extends through a thickness of the panel in one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.
Example Embodiment 44: The ridge vent of example embodiment 43, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture extends through a tunnel that extends below a bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section.
Example Embodiment 45: The ridge vent of example embodiment 44, wherein the tunnel is defined by a segment of one of the two lateral sides and a semi-oval tunnel wall.
Example Embodiment 46: The ridge vent of example embodiment 45, wherein the segment of the one of the two lateral walls extends for only a portion of a height of the panel, and wherein a recess is provided below the segment in a height dimension of the panel.
Example Embodiment 47: The ridge vent of example embodiment 46, wherein the resilient cantilever finger is provided in the recess.
Example Embodiment 48: The ridge vent of example embodiment 47, wherein the resilient cantilever finger extends approximately ⅜ inch in a height direction of the lateral side of the panel.
Although the description above contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the technology disclosed herein but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of the technology disclosed herein. Thus, the scope of the technology disclosed herein should be determined by the appended example embodiments and their legal equivalents. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future, i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the scope of the technology disclosed herein fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the technology disclosed herein is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless explicitly so stated, but rather “one or more.” All structural, chemical, and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the technology disclosed herein, for it to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for.”

Claims

1. A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

two longitudinal edges;

two lateral sides;

a ridge vent interior section bounded by the two longitudinal edges and the two lateral sides;

two longitudinal series of vent openings provided along and proximate the respective two longitudinal edges;

a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section comprising a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions; and

wherein on average the ridge cap supporting section central region has a smaller thickness than the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

2. The ridge vent of claim 1, wherein on average the smaller thickness of the ridge cap supporting section central region is about 60% of a thickness of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions plus or minus 10%.

3. The ridge vent of claim 1, wherein the ridge cap supporting section central region extends substantially from a first of the two lateral sides to a second of the two lateral sides and substantially between the two longitudinal series of vent openings.

4. The ridge vent of claim 1, wherein the panel comprises a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface, and wherein on the panel top surface the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions bear an indication of a nailing zone for nailing ridge caps.

5. The ridge vent of claim 1, wherein the ridge cap supporting section comprises a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface, and further comprising two series of flexible struts provided along and proximate respective two longitudinal edges of the ridge cap supporting section central region on the panel bottom surface.

6. The ridge vent of claim 1, wherein the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions each comprise a preformed oval shaped aperture which extends through a thickness of the panel.

7. The ridge vent of claim 6, wherein the oval shaped preformed aperture is located approximately in the center of the panel with respect to a longitudinal dimension of the panel.

8. The ridge vent of claim 7, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture comprises an aperture top opening which is essentially flush with a top surface of the ridge cap supporting section edge region and an aperture bottom opening which is formed in an aperture tunnel provided on a bottom surface of the panel below a bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section.

9. The ridge vent of claim 8, further comprising a tunnel connection web which extends in a plane of a width of the panel to connect the aperture tunnel to a longitudinal edge of the panel in alignment with a louvre that defines at least one of the vent openings.

10. The ridge vent of claim 7, wherein the preformed aperture is located proximate a lateral side of the panel.

11. The ridge vent of claim 10, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture extends through a tunnel that extends below a bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section.

12. A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

two longitudinal edges;

two lateral sides;

a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface;

two series of flexible struts provided along and proximate respective two longitudinal edges of the ridge cap supporting section central region and spaced away from the longitudinal edges.

13. The ridge vent of claim 12, wherein a plurality of the flexible struts comprise a strut tail section and a strut spine section.

14. The ridge vent of claim 13, wherein the strut tail section of the flexible struts extends from the panel bottom surface for a greater distance than the strut spine section of the flexible struts.

15. The ridge vent of claim 13, wherein in a plane transverse to a width of the panel the strut tail section has a central axis which is inclined with respect to the bottom surface of the panel.

16. The ridge vent of claim 13, wherein in a plane transverse to a width of the panel the strut spine section tapers away from the strut tail section toward the bottom surface of the panel.

17. The ridge vent of claim 12, wherein a series of flexible posts are provided on the panel bottom surface on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion, the flexible posting be provided adjacent to louvers which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings, wherein the series of flexible posts are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, and wherein with respect to the longitudinal direction the flexible struts are provided in staggered manner with respect to the first interval.

18. The ridge vent of claim 12, wherein a series of flexible posts are provided on the panel bottom surface on the ridge cap supporting section edge portion, the flexible posting be provided adjacent to louvers which define the two longitudinal series of vent openings, wherein the series of flexible posts are provided at a first interval along a longitudinal direction of the panel, and wherein with respect to the longitudinal direction at least one flexible strut is provided essentially midway between two adjacent flexible posts.

19. A ridge vent panel configured for installation over a peak of a roof, the panel comprising:

two longitudinal edges;

two lateral sides;

a panel top surface and a panel bottom surface;

a ridge cap supporting section provided in the ridge vent interior section between the two longitudinal series of vent openings, the ridge cap supporting section comprising a ridge cap supporting section central region provided between two ridge cap supporting section edge regions;

a resilient cantilever finger provided on at least one of the two lateral sides in at least one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

20. The ridge vent of claim 19, wherein an oval shaped preformed aperture extends through a thickness of the panel in one of the two ridge cap supporting section edge regions.

21. The ridge vent of claim 20, wherein the preformed oval shaped aperture extends through a tunnel that extends below a bottom surface of the ridge cap supporting section.

22. The ridge vent of claim 21, wherein the tunnel is defined by a segment of one of the two lateral sides and a semi-oval tunnel wall.

23.

24. The ridge vent of claim 22, wherein the segment of the one of the two lateral walls extends for only a portion of a height of the panel, and wherein a recess is provided below the segment in a height dimension of the panel.

25. The ridge vent of claim 23, wherein the resilient cantilever finger is provided in the recess.