Abstract
Insulation devices, methods and related construction techniques are provided. An exemplary device may include a body having a plurality of openings defining an openwork, to allow the passage of air therethrough when placed in contact with insulation material. The device may further include a plurality of spacer struts and/or spacing depressions fixedly attached to the body. The struts may be configured to maintain a predetermined distance between a first side of the insulation material and a building surface. The body and struts act together to define and maintain a space between the first side of the insulation material and the building surface, for example, for ventilation. The building surface can be the bottom face of a roof, an insulated attic floor, wall sheathing or a soundproofed demising wall, for example. The spacer device can be capable of being transported and stored together with, or as a separate item from, the insulation material, and can also be stored in nested layers. The device can also be stored in rolled form. The openwork of the device can additionally or alternatively include a sheet of entangled net filaments or other similar material.
Claims
1. A method of controlling the passage of moisture into and out of a fibrous insulation batt disposed in a wall cavity between two adjacent studs or rafters comprising: disposing a breathable layer of material having a plurality of pores along at least a surface of the fibrous insulation batt that faces outwardly toward sheathing material attached to the two adjacent studs or rafters, wherein moisture present in the fibrous insulation batt passes through the plurality of pores of the breathable layer of material.
2. A method according to claim 1, further comprising defining an open ventilating air channel between the surface of the breathable material and the sheathing material for receiving moisture passing from the insulation batt through the pores.
3. A method according to claim 1, wherein the open ventilating air channel defines a first end near a soffit, and a second end near a ridge vent, wherein the moisture is removed from the air channel by flowing outwardly through the ridge vent, and further wherein two adjacent rafters define sides of the ventilation channel.
4. A method according to claim 3, further defining disposing shingles on a side of the sheathing opposite the ventilation channel.
5. A method according to claim 1, wherein the open ventilating air channel defines a first end near a sill plate, and a second end near a ridge vent, wherein the moisture is removed from the air channel by flowing outwardly through the ridge vent, and further wherein two adjacent rafters and two adjacent studs define sides of the ventilation channel.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0052] FIG. 1 depicts a first embodiment of a ventilation spacer device made in accordance with the invention, wherein the body of the device may be die punched and formed from semi-rigid sheet material.
[0053] FIG. 2 depicts a second embodiment of a device made in accordance with the invention, wherein the body of the device may be cast in a mold.
[0054] FIG. 3 depicts a third embodiment of a ventilation device made in accordance with the invention, wherein the body of the device is composed of semi-rigid strips.
[0055] FIG. 4 is a sectional view depicting an embodiment of a device made in accordance with the invention in use, illustrating a filament technique for attachment of the device to a fibrous insulation blanket.
[0056] FIG. 5 depicts a sectional view of an embodiment of a device made in accordance with the invention utilizing a harpoon shaped device for attachment of the device to a fibrous insulation blanket.
[0057] FIG. 6 is a sectional view through several bays of roof structure and insulation illustrating the prior art Rafter-Vent product used in a first orientation not recommended by the manufacturer.
[0058] FIG. 7 is a sectional view through several bays of roof structure and insulation illustrating the prior art Rafter-Vent product used in a second orientation recommended by the manufacturer.
[0059] FIG. 8 is a sectional view through several bays of roof structure and insulation illustrating use of a device made in accordance with the invention.
[0060] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate the embodiment of FIG. 3 in various width adjustments.
[0061] FIGS. 11 and 12 each illustrate different embodiments of a portion of a device made in accordance with the embodiment of the invention shown on FIG. 3 and FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0062] FIG. 13 illustrates a cathedral type ceiling roof structure utilizing a device made in accordance with the invention.
[0063] FIG. 14 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a ventilation device made in accordance with the invention.
[0064] FIGS. 14(a)-14(b) illustrate a fifth embodiment of a ventilation device made in accordance with the invention using, for example, entangled net technology as described in detail below.
[0065] FIG. 15 depicts the nesting ability of a device made in accordance with the invention.
[0066] FIG. 16 illustrates the ability of a device, made in accordance with the invention, to be coiled into a roll for compact packaging or storage.
[0067] FIG. 17 illustrates the ability of a device, made in accordance with the invention when attached to fibrous insulation blankets, to be packaged or stored in a flat manner, with spacer studs facing each other.
[0068] FIG. 18 illustrates the ability of a device, made in accordance with the invention when attached to fibrous insulation, to be coiled into a roll for packaging or storage.
[0069] FIG. 19 is a horizontal section through an acoustically treated partition showing another use for a device made in accordance with the invention.
[0070] FIGS. 20-23 depict views of a sixth embodiment of a ventilation spacer device made in accordance with the invention.
[0071] FIGS. 24-26 depict views of a seventh embodiment of a ventilation spacer device made in accordance with the invention.
[0072] FIGS. 27-28 depict views of an eighth embodiment of a ventilation spacer device made in accordance with the invention.
[0073] FIGS. 29-31 depict an exemplary building construction illustrating the ventilation of exterior walls in accordance with certain aspects of the invention.
[0074] FIGS. 32-38 depict further embodiments of spacer devices in accordance with the disclosure and associated methods of manufacture. Such spacers can be formed continuously at a high rate of manufacturing speed on high speed thermoforming machines.
[0075] FIGS. 39-42 depict an embodiments of an insulation batt and associated methods of manufacture, wherein the insulation batt is formed from a polymeric insulation batt that is thermoformed into a self-ventilating insulation batt. The batt is preferably thermal-bonded polyester fiber nonwoven batting formed at least in part from post-consumer recycled material, such as polyethylene terephthalate material.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0076] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The methods and corresponding steps of the invention will be described in conjunction with the detailed descriptions of the system.
[0077] The methods and devices presented herein may be used for maintaining a ventilation space proximate to insulation material such as thermal insulation. The present invention is particularly suited for maintaining a ventilation space proximate to fibrous thermal insulation, but may be applied to other types of insulation material.
[0078] Spaces maintained in accordance with this invention are a significant improvement over existing technology. Devices made in accordance with the embodiments herein are suitable for use in roofs and ceilings where ventilation must be maintained in order to expel heat and moisture from thermal insulation. In fact, the device is suitable for any application involving building surfaces where it is desired to maintain a ventilation space. Devices made in accordance with the invention may be used in cathedral ceilings and roof structures or in flat roof structures. Additionally, devices made in accordance with the invention may be used in roof and wall structures of buildings made of metal, such as those made from corrugated steel, aluminum and composite materials.
[0079] An air space of approximately one and one-half inches is usually recommended for effective ventilation of roofs through a spacer device made in accordance with the present invention. However, devices made in accordance with the invention can be made to provide any size air space desired. The ever-greater requirements to increase insulation values and resultant increase of insulation thickness taxes that regulated air space and requires a more substantial and positive method of maintaining the ventilation space.
[0080] Unlike devices of the prior art as described initially herein, a spacer device made in accordance with the invention (e.g., as in any of the embodiments described herein) allows thermal insulation to ventilate over its entire area. Moreover, a device made in accordance with the invention can be stored on a construction site with almost no danger of damage, deterioration or wind disbursement, as the openwork configuration permits wind to blow through the devices without moving them. In addition, materials likely to be used to make a device in accordance with the invention (e.g., plastic materials such as PVC, nylon or polyester) are tough and able to resist abuse and UV degradation. In addition, accurate and positive regulation of the insulation vent space offer the possibility of permitting a smaller recommended depth, allowing greater R values to be used, thus resulting in a savings in construction cost. In addition, if a device made in accordance with the invention is attached to insulation material, (e.g., fiberglass blankets) in the factory, the proper and correct use, even for careless or untrained installers, is ensured.
[0081] A device made in accordance with the invention can incorporate a flexible mesh or openwork with a plurality of struts attached to, and projecting perpendicularly from, the plane formed by the mesh or openwork. A gridwork backing, where provided, will be almost completely open thereby exposing the entire face of the top of the insulation to the air space to maximize the effectiveness of the ventilation.
[0082] Devices made in accordance with the invention can be delivered to the jobsite in a compact bundle of stacked units, in a roll that can be cut to the length required, or pre-attached to the insulation either rolled-up with the insulation or attached to it in straight packaging.
[0083] Though particularly advantageous when used in connection with thermal insulation, devices made in accordance with the invention may also readily be applied to insulation material used for other purposes, such as acoustical insulation. Likewise, if a gap is not needed for insulation for air circulation but for another purpose, the invention may advantageously be applied. For example, in a partition having acoustical fibrous blankets for sound-deadening, the device can be used to create a space for the pulling of wires or other flexible conduit such as certain plumbing.
[0084] As shown in the figures, devices made in accordance with the invention generally include an openwork body that is preferably slightly narrower in width than the distance between building structure framing members (e.g., joists). An openwork body can correspond to a structure wherein sufficient perforations or openings exist through the body to permit transport of air and moisture therethrough. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, attached and generally perpendicular to the plane formed by the body is a plurality of spacing struts more or less evenly distributed along the planar surface of the body, facing away from the body. The body is placed against the insulating material with the tips of the spacing struts facing away from the insulation such that the struts contact the inside face of the building sheathing or metal wall of roof deck. Moreover, if attachment devices are placed on the opposing planar face of the body, they can anchor into fibrous insulation, facilitating alignment therewith and insulation installation.
[0085] In some embodiments, the body of the device may be arranged such that it is not immediately adjacent to the insulation. For example, if struts are arranged on both sides of the body, one set of struts may contact the sheathing or flooring. The other set of struts may either anchor into the insulation, or only press against the insulation; alternatively it can be configured to have a first portion for anchoring into the insulation, and a second portion with increased cross-sectional area for resting against the insulation and preventing penetration therethrough.
[0086] Alternatively still, two bodies may be provided, with struts creating an air space therebetween. In such an arrangement, one body rests against the sheathing or flooring, and the other body rests on the insulation.
[0087] For purpose of illustration and not limitation, a first embodiment of device made in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1. In accordance with this embodiment of the invention, a body is provided with an open mesh structure, where spacing struts are integral with the mesh. Specifically, a body with perforations 1 is provided and can be die cut from flexible plastic sheet, or other material. The spacing struts 2 are cut and bent (or alternatively pre-formed) to be oriented in a direction generally perpendicular to the perforated body 1. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a possible location for an attachment device to secure the device to fibrous insulating materials is indicated by reference numeral 3.
[0088] The patterns of openings in the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 are only a suggestion of possible mesh configurations. Many configurations are possible, and within the scope of the invention. By way of example, three dimensional meshes and/or patterns based on different geometric patterns (e.g., triangles, hexagons circles, polygons, etc.) are all possible.
[0089] The struts can be manufactured by punching by a die from flexible plastic sheet along with the ventilation holes, or they can be cast-molded along with the flexible mesh body as illustrated in FIG. 2, or composed of separate strips or filaments that are fused, glued or woven to the body. Suitable materials, by way of example plastic materials, plastic coated paper or cellulose and/or metallic or composite materials can also be used. The material used should be able to maintain its rigidity under various loading, moisture and temperature conditions in order to maintain the ventilation space when in use.
[0090] FIG. 2 is a plan view of a mesh body which is cast or formed from flexible material with the spacing struts 10 integrally formed with the openwork body or formed separately and attached thereto. Openings 9 are defined by elongate filaments 12 forming the openwork body permitting ventilation therethrough. A possible attachment location 11 is also provided for an attachment device as discussed below with regard to the embodiments of FIGS. 4-5. Attachment point 11 can be, for example, a hole for insertion of a separate attachment device or an attachment device which is formed integrally with the mesh body.
[0091] For purpose of illustration and not limitation, another embodiment of the spacer device, made in accordance with the present invention, is illustrated in FIG. 3. This embodiment of the invention includes a body having flexible strips 13 assembled in a crisscross, parallelogram type orientation with spacing struts 14 acting as pivot points for the parallelogram-oriented strips. Strut pins, alternatively, may be separate from the body strips, with the struts inserted at each pivot point. This particular embodiment of the invention can provide for a device having an adjustable width that can be altered prior to installation to accommodate rafter or joist spacings of any desired dimension as shown on FIG. 9 and FIG. 10. Adjustment can be achieved by pulling or pushing laterally on the body member, causing the openwork to expand or contract respectively. For purpose of illustration and not limitation, FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate use of a device made in accordance of this aspect of the invention and its appearance when adjusted for rafter spacings (e.g., from 12 to 24). However, it is to be understood that other widths (both narrower and wider) are within the scope of the invention including, for example, 0.5, 1.5, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, and five feet.
[0092] The strut pins shown in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 can additionally be provided with an enlarged diameter 24 at a specific point along the shaft to allow for snap together assembly. The strut pins can also be integral to one set of strips as illustrated in FIG. 12. In accordance with this aspect of the invention, FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate two exemplary versions of the spacer struts 22 with a bulge or barb 24 to facilitate assembly. FIG. 11 illustrates an independent pin that extends through two body strips (23 and 25) and FIG. 12 depicts the pin integral to a single body strip component.
[0093] It will be understood that while the spacer struts shown in FIG. 3 and in FIGS. 11 and 12 are illustrated as having the shape of round dowels, such struts can be made in any convenient shape, including that of flat strips of various widths and thicknesses, hollow tubes, bent wires, etc. All of such shapes are contemplated by the present invention.
[0094] For purpose of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein and as illustrated in FIG. 4, an additional embodiment of the invention is provided. FIG. 4 depicts a sectional view through an insulation batt or blanket for factory attachment of a device made in accordance with the invention (such as the device illustrated in FIG. 1 or 2) by using one or more filaments 5. The filaments 5 preferably extend entirely through the insulation mass 7 from the inner surface of the insulation batt 4 (usually made of paper or an aluminum foil and paper composite layer or a plastic material) to the device made in accordance with the invention. A button-like enlargement on the end of the filament prevents pull-out.
[0095] For purpose of illustration and not limitation, a sectional view is provided in FIG. 5 depicting an insulation batt in combination with a device for facilitating attachment. As depicted in FIG. 5, strategically placed flexible harpoons, integral with, or attached to the device's body, are utilized. Reference numeral 6 indicates the ventilation device with spacer struts, shown in both the deployed and bent-over positions. Reference numeral 7 indicates the fibrous insulation mass, and reference numeral 8 indicates the harpoon type fastening devices. Hot melt glue and other adhesives or attachment devices of other configurations could also be used to provide attachment between device 6 and the fibrous insulation material 7, as can other mechanical fasteners. For example, if the device is used with rigid foam insulation, the device can be simply screwed into the foam. If used with fibrous insulation, hooks can be applied to the side of the device adjacent the insulation to engage the fibers of the insulation, thereby attaching the components. Moreover, the openwork body can alternatively be interwoven with the fibers of the insulation batt.
[0096] For purpose of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein, FIG. 8 depicts a transverse sectional view through several bays of roof structure and insulation illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the invention 19 demonstrating its effectiveness at maintaining a uniform air space in comparison with FIGS. 6 and 7 depicting the Rafter-Vent product. The openwork body of the device 19 exposes almost the entire insulation surface to air movement. Reference numeral 20 depicts the finished ceiling, usually made of gypsum board or plaster on lath.
[0097] For purpose of illustration and not limitation, FIG. 13 illustrates a longitudinal section through a cathedral ceiling roof structure showing how an exemplary ventilation device 30 made in accordance with the invention provides continuous ventilation of the insulation 27 from the eave vent inlet 26, to a ridge vent 29 or another upper outlet device. Reference numeral 28 depicts the finished ceiling.
[0098] By way of further illustration and not limitation, another embodiment of device made in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in the isometric view in FIG. 14. This embodiment of the invention is made with entangled net technology, a commercially available product which has been rolled to a precise thickness of open mesh after disbursement of extruded plastic filaments. This embodiment, made in accordance with the present invention, has a body of entangled net sheet 32 with spacer struts 33 having enlarged bases for fused or glued attachment to the body. Strategically located filament or harpoon anchors are attached in similar manner to the spacer struts, but on the opposite side of the body 34, 35 for attachment of the device to fibrous insulation. These attachment methods probably would not be used where the devices are delivered to a construction site without insulation.
[0099] The Entangled net system is available commercially from Enka Geomatrix Systems, a Division of BASF Corporation of Enka, N.C., and its successor, Colbond, Inc. U.S. Pat. No. 4,212,692 discloses a method of forming the entangled net material. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,960,595 and 6,487,826 utilize this product in areas of roof ventilation at the eave and ridge only. These patents are expressly incorporated by reference herein.
[0100] In further accordance with the invention, a method is provided. In accordance with this aspect of the invention, a device for maintaining an insulation space as described herein is provided, and thermal insulation material (preferably fibrous insulation) is also provided. The method further includes the steps of placing the device for maintaining the insulation space proximate to the insulation material, and installing the components into a structure such that the device for maintaining the insulation space is interposed between building sheathing and the insulation material to permit ventilation of the insulation. Preferably, the device is interposed between exposed thermal insulation material and the underside of roof sheathing or the underside of an attic floor. However, the device can be interposed between the thermal insulation material and wall sheathing, as desired. Any of the devices described herein can be used likewise, in accordance with the methods of the invention.
[0101] In further accordance with the invention, the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 14a and 14b may be manufactured using Entangled net technology as described herein or similar technology. Similar structures are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,594,965, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. As illustrated in FIG. 14a, 34 indicates the device. The tips of the pleats contact the inside face of roof or wall sheathing and spaces indicated by 35 partially contact the fibrous insulation mass. The walls of the pleated form as indicated by 31 in FIG. 14b are open to allow the flow of air for ventilation of the air space defined by the device between the sheathing and insulation batt. The height of the device as indicated by 32 may be 1 to 3 inches, but preferably be approximately 1.5 inches high.
[0102] In further accordance with the invention, the device as herein described, such as the device depicted FIGS. 1 and 2, may be bundled for storage and transportation by compressing the device body 38 and struts 39 as illustrated in FIG. 16, to minimize their profile for rolling and nesting as depicted in FIG. 15 where struts 36 align with holes in the openwork body 37. If the device is pre-attached to the insulation material as depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5, the struts can be compressed with the attached fibrous insulation material and bundled into a rolled form, as illustrated in FIG. 18. The method can alternatively or additionally include deploying the insulation material. If struts are provided on the device for maintaining the insulation space, the struts preferably deploy substantially perpendicular to the body of the device when the insulation is unpackaged by a user.
[0103] Alternatively, the device attached to the fibrous insulation blankets as shown in FIG. 17, may be packaged in straight bundles wherein the spacer struts 44 face each other and the struts of one insulation blanket's ventilation device penetrates through the other blanket's ventilation device mesh body into the mass of the opposite fibrous blanket. Conversely, the struts of the opposing assembly do the same. This pair of blankets is compressed and packaged with a plurality of other paired sets.
[0104] Moreover, it is to be remembered that a device made in accordance with the invention can also be used wherever it is desired to maintain a ventilation space, or similar voids for other purposes, including walls of structures, interior acoustically dampened partitions, or alternative applications such as automotive, marine, aviation or aeronautical applications.
[0105] In FIG. 19 which illustrates a horizontal section through an acoustically dampened interior partition, illustrates the device 49 being deployed on one or both sides of the fibrous acoustical insulation 50. The points of the struts contact the inner face of the wallboard finish. 52 points to a wall framing member, and 53 indicates wiring that can easily be pulled for communication, and other purposes after the construction of the partition. Acoustical isolation may also be improved.
[0106] For purposes of further illustration, and not limitation, FIG. 20 illustrates a sectional view through one embodiment of a system (depicted in FIGS. 20-23) made in accordance with the invention including a relatively rigid bar of struts 61 wherein the struts 61 are integral with a backing bar 66 which is attached to a an openwork such as a netting or mesh 60. The mesh 60 is preferably a flexible material. The backing bar 66 is preferably rigidly affixed to the struts 61 and is preferably made from a rigid material, such as plastic that is compatible with such mesh and capable of maintaining its rigidity in high heat roof cavity spaces. The backing bar 66 and struts 61 may be formed with the mesh 60, or may be formed separately and affixed to the mesh 60. The length of the bar 66 is preferably short enough to permit installation between rafters or studs spaced 12 inches on center without cutting the rigid backing bar. If desired, a peripheral border or strip 65 of the mesh 60 may be provided that does not include backing bar 66 to permit the mesh 60 in that region to conform to adjacent structural members.
[0107] As further depicted in FIG. 21, spacer struts 1 may bend over for delivery and storage in a rolled-up form either rolled-up by itself or rolled- up with fibrous or other insulation blankets. Preferably, in accordance with this embodiment, the struts are rigid and flexure occurs in the mesh 64. FIG. 22 illustrates a further view of the assembly showing a plurality of strut-bar arrays attached to the ventilation mesh 60. FIG. 23 depicts the spacer strut 61 and backing bar 66 independently from the openwork body mesh 60. Preferably, spacer strut 61 and backing bar 66 are formed from cast or molded plastic or other suitable material.
[0108] For purposes of further illustration and not limitation, FIGS. 24-26 illustrate still another embodiment of the invention.
[0109] Specifically, FIG. 24 depicts a sectional view through another embodiment of a spacer device 72 including struts 71 disposed in an openwork or mesh, 77. Struts 71 are depicted arranged generally perpendicularly to a plane defined by the mesh backing 77. Struts 71 are adapted and configured to bend over when spacer device 72 is rolled-up for storage or shipping. In this embodiment, the mesh 77 is preferably relatively more rigid and the strut 71 is preferably more flexible as compared with the earlier described embodiment depicted in FIGS. 20-23.
[0110] FIG. 25 illustrates an exemplary flexible strut 71 having a flexible portion connected to a base or mounting portion defining a recessed band 73. Preferably, strut 71 is composed of a plastic or other suitable material that is adapted and configured to withstand the high heat achieved under roof sheathing and associated compression forces caused by stuffing insulation into roof structures. The material also preferably has suitable shape memory characteristics to recover its straightened form in the time between un-rolling and deployment on the job site. In the depicted embodiment, the struts 71 may be machine-inserted into holes defined in the mesh and a recessed band 73 at the strut's base would lock it in place. FIG. 26 further depicts an isometric view of the assembly including mesh 76 and struts 71.
[0111] As further depicted in FIG. 26, not every opening defined in mesh 76 is necessarily populated by a strut 71. While mesh 76 may include a network of pre-defined holes, any desired pattern of struts 71 may be formed in these openings. As depicted, struts 71 may be deposited into the openings to form offset rows. However, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, any suitable pattern may be formed.
[0112] As further depicted in FIG. 26, a peripheral strip 78 of mesh 76 may be provided without struts to facilitate use of the same device in applications of different rafter or stud spacings. For example, such a mesh generally designed for use between structural members separated by 16 inches on center would typically have a width, for example of about 14.5 inches (to account for the width of the structural members). However, by not placing struts 71 in the peripheral border or strip 78, the same 14.5 inch wide device can still be fitted into an opening between structural elements separated by a distance of 12 inches on center by folding up the peripheral strips during installation. It will be appreciated that any embodiment explicitly described or incorporated by reference herein can be modified to include a peripheral strip or other region that does not include struts for such a purpose. As those of skill in the art will note, the embodiment of FIG. 22 includes peripheral strips 65 free of struts. At the same time, it will be recognized that peripheral regions free of struts, while advantageous in certain contexts, are not necessary or essential to practice of embodiments of the invention.
[0113] For the purposes of further illustration and not limitation, FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate still another embodiment of the invention utilizing a flat mesh body 81 which may be made, for example, of cast or die cut plastic, or other suitable material (such as composite material). As depicted, the ventilation space defined upon installation of the device is facilitated by depressions 82 formed into the mesh with a solid portion, or land, of the material at the bottom of the depression 82 which is adapted and configured to contact the inside of wall or roof sheathing (or other surface, depending on the particular application) and facilitates the stapling or nailing of the spacer device to the sheathing. As will be appreciated, the elongate members extending from the body 81 may also simply be connected to each other, permitting a staple to be attached to the junction of the elongate members.
[0114] The depressions 82 are preferably evenly spaced along the plane of the mesh body 81. For example, approximately four or more depressions could be located in each square foot of the area of the mesh body 81. Preferably, the pattern of depressions 82 is even and repetitive to facilitate compact stacking of a plurality of such devices for purposes of storage and shipment. FIG. 27 depicts a cross section through this embodiment showing the device, 81, the formed depression 82, the fibrous insulation mass 85 and the roof or wall sheathing 84. FIG. 27 further demonstrates attachment of the spacer device into the sheathing with a staple, nail or other suitable fastener 83. FIG. 28 is an isometric view of this embodiment illustrating the perforated mesh body 81 of the ventilation device, as well as the depressions 82 and the staple or nail attachment 83. Stated another way, this embodiment can be described as a spacer that includes an elongate generally planar body 81 formed from a sheet of material defining a plurality of raised structures formed in the sheet material that act to separate the spacer from an interior building surface. As illustrated, at least some of the raised structures define at least one opening therethrough to facilitate ventilation of the insulation. These raised structures that define at least one opening therethrough include a planar land displaced from the body connected to the body by a plurality of struts.
[0115] For purposes of further illustration, and not limitation, FIGS. 29-31 illustrate how devices as described herein can be used to help ventilate exterior walls in a structure which, to the best knowledge of Applicant, have not before been ventilated as described herein.
[0116] Up to the current time, it is believed that construction has not attempted to ventilate the insulation in exterior walls, yet exterior walls can be the largest part of the envelopes of many buildings. Trapped moisture in fibrous insulation in walls has caused mold growth in houses, structural decay and has rendered the thermal properties of insulation either diminished or practically useless. It is even likely that wet insulation is a superior conductor of heat and may actually be worse than no insulation at all.
[0117] Accordingly, Applicant has concluded that there is a need for positive ventilation of fibrous insulation in order to maintain the insulation values required in new construction. It is doubtful that construction of buildings even only a year or two old have the thermal resistance as when originally constructed. Moreover, depending on building exposures, climate, and the habits of the occupants, fibrous insulation may have varied amounts of moisture. Fibrous insulation, whether made from glass, cellulose or slag, has a propensity to absorb and retain moisture. Drying this material, and keeping it dry, therefore may require that affirmative steps be taken. In modern buildings, it can generally be said that each year it takes slightly more fuel to heat or cool the building due to deteriorating insulation. That amount of fuel consumed never goes down, and only goes up, unless something is done to remedy the situation.
[0118] Techniques described herein and illustrated in FIGS. 29-31 demonstrate how an insulation spacer device as described herein may be used in association with new construction. The same principle may be applied to existing construction, with some modification. Siding and sheathing may need have to be replaced, but with the current price of fuel, there is a realistic pay-back period.
Description of Framing at Present and As Proposed
[0119] In what is commonly referred to as platform construction, the most frequently used method of framing a building, a floor platform consisting of joists, in most cases, is covered with subflooring which usually comprises plywood or boards. This surface is then used to lay-out the exterior walls which are usually of 6 wood studs, required economically to accommodate R-19 fibrous insulation. Prior to the institution of most energy codes approximately twenty-five years ago, 4 wood studs were used for economy as insulation thicknesses were less than required by R-19. At that time there was resistance to changing to 6 studs because of increased cost due to the increased use of wood. This effectively reduced the usable size of a building with a foundation of a given size by 4 in each direction.
[0120] The use of platform construction, aside from making walls easier to build, employs shorter lengths of lumber also has one other inherent advantage. It also provides an automatic fire stop effect which did not exist in the earlier balloon framing method which has been used for many years, perhaps as early as medieval times. In the balloon method, walls were made up to three stories high in place and floor spanning members were inserted onto ribbons let into the sides of the vertical wall members. Among the problems with this kind of wall construction was that vertical fire spread was quite rapid due to the lack of a fire stop at each floor. Most buildings that burned did so faster than the ability of firefighters to save them. Modern balloon framing, if used, requires firestopping to be employed at floor levels.
[0121] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as illustrated in FIG. 29, as with ordinary platform construction, the exterior wall studs 103 are laid-out on the platform of 26's (i.e., lumber having a nominal cross-sectional lumber dimension of two by six inches). But instead of 26's, the top and bottom plates 104 and 105 are formed of 24's (i.e., lumber having a nominal cross-sectional lumber dimension of two by four inches). The vertical 26 studs 103 and the horizontal 24 plates 104 and 105 are allowed to sit on the platform 101 so that the interior surfaces of the studs 103 and plates 104 and 105 are flush. Carpenters can then nail these members together into a complete wall structure with windows and doors framed into the wall structure as is presently done. The carpenter may then nail temporary cleats to the outside of the platform 101, and the framing 103, 104 and 105 is hoisted into place using the cleats as a pivot and to insure that the outside face of the bottom plate 105 is flush with the edge of the platform 101. This results in a framed wall where the (approximately) outer most two inches of each stud 103 stick out beyond the edge of the platform 101. The wall assembly 103, 104 and 105 is plumbed, squared and the sheathing 99 is applied. All the walls are erected in the same manner and the roof rafters 97 and attic joists or second floor joists 98 are hoisted into place and a new second floor platform is created. Likewise, the exterior walls are formed and hoisted into place.
[0122] As depicted, at the outside edge of all floor platforms 101, prior to installation of wall sheathing, full 22 dimensional furring 96 is installed between the tops and bottoms of all stud projections to block horizontal fire spread at the edge of floor platforms 101. Accordingly, the studs 103 in the upper and lower walls are substantially in alignment. This will result in discrete vertical channels under the sheathing closing off any horizontal paths which fire could follow.
[0123] Like the balloon frame described above, however, there is a potential condition in FIG. 29 where a risk of vertical fire spread exists. This can be addressed by installing a horizontally oriented strip 110 in each space between each pair of studs proximate the floor platform that expands when exposed to heat characteristic of a building fire. The strips may be preferably made at least in part from intumescent material. Suitable materials can be obtained, for example, in strip form from companies such as Technical Fibre Products and others, preferably having very high expansion ratios (www.techfibres.com/products_intumescent.htm). Device 110 can take any suitable form. For example, device 110 may be composed of a plurality of layers (e.g., 115, 116, 117) of similar materials or dissimilar materials. Preferably, the materials are all fire resistant in order to resist fire spread.
[0124] These materials and similar devices using these or similar substances as illustrated in FIG. 30 are adapted and configured to expand and seal off the vertical passage between adjacent studs proximate the floor platforms 101 to help prevent vertical fire spread. If desired, an intumescent strip 110 can be mounted on a horizontally oriented piece of furring, for example, between a half and inch and an inch and a quarter in thickness, thus reducing the gap in the vertical channel proximate the intumescent device to anywhere between about of an inch to about half an inch. Reducing the dimension of the channel in this manner will still permit sufficient ventilation of the insulation material, but nonetheless ensure that the intumescent fire stop will work properly. Repair of a burned wall would require replacement of all parts of the wall including the intumescent device 110. The bottom edge of building framing located on the sill plate at the foundation could have another manufactured strip or vent structure 109 as illustrated in FIG. 31. This strip may contain a screen device 120 to keep out insects and valve or damper door 119 perhaps every 16 or so horizontally. The dampers are preferably configured to prevent cold air from entering the ventilation space at night and on cold days. The dampers preferably only open during the day when warming air in the walls and roof create a flow to provide the ventilation. The dampers may have a simple thermostatic spring or be opened by natural convective airflow, gravity (e.g., being weighted to bias them open or closed), by manual action, or other means. The are preferably no soffit vents present in the structure depicted in FIG. 29, and in fact the soffits and fascias as well as other enclosing eave parts would preferably be caulked tight to prevent a loss of air flow.
[0125] After erection of walls, floors and roofs and prior to installation of fibrous insulation batts or blankets 106 (or contemporaneously with such installation), a spacer device made in accordance with the present invention may be mounted, as desired, in walls, roofs and under attic subfloors.
[0126] As will be further appreciated by those of skill in the art, while the system depicted herein may be designed for placement between rafters or studs spaced 12 or 16 inches on center, the system may be sized and shaped for placement between rafters or studs of any particular spacing, such as for example: 6 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches, 32 inches, 36 inches, or 48 inches on center, among others, and may be employed in steel framed structures as well as wood framed structures. In accordance with still another embodiment, the techniques described herein can advantageously be applied in the context of premanufactured homes.
[0127] By way of still further example, the construction techniques described herein may be applied to existing structures, for example, by removing the sheathing in the structure, adding furring strips to the existing studs 103 and over the floor platforms 101 to create vertical channels along the height of the building, and modifying the soffits to create continuous flow passages from the bottom of the building up to the ridge vent. Ventilation spacers 111 can then be provided as described herein.
[0128] Horizontally oriented intumescent devices 110 can be installed proximate the floor platforms to replicate the structure depicted in FIG. 29. While such reconstruction may seem extreme initially, the removal of sheathing may be necessary to combat mold that has grown in the structure due to inadequately ventilated insulation, and it thus otherwise necessary.
[0129] If desired, it is also possible to use more conventional 24 construction and avoid using the above-described technique by drilling holes through the floorplates to connect the air passages in wall cavities on subsequent floors. However, this is not as preferred as the aforementioned technique. In accordance with another embodiment, holes are provided through external sheathing proximate the floor plates or all along the sheathing and a layer of openwork spacing material is also provided on the outside of the sheathing permitting the vertical ventilation flowpath to be completed by routing it outside of the building, around the floorplate and back into the building. Such external spacer can be one that separates the outer surface of the sheathing from a further exterior layer, such as shingles. Such spacers are made, for example, by the Benjamin Obdyke company and are substantially described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,594,965, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
[0130] Applicant also believes that insulation in fibrously insulated new construction can be vulnerable to moisture present in the building materials adjacent the insulation batts, specifically construction lumber. Wall assemblies of the prior art are generally well-sealed long before the moisture in green or semi-green lumber has dissipated. Applicant believes that this moisture may contribute to the degradation of fibrous wall insulation, as well as moisture hailing from other sources.
[0131] Further exemplary ventilation devices for the maintenance of the integrity of fibrous building insulation provided by this disclosure can be made by a continuous forming process. The material from which the device is formed is preferably a plastic and/or composite material able to resist deformation in moderate working temperatures. The forming of such devices in a continuous process, off of a roll can include forming temperatures exceeding those working temperatures.
[0132] Ventilation can be achieved with rows of diecut holes punched or louvers formed prior to, during or after thermoforming. The holes and/or louvers can be formed through the sheet in a prior process, or can be formed immediately before entering the thermoforming machine. Registration of the rows of holes and/or louvers is preferably maintained with respect to corrugations or undulating portions of the spacer device.
[0133] In accordance with another embodiment, a spacer device is provided further including snap-in clips to aid in installation prior to installing fibrous insulation, The clips can also be used to join the ends of two pieces of the device.
[0134] For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, FIG. 32 illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary device 201, having a body preferably made of a thermoformed plastic of sufficient thickness to resist the forces that will be applied to it, such as between 1/16 and 3/32 thick; but the device may be somewhat thinner or thicker as appropriate. Perforated holes 202 can be formed in device 201, to permit air flow between building wall and roof sheathing and the fibrous thermal insulation. If desired, louvers (not shown) can be substituted for punched holes 202, as louvers can be formed without punching out material yet still providing holes. This results in less waste than punching holes and simplifies the manufacturing process. Snap-in attachment inserts 203 can be provided to secure the device to building framing members prior to installation of the insulation. These inserts 203 can also be used to join the ends of separate lengths of the device 201 by aligning the holes at the end of each device, and securing them together using inserts 203.
[0135] The device 201 may also be attached with staples to the building sheathing. Corrugations 204 can be provided to make the total thickness of the device between about and 2 thick, more preferably between about 1 and 1 of total thickness.
[0136] FIG. 33 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary device 201 of FIG. 32 at the point of insertion of the snap-in clip inserts, illustrating ventilation holes 202 which may be about in diameter, but may be larger or smaller, as desired. Inserts 203 can installed by flexing the insert 203, and inserting the projecting pegs of the insert into the holes 202 of the device 201 and then restoring the device to a straight configuration securing the pegs in the holes. FIG. 34 is a cross-section illustrating how insert 203 can be used to join two spacer devices 201. FIG. 35 is a transverse section at the edge of the device 201 illustrating the insert 203 securing the device to wood building framing, illustrating the thermal insulation 205 and the building framing and sheathing 206. FIG. 36 is a transverse section at the edge of the device 201 illustrating installation of the device 201 with staples 207 secured into the building sheathing.
[0137] FIG. 37 is an exemplary schematic demonstrating one embodiment of a method for making the corrugated devices depicted herein by way of thermoforming, for example, by directing a web 208 of plastic material (such as PET or PVC plastic) through a pair of interdigitated forming rollers 209 to continuously impart corrugations to make device 201. If desired, the rollers can also be adapted to form holes 202 in the device 201. If holes 202 are provided before directing the web 208 through the rollers 209, the holes 202 can be adapted to provide registration with optional alignment bosses 209A on the surfaces of the rollers 209. The web 208 can be heated before being passed through the rollers, for example, by infrared radiation. The web 208 is then frozen with corrugations by rollers 209 to form the device by rollers 209. By way of further example, it is also contemplated to provide a separate operation to form holes 202 after the corrugations are formed in device 204.
[0138] FIG. 38 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an insulation spacer device 301, wherein the direction of the corrugations 304 is rotated by 90 degrees, such that the spacer 301 has more rigidity in the longitudinal direction. Like reference numerals as the first embodiment illustrate holes 302 and the like. In both embodiments, the corrugations are formed such that alternating segments of the spacers lie on spaced parallel planes connected to each other by angled segments. All or a subset of the adjoined segments can have openings defined therethrough. The angled segments can be angled at an oblique angle (e.g., 45 degrees) with respect to the parallel pairs of segments, or may be perpendicular such that all segments are at 90 degrees with respect to each other. It will be understood that while the corrugations 204, 304 are illustrated as having linear sharp edges, they may also be curved with a predetermined radius, as desired. There need be no flat surfaces of spacers 201, 301, and instead the cross sectional profile can be a gently undulating shape, such as a sinusoidal cross-section having openings through the spacer wherever desired. Also, while openings are illustrated as being spaced from the joints of adjacent segments, it will be appreciated that the openings can also coincide with the joints if desired.
[0139] In accordance with a further embodiment, an exemplary ventilating device is provided wherein the ventilation channels are integrally formed on one surface of the insulation mass opposite a side attached, for example, to a paper or plastic or aluminized surface used as an attachment means and vapor barrier, if desired. The aluminized surface, if used, serves as an additional means of reducing radiant energy loss. The channels are formed on the side of the insulation batt contacting the wall or roof sheathing. Moreover, a method of forming the ventilation channels on the surface of the insulation is also provided wherein heated rollers are employed that may be heated electrically or with fluids maintaining a temperature that will result in the formation of the channels. A plurality of channels are preferably formed longitudinally providing a continuous integrally ventilated insulation mass.
[0140] For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, as embodied herein, FIG. 39 illustrates an isometric view of a portion of an insulation batt made of drawn fibers of polyester or similar plastic assembled and bound in a non-woven fashion. Reference 401 indicates the fibrous mass which has well formed edges, while 402 indicates longitudinal ventilation channels added to the batt. A suitable fibrous batt without channels can be made, for example, from bonded non-woven (preferably thermoplastic) polyester fiber such as that manufactured under the brand name EN-GUARD as made by VITA NON-WOVENS of High Point, N.C. Unlike fibrous thermal insulation made from glass fibers and cellulose fibers, fibrous mass of polyester insulation may be formed into a well defined shape by regulating the temperature of the material during manufacture permitting fibers to bond at contact thus maintaining a controlled shape. Glass and cellulose fibers do not have this ability and the shapes of insulation of these materials tend to more poorly defined. Reference 409 indicates the edge of a membrane attached to the inside face of the insulation batt and is used for attachment to building framers. Reference 411 indicates the thickness of the insulation which varies with the desired thermal resistance required. Reference 412 indicates the width which is usually manufactured to fit snugly between framers of commonly used spacings. For example the most common spacing, 16 on center requires a batt approximately 14 wide. Other manufactured widths could be 10 for 12 spacing and 22 for 24 spacing.
[0141] For purposes of further illustration, FIG. 40 is a longitudinal section through a trough or similar device used to form the non-woven bundle of polymeric fiber into a continuous, well-formed insulation batt. Specifically, reference 401 represents the insulation mass composed of non-woven polyester or other suitable polymer. The arrows indicate the direction of movement of the batt 401. Reference 402 points to the grooves formed into the face of the insulation batt. Reference 403 is a heated roller pressing into the insulation batt to form a plurality of ventilation grooves. The grooves 402 are preferably formed to a depth of at least and a maximum of 1, but may be greater or less as desired. In accordance with one embodiment, a preferred depth is 1.
[0142] Reference 404 indicates a drive roller which can be used to cool and drive the insulation mass. Spaced spikes 405, if desired, can be attached to the roller to enhance traction and insure ventilation penetrations at uniform intervals as the fusing heat might otherwise melt the formed surface into a membrane. The fusing heat is carefully controlled to minimize undesired melting and/or deformation. Reference 406 indicates the trough or conveyance for the formation of the non-woven insulation batt which is cut to lengths as required for packaging. Reference 411 indicates the depth of the batt which varies according to the desired R value of the product.
[0143] For purposes of still further illustration, FIG. 41 is a transverse section through a trough, 406 carrying the formed insulation batt mass, 401 at the heated forming roller, 403. Reference 402 indicates the grooves formed into the insulation mass. Reference 403 indicates the heated forming roller with convolutions concentric with those of the roller spaced and sized as required in order to form the grooves of the depth 413 as desired depending on the particular application for the grooved insulation batt.
[0144] For purposes of further illustration reference 407 indicates the heat input into the roller which may be of electrical resistance coils, heated fluid coils or other source. Reference 408 indicates the roller axles which can be hollow to provide access for heating or other purposes, or may be solid. The axles are adapted and configured to ride in bearings and to be engaged to drive mechanisms.
[0145] FIG. 42 illustrates an exemplary transverse section through a trough, 406 carrying the formed insulation batt mass, 401 at the drive roller, 404 which may also be used to cool and stabilize the heat-formed grooves, 402. Reference 405 points to optional spikes spaced around the circumferences of the drive roller 404. The spikes 405 provide additional traction for movement of the insulation mass through the trough 406, as well as ensuring ventilation of the insulation through the formed surface into the insulation mass. Reference 408 indicates the drum axles which may be solid, or hollow to supply refrigerant coils for cooling. The axles ride in bearings and are engaged to drive mechanisms. Reference 411 indicates the thickness of the insulation and 412 indicates the width of the insulation batt. Aluminized surfaces can be applied to any surface of the batt before or after processing, as desired, to increase radiative heat reflection. Preferably, an aluminized or otherwise reflective surface (not specifically illustrated) is applied to the surface of the batt opposite the grooves 402. Such a surface can be, for example, a foil layer that can include a polymeric layer, and/or can include a metallized plastic layer.
[0146] As will be appreciated, the ventilation of fiberous insulation and particularly fiberglass loft between the exterior wall framing and roof framing members with the ventilation spacer interposed between the inside surface of the roof or wall sheathing and the un-faced insulation creates a passage for air to flow relatively freely providing constant wicking of moisture out of the insulation mass.
[0147] Applicant has appreciated that this air flow may also be considered a detriment in the event of a fire in the structure. Specifically, the fire could potentially enter the wood framing at a floor area or by eventually burning through the interior wall finish and insulation mass, which provides some protection to framing members.
[0148] Without the ventilation space for maintaining the integrity of fiberous insulation, a fire can get to the wood framing which will combust at temperatures slightly above 475 F. If no mitigation of the fire occurs, such as with an unoccupied house, the fire could possibly spread to the degree that it will be apparent from the street and the fire department will respond.
[0149] With the ventilation space incorporated in wall or roof framing as described elsewhere herein, the spacer device used can be made, for example by die casting or thermoforming polymer plastics. Certain plastics have a high melting temperature, whereas others have a lower temperature. In applications where preventing firespread is a concern, Applicant believes that plastics having relatively lower melting temperatures (e.g., below 300 F.) can be advantageous.
[0150] For example, of the many thermoplastics available, polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride can be suitable for die casting and thermoforming. Low density polyethylene and low density polyvinyl chloride can have a melting point slightly under 250 F. This property value conversely provides the ability for the spacer to maintain its dimensional properties in roof framing, where, under extreme conditions, working temperatures could approach 200 F.
[0151] During a fire, where the temperature of the fire must attain at least 475 F. (the kindling temperature of wood or paper) to be a fire, and the fire has burned its way through the interior protective finish and into the wall or roof framing space, the super-heated air ahead of the actual fire will elevate the temperature of the plastic spacer to temperatures over 250 F., causing the spacer to collapse with the pressure of the insulating mass displacing the air space thus closing the airspace, thereby reducing fire spread. The resultant condition is then no different than an insulated wall or roof assembly without a ventilation spacer. As such, the potential fire hazard of a wall with a suitable ventilation spacer is no greater than that of a traditional insulated wall.
[0152] The following patents and patent applications are also incorporated by reference in their entirety for any purpose whatsoever: U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,572,126, 2,872,101, 3,196,797, 4,032,264, 4,541,787, 5,603,612, 5,294,480, 6,604,330 and 6,540,491, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/713,189, filed Mar. 2, 2007, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/012,248, filed Feb. 1, 2008 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/100,566, filed Apr. 10, 2008.
[0153] The methods and systems of the present invention, as described above and shown in the drawings, provide for an insulation spacing system with superior properties to those of the prior art. Embodiments of the present invention are adapted and configured to provide superior ventilation potentially leading to decreased mold and toxic conditions and buildings, thereby benefiting the general health of the population. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the device and method of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the subject disclosure and equivalents.
