Open Or Closed Roof Valley Better

Closed roof valleys are also more affordable as installing a metal lining costs extra.

Open or closed roof valley better.

For this reason professional roofers proudly supports the closed system of valleys. Roofers on the other hand often prefer an open valley because they feel it is more practical. They ll then install the shingles onto the roof deck extending them through the valley. It is always a good idea to check with the manufacturer or a certified installer of the product such as ourselves.

For an open valley a sheet of metal usually steel sometimes copper is fastened to the roof deck. The metal is usually pre painted to best complement the shingles color blend. I m leaning towards an open metal valley but i ve had contractors disagree saying that the metal expands and contracts too much. Open valleys may be susceptible to water backup if the cut off shingles are not properly trimmed potentially causing roof leaks.

When installing an open valley the roofing company will add another layer of lining to the roof valley. It might cost a little more in materials around 150 500 on average depending on the home and material. After covering the roof with underlayment they ll then install a pre bent metal valley. Open valleys on the other hand leave the metal exposed which may be more pleasing to the eye especially if copper is used as the valley lining.

The only type of valley that is unacceptable is the woven valley. And while some homeowners may prefer the aesthetics of a closed valley the heavier and thicker the shingle the less likely it is to lie flat across a joint. The closed cut valleys are cheaper and commonly done in my area but they tend to wear out sooner due to the high volume of water in the valley washing away the protective grit on the shingles there before on the rest of the roof. Although the open valley is recommended by the manufacturer closed valley is acceptable.

The reason that many roofers like an open valley is that they feel that tree leaves and needles will more easily slide down or wash down an open valley when it rains. I kind of prefer the look of the closed valley. Thus closed roof valleys extend the time between your roof repair projects. The shingles will act as the valley lining and will protect the roof deck and underlayment against water run off.

That said an open roof valley is a good option if you want to the metal strip to serve as an architectural detail on the roof. Architects often prefer closed valleys to open valleys as they feel that it gives a home better architectural appeal. However a closed system simply performs better. When installing a closed valley the roofer will cover the roof with underlayment.