The roof’s valley tends to receive the most pressure when it’s raining or snowing outside the home. This is because this is the part of the roof where rain and snow water tends to get directed to before finally running off to the gutters and into the downspouts. Because of this, the valleys need to be strong and properly sealed.
Homeowners looking to get a roof repair or replacement job done, however, might be faced with an important decision when it comes to valleys: should homeowners choose to have a closed valley? Or will they have an open valley?
Here’s a quick look at the differences between the two and how they fare in terms of function and aesthetics.
Closed Valleys
Closed valleys are very popular among many contractors and homeowners. They are economical, fast and easy to install, and will only require roofers to use the roof’s main material, whether shingles or Decra roofing, to line the valley and prevent water from penetrating the roof and roofing underlayment.
When poorly done, however, closed valleys might channel water under the shingles (or other roofing material) laid over the bottom layer of shingles. Closed valleys are also slow in shedding water and snow, which could lead to granule loss on the shingles.
Open Valleys
Open valleys, on the other hand, make use of a metal sheet which is fastened to the to roof at the exact area where the two flat sides meet. The shingles (or other roofing material) are then cut and sealed at the area where they intersect with the metal sheet, leaving it exposed and visible even from afar.
The metal sheet used in open valleys can add beauty to the roof, depending on the metal being used. The sheets are quick to shed water and snow, which makes it the best choice during rainy and snowy weather. It’s also easier to repair problems related to open valley roofing.
Open valleys, however, tend to be more expensive compared to closed valleys due to the metal sheet used on them. Poorly or inadequately sealed open valleys are also vulnerable to leaks, should rain or snow water back up along the top of cut-off shingles.
Looking for a trustworthy roofing contractor to install good quality valleys on your roof? Contact Arrowhead Roofing, the trusted roofers in Oklahoma. We also offer flat roof repair services for your every need. Call us at (918) 743-9257 or fill out our contact form for a free estimate.
