Roof valleys are a component of an effective roofing system that enhances roof drainage and helps to prevent damage from a roof leak. However, roof valleys offer your property a wider range of benefits, persuading roofers to insist on roof valley installation.
Read on as our ultimate guide explores the need for roof valleys and their importance in managing drainage for your property.
What Is a Roof Valley?
A roof valley is a channel between two sloping sections of the roof, allowing rainfall to be directed and flow away from the roof and into the channel.
Likewise, when ice melts, the melted snow will drip into the channel and prevent any damage from being caused. A trough is created as a result of the depression in the roof to allow water to flow down
Are There Different Types of Roof Valley?
When opting for a roof valley installation, you can choose from either an open valley or a closed valley. Most roofs are made from asphalt shingles although an open or closed valley should still be possible.
Open Valley
An open valley is fully exposed so there is no material covering the valley. Consisting of a second layer of roof flashing, the flashing is exposed with a gap between the shingles.
You can see the water flowing down the roof valley and into the drainage system, with the surplus flashing layer providing additional protection from the water.
Superior open valleys utilise metal flashing, helping the water to slide more easily down the channel. Low pitched roofs usually need an extra push to drain water away from the roof and so metal flashing is commonly found as a result.
Closed Valley
A closed valley is hidden from view and offers your building a seamless aesthetic. Such roof valleys require a higher cost, although are sometimes not as reliable as open roof valleys.
There are two types of closed roof valley that you might opt for when designing your installation. A woven valley weaves together the shingles from two roof surfaces of a tiled roof, creating a consistent roof design with a hidden channel for drainage.
Alternatively, a closed cut valley involves shingles being installed on one side of the roof with the remaining side of the roof cut across the valley gutter centre. Some roofers prefer to avoid installing a closed cut valley, however, as the shingle edges may rise and be prone to leaks.
What Are the Benefits of Installing a Roof Valley?
Roof valleys are used to help prevent water damage from roof leaks and heavy rain across the entire roof, but what other benefits could a roof valley deliver?
Here are our top 5 benefits of installing a roof valley on your home:
1. Diverting Rainfall
As rain falls, the water hits the roof hard. Without sufficient drainage, puddles of water can form on the roof, causing damage to the roof and subsequently the property.
Adequate roof valleys divert rainfall into the roof channel and then into the gutters and downpipes. Water damage is prevented, along with early deterioration of the roof.
2. Strong Drainage System
A roof needs a strong drainage system to divert water from the roof and down into the gutters and downpipes. A weak drainage system causes serious issues for the building as a whole so it is essential that efficient drainage is created.
3. Roof Longevity
Installing a roof is expensive so it is vital that you look after the roof materials sufficiently. Ensuring a good drainage system is provided to your home means that the materials used will last longer, reducing the chance of water damage and expensive repairs.
4. Kerb Appeal
When installed well, a roof valley can enhance the kerb appeal and aesthetics of the property, utilising attractive angles across the roof and complementing the overall design and structure of the building.
5. Stronger Structure
When roof valleys are installed, the overall structure of the building is strengthened. This is due to the additional flashing and underlayment used, installing reinforced components across the roof.
Final Thoughts on Roof Valleys
Roofers install roof valleys as part of a strong, structural building and a sufficient roofing drainage system.
Any expert roofer will insist on the use of roof valleys to divert rainwater away from the roof and straight into the gutter and downpipes of the building.
Choose from an open valley or a closed valley option for your roof, either weaving or cutting your closed valley and offering an attractive aesthetic that also serves a clear practical purpose.
However, general maintenance is required to clear debris from roof valleys and ensure optimum performance. Ideally, you should carry out regular checks on your roof, assessing whether you need your ridge capping reappointed or your shingles secured.
Visit RoofStuff for a wide range of roofing products such as our flashing range, roof repair options, and ventilation choices. You can also choose from a variety of roofing accessories, such as galvanising products to prevent rust bubbles.
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