If you asked people on the street what roof valleys are, most of them would probably have no idea. Roof valleys are junctures in a roof marking a change in the angle or direction of the roof. They’re so named because they look just like the valleys one thinks of out in nature. While mountain valleys are often peaceful and serene, roof valleys are filled with danger. That’s because they’re a challenge to protect properly from moisture and weather conditions.
The good news is that the durable, lightweight, long-lasting roofing materials created by Brava Roof Tile are perfect for roof valley applications. You can see examples of these materials in action on the Brava YouTube channel that will demonstrate how a roof valley is constructed appropriately.
The Two Types of Roof Valleys
While you will find various sub-types when getting into the finer details of roof valleys, for the purposes of the homeowner, there are only two types to consider: closed and open.
Closed Roof Valleys
In the case of a closed roof valley, the roofer will first install the underlayment, which is an ice- and waterproof material that adheres to the roof decking and protects the valley from damage due to ice or water. The roofer will then install the shingles so that they overlap where the opposing planes of the valley meet. This type of installation closes the valley juncture so that the shingles are completely covering the underlayment material. In a closed roof, the shingles are both the wear surface and valley lining.
Open Roof Valleys
In the case of an open roof valley, there is an additional layer added to the valley. After adding the underlayment to the roof, a metal piece is installed in the valley itself. This metal piece can be either a “V” shaped liner or a “W” shaped liner. The ‘W’ shape can help protect from water that moves across the valley, where there is a threat that the water will be pushed under the shingles’ sides. In an open valley, shingles are installed to cover part of the valley before being cut out of the valley area, leaving the metal surface showing and open to the elements. The metal can be stainless steel, galvanized steel, copper, or aluminum. Since it’s left open, it can provide a dramatic accent to the roof’s appearance, assuming that’s what the homeowner prefers.
Which Roof Valley Type is Best?
Most roofing contractors agree that the open roof valley is superior. However, there are cases where a closed roof valley is the preferred method of installation. If the shingle manufacturer recommends a closed roof valley for their product, you should discuss that option with your roofer. In general, the open roof valley is thought to be less troublesome in the long run. Here’s why: Improved drainage: Metal is the perfect material when you want rain, snow, leaves, and ice to flow easily off your roof. With an open roof valley, the exposed metal allows everything to wash easily off your roof. Debris will have no time to accumulate, meaning that water won’t get trapped and soak into the roof. Longevity: Metal lasts a very long time. It’s unlikely that the metal used in open roof valleys will deteriorate faster than your roof shingles. Metal ages very well and looks great, too. Plenty of variety: Several different types of metal will work in an open roof valley installation. This allows for complete customization. Some homeowners intentionally use a contrasting material for dramatic effect. Ease of installation: Open roof valleys are also easier to install. There are no special skills required outside of basic roofing skills. Installation of the open valley is quick, so there are no delays in getting your roof finished. There are some disadvantages to the open roof valley. At the top of the list is its higher cost. The materials used tend to be more expensive due to the addition of metal flashing. Some homeowners also prefer a closed roof valley’s aesthetic appeal, where the overlapping shingles can make a dramatic effect, especially in areas of differing slopes.
Choosing a Closed Roof Valley
As mentioned above, the closed roof valley is often considered the most aesthetically pleasing. Many homeowners prefer the seamless look of the closed roof valley over the metal-lined open valley, and many homeowners also like the lower cost that comes with the closed roof valley application. Avoiding the use of metal flashing can help homeowners save a good deal of money on their new roof installation while still getting a beautiful look. The downside to the closed roof valley construction is that it doesn’t tend to hold up as well as metal flashing. Shingles will wear down much faster in the valleys compared with the rest of the roof, and that means the closed valley becomes the weakest part of your roof.
Take Your Pick With Brava
When you opt for the ultra-durable Brava Roof tiles, such concerns will no longer matter. Whether you choose our cedar shake tiles, barrel tiles, or slate tiles, you’ll have a long-lasting and beautiful roof, from the peaks to the valleys. Our tiles are designed to last, with a Class 4 impact rating, Class A or C fire rating, and a limited 50-year warranty. In the end, not all roofing materials are equal in durability or cost. While homeowners may find that an open roof valley approach is best in some situations, in others, a closed roof valley approach might be better. With the Brava Roof tile system, homeowners don’t have to settle or compromise. Our tiles can hold up to either method equally well. For the most beautiful-looking natural roofing exteriors, without the short lifespan and maintenance headaches, contact Brava Roof Tile at 844-290-4196 today to speak with an expert team member. We’re here to help you with your roofing decisions, and you can even request some free samples of our superior roofing materials to see for yourself why so many homeowners are choosing Brava Roof Tiles. Get Inspired - Click Here to Order Your Complimentary Lookbook.
