A roof valley is the meeting line between two sloping roof facets, which come together and form an interior angle. Roof valleys redirect water flow, but this type of roof structure also requires proper planning and maintenance to avoid issues like leaks and debris accumulation.
Learn more about roof valleys and how they help protect your home’s structure. Be sure to contact Polaris Roofing Systems of Flagstaff, AZ, if your home has a roof valley problem. We offer free inspections and estimates for roof repair and replacement services.
What Are Roof Valleys, and Why Are They Important?
Roof valleys come in two types:
- Closed roof valley, with shingles or another roofing material installed over the inner angle of the valley
- Open roof valley, without any roofing material covering the angle between the roof facets
The roof valley type usually depends on the roofing material. 3-tab and architectural asphalt shingles are bendy enough to conform to closed valleys, but premium materials like luxury composite shingles or cedar shakes require an open valley.
Both types of roof valleys collect running rainwater and direct it into the gutters. With a hip and roof valley structure, rainwater flows away from the roof and your home more easily.
Potential Issues of Roof Valleys
Rainwater flows down your roof’s slopes and into the roof valley. This meeting line between the two roof facets can look like a small river during heavy rains. With such a heavy water load, it’s no wonder valleys are some of the most vulnerable areas of the roof.
Without proper solutions, roof valleys can develop leaks and accumulate leaves, sticks, moss, and other debris. Professional installation and regular maintenance will help avoid these issues.
Preventing Leaks in Roof Valleys
Leak solutions for roof valleys include:
- Ice and water shields. Professional roofers install ice and water shields over a closed valley, and only then cover it with shingles or another roofing material. The waterproof shield keeps any water that seeps under the shingles away from the roof decking.
- Metal flashing. Open valleys need metal roof valley flashing to prevent leaks. Prefinished steel is a popular and durable option, but copper can also work well and lend distinct appeal to your roof.
Although an ice and water shield is more affordable to replace, we recommend metal flashing because it lasts last longer.
Debris in Roof Valleys
Accumulated debris is another common problem with roof valleys that don’t get enough TLC. If you have trees on your property, leaves and sticks can fall onto your roof and get caught in roof valleys. Unless removed, this debris can create dams that block water flow and lead to water pooling. Piles of leaves and sticks could also attract pests.
Without proper drainage, water can stay in your roof valley for a long time, seep underneath the shingles, warp their structure, and eventually cause leaks. Regular and thorough roof maintenance, starting with an annual inspection, can prevent this issue.
When to Schedule a Roof Inspection in Arizona
We recommend scheduling your roof inspection for spring. A spring inspection helps you catch any damage your roof, especially your roof valleys, sustained through the winter, and gives you enough time to complete necessary roof repairs before the summer monsoons.
Roofing pros can diagnose potential problems long before you spot a leak inside your home, and remove debris safely and quickly without damaging your roof system. If you notice damage that needs an immediate roof repair, contact Polaris Roofing Systems today!
Call Polaris Roofing Systems for Advanced Roof System Solutions in Flagstaff, AZ
At Polaris Roofing Systems, we offer long-lasting and affordable roof system solutions to homeowners in the area of Flagstaff, AZ. With over 25 years of experience installing, repairing, and replacing roofs of all types, our skilled local roofers can suggest the best way to protect your roof valleys and avoid problems like leaks, storm damage, and water overflow. As a licensed, bonded, and insured company, we’ve earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau thanks to our commitment to outstanding customer service.
Call (928) 699-4840 or contact us online to request a roof valley project estimate or schedule your free roof inspection.
