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August 22, 2023Roof valleys are the angled channels that run down the interior angle where two sloping roof planes meet. They are designed for the sole purpose of redirecting rainwater, hail, and melting snow away from the roof and into the gutters, preventing water from seeping into the house and causing damage.
The importance of roof valleys cannot be overstated. Without them, rainwater and snow would simply pile up on the roof, leading to a whole handful of problems. Leaks, rotting wood, and mould growth. All of which are deterred due to the invention of the roof valley. Over time, the lack of valleys could lead to a nightmare situation in which the integrity of the entire roofing system has been compromised, resulting in expensive repairs or even requiring a complete roof replacement.
Not only do roof valleys protect your roofing system, but they also act as a layer of defence for the foundation of your entire house. When water begins to flood the roof, it can begin to seep into the foundation of your home, causing it to crack and weaken over time. This can lead to serious structural issues and affect the safety and stability of the entire house. Not only would this take a huge financial toll but even a mental one too.
Roof valleys come in various shapes and sizes, including closed, open, and woven valleys. Closed valleys are the most common and consist of a continuous sheet of metal or other roofing material that runs down the valley and is tucked under the adjacent roofing materials. Open valleys are similar but leave a small gap between the roofing materials to allow water to flow freely. Woven valleys, on the other hand, are made up of overlapping shingles that interlock with each other to create a seamless channel. Despite this, all roof valleys serve the same purpose, the different type of valley is based on the ideal infrastructure for your home’s needs and surrounding climate.
As with all things roof-related, correct installation is crucial to ensure that roof valleys function effectively. A poorly installed valley can actually do more harm than good, leading to leaks and other issues. As such, proper maintenance is highly recommended. Regular cleaning and inspection can help prevent debris from stacking up and clogging the channels. In addition, it is important to ensure that the roof valley is properly sealed to prevent leaks and to replace any damaged materials as soon as possible. Check out our article on tips to inspect and repair any roof valley issues.
If you see any issues with your roof valleys, let us know and we’ll come over for a personalised inspection & quote.