Roof valley flashing is the unsung hero of the roofing industry. It’s not just a fancy name for your average flashing; it’s actually a specialized type of flashing designed to protect against water damage and leaks.
It’s also pretty easy to install, so if you’re looking for an easy DIY project, this is it!
What is roof valley flashing?
Roof valley flashing is a material used to waterproof the intersection of two sloping roof planes, typically forming a “V-shaped valley where rainwater and snowmelt run down.
It is usually made of metal, such as aluminum, copper, or steel, and is installed underneath shingles or other roofing materials to prevent water from penetrating through the roof and causing damage to the underlying structure.
The flashing is designed to direct water into the gutters or off the roof and is an important component of any well-functioning roofing system.
Properly installed roof valley flashing can help extend the life of your roof and prevent costly water damage to your home.
Tools you need for roof valley flashing installation
- Measuring tape
- Valley flashing
- Metal snips
- Hammer
- Roofing nails
- Roofing cement or sealant
- Caulk gun
- Safety equipment (gloves, safety glasses, and appropriate footwear)
How to install roof valley flashing
- Measure the length of the valley and cut the valley flashing to size.
- Place the valley flashing in the center of the valley, making sure that it is straight and flush with the roof decking.
- Secure the valley flashing in place with roofing nails.
- Apply a bead of roofing cement or sealant along the edges of the valley flashing to create a watertight seal.
- Install the shingles on both sides of the valley, making sure that they overlap the valley flashing by at least 6 inches on each side.
How to repair roof valley flashing
- Remove any damaged or corroded valley flashing.
- Clean the area around the valley thoroughly, removing any debris or loose roofing cement.
- Cut a new piece of valley flashing to size, making sure that it is slightly larger than the damaged area.
- Place the new piece of valley flashing in the center of the valley, making sure that it is straight and flush with the roof decking.
- Secure the new valley flashing in place with roofing nails.
- Apply a generous bead of roofing cement or sealant along the edges of the new valley flashing to create a watertight seal.
- Install the shingles on both sides of the valley, making sure that they overlap the new valley flashing by at least 6 inches on each side.
How to inspect roof valley flashing
- Look for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, rust, or corrosion.
- Check that the valley flashing is securely fastened in place and is flush with the roof decking.
- Make sure that there are no gaps or spaces between the valley flashing and the shingles.
- Check that the roofing cement or sealant is intact and not cracked or missing.
- Look for signs of water damage or leakage in the area surrounding the valley flashing.
- If you notice any issues, contact a professional roofing contractor for repair or replacement.
The benefits of using metal roof valley flashing
- Durability: Metal valley flashing is highly durable and can last for many years without needing replacement. It is resistant to corrosion, rust, and decay, which can help to ensure that the roof remains protected from water damage.
- Strength: Metal valley flashing is strong and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rain. It can also hold up well against foot traffic and other potential sources of damage.
- Versatility: Metal valley flashing can be used with a wide range of roofing materials, including metal, tile, and asphalt shingles. This makes it a versatile option for a variety of roofing systems.
- Easy maintenance: Metal valley flashing is easy to maintain and can be cleaned and inspected regularly to ensure that it remains in good condition. It is also easy to repair if any damage does occur.
- Aesthetically pleasing: Metal valley flashing can provide a sleek and modern appearance on the roof. It can be customized to match the color and style of the roofing material, which can help to enhance the overall aesthetic of the home.
- Energy efficiency: Certain types of metal valley flashing can help to reflect heat away from the roof, which can improve the energy efficiency of the home and help to reduce cooling costs.
The drawbacks to using roof valley flashing
- Cost: Installing roof valley flashing can be more expensive than not using any flashing at all. The cost of materials and labor can add up quickly, especially for larger or more complex roofing systems.
- Maintenance: While roof valley flashing is relatively low-maintenance, it still requires regular inspections and cleaning to ensure that it remains in good condition. If it becomes damaged or worn, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
- Installation challenges: Installing roof valley flashing can be a challenging process, especially for more complex roofing systems. It requires careful attention to detail and precise installation to ensure that the flashing is properly sealed and will not leak.
- Aesthetics: Some homeowners may find that roof valley flashing detracts from the appearance of their roof. While many types of flashing can be customized to match the color and style of the roofing material, it may still be visible and not to everyone’s taste.
- Potential for damage: If roof valley flashing becomes damaged or improperly installed, it can actually cause leaks rather than prevent them. It is important to choose a high-quality flashing material and work with a professional roofing contractor to ensure that it is installed correctly.
Why is roof valley flashing necessary?
Prevents water intrusion
The primary purpose of roof valley flashing is to prevent water from penetrating the roof’s surface and causing damage to the underlying structure. The valley is where water is concentrated, and it can easily seep in and cause leaks if not properly protected.
Protects against snow and ice
Snow and ice can accumulate in the valley, which can lead to water damage if not properly addressed. Roof valley flashing helps to protect against this by channeling water and melting snow and ice away from the roof and into the gutters.
Increases the lifespan of the roof
Roof valley flashing helps to protect the roof from water damage and other types of weather-related wear and tear, which can help extend the lifespan of the roof.
Types of roof valley flashings
1. Metal flashing
Metal flashing is a popular choice for roof valley flashing due to its durability and ability to resist corrosion. It is typically made of aluminum, copper, or steel and can be custom-fit to the specific roof shape.
2. Asphalt shingle flashing
Asphalt shingle flashing is made of the same material as the shingles themselves and is often used for residential roofing. It is flexible and can be shaped to fit the roof valley.
3. Rubber flashing
Rubber flashing is a type of synthetic material that is designed to seal around nails and other punctures, making it an ideal choice for roofs with a lot of foot traffic or where extreme weather conditions are common.
4. Clay roof flashing
Clay roof flashing is commonly used in areas with a lot of sun exposure, as it is resistant to UV rays and can withstand high temperatures. It is typically made of fired clay tiles.
5. Metal edged flashing
Metal-edged flashing is a type of metal flashing that has a raised edge to help prevent water from getting under the flashing.
6. Ridge flashing
Ridge flashing is used at the peak of a roof where two sloping roof planes meet. It is typically made of metal and is designed to prevent water from seeping in at the ridge.
7. Copper flashing
Copper flashing is a high-end option for roof valley flashing due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. It is also resistant to corrosion and can last for many years.
8. Steel flashing
Steel flashing is a less expensive alternative to copper and is a good option for areas with harsh weather conditions.
9. Laminate flashing
Laminate flashing is made of a laminate material and is designed to be more flexible and easier to install than other types of flashing. It is often used for diy roofing projects.
How to identify roof valley flashing
- Look for a V-shaped channel: The roof valley is typically a V-shaped channel where two sloping roof planes meet. Look for a metal or rubber material lining this channel to identify the flashing.
- Check the edges of the roof: Roof valley flashing is often installed under the roofing material, so you may be able to see the edges of the flashing at the roof’s edges.
- Check for leaks: If you see water stains on your ceiling or walls, it could be a sign that the roof valley flashing is damaged or missing. Check for water damage near the roof valley to identify the location of the flashing.
- Look for signs of wear and tear: Over time, roof valley flashing can become corroded or damaged, so look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or missing pieces.
How do I prevent roof valley leaks?
- Choose the right material: Make sure to choose a high-quality roof valley flashing material that is appropriate for your roofing system and weather conditions.
- Proper installation: It’s essential to have the roof valley flashing installed properly by a professional roofing contractor. This includes ensuring that the flashing is securely fastened and properly sealed to prevent water from seeping through.
- Regular inspections: Inspect your roof valley flashing regularly to identify any signs of damage, such as cracks, rust, or missing pieces. Fix any issues immediately to prevent leaks.
- Keep the roof clean: Clear any debris, leaves, or other items from the roof valley to prevent clogs that could cause water to back up and seep under the flashing.
- Clear snow and ice: In colder climates, it’s important to remove snow and ice buildup from the roof valley to prevent the formation of ice dams, which can cause leaks.
- Repair leaks promptly: If you notice any leaks or water damage around the roof valley, contact a professional roofing contractor to inspect and repair the issue before it causes further damage.
- Install a gutter guard: Installing a gutter guard can help prevent debris from accumulating in the gutters and roof valley, which can cause clogs and water backup.
- Install a water diverter: A water diverter can be installed at the bottom of the roof valley to help redirect water away from the roof and prevent leaks.
What is the difference between open and closed-cut valley flashing?
Open-cut and closed-cut valley flashing are two different methods of installing roof valley flashing. The main difference between the two methods is how the roofing material is laid and cut around the valley flashing.
In an open-cut valley, the roofing material is cut and removed around the valley flashing, leaving the flashing exposed. This creates a visible valley on the roof where the flashing is exposed, and it is typically used for metal or tile roofing systems.
In a closed-cut valley, the roofing material is cut and overlapped over the valley flashing, covering it completely. This creates a more seamless appearance on the roof, and it is typically used for asphalt shingle or wood shake roofing systems.
The choice between open-cut and closed-cut valley flashing largely depends on the type of roofing material being used and the desired aesthetic appearance.
Open-cut valley flashing can be more visible and may provide additional ventilation in some cases, while closed-cut valley flashing provides a more seamless appearance and may be more appropriate for certain roofing materials.
What are the do’s and don’ts of valley flashing installation?
Do’s:
- Do choose the right flashing material for your roofing system and local weather conditions.
- Do ensure that the valley is clean and free from any debris or old flashing before installing new valley flashing.
- Do install the flashing in a continuous piece, with no seams or gaps, to ensure that it provides a watertight seal.
- Do use the appropriate nails or screws to secure the flashing in place, being careful not to overdrive them or damage the flashing.
- Do use high-quality sealant to seal any gaps or joints in the flashing to prevent water infiltration.
Don’ts:
- Don’t install the flashing without first properly preparing the valley and removing any old flashing or debris.
- Don’t use a flashing material that is not recommended for your specific roofing system or local weather conditions.
- Don’t install the flashing in sections or with gaps, as this can allow water to penetrate and cause leaks.
- Don’t use the wrong type of fasteners, such as staples or roofing nails, which can damage the flashing and cause leaks.
- Don’t forget to use sealant or use the wrong type of sealant, which can also cause leaks or damage to the flashing.
Is metal valley flashing necessary for your roofing project?
Valley metal flashing is not always necessary for every roofing project, but it is highly recommended for roofs with valleys where two roof planes intersect.
Valleys are a vulnerable area of the roof, and if they are not properly protected, they can be prone to leaks and water damage.
The purpose of valley metal flashing is to direct water away from the valley and safely off the roof, helping to prevent water infiltration and damage to the underlying roof structure.
While there are other types of valley flashing materials available, such as rubber or asphalt, metal flashing is typically considered the most durable and long-lasting option.
How can valley flashing protect your roof from water damage?
Directing water away from the valley
When rainwater flows down the roof, it can collect in the valley and create a pooling effect.
If the valley is not properly protected, this pooling water can seep through the roof and cause damage to the underlying structure.
Valley flashing directs water away from the valley and safely off the roof, preventing pooling and reducing the risk of water infiltration.
Providing a barrier against leaks
When two roof planes intersect in a valley, there is a higher risk of water infiltration due to the seam between the two planes.
Valley flashing provides a barrier against leaks by creating a watertight seal along the seam, preventing water from entering the roof structure.
Protecting against ice damming
In colder climates, ice damming can occur when snow and ice accumulate in the valley and create a dam that prevents water from flowing off the roof.
This pooling water can then seep into the roof structure and cause damage.
Valley flashing can help prevent ice dams by directing water away from the valley and reducing the risk of pooling.
Four methods to shingle a roof valley
1. Closed-cut valley
In this method, shingles from both sides of the valley are trimmed back, and a piece of valley flashing is installed underneath.
The shingles are then installed over the flashing, creating a seamless look. This method is best suited for roofs with high-pitched slopes or roofs with a high volume of water flow.valley
2. Open valley
In this method, valley flashing is installed on top of the shingles, and the shingles are cut and installed to create a V-shaped channel that directs water into the valley.
This method is best suited for roofs with low-pitched slopes or roofs with a lower volume of water flow.
3. Woven valley
In this method, the shingles from both sides of the valley are woven together over the valley flashing, creating a strong and durable valley.
This method is best suited for roofs with steep slopes or roofs with a high volume of water flow.
4. Long island valley
This is a variation of the closed-cut valley method, commonly used in the Northeastern United States, particularly on Long Island.
In this method, the shingles on one side of the valley are trimmed back, and the valley flashing is installed underneath.
The shingles on the other side of the valley are then installed over the flashing, but they are not trimmed back. Instead, they are left to extend over the flashing by about 2–3 inches.
This creates an overlap that helps prevent water from infiltrating the valley.
The long island valley method is particularly effective in areas with high rainfall or heavy snowfall, as it provides an additional layer of protection against water infiltration.
How does roof valley flashing prevent the formation of ice dams and icicles on a roof?
Valley flashing can help prevent the formation of icicles and ice dams.
In colder climates, snow can accumulate on the roof, and if the valley is not properly protected with flashing, it can cause the snow to melt and refreeze, leading to the formation of ice dams.
Ice dams can cause significant damage to the roof and gutters, as well as create a safety hazard for people walking near the building due to falling icicles.
By installing roof valley flashing, water is directed away from the roof, preventing the formation of ice dams and reducing the risk of damage and injury.
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