Open Valley vs Closed Valley Roofing: Which Is Best for Your Roof

When two roof sections meet at an inward angle, they form a roof valley that channels rain and melting snow off your building. Though valleys look like a minor aesthetic detail, they play a major role in preventing leaks and shingle damage. Your choice of roof valley type can affect how long your roof lasts and how well it sheds water.

The two main categories are open valley roofing and closed valley roofing. Both options offer tradeoffs between cost, durability, and style. Here’s what to know before deciding which is best for your home.

Understanding the Two Roof Valley Types

Open Valley Roof: An open valley uses a metal flashing installed first along the valley joint. Shingles are then applied on either side and trimmed to reveal the metal strip. The exposed channel allows for faster drainage off the roof.

Closed Valley Roof: A closed valley connects the shingles from both roof planes directly over the joint. The shingles can be woven together or cut along a straight line. This style covers the valley for a continuous, shingle-only surface.

Choosing an Open Valley Roof

Benefits

Long-Term Durability: Open valleys are lined with metal such as steel or copper, which resists weathering better than shingles alone. The metal surface won’t deteriorate as quickly from standing water or ice, making open valley roofs ideal for wet or snowy climates.

Superior Drainage: Rain, snow, and leaves slide easily off the metal flashing. Because water moves quickly through the channel, there’s less risk of buildup that could lead to leaks or shingle erosion.

Ease of Repairs: If damage occurs, an open valley system is often easier to repair or replace. Since the shingles on both roof planes do not overlap each other, making replacements along the valley line is less complex than on a closed valley.

Drawbacks

Higher Upfront Cost: Adding metal flashing increases the total cost of roofing materials. While open valleys typically save money on repairs later, the initial price is higher than a closed-valley installation.

Visible Seams: While the metal flashing can be painted to blend in with shingles, some homeowners prefer the seamless look of a closed valley to the exposed channel in an open valley.

Choosing a Closed Valley Roof

Benefits

Aesthetic Appeal: Closed valleys create a uniform surface of shingles across the joint, giving it a clean, smooth finish that blends easily with the rest of the roof.

Lower Upfront Cost: Because closed valleys don’t require metal flashing, they’re often more affordable upfront. However, installing a woven valley takes more time and labor than installing a closed-cut valley.

Simpler Installation Process: Closed valleys require fewer materials and can be installed quickly. This can be an advantage for smaller roofing projects or time-sensitive repairs.

Drawbacks

Shorter Lifespan: Shingles in the closed valleys will wear down more quickly than the rest of the roof due to the increased pressure from water runoff. This increases the risk of leaks and shingle erosion.

Slower Drainage: Leaves and small debris accumulate more easily in a closed valley. Without regular cleaning, water can pool and become trapped in the roof, damaging the valley area.

Which Roof Valley Type Is Best For You?

An Open Valley Roof offers a higher return on investment, especially if you live in a region with frequent rain or snow. The exposed metal flashing offers better drainage, reduces needed maintenance, and extends the life of your roof.

Choose a Closed Valley Roof if you prefer a seamless, shingle-only look or want a lower upfront cost. Closed valleys perform well in dry or moderate climates and pair nicely with traditional architectural styles.

Get Expert Advice for Your Roof

Whether you decide on open valley or closed valley roofing for your home or commercial property, our team at Sheeley Roofing is here to help. We install both open and closed valley systems with precision and materials built to last. We can assess your roof and recommend the optimal valley design based on your priorities.

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