Valley Flashing
Pre-formed or custom-bent sheet metal installed in the crease where two roof slopes meet, channeling water down the valley and off the roof. Valleys are high-volume water paths and a leading source of leaks when flashing fails.
What Is Valley Flashing
Valley flashing is the sheet metal installed in the crease where two roof planes converge, forming a channel that directs concentrated water runoff safely off the roof. Because valleys collect water from two slopes simultaneously, they handle more volume per linear foot than any other part of the roof surface. A failure here leads to leaks faster than almost any other flashing failure.
Valley flashing is typically made from aluminum or galvanized steel and is installed on top of ice and water shield underlayment for double protection.
Open Valley vs. Closed Valley
In an open valley installation, the metal flashing remains exposed between the shingle courses. This allows water and debris to flow freely and makes inspection straightforward. In a closed valley (also called a woven or cut valley), shingles from both slopes overlap across the metal, concealing it. Open valleys are more common in insurance restoration work because they are easier to document and price in Xactimate.
Valley Flashing in Insurance Claims
Valley flashing has its own line item in Xactimate, measured in linear feet. When storm damage bends, crimps, or displaces valley metal, the entire run typically needs replacement because patching compromises the continuous water channel. Always photograph valleys from above and at the eave discharge point. Adjusters sometimes miss valley damage when inspecting from a ladder, so aerial or drone photos strengthen the documentation.
Frequently asked questions
Valley flashing is sheet metal installed in the trough where two roof slopes intersect. It catches and redirects the concentrated water flow that runs down both slopes, preventing infiltration at one of the roof's most vulnerable points.
An open valley leaves the metal flashing exposed between the shingle courses on each side. A closed valley weaves or overlaps shingles across the metal so no metal is visible. Open valleys are easier to inspect and maintain but show the metal. Closed valleys offer a cleaner appearance but can trap debris.
No credit card required