Metal Valleys vs Closed Valleys: A Small Upgrade That Makes a Big Difference in Roof Lifespan
When you look at your roof, valleys might not seem like a big deal.
But from a roofing perspective?
Valleys are one of the most important (and most stressed) parts of your entire roof.
They handle more water than anywhere else.
And how they’re built can directly affect how long your roof lasts.
At Weatherproof Roofing Inc., we often talk with homeowners in Edmonton about one simple upgrade during replacements:
Metal valleys instead of closed (shingle) valleys.
Both are acceptable.
Both are warrantied.
But one clearly lasts longer.
Let’s break it down.
First: What Is a Roof Valley?
A valley is where two roof slopes meet.
It’s basically a funnel.
And it handles:
Rain
Snow melt
Ice
Debris
Massive water flow during storms
If any part of your roof is going to wear out first…
It’s usually here, which is why valley issues are common causes of roof leaks.
So details here matter a lot.
What Most Homes Have: Closed Valleys
How they’re built:
With a closed valley:
Shingles from one side run across the valley and bend up the other slope
Shingles from the opposite side are installed over top
Then cut cleanly along the valley line
It creates a “woven” or layered look made entirely of shingles.
Pros:
Standard practice
Fully waterproof when installed properly
Manufacturer approved
Covered under warranty
Lower upfront cost
So yes — they work.
But here’s the catch…
The Problem With Closed Valleys
Closed valleys force shingles to:
Bend sharply
Fold
Carry the heaviest water flow on the entire roof
Over time this causes:
Faster granule loss
Cracking at the bend
Wear from constant water movement
Ice buildup stress
Earlier aging than the rest of the roof
So while the main roof might last 25–30 years…
Valleys often look worn out much sooner.
That's why roofs leak at the valley so often.
But they don't have to.
The Upgrade Option: Metal Valleys
A metal valley works differently.
Instead of bending shingles through the valley:
Metal valley flashing is installed first
Shingles stop short on both sides
About a 4" exposed strip of metal remains visible
Now water flows:
Directly down smooth metal
Not across shingles
Not over bends
Not through layered cuts
It’s simply a cleaner, more durable path for water.
Why Metal Valleys Last Longer
Metal valleys:
Don’t force shingles to bend
Less stress on materials
Shed water faster
Smoother surface = quicker drainage
Reduce debris buildup
Leaves and ice slide out easier
Handle heavy flow better
Perfect for Alberta snowmelt
Age evenly with the roof
No premature “weak spots”
Basically, they remove the highest-wear area from your shingles entirely.
Which helps your whole roof age together.
Cost vs Value
Here’s the nice part:
This isn’t a huge upgrade.
Compared to the total cost of a roof replacement:
Metal valleys are a relatively small add-on
But long-term, they can:
Reduce repair calls
Delay leaks
Extend valley life
Prevent premature failure
Save money over time
It’s one of those “small detail, big payoff” upgrades.
Which Should You Choose?
Closed valley might be fine if:
Tight budget
Short-term ownership
Standard replacement
Metal valley makes sense if:
You want maximum durability
Planning to stay long-term
Heavy snow/water areas
Want fewer future issues
Prefer preventative upgrades
For many homeowners, the small extra investment just makes sense.
Our Recommendation
At Weatherproof Roofing, we explain both options clearly.
No pressure.
But if you ask us what we’d put on our own homes?
Metal valleys, every time.
Because valleys work harder than any other part of your roof.
So giving them extra protection is just smart.
Final Thought
Roofing is all about details.
And sometimes the smallest upgrades make the biggest difference.
Metal valley flashing helps your roof:
Drain better
Last longer
Age evenly
Stay leak-free
Not flashy. Just practical.
Planning a Roof Repair or Replacement in Edmonton?
Ask us about upgrading to metal valleys during your quote.
As a trusted roofing company in Edmonton, Weatherproof Roofing helps you understand your options and build a roof that’s made to last — not just pass inspection.
Because smart details today prevent headaches tomorrow.