Repairs and tips for problem roof valleys
The valley of your homes roof is the angle at which 2 or
more roofs meet
For example, multiple
wings in your home that are perpendicular to one another will form a valley to
allow for efficient water run-off.
Most roof leaks occur in the valley of
adjoining roofs, which can be very frustrating and technical to repair. Roof
valley problems usually occur due to the breakdown of material used in the
installation. To avoid costly roof issues. It is recommended that an inspection should be carried out on a regular basis.
Valley problems
usually manifest as a water leak which can be due to ageing materials and
poor installation, the weather can also have its toll on these vulnerable parts
of your roof.
Leaks occur when the metal flashing that
surrounds the valley does not adequately protect your roofing materials. Water
leakage usually occurs during particularly wet or snowy weather.
Semi-annual roof
inspections by an experienced roofing contractor can help you avoid major water damage. It is essential that your roofing contractor replaces any damaged areas
of valley or flashing associated with it, as this will eliminate leaks during
the winter months. This should avoid the costly repairs of such values and
maintain your roof structure.
Miss cut material on
the initial installation or repair can be a very large contributing factor to
roof valley leaking.
At the intersection
of an angled valley the roofing material must be cut to an angle to ensure a
tight fit as this is essential to maintain a water tight joint. Fixing nails
should be protected by metal flashing or roof material and not placed in the
valley to allow seepage. .It is essential that nails used should be at least 6
inches from seemed intersections of roofing slopes, preventing roofing material
damage and leaking. If you place your shingles or roofing tiles and attention
by locating the nails too close to the scene this will result in damage and
leakage.
The age of your
roofing material and deterioration may be the cause of your roof valley
problems.
Depending on the type
of material used in your roof will contribute to the life expectancy of your
roof. Older homes that retain their original roofs may be susceptible to
material malfunction resulting in inevitable leaky roof. A good roofing
contractor will know how to treat an ageing roof knowing what to look for to
maintain your roof in top working condition without the expense of the roof replacement.
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| Above is a wood shingle roof without using a valley, instead the shingle is molded from upright to roof level without a valley. |
