It may surprise you to learn that a tiny metal strip called valley flashing is one of the main prevention of roof leaks. Often neglected, valley flashing is an essential part of roof installation or repair. It’s a simple, but essential, part to maintaining a long-lasting, leak-free roof. The question: Do you nail in valley flashing, and if so, where? Is frequently posed by homeowners.
To stop leaks and prolong the life of your roof, we’ll go into detail about valley flashing in this blog post, including its significance, proper nailing techniques, and where to put the nails.
What is Roof Valley Flashing?
Made of strips of plastic or metal, roof valley flashing is a crucial component of the roof that covers the valleys that form where two roof slopes meet. Its primary function is to divert rainfall away from these regions to prevent water accumulation, leaks, and damage.
Valley flashing keeps the roofing structure dry and helps maintain its quality over time by regulating water flow. Galvanized steel, aluminum, and PVC are common materials for valley flashing because they are robust and weatherproof.
Types of Valley Flashing
1. Open Valley Flashing
This type uses exposed metal or plastic strips to create the valley on top of roofing materials. It’s easy to inspect and maintain, as debris is visible. Open valleys are great at shedding water and preventing snow buildup, making them ideal for areas with heavy rainfall or snow.
2. Closed Valley Flashing
Roofing shingles cover valley flashing and offer a seamless look. While it’s visually appealing, it can be harder to maintain and might not drain water as well as open valleys.
3. Woven Valley Flashing
Shingles from both slopes are interwoven to create the valley. It provides a smooth appearance and extra leak protection, but installation can be tricky, and it may not perform as well in places where frequent, heavy rain is common.
The Main Question: Do You Nail Down Valley Flashing?
Yes, in order to keep it from moving and guarantee that it effectively diverts water away from weak spots, valley flashing needs to be firmly attached to the roofing structure. However, it’s important to nail it down properly, mainly along the edges rather than through the middle, to maintain its waterproof seal and avoid leaks.
Nailing the edges correctly ensures the flashing does its job without compromising the roof’s strength. To further protect against water damage, use roofing cement around the nails and where the parts of the flashing overlap. This combination of secure nailing and added sealant creates a strong barrier, keeping the roof intact and leak-free.
Where Do You Nail Valley Flashing?
Knowing the right spots to nail down valley flashing is essential for preventing leaks and ensuring it performs effectively. Here’s a brief explanation on where to place nails for the best results:
1. Along the Top Edge
Begin by securing the top edge of the flashing at the roofline. This keeps the flashing stable as roofing materials expand and contract with temperature changes.
2. On the Side Edges
As you move down the valley, place nails along the sides, where the flashing overlaps the roofing material below. This prevents the flashing from lifting in strong winds.
3. Nail Spacing
Place nails 6 to 8 inches apart along the edges. Too many nails can create weak spots that leak, while too few may allow the flashing to become loose over time.
Avoid over-nailing or placing nails through the center of the flashing, as this can lead to leaks. By keeping nails along the edges and top, you help maintain the flashing’s integrity and waterproofing.
Installation Steps for Valley Flashing
Though it’s always best to hire a professional for the installation, valley flashing can be installed if you have experience working on roofs. Let’s take a closer look at the simple steps to install valley flashing for your roof successfully.
1. Mark the Valley Location
Use a chalk line to mark where the valley flashing will be installed. Ensure the lines are straight and aligned with the roof’s existing lines.
2. Cut the Flashing
Measure and cut the flashing to fit the marked area. Make sure it extends at least a couple of inches beyond the roof edge for proper drainage.
3. Align and Secure
Position the flashing along the marked lines. Secure it with nails or screws along the edges. Avoid nailing through the center or at the overlap points where shingles will cover.
4. Seal Overlaps
If using multiple pieces of flashing, overlap each section by at least 6 inches. Apply roofing cement underneath the overlap to create a watertight seal.
5. Install Shingles
Lay shingles carefully over the valley flashing, trimming them to fit along the chalk lines. Be sure to place nails at least 2 inches back from the lines to avoid puncturing the flashing.
6. Final Inspection
After installation, inspect the flashing thoroughly. Ensure all seams are sealed properly and there are no exposed areas where water could enter.
Best Practices for Nailing Valley Flashing
Let’s explore the key techniques for nailing valley flashing effectively to protect your roof from water damage.
1. Use Gasket Screws
For better leak protection, consider using gasket screws with rubber washers. These screws create a watertight seal when tightened, which is more effective against leaks than regular nails.
2. Seal Overlapping Pieces
If multiple pieces of flashing are needed, overlap them by at least 6 inches. Adding a layer of roofing cement under each overlap creates a strong, leak-proof barrier.
3. Space Nails Correctly
Position nails or screws about 6 to 8 inches apart along the edges. This spacing gives enough support without creating too many potential leak points.
4. Use Durable Materials
Select high-quality materials like aluminum or galvanized steel for the flashing. These metals resist rust and corrosion, ensuring your flashing lasts longer and protects better
5. Consider Professional Help
If you’re not confident in your ability to install flashing properly, a professional roofer can ensure it’s done right and provide added peace of mind.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a small mistake in flashing installation can lead to significant issues. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
1. Over-Nailing
Using too many nails creates unnecessary holes in the flashing, which can lead to leaks. Follow the recommended spacing to prevent this.
2. Over-Tightening Nails
Driving nails in too tightly can cause the metal to bend, creating gaps that allow water to seep through.
3. Improper Nail Placement
Never place nails directly through the center of the flashing, as it can create holes and lead to leaks. Nail along the edges and keep the center free from nails.
4. Incorrect Flashing Length
If the flashing is too short, water may bypass it and run off the edges. Ensure the flashing extends far enough over the valley to prevent this.
Why Proper Installation Matters
Proper valley flashing installation is key to your roof’s long-term durability. If done incorrectly, it can lead to:
1. Leaks
Water can seep into the roofing structure, causing leaks in the attic, ceilings, and walls.
2. Wood Rot and Mold
Continued leaks can lead to wood rot and mold growth, weakening the roof structure.
3. Increased Repair Costs
Poor installation may require expensive repairs, which can be avoided with proper flashing.
Get Expert Advice on Nailing Valley Flashing With Miller Roofing and Renovations
For exceptional roofing services, Miller Roofing and Renovations is your go-to partner. We provide a variety of services, such as roof installation, repair, and maintenance, and have years of experience and a dedication to excellence. To produce outstanding outcomes, our talented team uses the newest methods and high-quality materials. Call us today at (901) 457-9405 to learn more.
