Choosing a woven vs closed cut valley decides how shingles meet where two roof slopes join. A woven valley interlaces shingles from both sides across the valley line. A closed cut valley runs one side across, then trims the other side in a straight line. With today's thick architectural shingles, closed cut or an open metal valley is usually the better choice.
If a valley is leaking now, or you are comparing replacement bids, call Cannon Roofing at (940) 627-1045, day or night, or use our contact page, and we will look at how your valleys are built.
Why valleys deserve special attention
A valley collects runoff from two roof planes, so it carries more water than any other part of the roof. It also catches leaves, pine needles and hail debris. During North Texas storms, heavy rain and wind push water up and sideways in the valley. That is why valleys are a common source of leaks, and why the method used to shingle them matters. Houses with many gables, dormers and additions have more valleys and more risk; our article on complex rooflines explains why.
The three valley types explained
Woven valley
Shingles from each side are laid across the valley one course at a time, alternating so they overlap like a basket weave. There are no cut edges in the valley, and the shingles double up across the center.
Where weaving falls short
Weaving works best with thin, flexible three-tab shingles. Thick laminated architectural shingles do not bend well across the valley, leaving humps, gaps and bridging that can crack or let water in. Many manufacturers do not recommend weaving with laminated shingles, so check the installation instructions for the product on your roof.
Closed cut valley
Shingles from one side, typically the lower-pitched or smaller plane, are run across the valley centerline and up the other side. Then the second side is laid over them and cut in a straight line a short distance from the center. The cut edge is sealed down with roofing cement, and the upper corner of each cut shingle is trimmed so water is steered into the valley rather than under the shingle.
What makes a closed cut valley last
Good closed cut valleys have no nails near the center, a clean straight cut line and properly sealed cut edges. The cut side is usually the steeper or larger plane, so its heavier runoff spills over the cut edge and down the valley instead of being driven back under it. When cut edges lift or were not sealed, water can work under them.
Open metal valley
A metal liner runs down the valley, and shingles on both sides stop short of the center, leaving a channel of exposed metal. Water and debris move quickly down the smooth metal.
Where open metal valleys shine
They suit steep roofs with heavy runoff, homes under trees, and houses with a lot of debris in the valleys. The metal must be the right gauge and profile, often with a center crimp to stop water from one side crossing to the other, and it must be fastened without puncturing the channel.
Woven vs closed cut valley under heavy runoff and debris
- Runoff capacity: open metal handles the heaviest flows best; closed cut and woven both perform well on typical homes when installed correctly.
- Debris: leaves and granules slide off smooth metal more easily; shingled valleys can trap debris along the edges.
- Hail: shingled valleys hide hail marks well; metal valleys can dent but usually keep working.
- Appearance: closed cut and woven look like part of the roof; open metal adds a visible line.
What to specify on a roof replacement
Whichever type you choose, the layer under the shingles matters just as much:
- A self-adhering ice and water barrier the full length of every valley, lapped correctly.
- The valley method written into the estimate, not left to the crew's choice.
- Any metal valley's gauge, width and whether it has a center crimp.
- Nailing kept back from the valley center.
- Diverters or crickets where a valley dumps against a wall or chimney.
If you are torn on the woven vs closed cut valley question for a new roof, the shingle decides most of it: laminated architectural shingles point to closed cut or open metal, while a woven valley only makes sense with a thin, flexible shingle and the manufacturer's approval. Our overview of valley leak repair covers the signs that an existing valley is failing.
We do not publish prices because every roof is different. Valley count and length, the method chosen, metal type and underlayment all affect the quote. Tell us about your roof and we will give you a clear, written estimate.
How Cannon Roofing builds valleys
As part of a roof replacement, we look at each valley's pitch, runoff and debris load and recommend the method that suits it, rather than one style for the whole roof. Every visit starts with a free inspection and estimate. Cannon Roofing has worked in Decatur and Wise County since 1994, and our factory-trained crews all hold the Technician Seal of Safety.
Frequently asked questions
Is a woven valley stronger than a cut valley?
With three-tab shingles, a woven valley doubles coverage at the center and holds up well. With laminated shingles, a properly installed closed cut valley is usually the more reliable choice.
Can a leaking valley be repaired, or does the roof need replacement?
Many valley leaks can be repaired by removing shingles, fixing the underlayment and relaying the valley. Widespread wear or hail damage may point toward replacement.
Do metal valleys make the roof louder?
Not noticeably. The metal is a narrow strip over solid decking and underlayment, so rain noise is similar to the rest of the roof.
Want a second look at your valleys? Call Cannon Roofing at (940) 627-1045, day or night. We will inspect each valley, explain what we see and put the right method in writing on your estimate. You can also reach us through our contact page.