Guide
Open metal valleys or closed-cut shingles: which valley the bid must choose
Written by Ultra Power Construction. The credentials page states that this contractor is licensed and insured in New Jersey and lists GAF and Owens Corning programs. Updated 2026-09-28.
Essex Fells, North Caldwell, and Millburn roofs are often cut into many planes, so valleys carry more water than the open field. The decision on the estimate is whether each valley is open metal or closed-cut shingles—and whether that choice is written before work starts.
- Open valleys shed debris; closed valleys hide the metal
- Cut-up luxury roofs multiply valley length
- What to require in writing
Open valleys shed debris; closed valleys hide the metal
Open metal valleys leave a visible channel that sheds leaves. Closed-cut valleys weave or cut shingles over the metal. Neither is automatically better; the estimate must pick one per valley.
Cut-up luxury roofs multiply valley length
Small-lot homes with dormers and wings can have several long valleys. Price by linear foot and metal type, not a vague “valley work included.”
What to require in writing
List each valley type, metal gauge or material, and whether ice-and-water runs under it. An Essex Fells or North Caldwell bid that only says “valleys” leaves the method open.