If you would like to reply to this thread, please log in. If you do not have an Ask the Experts forum user account, create one here.
If you would like to reply to this thread, please log in. If you do not have an Ask the Experts forum user account, create one here.
I just got an expensive standing seam metal roof installed (24 gauge galvalume with Kynar paint).
After watching some installation videos online from expert installers, I noticed that my valley details are different.
The installers inserted the panel pieces straight into what seems like a little groove installed on top of the valley pan.
What I've seen online is that the standing seam panels get bent over at the end and then tucked into an offset cleat, similar to what is done at the roof bottom, where the panel is hooked into the drip edge.
Maybe what I have is an acceptable installation. I have no clue. The installers seemed knowledgeable and walked me over every detail. It didn't seem like they were in doubt about their methods.

12/13/2020
Thank you for choosing metal What was done with your valleys is not typical. I think the concern is whether over time the receiving channels will be able to handle the water, ice, and snow ... and whether they may clog with tree debris, etc. I would suggest talking to the installers and asking them to diagram out the valley and explain how they prevent it from clogging over time. I'd also ask them if this valley is within the scope of installation details recommended by the roofing manufacturer.
Isaiah Industries, Inc.
12/14/2020
Thank you, Todd, for your reply. I will ask for that diagram.
I am afraid, though, I got stuck with a non-standard installation. If no manufacturer recommendation exists for this particular style, is it appropriate for me to demand that they redo those areas? Unfortunately, I have four valleys like that. The same channel was used behind my chimney to tie the panels into the flashing pan.
Little ice and snow here in North Texas, but also approx. 42 in of annual rainfall. Trees are all trimmed away, so little debris from that makes it up there.
Still, this seems like a maintenance item. I am more afraid of long term failure, though, as some of the water is carried inside that channel, and not on top of the valley.
12/14/2020
I did a test with some water this morning, pouring it directly against the channel. Some spilt over and into the valley (where it all should be), some was directed to the eaves inside the channel. Some traveled alongside the back of the bottom hem of the panels, appearing at the drip edge approx. 30 inches away from the valley. I assume that means water gets somehow redirected under the panels. Even as a layman, this doesn't seem acceptable to me.
12/14/2020
It may be that the water is traveling along the starter. I really do not know what to say as this is a valley details I have never before seen done with standing seam. One option might be to go see past, older jobs they have done the same way. My gut feeling does leave me with concerns about long term performance. That said, your weather environment and conditions do sound more supportive of this detail than many other environments and conditions.
Isaiah Industries, Inc.
12/15/2020
Hello. I would like to know the outcome. I had a standing seam roof installed summer 2021. I noticed many sloppy procedures and mistakes. My valleys are also crimped over the panels trapping leaves. I would like to see if the homeowner resolved this by having the valleys redone.
3/8/2022
Hi, I am the original poster, and to answer your question: I fought a long time with the contractor, and ultimately he agreed to pay for most of the repairs. I had another company remove all valleys and install them anew according to industry standards. It took a long time, involving credit card chargebacks and threats to file a bond claim.
Personally, I would not be happy with what you have. Seems like there is something fundamentally wrong. Those valleys should be unobstructed so that debris can flush out.
3/8/2022