Roofing underlayment is usually undetectable, and you might not even know what it is! It is, nonetheless, an important part of any roofing system.
A water-resistant or waterproof barrier that acts as a shield against storms, glaciers, humidity, and wind is referred to as roofing underlayment. Roofing contractors install it directly on the roof deck and beneath the other roofing materials.
What Is the Purpose of Roofing Underlayment?
Roofing underlayment is required in many roof areas. Shingles alone will not safeguard your rooftop deck.
Remember that shingles are not secured at all edges and can be lifted by heavy winds. They become fragile over time, and the high temperature of a poorly ventilated attic can cook them. They, too, are vulnerable to tearing or invasion by wind-driven rain.
Shingles reflect direct sunlight, endure wind, and keep rain out, and they’re only the first line of defense. As a result, your roofing system requires underlayment to successfully protect your home.
Roofing Underlayment Types
1. Asphalt-Saturated Felt:
This form of underlayment, often known as “felt paper” or “tar paper,” is made up of various natural fibers combined with bitumen, polyester, or asphalt. It typically has a flexible base layer or a base mat. Furthermore, producers saturate it with asphalt to make it water-resistant.
Advantages of asphalt-saturated felt include:
- It comes in a variety of thicknesses to accommodate your local weather conditions.
- Because they have different weather resistance, you may have a variety of possibilities.
- It’s less expensive than a lot of other options.
- It works well as a seepage barrier.
- It is simple to install with ordinary tools.
Disadvantages of asphalt-saturated felt include:
- It can be heavy, especially if you overlay it thickly enough to be efficient in colder climates.
- Because it is thicker than other options, setup may be difficult.
- When subjected to cold, it can fall to pieces and crack.
- When exposed to heat, its volatile components can disperse. As a result, the underlayment can absorb moisture and disintegrate.
2. Synthetic Underlayment:
Manufacturers create synthesized underlayment that can be set up across the entire roof deck. They saturate them in asphalt as well as add fiberglass to improve tear-resistance and security.
Advantages of synthetic underlayment include:
- It is a lightweight and efficient water barrier. As a result, it adds little weight to your roof.
- When subjected to elevated winds, it is tear-resistant.
- It does not hold water. As a result, it is resistant to mildew and fungal growth.
- It retains its integrity even when exposed to cold and does not wear down as fast as others.
Disadvantages of synthetic underlayment include:
- It is higher priced than asphalt-saturated felt.
- More tools and expertise are required for proper setup.
Most roofing experts now prefer synthetic underlayment. Scrim reinforcement is also included in high-quality synthetic underlayment, such as CertainTeed’s Diamond DeckTM, for added slip resistance.
3.Rubberized Asphalt:
Rubberized asphalt underlayment is water-resistant due to the higher percentage of asphalt and rubber polymers. It frequently has a sticky back with a protective membrane that roofing contractors must remove prior to installation. This backing forms a watertight seal between the underlayment and the rooftop deck.
This underlayment should be used in valleys and areas particularly susceptible to leaks, such as roof protrusions.
Rubberized asphalt advantages include:
- In areas where snow is harsh, water-resistant roofing underlayment at the roof eaves is effective. The underlayment will effectively keep water off the roof deck rim.
- It is far more resistant to heat and cold than asphalt-saturated felt.
- When mounted, they have a longer lifespan.
- Will you have to delay the installation of your main roof covering? No worries, this underlayment can withstand exposure to the elements for up to 180 days without sustaining major harm.
Rubberized asphalt disadvantages include:
- Perhaps the only disadvantage of this underlayment is the higher investment needed.
How to Select the Best Roofing Underlayment for Your Roof
When it comes to selecting your underlayment, you should think about the cost. Establishing your spending plan first will help you determine what underlayment offerings to consider.
Of course, determining what works the best with your type of roof is essential.
For example, because synthetic underlayment is more heat resistant, it works well in metal roofs. Meanwhile, roofing felt underlayment may complement a traditional asphalt shingle roof.
The main issue was that you had no idea how water got into the house or roof. Your ceiling’s water blotches make it obvious, but you must be very careful in tracking down these points.
You should also take into account your local environment and climatic conditions. The underlayment you select must be weather resistant in your area.
Do You Need a New Roof?
Call Morrissey Construction at 860-378-2514 in Glastonbury, CT!
By contacting us online, you can obtain a quote and schedule a free in-home consultation. You can also get answers to your questions about home roofing.
