The underlayment might not be seen from the ground like the shingles, gutters and flashings around dormers and vents, but it is an essential part of your roofing system. It plays a vital role in protecting your home against the elements, but what does it really do?
A Water-Resistant Barrier
The underlayment, which is sandwiched between your roof’s shingles and the decking or sheathing, is a water-resistant material that provides an extra layer of protection for your home in the event of inclement weather. During a typical roof replacement, professional roofers install them first to prevent moisture infiltration that could dampen the decking and cause damage. This is important, especially when it rains all of a sudden in the middle of the project.
In addition to making sure your roofing system doesn’t spring a leak, the underlayment also keeps the roof sheathing from reacting chemically to certain roofing materials. This is often the case in older homes that require immediate roof replacement, especially with decking made from specific wood varieties like fir and pine.
Underlayment Types Roofers Use
A variety of underlayment materials are used by roofers in their installation projects. Asphalt-saturated felt remains the popular choice among roofers. It can consist of either a fiberglass or organic substrate. The latter, which has a cellulose base, is often used in most roof installation projects. Note that it is water-resistant, but not necessarily waterproof.
Synthetic underlayment products include non-bitumen and rubberized asphalt. The former is made from polypropylene or polyethylene fibers, and, since it doesn’t absorb moisture, it is often used in homes situated in climates that experience temperature extremes. The latter, meanwhile, is highly effective in preventing water damage, especially in homes and businesses located in humid regions.
As one of the leading roofing repair contractors in the area, Krech Exteriors uses only high-quality roofing products from the nation’s top manufacturers including GAF and CertainTeed®. Our experienced installers design and install roofs that are meant to withstand the local climate. Call us today at (651) 688-6368 to get started, or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We serve homeowners in Minneapolis and the surrounding communities.
