What is Roof Underlayment?
What is Roof Underlayment?
As a homeowner, you know that taking care of your roof is important. But what exactly does that involve? One part of roof care that many homeowners don’t know about is roof underlayment. So what is it, and why is it so important? Keep reading to find out!
What roof underlayment is and what it’s used for
Roof underlayment is a material used in construction to protect the roof from weather damage. It is installed between the roof deck and the shingles and acts as a barrier against wind and moisture. There are many different types of underlayment available, but the most common are made of fiberglass or asphalt. Underlayment is an important part of any roofing system and should be installed by a professional to ensure that it is properly applied. When choosing an underlayment for your home, be sure to select one that is compatible with the type of shingles you have installed.
The different types of roof underlayment available on the market
There are several different types of roof underlayment available on the market, so how do you know which one is right for you? Let’s take a look at the most common types of underlayment to help you make an informed decision.
Asphalt-Saturated Felt Underlayment
Asphalt-saturated felt is one of the most common types of underlayment used in residential roofs.. It is made from organic materials like wood fibers that are saturated with asphalt. This type of underlayment is available in both 15# and 30# weights. The heavier the weight, the thicker the underlayment and the better it will resist tears and punctures.
Pros: Asphalt-saturated felt is easy to work with and relatively inexpensive. It’s also effective at resisting moisture and providing an additional layer of insulation.
Cons: Asphalt-saturated felt can be damaged by high winds, so it’s not ideal for homes in hurricane-prone areas. It’s also more susceptible to curling and wrinkling than some other types of underlayment.
Polymeric Membrane Underlayment
Polymeric membrane underlayment is a synthetic material that is composed of two layers—a top layer of spun-bonded polypropylene and a bottom layer of rubberized asphalt. This type of underlayment is available in both 4mm and 6mm thicknesses.
Pros: Polymeric membrane underlayment has excellent tear resistance and can withstand high winds—up to 130 mph! It’s also very durable and resistant to curling, wrinkling, and temperature changes.
Cons: Polymeric membrane underlayment can be more expensive than other types of underlayment, so it may not be ideal for budget-minded homeowners. It can also be difficult to install if you don’t have experience working with this type of material.
Self-Adhesive Membrane Underlayment
Self-adhesive membrane underlayment is composed of a synthetic rubberized asphalt core that is sandwiched between two layers of reinforced fiberglass mats. This type of underlayment has an adhesive backing that makes it easy to install—simply peel off the backing and stick it in place.! Self-adhesive membrane underlayments are available in both 4mm and 6mm thicknesses.
Pros: Self-adhesive membrane underlayments are very easy to install—no nails or staples required! They’re also moisture resistant and resistant to wind damage, tearing, puncturing, curling, and wrinkling.
Cons: Self-adhesive membrane underlayments can be more expensive than other types of underlayments, so they may not be ideal for budget-minded homeowners. They can also be difficult to install if you don’t have experience working with this type of material
How to choose the right roof underlayment for your home
When choosing an underlayment for your home, there are a few factors that you will need to consider in order to make sure that you select the best possible option.
The first factor that you need to consider is the climate in which you live. If you live in an area with high temperatures and direct sunlight, like Florida, you will want to choose an underlayment that has high resistance to UV rays such as a synthetic underlayment. If you live in an area with high humidity, you will want to choose an underlayment with high resistance to water absorption such as a felt or metal underlayment.
The second factor that you need to consider is the type of roofing material that you will be using as not all types of roofing materials are compatible with all types of underlayments. Consult with a professional roofer before making your final decision so that they can help ensure that you choose the right option for your specific needs.
Installing roof underlayment – tips and tricks to make the job easier
While most people hire a professional to install their roof underlayment, there are some tips and tricks that can make the job easier if you’re considering doing it yourself.
The first tip is to make sure that you have all of the necessary tools and materials before you start. This includes measuring tape, felt paper or another type of underlayment, cap nails, a hammer, and a utility knife. Once you have everything you need, the next step is to measure the area where you’ll be installing the underlayment.
It’s important to cut the felt paper or other type of underlayment slightly larger than the area you’re covering. This will give you some wiggle room in case your measurements aren’t 100% accurate. Once you have the underlayment cut to size, the next step is to nail it into place. Start at one end and work your way across, making sure that each nail is driven into the sheathing for added stability.
If you come across any obstacles like vents or skylights, simply use your utility knife to cut around them. And that’s it! You’ve successfully installed roof underlayment.
If this seems like a daunting task, contact Heart of Florida Roofing and we can help you out.
Maintaining your roof underlayment so it lasts as long as possible
Many people don’t give much thought to their roof underlayment until it’s too late. By then, they’re dealing with leaks, water damage, and an early replacement. But what most people don’t realize is that a little bit of preventative maintenance can go a long way in prolonging the life of your roof underlayment. Here are a few tips on how to keep your roof underlayment in tip-top shape.
- Check for signs of wear and tear regularly. Look for cracks, holes, or any other damage. If you see any damage, make sure to repair it immediately. The last thing you want is for your roof underlayment to start leaking!
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast. If there is a chance of severe weather, make sure to take extra precautions. Secure any loose pieces of underlayment and remove any debris that could be blown around by high winds.
- Make sure your gutters are clean and clear of debris. Gutters play an important role in keeping your roof in good condition by redirecting water away from your home. If your gutters are clogged, this can cause water to back up and seep underneath your shingles and into your home.
- Get a professional inspection once a year. Even if you think your roof is in good condition, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get a professional opinion. They will be able to spot any potential problems that you might have missed and help you come up with a plan to address them before they cause serious damage.
Roof underlayment is an important part of your roofing system and should be installed properly to ensure the longevity of your roof. If you are in need of a new roof or have any questions about your current roofing system, please give our team a call. We would be happy to help!
