BLOG Understanding Roof Underlayment: A Key Component for Weather Protection Nov 01, 2024

When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, your roof plays a crucial role. Proper installation and maintenance of all components of your roofing system are essential in ensuring that your home remains safe and dry. One key component of a roofing system that is often overlooked is the roof underlayment. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of roof underlayment and how it helps in providing weather protection for your home.

Roof underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof material that is installed directly onto the roof deck before the shingles or other roofing materials are applied. Its main purpose is to act as a secondary barrier against water infiltration. While the shingles themselves provide the primary waterproofing layer, the underlayment helps to protect the roof deck and interior of your home in case of leaks or other roof damage.

There are several types of roof underlayment available, with the two most common being asphalt-saturated felt and synthetic underlayment. Asphalt-saturated felt, also known as felt paper or tar paper, has been used for decades and is still a popular choice for many roofing contractors. It is typically made of a cellulose or fiberglass mat that is saturated with asphalt for waterproofing. Synthetic underlayment, on the other hand, is a more modern and advanced option that is made of polyethylene or polypropylene. It is lighter, stronger, and more durable than traditional felt underlayment.

Regardless of the type of underlayment used, it is important to ensure that it is installed correctly to maximize its effectiveness. The underlayment should be laid out in overlapping layers starting from the bottom of the roof and working upwards. This overlapping pattern helps to prevent water from seeping through the seams and causing leaks. Additionally, the underlayment should be securely fastened to the roof deck to prevent it from shifting or tearing during high winds or storms.

In addition to providing an extra layer of protection against water infiltration, roof underlayment also plays a role in temperature control and energy efficiency. By adding an underlayment with reflective properties, you can help to reduce heat transfer into your home during hot summer months, resulting in lower cooling costs. Likewise, underlayment can also help to prevent heat loss during the winter, keeping your home warmer and reducing heating costs.

In conclusion, roof underlayment is a key component of your roofing system that should not be overlooked. It provides an additional layer of protection against water infiltration, helps to improve energy efficiency, and contributes to the overall durability of your roof. If you have any questions about roof underlayment or if you are in need of roofing services, don't hesitate to reach out to Remnant Construction INC. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you with all of your roofing needs.