When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, the roof plays a critical role. However, beneath the shingles and roofs materials lies an unsung good guy: roofs underlayment. Often overlooked but incredibly important, roofs underlayment is the hidden layer that provides an additional shield against moisture, ice, and other potential hazards. In this blog, we will explore the significance of roofs underlayment, its different kinds, installation methods, and why it’s an essential component of a durable and long-lasting roofs system.
What is Roofs Underlayment?
Roofs underlayment, also known as roofs felt or tar paper, is a protective layer installed between the roof deck (plywood or OSB) and the final roofs material (shingles, tiles, metal, etc. ). It serves as a extra barrier that helps prevent water infiltration, protects against roofers vancouver wind-driven rain, and provides additional insulating material. Roofs underlayment is necessary in regions with harsh climatic conditions, as it helps extend living of the roof as well as the integrity of the residence’s structure.
Types of Roofs Underlayment
Asphalt-Saturated Felt: This traditional underlayment material is made from cellulose fibers or fiberglass saturated with asphalt. It comes in rolls and is affordable and easy to install. Even as it provides good protection, it may not be as resistant to Uv rays and moisture as newer materials.
Man-made Underlayment: Made from polyethylene or polypropylene, man-made underlayment is highly resistant to moisture and Uv rays. It is lightweight, durable, and less susceptible to shredding or wrinkling during installation. Man-made underlayment often comes in rolls or sheets and is considered a more modern alternative to traditional felt.
Silicone Asphalt Underlayment: This type of underlayment combines asphalt and rubber to make a self-sealing, water-resistant material. It adheres well to the roof deck and can seal off around nails and fasteners, providing excellent waterproofing.
The value of Roofs Underlayment
Water Resistance: Roofs underlayment acts as a waterproof barrier that prevents water from dripping into the roof deck. This is crucial in areas with heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or wind-driven rain.
Ice and Compacted snow Protection: In regions with cold climates, underlayment can help prevent ice dams by providing an additional layer of insulating material and preventing water infiltration that can lead to ice swelling.
Wind Resistance: Underlayment adds wind resistance to the roof, helping to keep shingles or other roofs materials in place during severe hard thunder storms and high gusts of wind.
Flow Prevention: It serves as a backup layer of protection in case shingles or other roofs materials become damaged or severely sacrificed, reducing the risk of coolant leaks.
Installing Roofs Underlayment
Proper installing roofs underlayment is necessary to its effectiveness. Here are the basic steps involved:
Clean the Roof Deck: Ensure that the roof deck is clean and clear of debris before installing underlayment.
Start at the Eaves: Begin at the eaves (bottom edge of the roof) and work your way up, overlapping each row of underlayment as you go.
Overlap Joints: Overlap the edges of adjacent sheets or rolls of underlayment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This ensures a leak-proof seal off.
Secure with Fasteners: Secure the underlayment to the roof deck using roofs nails or staples, making sure to follow the recommended spacing and pattern.
Install Drip Edge and Blinking: Install drip edge along the eaves and gable edges, and blinking around roof penetrations (vents, chimneys, etc. ) to help promote protect against water infiltration.
Inspect and Repair: After installation, carefully inspect the underlayment for any tears, breaks, or problems. Any issues should be promptly repaired to maintain the integrity of the roof.
Conclusion
Roofs underlayment is a crucial but often underestimated component of a durable roofs system. It provides an additional layer of protection against moisture, wind, and other environmental factors, helping to extend living of the roof and safeguard the residence’s structure. Whether you’re building a new roof or replacing a present one, investing in high-quality underlayment and ensuring its proper installation is essential for long-term roof performance and peace of mind. By protecting your roof from the inside out, you’re investing in the comfort and safety of your home for many years to come.
YK