What Is Roof Underlayment And Roof Underlayment Types
One of the first things roofing contractors install during a roof replacement is the underlayment. It is placed right on top of the roof deck to protect against water infiltration that might cause damage to the roof’s wooden components. Read on to learn more about what the underlayment does for your roofing system.
What is Roof Underlayment and How Important Is roof underlayment?
The underlayment is sandwiched between the roof covering—asphalt shingles, metal panels, concrete and clay tiles, slate—and the roof deck or sheathing. It serves as the secondary barrier that helps preserve the structural integrity of the entire roofing system, with the roofing materials you see on the surface acting as the primary defense against the harsh elements.
Aside from making sure your roofing system isn’t leaking, the underlayment also keeps roof sheathing from undergoing chemical reactions caused by certain roof coverings. This is common in old homes where the roof sheathing is made of fir and pine boards.
During new construction roofing or roof replacement projects, the underlayment offers temporary protection, especially if the pros are yet to completely install the roof covering due to inclement weather. The material used as the underlayment is designed to prevent moisture infiltration.
Roof Underlayment Types
Today, synthetic underlayment products are used for roof installations. Before this, however, asphalt-saturated felt continues to be a staple in most roofing projects. Flexible and water-resistant, it is the most affordable type of underlayment.
Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment is an upgrade to the asphalt-saturated felt in terms of water resistance. Rubberized asphalt beats the previous two underlayment materials, however, with a higher percentage of asphalt and rubber polymer for top-notch waterproofing.
The next time you have a roofing concern and wonder, “Is there any reliable roofing near me?” keep John Peters Roofing on top of mind. As an Owens Corning® Preferred Contractor, we are committed to providing only the best products and services possible. Our roofing pros are extensively trained and have the technical proficiency to install the brand’s complete roofing system for top-notch performance.
Call us today at (317) 786-3315 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve residents of Indianapolis and the surrounding communities.