Why Is the Roof Underlayment Important?

There are several components that a roofing system must possess to be effective in protecting a home from the elements for as long as possible. While most homeowners are familiar with the most obvious component — the asphalt shingles or other roofing material they have over their home — they might not know about some of the other, equally important parts.

One of those parts is the roof underlayment.

What Is Roofing Underlayment?

The waterproof or water-resistant barrier material installed on the wood deck before the shingles is a sheet called the roofing underlayment. Many roofing material manufacturers also make their own underlayment that works best when installed with their shingles.

Why Is the Roofing Underlayment Important?

The roofing underlayment’s purpose is to serve as an additional protective layer against the rain, snow and other forms of precipitation. It keeps your roofing system extra-safe from water damage. In case a hole or a break forms on your shingles, your home would still be safe from water intrusion as long as the underlayment is intact. During the roof installation, if the roofers have not completed the installation of shingles and it starts to rain, the underlayment would serve as your temporary roof to keep your home dry.

What Material Is Used as Roofing Underlayment?

There are three types of roofing underlayment. 

• Asphalt-Saturated Felt – Provides plenty of flexibility and water-resistance for a low cost.
• Non-Bitumen Synthetic – A newer type of roofing underlayment, this has quickly become the most popular type. It covers the entire roof and is cost-effective. Think of it as a better alternative to asphalt-saturated felt with slightly better water-resistant properties.
• Rubberized Asphalt – If there’s plenty of leeway with your budget, then this is the best option. It features an adhesive back with a protective membrane. It’s completely waterproof, so it’s immediately better than the first two options.

Summit Roofing & Restoration, Inc. is a roof replacement expert. We only use high-quality materials when we install a roof, and we also handle storm damage repairs. Call us today at (731) 589-7663 (Dreysburg) or (901) 430-1974 (Atoka). You can also fill out this form for a free estimate.