When buying a new roofing installation, homeowners will also need to purchase a quality underlayment for application under the external roofing materials.
There are a number of types of underlayment that roofers can install under any chosen roofing materials, each one more suitable in different circumstances.
The easiest way for homeowners to choose the right underlayment for their roof is to know about the different types and how they are best used.
- Asphalt-Saturated Felt - Available in 15 and 30 lb. thicknesses, asphalt-saturated felt is the traditional underlayment used by roofers everywhere to make their installations watertight, protect roof decking, and even provide noise reduction under metal roofs. Also known as roofing paper or tar paper, this breathable but water-resistant material is readily available and easy to use, although it can wrinkle under the external materials, be torn, and is susceptible to mold growth in wetter climates. The 30 lb thickness, while being more durable and water-resistant, adds a significant amount of weight to the overall installation. Still, using a high-quality felt underlayment is a cost-effective, relatively reliable means of protecting any roof and the type chosen by most homeowners with an average risk of roofing damage.
- Synthetic - Made of woven polyethylene or polypropylene, synthetic underlayment is the most costly but also significantly more water-resistant and durable compared to asphalt-saturated felt. It is also mold-resistant, making it ideal protection for roofs that endure wet and damp conditions. Synthetic underlayment is also much lighter than felt and offers a non-wrinkling, tear-proof, option when the added weight of 30 lb felt is too high for the installation. Synthetic underlayment is becoming the more popular choice as time passes due to its reliability and long life.
- Rubberized Asphalt - Self-adhering rubberized polymer and asphalt underlayment is a higher-quality material that is completely waterproof and ideal for use on leak-prone areas like peaks, valleys, vents, protrusions, and other difficult areas on any roof. While it is not a required addition when using asphalt-saturated felt, it is a recommended extra bit of protection for premium, long-life roofs and adds extra waterproofing to the parts of a roof that are most likely to develop leaks over time.
Regardless of the type chosen, underlayment is a critical component to be used under a new roofing installation to cover the decking and provide breathable, yet water-resistant protection.
Talk to an experienced roofer to discuss the different types and which are recommended based on the type of materials being installed.
When spending thousands of dollars on a new roof, always protect that investment with a high-quality underlayment!