Why Is Roofing Underlayment Important?

Your roofing system is made up of many different components that work together to safeguard your home from weather elements and other environmental threats. One of these components is the roofing underlayment, a fundamental part that makes the entire structure stable and effective. In this post, we discuss the importance of roofing underlayment.

The Role of Roofing Underlayment

The underlayment is either a water-resistant or waterproof material. It is installed directly onto the roof deck and under all other roofing materials, including the shingles and flashing, as an additional barrier against severe weather elements like rain, snow, hail and heat. Without the underlayment, moisture will easily soak into the roof sheathing and cause a multitude of problems ranging from mold and mildew to rot and leaks.

The Different Types of Roofing Underlayment

Asphalt-saturated, non-bitumen synthetic, and rubberized asphalt are the three main types of roofing underlayment. Here is a quick breakdown of their pros and cons:

• Asphalt-saturated felt used to be the most widely used underlayment until synthetic materials became commonplace in the roofing industry. While the felt paper, a product saturated in crude oil byproducts, is flexible and water-resistant, it is not resistant to ultraviolet damage and is easily damaged during installation. It is readily available and relatively inexpensive, but does not last as long as other underlayments due to its volatile nature.
• Rubberized asphalt underlayment is completely waterproof and more heat resistant than asphalt-saturated felt, according to a trusted roofer in Valrico. Because most of these products are peel-and-stick, they tend to self-seal around nails and staples. The only drawback to rubberized asphalt is its cost. It offers premium benefits, so you are likely to pay more than you would for other types of roofing underlayment.
• Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment is generally made from polyethylene or polypropylene polymers. Since it is a synthetic material, it is much lighter and usually has better wind resistance and tear strength than other underlayments. Non-bitumen is one of the more costly products on the market, but its ease of installation and long lifespan usually offset this particular drawback.

In need of a brand-new roof? Look no further than Dynamic Roofing Concepts Inc. Our skilled roofers are committed to providing the professionalism and efficiency that you expect from a top-rated roofing contractor. Call us at (813) 510-1166 or fill out our convenient online form to request a free quote. We work with residents and business owners in Valrico