Most people know that a roof consists of some sort of a base (the sheathing) and shingles. However, roofs are a lot more complex than you might think! There are several components that aren’t visible but are extremely important to the structure and longevity of your roof. Your roof begins with roof sheathing, which is the plywood or similar material that is laid down over the roof trusses to close in the attic space. Next, there’s the underlayment, which is laid between the sheathing and your shingles. Below, are the available types of underlayment, according to a roofing company in Germantown.
What Is Underlayment?
Roofing underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof membrane placed over the roof sheathing to protect the sheathing from the elements such as rain, snow, and wind. Think of it as another layer of protection for your roof that helps prevent leaks and moisture intrusions into your home. The underlayment also provides protection as your shingles get old and begin to show signs of wear and tear.
The Types Of Underlayment
There are three types of underlayment available – rubberized asphalt, asphalt-saturated felt, and non–bitumen synthetic.
Rubberized Asphalt – Rubberized asphalt underlayments all have the same characteristic – it looks and feels like rubber. It’s not nailed down but is instead applied with a peel and stick technique. This product can also self–seal around staples and nails due to the peel and stick application process. Rubberized asphalt is more resistant to heat than asphalt-saturated felt which means it’s long-lasting and does a great job protecting your roof against moisture.
Asphalt–Saturated Felt – This is a commonly used roofing underlayment and is the type that has been used the longest. It’s made from paper products saturated with oil refining byproducts. Asphalt-saturated felt comes in two weights – 15 pound and 30 pound, with 30 pound being the thicker of the two. It’s also reasonably priced, which is a plus when a roofing budget is tight.
Non–Bitumen Synthetic – This type is made of polypropylene polymers or polyethylene. It has a much higher wind resistance and tear strength. It doesn’t degrade like asphalt materials over time and is much lighter and easier to install. It’s also UV resistant, so it’s ideal if the roof has to be left uncovered for a while.
Which Underlayment Should I Use?
The first step in determining what type of underlayment to use is to consider the type of shingles on your roof. Asphalt-saturated felt is ideal for use under traditional shingles, whereas the heat resistance of synthetic would be good under a metal roof since metal roofs tend to retain more heat than shingles.
The climate in your area will also determine which underlayment to use. Roofing felt is good in areas with snow and wind, and synthetic would be good in a hot and humid climate.
Your best bet for choosing the right underlayment for your home is to talk to your roofing contractor. An experienced contractor will be able to advise you on the right underlayment for your area and your budget.
Need A Roofing Company In Germantown? Contact Cox Roofing
Roofing questions are best answered by the pros. The experts at Cox Roofing will inspect your siding and your roof, look for damage and evaluate the best course of action. Perhaps fixing some shingles can buy you more time. However, whole roof replacement is necessary. When you are looking for a top-rated roofing company Silver Spring, contact us today. Learn more about our roofing services and receive your free estimate.
