A complete asphalt shingle roofing system is essentially capable of withstanding whatever Mother Nature throws at it, as long as it’s properly installed and maintained. In this blog post, we focus on the underlayment, one of its most important components. We discuss its function, as well as the different materials available on the market.
Why Is the Roof Underlayment Important?
The underlayment is a water-resistant material that acts as a barrier for the roof decking, which holds the entire framework of the structure. It’s fastened onto the decking first before the shingles are installed, thus giving the roof an additional layer of protection from precipitation. This is especially important when a few shingles go missing or become damaged because of storms. That’s because the underlayment serves as the final hurdle before a leak can occur.
Types of Roofing Underlayment
The following are the different types of underlayment materials that are available on the market today:
- Asphalt-Saturated. Asphalt-saturated underlayment is a commonly used material for residential roofing. It consists of a layer of felt paper or polyester fabric that is saturated with asphalt to provide a tougher, waterproof layer of protection for your roof. Considered the go-to option among roofers for decades, this underlayment material has since been overtaken by its synthetic counterparts.
- Non-Bitumen Synthetic. Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment is a more contemporary option for roofing projects. It is made from a durable, synthetic material that is even more resistant to water penetration and rot than asphalt-saturated underlayment. It is also quite lightweight and much easier to install, making it a great choice for many homeowners. Additionally, the material is breathable, allowing moisture to escape from your roof and preventing the buildup of rot or mold.
- Rubberized Asphalt. Another notable underlayment option, it consists of a blend of rubberized asphalt that is specifically designed to be more pliable and resilient than other types of underlayment. The rubberized properties allow it to conform to curved or uneven surfaces, making it a great choice for more complicated roof configurations. Rubberized asphalt underlayment is also highly resistant to water, rot and wind.
Get in Touch With Us!
It may not be a visible component of your roof, the underlayment still plays a crucial role in protecting your home from the damaging effects of water intrusion. If you have plans to invest in a new roof, make sure it is a part of a complete roofing system being offered by a reputable contractor. For that, you can rely on ImproveIT! of Atlanta.
For professional roof repair and replacement services in Roswell, Dunwoody and Alpharetta, GA, call us at (770) 612-5635. You may also fill out our contact form to request an estimate.
