Roofing underlayment serves as a critical barrier protecting your home from water damage and other environmental factors. When replacing your roof, you must also examine and change this component to ensure the new roof’s optimal lifespan and performance. Continue reading to find out how underlayment contributes to a durable and effective roof.
The Importance of Roofing Underlayment
Underlayment is a layer of material positioned between the roof deck and the shingles. It is designed to protect your home from water infiltration, preventing issues such as mold growth and structural damage. Moreover, the underlayment’s integrity is essential to maintaining the roof’s effectiveness against the weather elements.
Reasons to Replace Old Underlayment
Various reasons can necessitate the replacement of old underlayment. Here are a few of them.
Aging and Wear: Over time, underlayment can deteriorate due to exposure to the elements. This degradation compromises its ability to prevent water from seeping into the roof deck. By replacing the old underlayment, you can ensure your roof continues to provide optimal protection.
Compliance With Building Codes: Your local building codes may stipulate that underlayment must meet specific standards. Over time, these codes may have been updated. Replacing the old underlayment ensures that your roof complies with current regulations.
Warranty Requirements: Many roofing manufacturers require that the underlayment be replaced as part of the roof replacement process to maintain the warranty. That said, installing new underlayment is particularly important to protect your investment in high-quality roofing materials.
Why a Tear-Off Is Ideal During Roof Replacement
When replacing a roof, you can opt for a complete tear-off or an overlay. An overlay might seem like a cost-effective and quicker solution. However, a complete tear-off, which involves removing the old shingles and underlayment before installing new materials, is often the better option for several reasons.
Thorough Inspection: A tear-off allows for a comprehensive inspection of the roof deck and other structures. This inspection can identify any hidden damage or issues that must be addressed, ensuring the new roof is installed on a sound structure.
Longer Roof Lifespan: By removing all old materials, any problems with the existing roof, such as trapped moisture or deteriorated underlayment, can be fully addressed. This prevents future issues and extends the lifespan of the new roof.
Proper Installation: A tear-off ensures that the new underlayment and roofing materials are installed correctly and according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This is crucial for the performance and durability of the roof.
Replacing old underlayment during a complete tear-off provides a solid foundation for your new roof, offering peace of mind and protecting your home for years to come. Count on ImproveIT! of Atlanta, LLC to provide you with quality roofing services. Reach us at (770) 612-5635 or via our contact page to schedule a consultation.
