There are three main types of roofing underlayment:
- Asphalt-saturated felt
- Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment. This is also known as “synthetic underlayment.”
- Rubberized asphalt underlayment
Asphalt-saturated felt
Asphalt-saturated felt was the go-to roofing underlayment until about 15 years ago. That’s when synthetic products started gaining in popularity.
Commonly referred to as “felt paper” or “tar paper,” common roofing felt is made of varying blends of cellulose (natural plant fibers), polyester, bitumen or asphalt.
Basemat – the flexible base layer – is saturated with asphalt for water resistance.
Felt paper is applied across the entire roof deck. Depending on local weather, waterproof underlayment may be recommended.
Non-bitumen synthetic underlayment
Synthetic underlayment (technically non-bitumen synthetic underlayment) is the preferred underlayment of most roofing professionals today.
Synthetic underlayment basemat is saturated in asphalt. The addition of fiberglass gives synthetic products superior tear resistance and stability.
High-quality synthetic underlayment like CertainTeed’s DiamondDeck™ has the added benefit of scrim reinforcement for added slip resistance, even when wet.
Synthetic underlayment is designed for application across the entire roof deck. It is sometimes used with waterproof products.
Rubberized Asphalt
Rubberized asphalt is more expensive than other types pf roofing underlayment. Why? It contains higher percentages of asphalt and rubber polymers, making it waterproof.
Rubberized asphalt roofing underlayment often has a sticky back with a protective membrane that is removed prior to installation. This special backing creates the waterproof seal between the underlayment and a clean roof deck.
In severe winter regions, waterproof roofing underlayment at the eaves of a roof is helpful. The underlayment protects the edge of the roof deck from water damage.
Rubberized asphalt roofing underlayment should be added at valleys and around roof protrusions. These spots often get leaky first.
Why do you need roofing underlayment?
It’s a moisture barrier.
Roofing underlayment provides your roof with an extra layer of protection that shingles alone can’t match.
Your shingles serve their own purpose: they’re the first line of defense. Shingles reflect the sun’s rays, withstand the wind and block precipitation.
But shingles overlap and aren’t sealed at all corners. They can be lifted by strong winds. This makes shingles vulnerable to tear-off or infiltration by wind-driven rain. Shingles can become brittle from age. The heat of an unventilated attic can cook your shingles, too.
Water-resistant roofing underlayment
Water-resistant underlayment is enough for the surfaces of most roofs. It provides the protection that your roof needs during and after installation.
Big weather case study!
Even without the added protection of shingles, a superior product can withstand some seriously extreme weather.
Michael Rocco
Rocco Building Company, LLC
www.roccobuildingcompany.com
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