Roofs are more than just shingles. Roofers refer to the layers below them as underlayment. Roof felt was originally meant to prevent adhesive from contacting the roof’s base. However, it can do much more.
Roof underlayments are a great way to protect your roof from water damage and prevent leaks. They provide a flat surface on which your shingles can rest. This prevents you from “picture framing”, which is when you can see the wood decking’s texture through the shingles. It is important that your roofer chooses the right underlayment. Building codes often require roofing felt. Learn more about this layer of the roof.
Roofing Felt
Roofing felt is the most basic type of roofing underlayment. This fabric-like material is made from wood cellulose, fiberglass or polyester. To make it more durable and water-repellent, the fabric is soaked with asphalt. The weight of roofing felt is determined by the thickness of the material. There are two main weights for roofing felt: 15 pounds and 30 pounds per 100 square feet. A roofer will typically choose 15-pound felt for high-pitched roofs, and 30-pound felt for roofs that have a lower slope.
Synthetic Underlayment
Traditional roofing felt isn’t your only choice. Synthetic roofing underlayment products are now available from roofing manufacturers that do not have a fabric base. These materials have many advantages. These materials are more resistant to water. They are usually non-slip to make it easier for roofers to walk on them. They are attached to the roof with adhesive backing. This is similar to a thick sticker.
Although synthetic roofing underlays are more costly than roofing felt, they offer better protection and can be used in conjunction with better roofing systems. You may need to select a synthetic roofing underlayment to get the best warranty protection from your shingle maker.
Water and Ice Protector
Roofers must now apply a second layer, called ice and waterproof protector, to their roofing underlayments. This synthetic underlayment is made specifically for roof protection from water intrusion and ice damming. This material resists moisture transmission and does not breathe.
This underlayment is not like roofing felt that is applied all over the roof. It is only installed at the roof’s edges and most vulnerable areas. This includes valleys around chimneys, skylights, and dormers.
Although water protector is more popular in colder climates, it can also be used in dry areas. It is a great protection against water intrusion of all kinds, and can even replace any problems you might have with your shingles. It is often required by building codes.
What combination of underlayments works best for you? It all depends on the type of roof and shingles. Your roofer will help you select the right underlayment for you.
This post was written by a roofing professional at KCG Roofing. KCG Roofing is a premier roofing contractor that does roof repair in Englewood Florida! KCG Roofing has the experience and expertise to replace or repair your roof with quality materials and excellent craftsmanship. All our roofs are backed by a 15-year leak-free guarantee, the highest in the industry. We have been family-owned and operated for over 40 years.
