What Do Roofers Put Under Shingles?
Did you know that a properly installed underlayment can extend your roof’s life by up to 25 years? We’ve seen countless homeowners underestimate the importance of what goes beneath their shingles, but it’s actually one of the most critical components of your roofing system. Let’s explore the essential materials Peoria roofers use under shingles and why choosing the right underlayment can mean the difference between a leak-free home and costly water damage.
Key Takeaways
- Roofers install underlayment, typically asphalt-saturated felt or synthetic materials, as a protective water barrier between roof deck and shingles.
- Ice and water shield is installed along eaves and valleys to prevent water damage from ice dams.
- Starter shingles are placed at roof edges and eaves to provide additional protection against wind and rain.
- Drip edge metal flashing goes under underlayment at roof edges to direct water away from the fascia.
- Roofing felt paper creates a moisture barrier while allowing the roof deck to breathe and prevent condensation buildup.
Understanding Roofing Underlayment Types
When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, choosing the right roofing underlayment is absolutely essential for a long-lasting, weather-resistant roof.
Let’s explore the main types we commonly use in modern roofing.
We’ll often recommend asphalt-saturated felt for its affordability and reliability, while synthetic underlayment offers superior strength and UV resistance.
For homes in ice-prone regions, we’re big fans of rubberized asphalt, which creates an excellent water barrier.
In humid climates, we’ll typically suggest micro-porous underlayment to manage moisture, and for eco-conscious homeowners, there’s wool underlayment, which provides outstanding thermal benefits despite its higher cost.
The Critical Role of Underlayment in Roof Protection
Since your roof faces constant exposure to the elements, a properly installed underlayment serves as your home’s critical line of defense against moisture, heat, and weather damage.
We can’t overstate how this essential barrier works tirelessly to protect your roof deck from water infiltration while helping regulate your home’s temperature.
When storms damage your shingles or high winds blow them off, your underlayment continues working as a backup layer of protection.
It’s not just about keeping water out – we’re also helping you save on energy costs and preserve your home’s structural integrity for years to come.
Choosing the Right Underlayment Material for Your Roof
Because choosing the right underlayment material plays such an essential role in your roof’s longevity, we’ll help you navigate through the most important options available today.
Let’s look at your best choices: asphalt-saturated felt offers budget-friendly protection, while rubberized asphalt provides superior waterproofing for harsh climates.
We’ve found that synthetic underlayment delivers excellent durability and UV protection, making it perfect for long-term performance.
When you’re considering cost versus performance, don’t forget to factor in your local weather patterns and roof material compatibility – they’ll greatly impact which underlayment will serve you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Can Underlayment Be Exposed Before Installing Shingles?
We recommend covering underlayment within 30-90 days for felt paper and up to 6 months for synthetic materials. It’s best to install shingles quickly to prevent weather-related damage.
Can Underlayment Be Reused When Replacing Old Shingles?
We’d love to save money reusing old underlayment, but let’s not risk our roof’s integrity. It’s usually damaged during removal and could void warranties – always install new material.
Should Underlayment Overlap at Seams, and by How Much?
Yes, we’ll always overlap underlayment seams. For steep roofs, use 2-inch side overlaps and 4-inch end laps. On low-slope roofs, we’ll install double layers with 19-inch overlaps.
Is It Necessary to Remove Old Underlayment Before Installing New?
Like peeling back layers of history, we’ll need to remove that old underlayment. It’s essential for checking deck damage, maintaining warranties, and ensuring your new roof’s structural integrity.
Can Underlayment Be Installed in Wet Weather Conditions?
While we can install synthetic underlayment in wet conditions, we don’t recommend it. Let’s wait for dry weather to guarantee proper adhesion and prevent safety risks or material damage.
Final Thoughts
We’ve explored the hidden heroes beneath your shingles, those essential layers that, like a knight’s armor, shield your home from nature’s fury. For more information on roofing material costs, read our previous article Is It Cheaper to Get a Metal Roof or a Shingle Roof? When it’s time to protect your castle, we’ll help you select the perfect underlayment, whether it’s traditional felt or modern synthetics. Don’t let your roof be like the three little pigs’ straw house – invest in quality underlayment that’ll keep your home safe and sound for years to come. To help with material selection, check out our next article What Grade of Roof Shingles Are Best?