If you plan on replacing your roof, one of the decisions you’ll need to make is what type of roofing underlayment to use. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the need for roofing underlayment and the different types available. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right roofing underlayment for your home.
Importance of Roofing Underlayment
The need for roofing underlayment became apparent after many homes were damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. It was found that many of the homes that were damaged or destroyed had inadequate protection against water infiltration. Roofing underlayment can help to prevent this type of damage by providing an additional layer of protection against water and wind. It can also extend the life of your roof by protecting the roof deck from weather and UV exposure.
Different Types of Roofing Underlayment
There are different types of roofing underlayment on the market. The three most common options are felt, rubberized and synthetic.
1. Asphalt-Saturated Felt
Felt is the most common type of roofing underlayment. It’s made from recycled paper that’s been treated with asphalt to make it waterproof. Felt is a good choice for most roofs, but it’s important to note that there are different grades of felt. Some grades are more resistant to wind and weather damage than others, so be sure to ask your contractor about the different options before making a decision.
2. Rubberized Asphalt
Rubberized underlayment is a newer product on the market. It’s made from recycled tires and other materials that have been vulcanized (or treated with heat and chemicals) to make them stronger and more durable. Rubberized underlayment is more expensive than felt, but it can provide better protection for your home in extreme weather conditions.
3. Synthetic
Synthetic underlayment is made from man-made materials like polypropylene or polyethylene. It’s lightweight and easy to install, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners and roofers alike. Synthetic underlayment can provide as much weathertight protection as its rubberized counterpart but comes at a more reasonable price.
Use the Right Underlayment for Your Roof
Now that you know the different types of roofing underlayment, how do you choose the right one for your home? Here are a few factors to consider:
- Climate: If you live in an area with severe weather conditions (high winds, heavy rains, snow, etc.), you’ll need an underlayment that can withstand those conditions. Synthetic and rubberized are both good choices for extreme weather conditions.
- Budget: As we mentioned earlier, rubberized underlayment is more expensive than felt. If cost is a factor in your decision-making process, felt is a good option. However, keep in mind that cheaper doesn’t always mean better. Consult with your contractor about the different grades of felt before making a final decision.
- Type of roof: If you have a shingle roof, any type of underlayment will work. But if you have a tile roof, synthetic underlayment is usually the best choice because it’s lightweight and won’t damage the tiles.
- Fire-resistance ratings. Underlayment with a higher fire-resistance rating will provide more protection for your home in case of fire.
If you’re in the market for a new roof, be sure to contact one of the area’s professional shingle and metal roofing contractors, Hinkle Roofing in Birmingham, AL. We offer a wide variety of roofing services, including replacement, repair and maintenance. Let our technicians work with you in finding the best solution for your home or business. Give us a call today at (205) 324-8545 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.