Some homeowners mistakenly think that the roofing system is only made up of a few parts, particularly these three: the shingles, which help protect and beautify the home; the roof deck, which provides structural support; and the flashing, which protects the vulnerable areas from leaks. While these three are extremely important, there is another part that is often forgotten: the underlayment.
What Does the Underlayment Do?
The underlayment is a water-resistant barrier material installed beneath all the materials of your roof. Its primary responsibility is to stop water from getting through the shingles and causing damage to the roof deck and sheathing. As inclement weather can sometimes cause delays in roofing installations, the underlayment may act as temporary protection while the entire roofing covering is yet to be put in place. With it installed, you can be sure that all vital roofing parts are safe from moisture.
Underlayment Material Options
As with shingles, there are different types of materials used for the underlayment, each with its own features.
- Non-bitumen synthetic – The most common underlayment material, it’s designed to be fully applied on the roof and offers superior water resistance.
- Asphalt-saturated felt – This material is waterproof, flexible and cost-effective, making it a good alternative to synthetic underlayment.
- Rubberized asphalt – A more sophisticated material, it’s entirely water-resistant on one side and adhesive on the other. It creates an effective seal when applied to the roof, thanks to its rubber-like features. It may be a bit costlier than the other two, but it’s proven to last long.
Looking for the best contractor to install or repair your roofing system? You can always count on Goodrich Roofing to provide the best products and services for your home. Schedule a FREE consultation by calling us at (505) 219-4450 or by completing our contact form. We serve homeowners in New Mexico and the nearby communities.