What Is the Importance of Underlayment in a Roofing System

Roofing underlayment is a waterproof or water-resistant fabric that goes down on a roof deck before any other materials are installed. This extra barrier protects your home and the roof deck from damage and major leak issues from the weather.

There are three different types:

Asphalt-Saturated Felt

This type of roofing underlayment was the most common option up until a decade ago. With new research and technology, synthetic products’ popularity started rising. It is most commonly referred to as “tar or felt paper.” Asphalt-saturated felt is created with blends of asphalt, polyester, and wild plant fibers. It has a stretchy base layer that is moistened with asphalt to make it water-resistant. It is the perfect option for steeply inclined roofs where water can drain, but do not choose this option if you have a flat surface. Water will build up and cause tons of damage.

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Synthetic Underlayment

This roofing underlayment has a synthetic base layer saturated in asphalt. Fiberglass is then added to give a strong, stable, and tear-resistant structure. When it is compared to rubberized asphalt, synthetic underlayment is very light. It is resistant to UV exposure and fungus and is proven to be very long-lasting.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment

This type of roofing underlayment is one of the most expensive underlayment options. This is because it provides the most protection to your home. Rubberized asphalt underlayment contains a more concentrated amount of rubber and asphalt polymers, making it waterproof. A rubberized roofing underlayment is a perfect option for areas with drastic temperatures. They are self-adhesive, waterproof, resistant to UV rays, and very flexible.

Roof underlayment is a crucial component of your roof, and it is designed for extra layers of protection. If the top layer of your roofing begins to leak, a roof underlayment keeps the decking of your roof dry and secure. If you don’t have a roofing underlayment, harmful weather can ruin your roof deck and cause problems like decay or mold.