Know Your Roof: All About Roofing Underlayment

Your roofing system is your home's first line of protection against the elements, that's why it's essential to maintain its best condition. To determine what your roof needs, it pays to understand the functions of its basic components. This includes the underlayment.

The underlayment is a membrane installed on the roof deck. It acts as a secondary barrier to safeguard your roof from the elements while allowing the deck to release moisture. When water manages to seep through the shingles, this component prevents its infiltration to preserve your roof's integrity. Let West Side Roofing discuss its different types.

Asphalt-Saturated Felt

This is the most common type of underlayment applied on residential steep-slope applications. It is either made from organic or fiberglass substrate. It comes in two thicknesses, namely, 15- and 30-pound, with the latter more resistant to damage. Roofers secure the felt with staples, but in high-wind areas, they use plastic windstrips along the corners to avoid tearing.

Rubberized Asphalt

This usually has adhesive on one side that comes with a peel-off membrane for protection. Its rubber-like features create a proper seal around the fasteners. Manufacturers produce it to meet various requirements, such as having a polyethylene for weather-resistant and non-skid qualities, or a polymer film to withstand excessive moisture. They can also formulate it for high-temperature applications, making them suitable for metal roofing.

Non-Bitumen Synthetic

This is made from either polypropylene or polyethylene. These synthetic polymers are also used to create food-storage containers and rope. Synthetic underlayments are non-skid, lightweight, and durable. Because they don't absorb moisture, they don't wrinkle and can resist fungal growth. In addition, they withstand harmful UV rays, which is why they can tolerate weather exposure of up to a year. To prevent moisture issues, they wrap around the roof edges to protect the sheathing.

Being familiar with roof components allows you to detect issues easier. As one of the most trusted roofing companies, West Side Roofing is here to help you understand more about your roof. Call us at (216) 245-1050 to learn more about the basics. You can also request a free quote. We serve Akron, Parma, Cleveland, and surrounding areas in Ohio.