Your roof has different layers that work together to protect your home from weather conditions and outdoor elements. Although most people prioritize their roofing shingles and gutters, keep in mind that there are less obvious parts that are integral to your roof’s health. One of them is the underlayment, a hidden yet crucial part of the roof.
It may not be visible, but the underlayment plays a major role in your roof’s overall health and stability.
The roofing underlayment is a water-resistant barrier material that is installed beneath other roofing materials. It serves as an additional layer of protection that shingles alone cannot offer. While your shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, they overlap and can be lifted by strong winds. When this happens, your roof deck is exposed, increasing the chances of moisture damage, mold and rot.
To prevent this from happening, the roofing underlayment will provide the necessary protection until the shingles are repaired or replaced. This waterproof underlayment ensures your roof deck and the interior of your home stay in good condition despite the compromised shingles.
The roofing underlayment comes in three different types: asphalt-saturated felt, non-bitumen synthetic and rubberized asphalt. Asphalt-saturated felt used to be the most popular underlayment until synthetic materials entered the market. It has a flexible base layer that is drenched with asphalt to ensure water resistance. However, asphalt-saturated felt is not waterproof. This means it’s ideal for steeply sloped roofs where water can drain, but not for flat surfaces.
Non-bitumen synthetic, meanwhile, is the most popular type of underlayment. It has a synthetic base matting saturated with asphalt. Fiberglass is then added to give the underlayment material superior stability and tear resistance. This long-lasting, durable underlayment is extremely flexible and resistant to ultraviolet (UV) exposure and mold.
The last type of underlayment is rubberized asphalt, the premium underlayment that has all the advantages of the aforementioned two and more. It contains a higher concentration of rubber and asphalt, making it completely waterproof. Rubberized asphalt has a special backing with a protective membrane, which creates a watertight seal between it and the roof deck.
As a GAF Master Elite® roofing contractor, The Badger Company installs complete GAF roofing systems that come with the necessary components, including an underlayment, to keep your home dry and damage-free from the harsh elements. To learn more, give us a call at (608) 850-6282, or fill out our online contact form to request a free estimate.
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