The Importance of Underlayment in Every Roofing System

Your roofing underlayment is an integral part of your roofing system. While often overlooked, this component plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and stability of the entire structure. 

In this blog, a roofing and siding replacement specialist discusses what underlayment is and why it’s so important.

What Does the Roofing Underlayment Do?

It is a water-resistant or waterproof material that goes between the shingles and the deck. Its primary purpose is to act as a protective barrier against the weather. Think of it as the final defense against moisture before it can reach your interior. Roofing felt or underlayment comes in three main types — asphalt-saturated, non-bitumen synthetic and rubberized asphalt.

Types of Roofing Underlayment

Asphalt-Saturated Underlayment

The asphalt-saturated underlayment was the standard roofing felt paper used on residential applications before synthetic materials became a household name. It is, however, still a reliable material as it is flexible and resistant to water. You can also find it just about anywhere, making it the most affordable type of underlayment.

Non-Bitumen Synthetic Underlayment

According to a roofing and siding contractor, the non-bitumen synthetic underlayment is the most common type of roofing felt used on homes today. It is a direct upgrade from asphalt-saturated felt as it has better resistance to water. It is also meant for full application on a roofing system, which is why many homeowners find it the most cost-effective choice.

Rubberized Asphalt Underlayment

Considered the most premium type of underlayment, rubberized asphalt boasts all the benefits of the two other types of roofing underlayment and more. It is also completely waterproof due to its greater content of asphalt and rubber polymer. Another feature unique to this underlayment is its adhesive surface, which creates a protective seal between it and the roof deck. Its only downside is that it is more expensive than other roofing felt materials.

Shine Construction Inc. specializes in a wide range of exterior improvement solutions, including roofing, siding and window replacement. Give us a call at (508) 278-3300 or complete our convenient online form for a free estimate.