It may be hidden underneath the shingles, flashings and other visible elements of your roof, but the underlayment is essential to the structural integrity of the whole system. Here’s why.
What Is Underlayment?
Underlayment is the term used to describe the waterproof or water-resistant material positioned below the other roofing elements. It is a layer of material placed between the roof deck and the exterior roofing material, which may be asphalt shingles, sheet metal or wood shakes. It serves as an additional line of defense against the weather elements. You might think of it as the last obstruction that water must overcome before entering your home’s interior. Asphalt-saturated felt, non-bitumen synthetic and rubberized asphalt are the three basic types of underlayment used in residential roofing installations.
Why Is It Important?
The purpose of the underlayment is to protect the inner structure of your roofing system from weather conditions like rain and hail. It also guards against water penetration, which may occur as a result of wind-driven objects and other debris. Many different kinds of roofing underlayment are designed to survive even extreme weather conditions like torrential downpours and thunderstorms. It can further act as a temporary roof cover in cases where a storm has severely damaged a roof.
Your roof underlayment can also give an additional layer of insulation to your home, improving its energy efficiency. It may be able to stop conditioned air from escaping, which will reduce the amount of effort required of your HVAC system to maintain your comfort.
When it comes to roofing solutions, you can rely on Renaissance Roofing Inc. to provide you with excellent services. From residential to commercial roofing, we have the necessary experience and skills to solve your roofing problems. Talk to our trusted experts by calling us at (541) 791-4886 or filling out our contact form. Our Oregon service areas include Salem, Albany, and Eugene.