There’s more to a roof than what’s visible on the surface, such as shingles and flashing. For instance, roofing underlayment is a concealed yet integral part of the roof. It plays a key role in the overall health and stability of the entire structure.
In this post, roof repair experts at Easton Roofing discuss what roofing underlayment does and why it’s important.
What Is Roofing Underlayment?
The underlayment is a water-resistant or waterproof barrier material that, as its name suggests, is installed under all the other roofing materials. Its main role is to serve as an additional layer of protection from the weather and particularly water-related damage. It’s the final barrier that a potential leak must overcome after seeping through the exterior layers.
Types of Underlayment
Asphalt-Saturated
Asphalt-saturated felt used to be the quintessential roofing underlayment until synthetic materials became popular about 15 years ago. Nevertheless, it’s still a reliable underlayment material because of its flexibility and water resistance. It’s also readily available, making it the most affordable option.
Non-Bitumen Synthetic
Non-bitumen synthetic is the most common type of underlayment and what your roofer would likely recommend. It’s essentially a direct upgrade from asphalt-saturated felt but with better water resistance. It’s also designed for full application on the entire roof, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
Rubberized Asphalt
This is the premium underlayment type that essentially boasts all the benefits of the two other varieties and more. Unlike the two materials mentioned above, rubberized asphalt is completely waterproof because of its higher percentage of asphalt and rubber polymer. It also has a unique, sticky backing and a protective membrane, which creates a natural waterproof seal between it and the roof deck. The only disadvantage of rubberized asphalt is that it has a higher price tag.
Easton Roofing is one of the area’s most trusted roofing contractors, and we’re ready to help you pick the right underlayment for your home for maximum roof protection and efficiency. To schedule a consultation, call us today at (913) 257-5426 or complete our online form. We proudly serve clients in Kansas City, MO.
