What You Need to Know About GAF Roofing Underlayment

High-quality deck protection products like Deck-Armor™, Tiger Paw™ and Shingle-Mate® allow moisture to escape and provide excellent protection from wind-driven rain. They also lie flatter so your roof looks better and lasts longer. 

Here’s a look at GAF underlayment options.

GAF Roof Deck Protection

Deck protectors are critical waterproofing layers over the exposed deck. Never use non-breathable felts made out of polyethylene as underlayments over the roof deck. These materials may trap moisture and prevent it from escaping. 

Make sure your contractor follows all local codes when it comes to installing deck protection, especially if you live in a high-wind area. In the event of a shingle blow-off, deck protection can provide short-term water resistance. It can also protect the roofing material from resin and other materials in the wooden deck that is harmful to asphalt. 

Installing Quality Roof Underlayment

Start the underlayment application by rolling out the product. One layer of deck protector must be applied for decks with a 4:1 slope. For low-slope applications, install the GAF underlayment half-lapped up the entire roof slope to promote water-resistant protection. Roofing contractors must overlap the ends by at least six inches if two or more pieces are needed to finish a course. It’s to prevent water from seeping between the ends. Moreover, keep end laps at least six feet away from end laps in adjacent courses.  

At penetrations, such as rakes, sidewalls, hips and ridges, the deck protection must be installed before the leak barrier. The lap deck protection should be lapped over hips and ridges by at least six inches. Secure the deck protection with enough fasteners to keep it in place. With proper application, the material will stay in place, keep the surface safe and prevent it from blowing off.

Easton Roofing is one of your most-trusted roofing and attic insulation contractors. Our team will assess your home’s needs and provide a solution to address your concerns. Call us at (913) 735-8534, or complete our online form to request a free consultation. We serve clients in Overland Park, KS, and Kansas City, MO.